First of all, know that 23 billion liters of milk are collected in France each year. The economic challenge facing the dairy industry is titanic. In this context, it is difficult to question our consumption of the sacrosanct cow's milk. And yet… milk makes acne considerably worse!
We continue to proclaim its many virtues. It is true that milk is an undeniable source of calcium, vitamins and proteins. The media never stops advising us to consume milk daily. It would be good for bones and teeth. It would reduce the risk of developing diabetes or cancer.
However, the benefits of milk are increasingly controversial. For example, the countries that consume the most milk are also those that are most affected by femur fractures due to osteoporosis... A study published in the "American Journal of Dermatology" proves that drinking 2 to 3 glasses of milk per day increases the risk of developing severe acne by 44%. Find our tips to learn more about acne.
The link between milk and acne: can milk cause pimples?
Milk stimulates the endocrine system which promotes sebum production
In addition, it contains growth hormones which activate the renewal of skin cells. Overproduction of sebum + pores blocked by small skin = acne spots! Find out all the questions you have about acne.
Also consider using a natural mattifying cream to limit the production of sebum, responsible for acne spots and above all avoid skin care comedogenic compositions.
Although low in carbohydrates, milk also increases the level of insulin in our body, which is also an aggravating factor for acne-prone skin. You should know that industrial milk is also produced by milking pregnant cows, therefore cows which produce large quantities of hormones...
It doesn't surprise anyone that we human beings consume breast milk intended for a calf with a view to becoming a bovine weighing several tonnes... We are also the only mammals to consume milk from another species. We are also the only species to continue drinking milk into adulthood…
Far be it from us to demonize milk, however if you have acne-prone skin, avoid excessive consumption of milk which would only aggravate your acne.
Food, milk and acne
Let's be clear: the primary cause of acne is indeed a hormonal cause.
However, it is also clear that the second cause of acne is diet. A diet that is too rich, industrial or unbalanced can give rise to skin problems, including acne.
However, it can happen, depending on the individual, that a food can exacerbate declared acne. This can be the case with iodized salt or algae. If you think your acne is linked to a food sensitivity, it is probably best to test eliminating this substance for a few weeks to verify your hypothesis. If you test several foods and notice an improvement in your acne, to be able to identify what is harming you the most, reintroduce the foods one by one and see what leads to an acne breakout.
Milk and lactose bad for acne
Lactose and its dangers
Traces of dairy farming dating back more than 10 years have been found in the Middle East. Humans have been consuming milk for a long time. However, we observe on the Ciqual food composition table that UHT or pasteurized milk contains fewer lipids and fewer acids than fresh milk.
Lactose, also called “milk fruit”, can cause digestion problems, with repercussions on skin health, especially in adulthood. Many people have lactose intolerance which manifests itself by:
– intestinal symptoms (gas, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, feeling of bloating, etc.)
– general symptoms such as a headache, fatigue, joint or muscle pain.
Thus, many people today are turning to vegan diets which induces, in addition to a diet without products of animal origin, a lifestyle which excludes any animal exploitation (vegan cosmetics, no wearing leather or fur…)
Does the form and type of milk affect acne breakouts?
It is widely accepted that dairy consumption may be linked to acne, but not all types of milk have the same effect. The different types of milk and their forms – liquid, powder, skimmed, fermented, and of animal or vegetable origin – can influence the skin in distinct ways. Let's explore each option to understand how they can affect acne.
Powdered milk and acne
Powdered milk, often used as an alternative to fluid milk, can contain high levels of sugars and fats. These components can increase levels of insulin and other hormones, such as IGF-1, known to exacerbate acne breakouts. Additionally, producing milk powder can alter the structure of its proteins, potentially making them more pro-inflammatory for the skin.
Yogurt and acne
Yogurt, a fermented dairy product, may have mixed effects on acne. On one hand, the probiotics found in yogurt may contribute to a healthy balance of the gut microbiome, which may reduce skin inflammation and acne breakouts. However, many commercial yogurts contain added sugars and other additives, which can worsen acne by stimulating the production of insulin and other pro-inflammatory hormones. Thus, the relationship between yogurt and acne may vary depending on the composition of the yogurt consumed and individual sensitivity. Read also: Acne and junk food
Skimmed milk and acne
Skim milk, with its lower fat content, is often considered a healthier alternative to whole milk. However, it may contain higher levels of sugar and dairy proteins, including casein and lactoglobulin. These compounds may stimulate the production of hormones, particularly IGF-1, increasing the risk of acne in some sensitive individuals.
Fermented milk and acne
Fermented dairy products, such as yogurt and kefir, can have varying effects on the skin. On the one hand, the probiotics found in these products may help balance the gut microbiome, potentially reducing skin inflammation. However, added sugars in some commercial fermented products may counteract this beneficial effect, increasing the likelihood of acne breakouts.
Plant milk and acne: soy milk and other examples
Plant milks, such as soy, almond or oat milk, are often promoted as healthy alternatives to animal milk. Soy milk, in particular, contains phytoestrogens which can influence hormonal levels. While it may not cause acne for everyone, some sensitive individuals may notice breakouts. Other plant-based milks, especially those with added sugars or additives, may also contribute to skin inflammation.
Sheep's milk, cow's milk and acne
Sheep's milk, high in fat and protein, may pose similar risks to those prone to acne as cow's milk. High saturated fat may increase systemic inflammation, while milk protein may stimulate insulin and IGF-1 production, potentially exacerbating acne breakouts.
En conclusion
Be careful about your milk consumption, it can have repercussions on your acne. Don't necessarily eliminate milk, but test your sensitivity.
Whatever happens, make sure to balance your diet, and specifically for acne, consider eating red or orange fruits and vegetables (watermelon, melon, etc.).
Avoid animal fats and find out how take care of your figure et fight against acne.
sources:
ANSES PDF
When the intestine becomes a sieve
PNNS dairy products
Read also :
The 10 commandments against acne
Tea, remedy for acne
Spring detox treatment for acne
Rice powder for acne
Pollution and acne
6 misconceptions about acne
5 anti-acne masks
