Does Whey Protein Cause Acne? How To Prevent It

A few simple ways to prevent whey protein from wreaking havoc on your skin.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Seepika JaiswalDr. Seepika Jaiswal, MBBS, FAM
By Arshiya SyedaArshiya Syeda  • 

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.

Whey Protein: Does It Really Cause Acne?

A scoop of whey protein

Image: Shutterstock

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

Closeup of acne on the face of a woman

Image: Shutterstock

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). Mary Sabat, MS, RD, LD, says, “Consuming too much protein can increase the production of hormones, such as testosterone, which can lead to hormonal acne in some people. Also, animal protein, if not organic, may contain hormones that get into your system and cause skin issues.”

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!

Ingredients To Avoid In Your Protein Shakes

A jug of skimmed milk which is an ingredient that should be avoided in your protein shakes

Image: Shutterstock

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.

How To Prevent Acne Breakouts Caused By Whey Protein

Woman using a salicylic acid cleanser to unclog pores and prevent acne from whey protein

Image: Shutterstock

  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.
Quick Tip
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.

Whey Protein Alternatives

A scoop of soy protein powder amidst soybean as a whey protein alternative

Image: Shutterstock

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. Sabat adds, “It is best to follow a balanced diet and speak to a doctor or dietitian to determine the appropriate amount of protein for an individual’s needs. All animal protein, including whey, should be organic from grass-fed animals.”

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

Quick Tip
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.

tips to prevent acne breakouts caused by whey protein (infographic)

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

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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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does whey protein acne take to go away?

Whey protein acne takes approximately 2 -3 months to clear out completely. However, the time period varies from person to person.

Is whey protein good for the skin?

Yes, whey protein is good for the skin. Its amino acids and collagen help maintain skin elasticity and firmness.

Is it safe to take whey protein every day?

Yes, whey protein is safe for daily consumption for most people. However, limiting the quantity to 1-2 scoops is generally advised.

Key Takeaways

  • Regular intake of whey protein produces IGF 1(insulin-like growth factor), triggering acne.
  • As whey protein causes insulin like growth factor, women having hormonal disbalance or polycystic ovarian disease or syndrome should avoid it.
  • Adding skimmed milk to the protein shake doubles the risk of acne.
  • Showering immediately after exercising, reducing the frequency of whey intake, avoiding high glycemic index foods can help manage acne effectively.

Sources

Articles on StyleCraze are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.

  1. Emerging trends in nutraceutical applications of whey protein and its derivatives
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4744604/
  2. Dairy Intake and Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of 78,529 Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6115795/
  3. Whey protein precipitating moderate to severe acne flares in 5 teenaged athletes
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22988649/
  4. Acne and whey protein supplementation among bodybuilders
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23257731/
  5. Incidence of acne vulgaris in young adult users of protein-calorie supplements in the city of João Pessoa–PB
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24474098/
  6. Evidence for acne-promoting effects of milk and other insulinotropic dairy products
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21335995/
  7. Acne located on the trunk, whey protein supplementation: Is there any association?
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5350548/
  8. Significance of diet in treated and untreated acne vulgaris
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4884775/
  9. Dairy intake and acne development: A meta-analysis of observational studies
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29778512/
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