Beauty Uncomplicated The GI tract and skin are both organs of detoxification. We need a healthy balance in the gut to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate toxins. When there is an imbalance of our gut flora, and there are more bad bacteria than good bacteria, a lot of problems can arise — including chronic inflammation, which is a cause of blemishes and other skin problems that start beneath the skin weeks before they appear on the surface. So, if you are looking to clear up your skin, you have to start with your gut.