- This Post has 5 replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 1 year, 2 months ago by
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Going into the new year, and after months of having awful “maskne” along my jaw line, I decided I wanted to see what I could change about my diet that could potentially help this issue. (Sidenote: does anyone have other tips for dealing with this acne?)
I have had issues with acne in the same area when I switched over to having soy milk daily, so I already try to limit the amount of soy in my diet. So, the next thing I am trying to limit is dairy. I say limit because I am not someone who can completely cut out, for example instead of being vegetarian for the past 6 years, I enjoy chicken fingers every once in a while! This flexibility and forgiving nature of my less restrictive limits are comfortable for me, and I plan on doing the same with dairy, mainly by reducing my dairy intake when I am making my snacks and meals.
I guess I am writing to ask if anyone else has noticed bad breakouts related to food? Are there other foods that could be causing this that I am missing.I am excited to make this change in my diet for other reasons as well. So far I have read about benefits to my energy levels and digestive health. am hoping to notice some improvements in both areas! To anyone who has gone/is dairy free I would love to hear about your experience. Lastly, what are some of your favorite dairy free alternatives that you have incorporated in your diet?
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Hi Jane,
I recently went predominately dairy-free and am happy to share my experience! Over the last couple years, I had really begun to limit my dairy intake. Abstaining from creamier dairy ala ice cream, yogurt and sour cream but still eating cheese. Mainly feta on a salad for lunch and the occasional, casual block of cheddar ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ . I found that the creamier dairy made me feel more bloated and gassy vs. Cheese (although this could have been wishful thinking). I cut it all out before the holidays because of bloat and gas. I am amazed at the effects. Obviously on the gas and bloating front but my skin has been more clear too, which is pretty nice side effect. I still have some acne, but breakouts and pimples are fewer and further between now that I cut out dairy. I would say I’m about 2-3 months in for no dairy and plan to stay that way for the majority of the time, while still eating cheese on occasion.
Give it a try! Would love torear how it goes for you!
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Steph –
I’ve always noticed “creamier” dairy like drinking milk, yogurt, ice cream negatively affect my skin wayyyy more than cheese! So you might actually be into something!
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To hear**
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Hi Jane,
I have the SAME PROBLEM with my acne, so I feel your pain and know it is soooo horrible. I have been going on 3 weeks now of trying to eliminate as much dairy as possible to see if it helps with my skin. Since dairy is an inflammatory food I figured why not!
Some alternatives I am using are Nut milks (almond and oat) as well as creamers (NUTPODS is a great brand) if I need some extra flavor in coffee. VIOLIFE is a great dairy free brand for cream cheese and shredded cheese regarding flavor, and LAVA Plant Based Yogurt is delicious. Only time it is super hard for me to NOT cut dairy is when my Italian family comes over and we make meatballs…have to have that ricotta cheese lol.
Other things I am trying and hoping to see results with is using clean products for skin care and makeup (specifically using Beauty Counter as alot of my family with similar skin saw awesome results).
I hope this helps and wish ya the best!
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It’s great that you’re taking a proactive approach to dealing with “maskne” and acne, especially by adjusting your diet. Many people do notice a connection between their skin and certain foods, so it’s totally worth exploring! Here are a few insights and tips:
Food and Acne Connections:
- Dairy: Dairy, especially milk, is commonly linked to acne flareups for some people. The hormones in dairy products may trigger excess sebum production, leading to clogged pores and breakouts. Reducing dairy intake, as you’re doing, can definitely help if you’re sensitive to it.
- High Glycemic Foods: Foods that spike your blood sugar, like white bread, sugary snacks, and refined carbs, can contribute to acne by triggering insulin spikes. This can, in turn, promote oil production and inflammation. You may want to consider cutting back on refined sugars and processed carbs.
- Soy: You mentioned noticing a reaction to soy milk, which makes sense since soy contains phytoestrogens that might mimic hormones in the body and potentially exacerbate hormonal acne. Limiting soy could help if you’re sensitive to it, as you’ve already noticed.
- Inflammatory Foods: Foods that are proinflammatory, such as fried foods, processed meats, and excessive alcohol, may also worsen acne by triggering inflammation in the body.
Tips for Maskne:
Use a gentle, noncomedogenic moisturizer: Even if you’re wearing a mask, keep your skin hydrated with a lightweight, nonclogging moisturizer to maintain your skin’s barrier and avoid dryness.
Clean your mask regularly: Bacteria and oils from your skin can accumulate on your mask, which could irritate your skin and cause breakouts. Make sure to wash your mask after each use, especially if it’s fabric.
Change your mask material: Opt for a mask made from breathable fabrics like cotton that are gentler on your skin.
DairyFree Alternatives:
Milk Alternatives: There are so many dairyfree milk options now, like almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk. I personally love oat milk for its creamy texture and slightly sweet taste, perfect for coffee or smoothies!
Cheese Alternatives: Try nutbased cheeses (made from cashews or almonds), or vegan cheese brands like Daiya or Violife, which are great for sandwiches or snacks.
Yogurt: Coconut milk yogurt or almond milk yogurt are both great alternatives that are usually dairyfree and come in a variety of flavors. They also have the benefit of probiotics for gut health!
Personal Experience:
I’ve heard from others that eliminating dairy made a significant improvement in their acne. Some also noticed that reducing highly processed foods, sugars, and focusing on more whole foods helped clear their skin. Increased water intake, along with eating more antioxidantrich foods like berries and leafy greens, also helped many feel better overall.
Overall, it’s important to take it one step at a time—don’t stress over being 100% dairyfree right away. The goal is to find what works best for you in a sustainable, balanced way that improves both your skin and overall health.
Good luck with the changes! Would love to hear how you feel after a month or so of limiting dairy!
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