Clear, healthy skin is something that many of us strive for, and it’s no surprise that people are always on the lookout for what might be causing breakouts. Despite common confusion, research and treatment guidelines that have investigated dairy and acne do not recommend restricting dairy intake.

Acne is usually caused by a combination of genetics and hormones, but many people also wonder about the role diet might be playing. Early studies found weak associations between milk and breakouts, which got amplified in the media and online. Acne is most common in teenagers and young adults who are often on social media and so encounter misinformation about quick fixes and acne cures, which only adds to the confusion.

Milk and dairy foods are a major source of calcium and iodine in Irish diets. These nutrients are particularly important for teenagers who are going through a phase of rapid growth and development. Quick-fix approaches to cut out foods from your diet could lead to nutrient deficiencies and negatively affect your health. 

The good news is that there is no strong evidence linking any specific food with acne, however a healthy balanced diet, that includes fibre, fruit, vegetables, wholegrains and omega-3 fatty acids, may be of benefit to acne sufferers.

Nutrient rich foods such as milk, yogurt, and cheese can also be included. In fact, milk is a source of a number of nutrients that have established roles in normal skin health, such as vitamin B2 and iodine.

For more information on diet and acne, you can download our free information booklet: Dairy and Acne Booklet.

If you’re a healthcare professional and want a deep dive into the science, read our DN Forum on Diet and Acne, and watch the webinar ‘From Research to Recommendations: Dairy and Acne in Evidence-Based Dietetics’ featuring Registered Dietitian Sarah Keogh and Dermatologist Prof. Desmond Tobin.