Ditching Your Morning Chai Could Help You Get A Clear Skin

In an era where stress and anxiety are commonplace, many people are turning to their favorite comfort beverages, like chai, for solace. However, if you’re struggling with persistent skin issues such as acne, it might be time to reconsider that daily cup of chai. The hidden link between dairy and acne could be the culprit behind your skincare woes, and making some changes to your diet might be the key to clearer skin.

Dairy-Derived Acne Connection

Most of us cannot imagine starting our day sans our favourite beverage—Chai. A staple in our households, tea is known to have multiple benefits right from instant energy boost to increasing bone density. However, can it be bad for your skin? The answer is yes and the reason is milk, it's main ingredient. Milk contain hormones like Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), lactose, and androgens. Notably, green tea, black tea and other other versions of milkless teas, have anti-oxidants and fight acne and pimples instead.

Why Is Milk Bad For Your Skin?

Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) is a hormone associated with increased acne severity. Studies have shown a correlation between high IGF-1 levels and acne, particularly in females. Milk can elevate IGF-1 levels, exacerbating acne breakouts. This hormone, naturally higher during adolescence, can worsen with dairy consumption, making that glass of milk or cream in your chai a potential acne trigger. Meanwhile, Lactose intolerance is increasingly common and can lead to acne indirectly. Difficulty in digesting lactose creates an imbalance of gut bacteria, leading to systemic inflammation. This inflammation can manifest on your skin as acne, turning your seemingly innocent chai into a problem for your complexion.

Dairy Alternatives

Not all dairy is created equal, and there are skin-friendly alternatives. Plant-based milks like almond, soy, and oat milk do not contain the same acne-triggering hormones as cattle milk. Switching to these alternatives might help reduce breakouts and support clearer skin.

While milk contains lactic acid, a gentle exfoliant known for fading post-acne marks, excessive consumption can backfire. High levels of lactic acid from too much dairy might upset your gut balance, contributing to acne rather than resolving it.

Hormonal Impact and Inflammation

Dairy products are rich in androgens, including testosterone, which can be converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT increases oil production, leading to clogged pores and acne. Additionally, casein, the main protein in milk, can trigger immune responses that worsen inflammation and acne.

Should You Ditch Dairy?

If your skin is breaking out despite using conventional treatments, cutting out dairy could be beneficial. Start by eliminating dairy during an active breakout and monitor your skin’s response. For a more comprehensive approach, try removing dairy from your diet for a few months to assess any improvements.