Greek Yogurt Acne

Greek yogurt is exceptional for acne-prone skin. Though it's often recommended to avoid dairy if you battle acne, Greek yogurt is the exception because of the probiotics it contains. The yogurt not only works to clear your skin but also comes with a host of benefits that can improve your overall health. 

Surprise—Not all dairy is bad for acne!

If you're an acne sufferer, you've probably been warned away from dairy. This is because of the chemical process our body undergoes while digesting dairy. The hormone IGF-1 present in cow's milk is known to cause breakouts. But Greek yogurt is a different story! The probiotics, for which this type of yogurt is famous for, has been found not only to assist in digestion, but they actually help calm inflammation in the skin that lead to breakouts! 

How to use Greek yogurt in your daily acne regimen

Many people don't know you can actually apply Greek yogurt directly to your face. Studies suggest that using a Greek yogurt face mask three times a week for thirty minutes helps leave your skin hydrated, bright, and glowing. However, as with any face mask, it's important not to over-apply. This can strip your skin of other good bacteria that helps clear breakouts. 

Of course, if you don't want to use yogurt as a face mask, you could always just eat it!

Aside from your skin, Greek yogurt has many other health benefits

Aside from helping your skin, Greek yogurt is an essential addition to your regular diet because:

• It's packed with protein

• Probiotics help keep your digestive system regular

• It's a great workout recovery food

• Calcium and appropriate iodine levels help keep you slim and fit

So, what foods DO cause acne?

Unfortunately, there are a few foods that do cause acne. 

• Peanut butter. This favorite food is high in Omega-6, which is known to cause inflammation leading to acne. 

• Soy. When consumed in excess, soy can block estrogen receptors and lead to hormonal breakouts.

• Shellfish. Unlike Greek yogurt, shrimp and other shellfish have too much iodine, and that can cause breakouts. 

Food isn't the only acne trigger

When attempting to get your acne under control, it's essential to think of the bigger picture. Factors are contributing to your breakouts other than food, such as: 

• Sweat. If you're an athlete, or live in a humid environment, or just sweat a lot, that's likely a contributing factor to your acne. It's crucial to wash breakout areas frequently, using a dermatologist-recommended product, if necessary. 

• Makeup, hairspray, or other cosmetics. Be careful when applying these products, as they tend to contribute to the clogging of your pores. Additionally, certain brands can affect your skin differently than others, so be vigilant! And of course, always wash your makeup off at the end of the day. 

• You have oily skin. Some people just do. If you battle with acne, chances are your skin is oily. Find a routine that works for you, like washing, masks, and patting dry with clean towels. (When it comes to your face, never use the same towel twice.) 

Here's the best ways to treat your acne

While acne breakouts and pimples are inevitable at some point in your life, it's not something you have to live with forever. There's a wide range of treatment options that have shown to combat those pesky red bumps for good.

• Benzoyl Peroxide: Typically a main ingredient in many acne facial cleansers and lotions, benzoyl peroxide goes into your pores to lift and remove excess oil, dirt and debris (acne-causing agents).

• Glycolic Acid: An alpha-hydroxy acid, this ingredient exfoliates dead skin cells and removes surface impurities. This stops your pores from clogging; preventing future breakouts.

• Retinoids: Arguably the most effective acne treatment, retinoids expertly diminish sebum (excess oil), dirt, bacteria, and any other acne-causing agents on your skin's surface to prevent future breakouts. This powerful drug has also been proven to stop acne scars from forming, leaving behind only smooth, radiant skin.

Treat your acne fast! Get a prescription retinoid, today!

We understand how annoying and bothersome acne breakouts can be. Whether it's picture day at school, or you've got a job interview, acne is not a welcome friend. Fortunately, it's a treatable condition. Our licensed physicians make it easy and more comfortable to have a discussion about your skin and the best treatment options available for you.

Talk to one of our reputable online physicians to get your prescription Retinoid, today!