5 Non-Topical Ways to Support Clear Skin (Holistic + Science-Backed)

Acne can feel frustrating--especially when you’re already doing everything right with your skincare routine. But sometimes, what’s happening inside your body (or around it) plays an even bigger role than the products on your shelf.

These 5 non-topical tips are gentle, holistic ways to support clear, balanced skin--especially if you're dealing with hormonal breakouts, clogged pores, or inflammation. You deserve to feel confident in your skin, and that glow starts from within.

1. Stay Hydrated from Within

Water might be the simplest skin elixir, but it’s often overlooked. When your body is dehydrated, your skin can look dull, feel tight, and be more prone to irritation.

Start by tuning into your natural thirst signals. Aim for around 8 cups a day (more if you’re active or live in a dry climate). Add skin-loving extras like lemon, cucumber, or a splash of aloe juice. Herbal teas count too--and bonus points if they include calming herbs like chamomile or nettle.

🌙 Moonbunny tip: Keep a pretty glass water bottle nearby as a visual reminder. Hydration is magic, especially when it becomes a ritual.

2. Switch to a Silk Pillowcase

Your pillow is your skin’s nighttime companion--so the material matters. Cotton can tug at your skin and absorb moisture and oils (yes, even the good kind). Silk, on the other hand, is ultra-gentle, hypoallergenic, and helps reduce friction while you sleep.

Silk pillowcases are especially great if you deal with sensitive, inflamed skin or if you’re trying to prevent fine lines and hair breakage.

🌙 Moonbunny tip: Wash your pillowcase weekly and avoid heavily fragranced detergents. Clean sleep = calm skin.

3. Red Light Therapy

Why it helps with acne: Red light therapy (RLT) uses low-level wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and support collagen production. It’s a gentle, non-invasive way to care for your skin--especially if you deal with breakouts, redness, or sensitivity.

Red light works by stimulating your skin cells’ energy center, the mitochondria--kind of like giving your skin a little recharge. When your cells have more energy, they can repair themselves faster and function more efficiently. This can help calm inflammation, balance oil production, and even fade post-breakout marks over time.

And yes, the science backs it up. 

Fun fact: Red light therapy was first studied by NASA to promote healing in astronauts--and now we use it right at home.

🌙 Moonbunny tip: Use it as part of your wind-down ritual a few times a week. Breathe deeply, light a candle, and let your skin drink in the glow.

4. Feed Your Skin With Vitamins

Healthy skin starts from within, and the nutrients you give your body are just as important as what you apply on top.

Look for:

• Vitamin C – Brightens and supports collagen
• Vitamin E – Protects against oxidative stress
• Zinc – Helps balance oil and heal breakouts
• Omega-3s – Soothe inflammation and support the skin barrier

You can get these from whole foods (like berries, leafy greens, nuts, and seeds), or through supplements if needed--just consult with a practitioner you trust.

🌙 Moonbunny tip: Keep a food journal for a few days to notice what makes your skin happiest. Your body always speaks--you just have to listen.

5. De-Stress Daily

Why it helps with acne: Stress increases cortisol, which can spike oil production and lead to hormonal acne flare-ups. Creating space for daily grounding can ease your nervous system and reduce inflammatory triggers.

The key isn’t avoiding stress entirely (life happens), but learning to move through it with gentle rituals:

• Breathwork or meditation
• Nature walks
• Journaling or expressive art
• Lymphatic massage or simply applying your skincare with intention

🌙 Moonbunny tip: Even 5 minutes of quiet in the morning can shift your entire day--and your skin will thank you.

For the Skin That’s Healing--Not Just “Perfect”

Acne-prone skin is sensitive skin. And it deserves softness, slowness, and support from every angle--not just another harsh product. Whether you’re breaking out from stress, hormones, or mystery causes, these holistic tips can help your skin rebalance in its own time.

At Moonbunny, we believe acne healing is a journey--and you’re not alone on it. 🌙✨

Sources:

NASA Spinoff: NASA Research Illuminates Medical Uses of Light. spinoff.nasa.gov

American Academy of Dermatology. Is red light therapy right for your skin? AAD