23 Common Foods That Are Unexpectedly Bad for Your Skin

15. Artificial Sweeteners: Gut Feelings on Your Face?

Often chosen to cut sugar, artificial sweeteners (like aspartame, sucralose, saccharin) might have their own skin implications. Emerging research suggests some can negatively impact gut microbiome diversity. Since a healthy gut is strongly linked to clear skin via the gut-skin axis, disrupting this balance could potentially contribute to inflammation, which underlies conditions like acne and rosacea. While more research is needed, being mindful of your intake and observing skin changes when consuming artificial sweeteners could be insightful.

16. Whey Protein Supplements: More Than Muscle Fuel

A staple for many fitness enthusiasts, whey protein concentrate can sometimes trigger acne, similar to dairy milk. This may be due to naturally occurring hormones or its potential to increase Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1), which can stimulate oil production and skin cell turnover, contributing to clogged pores. If you struggle with breakouts, especially after starting whey protein, consider experimenting with plant-based protein powders (pea, rice, hemp) or whey protein isolate (which is more filtered) to see if your skin improves.