When we talk about dairy, it includes milk, curd, ghee, cheese, yoghurt, etc. Dairy products, especially milk, have always been considered healthy and it is so.
Important nutrients that strengthen bones are found in milk. Elements like calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D and protein in it have a positive effect on our overall health. But have you ever thought that drinking milk or consuming any other dairy can cause facial acne?
Acne is defined as a skin breakout that occurs when the pores get clogged with dead skin cells or bacteria. Blackheads, whiteheads, cysts and pustules result from these clogged pores.
Dermatologist and DermatosurgeonDr Agni Kumar Bose explains through his Instagram post, 'Many questions people ask whether eating milk, whey protein, dairy products and sugar can cause acne? The answer is yes. These products release hormones that can cause acne breakouts. Let us know in detail in this article how dairy can trigger acne.
What is research?
Dairy cows are treated with artificial hormones that affect their milk supply. Much research suggests that when you consume dairy products, the artificial hormones in them can imbalance your hormones and this can lead to acne.
Likewise, dairy products, when combined with high levels of refined foods and sugar, disrupt insulin levels and lead to breakouts. However, not all dairy products affect acne equally. Some studies have also found that skim milk can trigger acne.
Which hormones affect the skin?
Cows produce milk to feed their calves and help them grow. Whey and casein, a protein found in milk, promote calf hormones and growth.
When we digest this protein, they release a hormone similar to insulin called IGF-1. This hormone is known to trigger breakouts. Sometimes the hormones in milk can communicate with our hormones as well. can confuse our endocrine system and signal breakouts.
Lactose is a natural sugar present in milk. After infancy, it becomes more difficult for humans to break down and digest lactose. If you are among the 65 percent of people who are lactose intolerant, your acne-related breakouts may be caused by lactose sensitivity or an allergic reaction.
Are curd and yoghurt bad too?
Curd, paneer and yoghurt release this bad boy hormone to a lesser extent. Despite being a dairy product, probiotics help reduce pimples and are great for your overall health as well.
What to do for breakouts-
- If you are seeing acne and pimples on your face, then use products that contain salicylic acid or alpha hydroxy acid. These ingredients help unclog your pores.
- Avoid oily cleansing products and beauty products. Water-based makeup removers and oil-free cleansers are best for acne-prone skin.
- Can take topical essential treatment. Coconut oil can be applied to acne, as its anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties make it a good choice for acne treatment.
Apart from this, if you are more troubled by acne, then immediately contact your dermatologist and trust only the treatment prescribed by him.
DISCLAIMER
Your skin and body are as different as you are. We endeavour to bring you correct, safe and expert-verified information through our articles and social media handles, but still, you must consult your doctor before trying any home remedy, hack or fitness tip.