Do you need to avoid dairy if you have acne?
Odds are if you’ve struggled with acne, you’ve tried avoiding dairy at some point. Some people have big improvements with this..while others like myself are left frustrated. So do you need to avoid dairy if you struggle with acne? It depends!
The relationship between dairy consumption and acne has been a subject of interest in dermatology and in those who struggle with acne. Some studies suggest that certain components in dairy products, such as hormones and growth factors, may contribute to the development of acne. However, it's important to note that the impact of dairy on acne can vary among individuals, and not everyone may experience the same effects. Interestingly, the quality of dairy products might play a role in this equation. High-quality forms of dairy, such as organic or grass-fed options, may have fewer additives and hormones compared to conventional varieties. Choosing these high-quality forms could potentially reduce the likelihood of acne flare-ups for some individuals. Nonetheless, individual responses to dairy intake can differ and ultimately it depends on your case!
If you are someone who tends to break out with dairy consumption, it may be due to the hormones that may influence acne development. Here are a few key hormones in dairy that could potentially contribute to acne:
IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor-1): Dairy products, particularly milk, can contain elevated levels of IGF-1. This hormone is associated with promoting cell growth and proliferation. An increase in IGF-1 levels may stimulate the production of sebum (skin oil) and contribute to the development of acne.
Hormones Naturally Present in Milk: Cow's milk naturally contains hormones like progesterone and estrogen. While the amounts are relatively small, they could still have an impact, especially in individuals who are sensitive to hormonal fluctuations.
Androgens: Some dairy products, especially those derived from pregnant cows, may contain higher levels of androgens (male hormones). Elevated androgen levels can contribute to the development of acne by increasing sebum production and promoting the growth of skin cells.
Again, it's important to note that individual responses to these hormones can vary, and not everyone who consumes dairy will necessarily experience breakouts as a result as acne development is multi-faceted. This is why it can be super important to address all aspects of health (your gut health being a big one) if you aren’t seeing results with dairy elimination. Additionally, I really like to emphasize that the processing and quality of dairy products make a big difference as well. Unless you are intolerant, sensitive, etc. most (myself included) can tolerate high-quality forms of dairy, such as organic or grass-fed options. You are always your own best test subject and unless specifically necessary for your case, there is no reason you shouldn’t be able to be human and eat dairy in moderation! Something I never thought I’d be able to do in years.
MEDICAL DISCLAIMER - All content on this website is provided for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for advice and recommendations provided by your healthcare provider.
