Clear Skin Starts in the Kitchen: 6 Foods That Cause Acne and What to Eat Instead
2. Dairy Products
There’s a growing body of evidence linking milk — especially skim milk — to acne. While the exact reason isn’t fully understood, it could be due to the natural hormones found in milk or its effect on insulin levels.
Some studies suggest that dairy may stimulate the same hormonal pathways that increase oil production in the skin.
What to avoid:
- Skim milk
- Cheese
- Ice cream
Better alternatives:
- Unsweetened almond milk
- Coconut milk
- Oat milk (without added sugar)
3. Fried and Greasy Food
While greasy food doesn’t directly transfer oil to your skin, it can still play a role in acne. Fried foods are often high in unhealthy fats and calories, which can increase inflammation in the body — and inflammation is a key player in acne development.
Plus, some fried foods are cooked in oils that may disrupt your hormonal balance or increase oxidative stress in your body.
What to avoid:
- French fries
- Fried chicken
- Fast food
- Chips and greasy snacks
Better alternatives:
- Baked or grilled foods
- Healthy fats like avocado and nuts
- Steamed or roasted vegetables
