Protein Shakes for Acne-Prone Skin

Protein Shakes for Acne-Prone Skin

Are you a fitness enthusiast who loves to add protein powders to your pre-workout and post-workout smoothies? To your healthy breakfast oatmeal, and anywhere possible so you can meet your daily protein requirements? But are facing severe acne and breakouts on your skin.

Don’t stress out as we know the reason behind your problems which is “Whey Protein”. Did we guess it right, check your protein powder and if it is based on whey (casein) it is highly likely that it is worsening your acne and breakouts. 

Because out of all the best protein powder for acne prone skin, whey protein powder is not a good choice for a person who has acne prone skin. And if this is a new reality for you, and you don’t know what to do or where to find a protein powder without whey or dairy contents.

Read the article till the end to find out about the best protein powder for acne prone skin and how to prevent acne from whey protein.

How does whey protein cause acne?

Protein powders based on whey (casein) are often known to cause breakouts. Since it contains milk proteins, which can be inflammatory for individuals susceptible to food-related acne, it's not considered an ideal choice.

Besides the consumption of whey has been associated with causing insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), resulting in triggering acne issues further. On a scale of being acne friendly for those suffering from acne concerns, the effectiveness of whey protein powders is only 1 out of 5.

Thus if you have sensitive and acne prone skin. Try plant-based or animal-based protein powders for fulfilling your daily protein requirements. 

The Best Protein Powder for Acne Prone Skin : Say No To Whey & Soy and Go Vegan:

When selecting protein powders, those with acne-prone skin must choose the appropriate kind of protein powders to prevent the worsening of breakouts and acne. The following are some of the best protein powder for acne prone skin:

Plant-Based Protein Powders (Pea Protein): 

Plant-based powders sourced from peas are not only a hit with vegans and dairy-free dieters they are also good choices for people with acne-prone skin. But although they outdo whey protein, only some people's skin can tolerate pea protein. When tested on acne-friendliness, it is a 5 out of 10 for a plant-based powder.

Animal Based Protein Powders:

If you're looking for an acne-friendly and best protein powder for acne prone skin , animal-based powders like those made from gelatin or collagen are your best bet. Unlike other protein powders that can cause breakouts and increase IGF-1 levels in the body, these animal-based protein powder for acne prone skin will not irritate your skin and make sure your protein requirements are fulfilled without any consequences.

To maximize benefits while protecting against potential side effects such as artificial sugars or sweetener additives be sure to choose natural sources of animal-based proteins only.

Listed below are a few protein powders that do not trigger acne and are some the best protein powder for acne prone skin :

Trader Joes Vanilla Organic Pea Protein Powder:

After adding water and ice, you can find the taste of this protein powder to be moderately unexciting (neither too sugary nor vanilla-dominant), but agree that it serves as an excellent foundation for incorporating additional ingredients such as oatmeal, almond butter, fruits like bananas, strawberries or any other thing.

Organic pea protein, organic coconut palm sugar and organic vanilla are the ingredients used to make it. A serving of this contains 130 calories and provides 20 grams of protein.

Overall, it is an excellent option for individuals who have acne. Because it is free from whey and additional acne increasing products like biotin and vitamin B12.

Vega One Protein and Greens: 

We're impressed with this powder because it's a blend of protein derived from peas, hemp seed, and brown rice. Plus, each serving packs 20 grams of protein, only 110 calories, and merely one gram of sugar - doesn't that sound enticing?

Interestingly, while the vanilla flavor meets all criteria for being "acne-safe," it's worth noting that the chocolate flavor includes B12 and spirulina - two ingredients that are not recommended for clients with acne-prone skin. Thus take the vanilla and leave the chocolate if you have acne prone skin.

Twenty2 Nutrition:

This collagen egg protein powder receives a positive review and rating from us as it does not irritate acne-prone skin, despite containing eggs. If you prefer winter holiday drinks like the famous egg nog, pumpkin spiced lattes and hot chocolate with cinnamon in it.

The cinnamon oatmeal flavour of Twenty2 Nutrition, will bring back memories and nostalgia for you! It's a warm, delectable and nourishing option with 140 calories per serving along with 20 grams of protein.

Vital Proteins Collagen Peptide:

This is the best protein powder for acne prone skin , and is favored by us since it excels at multitasking like a powerhouse! If you're a devoted follower of Collagen Peptides and want to spice up your routine, opt for this choice that adds an extra kick.

It provides all the advantages of a protein shake with 70 calories and 18 grams of protein per serving along with essential substances like hyaluronic acid and vitamin C.

Read More: Can Vitamin C Cause Acne? What does Science say

Orgain’s Keto Collagen Protein Powder:

Orgain's Keto collagen protein powder is designed to support the ketogenic and paleo friendly lifestyle. This innovative blend contains essential ingredients that add nutrition and sustenance such as high-quality fats.

This is also on of the best protein powder for acne prone skin as it contains grass-fed collagen peptides that you adore in Vital Collagen Peptides. You can try the chocolate version, as it is delightful and it evokes childhood memories of drinking chilled chocolate milk!

This supplement provides 90 calories and 10 grams of protein per serving. It not only meets vegan dietary requirements but is also suitable for those dealing with acne issues. With a great taste and numerous health benefits, this protein shake speaks for itself!

Some more ideal options of protein powder for acne prone skin include:

  • Organic Pea Protein Powders (Pea protein powders made from organic sources)
  • Naked Pea Protein Powder (Pea Protein Powder without any additives or flavors)
  • Vega One Plant-Based All-in-One Shake
  • Optimum Nutrition Gold Standard Plant-Based Protein


To sum it up, to maintain optimum skin health, it's crucial to remember that protein powders alone are not enough. Thus, to supplement your skin properly with nutrients along with using supplements such as protein powders, try incorporating vitamins, omega-3s, probiotics, and enzymes into your daily routine. And, remember to always consult a dietician or nutritionist before making any significant dietary changes because trying every other trendy thing available on the market can cause adverse effects on your skin and body. Therefore, beware and be safe.

How to prevent acne from whey protein?

If you are looking for a solution on how to prevent acne from whey protein. We have some effective options that you try. Following are some ways you can prevent acne caused by the consumption of whey protein powders:

  •  To prevent acne, refrain from wearing tight-fitting garments while engaging in physical activities as it may trap sweat and oil on your skin.
  • Take a shower right after exercising.
  • Decrease the consumption of whey protein.
  • To alleviate inflammation, opt for an acne treatment that contains medication such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
  • To eliminate pore blockages, it is advisable to use a non-comedogenic cleanser that contains salicylic acid.

Conclusion: 

To summarize it, we hope that you found what you were looking for in this article. By using the best protein powder for acne prone skin and following tips on how to prevent acne from whey protein.

You can eradicate your acne issues efficiently and effectively. Fighting acne requires a multifaceted approach. Identify the causes of your worsening acne issues and try to solve them by focusing on one cause at a time. 

Choose vegan options in your diet if you have hormonal imbalance and hormonal acne, decrease the consumption of dairy and whey protein powders, and be consistent in your fitness regime to fight acne from all dimensions. It is not an easy war to win but by maintaining a good lifestyle, skincare routine, and diet choices you will definitely win this fight slowly but surely. Keep your hopes high and keep striving. Good Luck!

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