Does Whey Protein Cause Acne? How To Prevent It

Whey protein supplements are one of the best sources of essential nutrients for fitness enthusiasts. They improve muscle protein synthesis to boost the growth of lean muscles and help with effective weight management (1). However, many believe it causes acne. But does whey protein cause acne? Some studies show a possible connection between acne and whey protein. Read on to explore how whey protein may increase acne issues and how to manage it.

In This Article

Whey Protein: Does It Really Cause Acne?

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Yes. Whey protein may cause acne as it is derived from milk (along with casein) and forms as a by-product of the cheese-making process. Dairy intake is linked to acne (2). Several studies have found a possible link between the two:

• A study involving teenage athletes found that whey protein triggered acne lesions in them, and they diminished once the drink was discontinued (3). However, further studies are required to determine the exact mechanism.
• In another study, researchers observed that whey protein could enhance insulin levels or insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and aggravate acne in healthy men (4).
• In a study involving 30 patients, researchers found that females were prone to develop acne after taking whey protein. They also concluded that whey protein could trigger acne in people with no active lesions and no family history of acne (5).

Even though further studies are required to determine the exact mechanism and link, we cannot deny that whey protein aggravates and triggers acne. Let’s explore the possible reasons and mechanisms in the next section.

How Whey Protein May Trigger Acne: The Mechanism

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Dairy products (including whey protein) spike up blood sugar levels and produce insulin and insulin-like growth factor  (IGF-1) in your body.  IGF-1 is the factor that is thought to accelerate muscle growth and trigger acne. Milk has a low glycemic index (GI), but it also triggers the release of comedogenic hormones like progesterone, estrogen, androgen precursors, and 5-alpha-reductase steroids. This hormone imbalance increases excess sebum production, abnormal keratinization, and bacterial proliferation, causing acne (5), (6), (7).

Most of us consume whey protein either with our food, smoothies, or water. The ingredients you add to your protein powder also make a difference. Scroll down to know more!

Related: 9 Different Types Of Milk + How To Choose

Ingredients To Avoid In Your Protein Shakes

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What you mix in your protein shake may also play a key role in acne. Adding milk, especially skim milk, may double the risk of acne.

Manufacturers often add whey protein to skim milk to maintain its consistency. Moreover, compared to regular and full-fat milk, skim milk increases the risk of comedogenesis (formation of comedones due to clogged pores) (8), (9). Hence, avoid preparing your protein shakes with skimmed milk.

It is best to avoid any foods that may trigger acne. However, it may not always be possible if you are into athletics. Here are a few ways to prevent and manage breakouts caused by whey proteins.

Related: 13 Tips And Remedies To Prevent Acne And Pimples Naturally

How To Prevent Acne Breakouts Caused By Whey Protein

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1. Avoid wearing tight clothing during exercising. It may cause accumulation of sweat and sebum, leading to acne.
2. Shower immediately post-workout. Avoid using dirty towels and clothes to prevent bacterial growth and dirt accumulation in the skin pores.
3. Reduce the intake of whey protein. You may reduce the quantity or frequency and check how it is working. If there is no improvement, stop consuming it and look for alternatives.
4. Use a medicated acne treatment (like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid) to reduce inflammation. Talk to a dermatologist for product suggestions.
5. Use a non-comedogenic cleanser, preferably with salicylic acid, to unclog the pores.
6. If you have acne-prone skin, avoid consuming foods with a high glycemic index (GI) like sugar, processed food, and carbohydrates. Also, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

StyleCraze Says Switch to detox beverages like green tea, aloe vera juice, coconut water, green kale juice, honey-lemon water, etc., to flush out toxins and result in clearer skin.

You may check out vegan proteins instead of whey protein. Here are a few alternatives you may try to minimize the acne lesions without affecting your muscle-building goals.

Related: 15 Homemade Protein Shakes – Healthy & Tasty 5-Min Recipes

Whey Protein Alternatives

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The best alternatives for whey protein include:

• Pea protein powder
• Soy protein powder
• Egg white protein powder
• Brown rice protein powder

Other than these protein powders, nuts, lentils, and oily fish are good protein sources.

Plant-based protein powders are easier to digest than whey protein. However, before buying, check the product to ensure they contain minimally processed ingredients.

StyleCraze Says Balance your protein intake between your diet and supplements. If you get enough protein in your diet, supplements might be unnecessary.

Infographic: Tips To Prevent Acne Breakouts Caused By Whey Protein

Consumption of excess whey protein may trigger a series of internal events that may result in an eruption of acne across your face. While this event may be uncommon, it is not unheard of. Check out the infographic below to learn more about the steps you can take and tips you need to keep in mind to prevent acne related to the consumption of whey protein.

Whey protein is derived from milk and is one of the best sources of essential nutrients. However, it may cause acne as it can enhance insulin levels. Therefore, to prevent acne breakouts caused by whey protein, avoid consuming it. As preventive measures, you may also avoid wearing tight clothes, change your clothes as soon as you return from the workout, , consult a doctor for acne treatment, use a non-comedogenic cleanser, avoid foods with a high glycemic index, and always keep yourself hydrated. You may also try the alternatives suggested in the article to compensate for protein levels in your body.