How could diet affect acne vulgaris?

    Written by:
    Thomas M.B. Reichhart, Brady Holmer

    Fact-checked

    by:

    Nick Milazzo, James Gaylor
    Last Updated: May 16, 2025

    Diet can significantly influence acne vulgaris, and a low-glycemic-index diet, supplemental omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics may potentially improve symptoms, whereas dairy consumption, especially whey protein, may worsen acne severity.

    Diet can have positive or negative effects on acne vulgaris. The most studied dietary factors that influence acne are:[1]

    • Glycemic index: A low glycemic index diet can improve symptoms of acne vulgaris.
    • Omega-3: Supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids can improve the symptoms of acne vulgaris.
    • Probiotics: Supplementation with probiotics can improve the symptoms of acne vulgaris.
    • Dairy: Consumption of dairy and whey protein powder, in particular, can worsen acne severity.