Does Whey Protein Cause Acne in Men?
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Whey protein is one of the most popular supplements among gym-goers and athletes. It helps build muscle, improve recovery, and support overall fitness goals. But for many men, especially those prone to acne, there has always been a question—can whey protein cause or worsen acne?
A recent study from Chulalongkorn University in Thailand explored this question in depth. Let’s break down what the researchers found in simple terms and what it means for you.
What Was the Study About?
The researchers wanted to know if whey protein (WP) has any real effect on acne severity in young men. While earlier reports and case studies suggested a link between whey protein and acne breakouts, there was little solid evidence. This new study was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial—one of the most reliable methods in medical research.
They recruited 49 male students aged 18–25 who had mild to moderate acne. These participants were split into two groups:
- Whey Protein Group: Took 30g of whey protein daily.
- Control Group: Took a similar-looking supplement without whey protein.
Both groups were monitored for 6 months.
How Was Acne Measured?
The researchers looked at two main things:
- Acne Count – Number of pimples on the face and body.
- Acne Severity – Graded by dermatologists using a standard scale.
They also looked at skin quality—such as oiliness and elasticity—using specialized tools.
What Did They Find?
After 6 months, the results were clear:
- No significant increase in acne was found in the group taking whey protein compared to the control group.
- The number of pimples and the severity of acne did not get worse in the whey protein group.
- Skin conditions like oil production, elasticity, and hydration showed no meaningful differences between the groups.
Only one person in the control group showed a noticeable worsening of acne, and not because of whey protein.
What Makes This Study Reliable?
- Double-blind design: Neither the participants nor the researchers knew who was taking whey protein or the placebo. This helps prevent bias.
- Controlled diets: Participants had their meals tracked to ensure they didn’t consume other dairy products or acne-affecting foods.
- Real-life scenario: All participants were students from a sports science faculty, meaning they had similar activity levels and habits.
What Are the Practical Takeaways?
If you’re a man prone to acne and you’re using (or thinking of using) whey protein:
- You probably don’t need to worry: This study suggests that moderate whey protein intake doesn’t cause acne flare-ups.
- Choose quality supplements: The study used medical-grade whey protein. Cheap or unregulated brands may contain additives that could affect your skin differently.
- Keep your overall diet clean: Acne can still be influenced by your overall diet, stress, and hygiene, so it’s important to manage those factors too.
Any Limitations?
While the results are promising, this was a small study. Only 49 people took part, and all were young Thai males. The findings might not apply to everyone, especially women or people of different ethnic backgrounds.
Also, the whey protein dose was carefully measured to avoid overconsumption. Taking very large amounts might still have unknown effects.
Final Thoughts
This new study provides strong evidence that moderate whey protein intake does not worsen acne in men. If you’re using it for fitness goals, you can feel more confident that your skin won’t necessarily suffer.
Of course, everyone’s skin is different. If you notice breakouts after starting any new supplement, it's always a good idea to check in with a dermatologist or nutritionist.