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Is The Dairy Your Consuming the Cause of Your Acne?

January 19, 20252 min read

The Link Between Diet & Inflammation

Do you believe that what you eat could be feeding or fighting inflammation in your body? Many skin conditions like acne, rosacea, atopic dermatitis, and psoriasis are side effects of internal inflammation. Choosing anti-inflammatory foods can reduce your risk, while consistently consuming inflammatory foods can exacerbate skin issues.

Foods That Cause Inflammation

Try to limit or avoid the following:

  • Refined carbohydrates (white bread, pastries)

  • Fried foods (French fries, processed snacks)

  • Sugary beverages (soda, artificially sweetened drinks)

  • Red & processed meats (burgers, hot dogs, sausages)

  • Margarine, shortening, and lard

The Connection Between Dairy & Acne

Acne affects over 50 million people annually in the U.S., and rising dairy consumption in Western diets may be a contributing factor. While research has not fully confirmed why dairy triggers breakouts, evidence suggests it plays a role.

How Dairy Affects the Skin

  • Hormone Release: Dairy digestion releases IGF-1, a hormone similar to insulin, which is linked to breakouts.

  • Endocrine Disruption: Hormones in milk may interact with your body’s hormones, causing imbalances and triggering acne.


My Personal Skincare Journey

Two years ago, my skin started breaking out unexpectedly. Desperate for a solution, I went completely vegan overnight, cleaned up my skincare and makeup, and introduced supplements like:

  • Turmeric & Milk Thistle (anti-inflammatory properties)

  • Magnesium, Vitamin B, & Zinc (skin-healing nutrients)

Within two weeks, my skin began clearing, and after a month, I noticed significant improvement. A food sensitivity test confirmed my suspicions—dairy was triggering my inflammation. This experience inspired me to help others approach acne from within.


Try an Elimination Diet

If you suspect dairy is causing your breakouts, try eliminating it completely for 2-3 weeks and observe how your skin reacts. This simple test can provide clear insights into whether dairy is a trigger for your acne.

For a comprehensive skin & health approach, schedule a virtual consult. At FACES SkinGym, I’ve helped hundreds of clients achieve clear, healthy skin through lifestyle shifts, daily rituals, and customized skincare routineswithout antibiotics or harsh topicals.

Let’s Get Skin Fit!

Decades of skincare experience under my belt, I'd love to help you solve your own skin puzzle. From Melasma to adult acne, uneven skin tone & sun damage, trust me... I've seen it all. Working closely with my clients as their skin coach, I get to celebrate with them as they get that warm fuzzy feeling, "it's FINALLY working!"⁠⁠

Kelly Horton-Beeman

Decades of skincare experience under my belt, I'd love to help you solve your own skin puzzle. From Melasma to adult acne, uneven skin tone & sun damage, trust me... I've seen it all. Working closely with my clients as their skin coach, I get to celebrate with them as they get that warm fuzzy feeling, "it's FINALLY working!"⁠⁠

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