If you’re a dairy lover, you’ll be pained to discover that cow’s milk, particularly skim, may be the source behind your breakouts. Board certified dermatologist Joshua Zeichner explains, “As fat is removed from the milk, there is a relatively high sugar load in the milk thought to promote inflammation and drive oil production. Another theory is that hormones from the lactating cow are passed on to the milk and stimulate oil glands.”
Although according to celebrity dermatologist Dr. Dennis Gross there is no scientific evidence that directly links cow's skim milk with breakouts, he confirmed to Vogue, “Anecdotally in my career, I’ve heard people say that skin-care issues such as eczema have improved after limiting dairy consumption.”
While milk may be causing flare ups on the surface of your skin, other dairy products don’t necessarily pose quite as much of a concern. “Interestingly, cheese and yogurt are not associated with acne. In fact, the probiotics in yogurt are thought to have a protective and anti-inflammatory effect on the body,” Zeichner says.
Sometimes consuming milk is unavoidable, unless, of course, you’re dairy free. If you do find yourself drinking it occasionally and suffering the consequences, Zeichner suggests finding a skincare product containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to counteract and treat the breakouts. “Benzoyl peroxide lowers levels of acne causing bacteria and reduces inflammation in the skin. Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid that removes excess oil and dead cells from the skin to help keep the pores clear and dry out any pimples,” he explains.
Breaking out is one of the most frustrating skincare woes, but if cutting down on milk works as a small step to clear things up, it may be worth finding an alternative creamer for your coffee in the morning. Dermatologists seem to agree that the hormones in dairy may be the culprit for this unfortunate struggle, so if you’re really hoping to clear up your skin but don’t know where to start, milk could be one of the first things to go.