Generally speaking, drugs, drinks, bars and supplements used for bodybuilding and increasing muscle can wreak havoc on the skin. As we have discussed, acne is a genetic skin disease characterized by elevated androgens (testosterone). The goal of most bodybuilding regimens is to increase testosterone because this increases the ability to build muscle. Therefore, taking these items will increase testosterone and thereby increase the risk of acne.

Acne-related risks with bodybuilders or athletes are:

• Protein bars (Problematic ingredients: whey protein and soy)
• Protein shakes and powders (Problematic ingredients: whey protein, soy, and sodium)
• Pre workout powders (problematic ingredients:  B12)
• Steroids and Testosterone Injections
• Cow’s milk
• Sport and Electrolyte Drinks can potentially cause issues if use frequently due to the high salt content.
• Meat (non-organic beef and chicken with added hormones)
• Heavy lifting as this can cause a spike in testosterone levels

Men and women who are not professional bodybuilders or athletes are taking these fitness enhancers. For one to get clear, they will want to replace the Protein drinks and bars with vegetarian alternatives such as pea, egg white or hemp protein. Steroid or testosterone injections would need to be stopped, as well as cow’s milk and other dairies. Replace cow’s milk with nut or rice milk. Minimize beef to only one serving per week and chicken can be replaced with organic, hormone-free, free-range chicken.

Safe alternatives to recommend are:

• Vega Sports Performance
• Perfect Fit
• Orgain - Not all of these options are safe

ALWAYS check for acne triggering ingredients. ​