Acne and Milk/Protein

I have started a weightlifting program and would like to increase the protein in my diet.  However, I am 28 with stubborn acne and I have read many things both for and against the fact that milk may be a cause of acne.  Is this true?

If I avoid milk and drink a whey and/or casein protein shake would this cause or aggravate acne?

Thanks,
Thor

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Acne formation is due to a blockage of oil underneath the skin and builds up with bacteria causing inflammation and develops into a pimple. Several factors are usually considered to cause acne such as diet, stress, genetic, dirt hormonal imbalances, cosmetics, work-related and drugs. In your case, milk based diet may be one of the causes.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.