Milk is advertised as being good for health as it serves as an essential source of calcium. It is even classified among the “five-star” food groups. However, many people express concerns that milk may be a contributing factor to acne.
A correlation between milk consumption and acne has been documented in several scientific studies.
Milk Contains IGF-1 Hormone
The IGF-1 hormone found in milk is beneficial for children’s growth. However, in adults, IGF-1 can lead to acne problems, increasing cystic acne and causing inflammation.
IGF-1 in milk can lead to acne problems.
Milk Causes Insulin Spikes
Consuming milk causes a spike in insulin levels in the body, which is related to an increase in acne. It also triggers the production of androgens, hormones that stimulate oil production and lead to acne.
Experts also note that cow’s milk contains casein—a type of protein associated with IGF-1—and high levels of progesterone, which is converted into a type of acne-stimulating hormone called dihydrotestosterone in human sebaceous glands.
Milk Stimulates Oil Gland Activity
Milk has been shown to promote excessive sebum (oil) production, leading to clogged pores and creating an ideal breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria.
Milk consumption is associated with reduced cell turnover of skin cells, resulting in clogged pores (and thus breakouts).
A 2008 study on milk consumption among teenage boys found that those who drank milk experienced more breakouts than those who did not. Several other studies also support this correlation between milk and acne.
There is a correlation between milk and acne.
It is also important to note that many other factors can lead to acne, including stress, poor hygiene, improper skincare, diet, exercise, genetics, hormones, pollutants, and environmental allergens.
Many people are unaware of the types of hormones and additives present in today’s milk and their effects on our bodies. It is crucial to research what you consume before putting it in your mouth.
Besides drinking milk, many other factors also contribute to acne.
Is Oat Milk the Solution for Acne?
According to experts, switching to a plant-based milk is not necessarily a way to escape the acne dilemma. Of course, some plant milks, such as oat milk, may not contain casein, whey protein, or hormones—which can help consumers avoid skin and digestive issues—but they may be formulated with emulsifiers, preservatives, carrageenan, and added sugars.
These substances can cause gastrointestinal and skin problems. Professionals advise that when purchasing alternative milk, you should read the ingredient labels carefully. It’s best to look for a clean, simple, and safe ingredient list.
Switching to a plant-based milk is not a way to escape acne.
However, drinking milk does not entirely have negative effects. Dr. Joshua Zeichner, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai Hospital (New York), states that fermented dairy products, such as yogurt, provide probiotics for the body.
“Probiotics found in dairy are beneficial bacteria that help restore a healthy microbiome. The microbiome is a collection of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses living in symbiosis on our bodies. Occasionally, I drink skim milk just to see what happens, and I am surprised to find my sunburn fading,” Dr. Joshua Zeichner said.
