Knowledge BaseYou're Questions Answered

BACK

Can protein powder cause acne?

Protein shakes themselves are not a cause of acne, but there is anecdotal evidence to suggest that whey protein powder and other low-fat milk products can increase acne in some people.

Whey protein increases the hormone IGF-1 which encourages muscle growth, but it's also known to influence sebum production. An increase in sebum can create the perfect environment for acne.

It's worth noting, however, that the correlation between protein powder and acne has only been found in whey protein products. If you suffer problems after using whey protein you can switch to a plant-based protein to avoid increasing sebum and increased acne.

Was this answer helpful? Let us know!
Like
Related Questions
Protein vs Protein
The content on this site has not been written, reviewed or endorsed by a medical professional. We assume no liability for the misuse of supplements and recommend you review the label of any product, as well as consulting with your health care professional.

We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.
magnifier