Wednesday, January 25, 2023

Dairy and Acne

If you’re struggling with acne, then this is a good reason to try quitting dairy. Meta-analyses of non-PCOS populations have found that dairy is associated with acne [1,2]. The mechanisms are well-understood. Dairy increases IGF-1 levels. This elevates androgen levels and works through other pathways to cause the development of acne. Leucine, a common amino acid in dairy proteins, also contributes to the problem [3].

The dairy protein casein stimulates IGF-1 to a greater extent than whey [4]. This suggests that casein-rich foods like cheese are likely to promote acne. But whey proteins can impact insulin levels providing a different path to promote acne. This may be why whey protein powders can aggravate acne in athletes [5].


  1. Dai, R., et al., The effect of milk consumption on acne: a meta-analysis of observational studies. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol, 2018. 32(12): p. 2244-2253.
  2. Baldwin, H. and J. Tan, Effects of Diet on Acne and Its Response to Treatment. Am J Clin Dermatol, 2021. 22(1): p. 55-65.
  3. Kumari, R. and D.M. Thappa, Role of insulin resistance and diet in acne. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol, 2013. 79(3): p. 291-9.
  4. Pontes Tde, C., et al., Incidence of acne vulgaris in young adult users of protein-calorie supplements in the city of João Pessoa--PB. An Bras Dermatol, 2013. 88(6): p. 907-12.



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