At our Acne Clinic we are often asked questions about what causes acne. Frequently our patients will ask us, can coconut milk cause acne? Thankfully we can say that coconut milk is not a cause of acne. In most cases a person's diet will have little to do with development of acne.
Whereas coconut milk is very rich in fat so it can trigger acne and increase oil production on your face.
If your skin is oily and acne-prone, you can still use it as a cleanser thanks to its antibacterial properties. Coconut milk is rich in antioxidants and can delay visible signs of ageing, like lines, wrinkles, and even age spots. This makes it a great addition to face masques.
Coconut oil is highly comedogenic, which means it can clog pores. Consequently, it may actually make acne worse for some people (22). When applied to the skin, coconut oil may clog pores and make acne worse.
Coconut milk contains high levels of calories and fats. Consuming too much of the milk and eating a carbohydrate-rich diet can result in weight gain. Coconut milk also contains fermentable carbohydrates. These can cause digestive issues, such as diarrhea or constipation, in people with irritable bowel syndrome.
If you have acne-prone skin, avoid milk whenever possible. Consider substituting with oat, almond, or coconut milk. Plant-based milks have not been associated with acne. If you must have milk in your coffee, small amounts of whole milk may be a better option for acne sufferers.
“Gentle application of coconut milk provides an excellent moisturizing effect in dry skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis and psoriasis”, says Dr. Rahul. The natural fatty acids in coconut milk help treat dry and irritated skin and remove harmful bacteria.
These fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce the redness and inflammation associated with acne. Just make sure you opt for sugar-free almond milk. Sugar triggers acne too and causes glycation (a fancy way to say it degrades collagen and gives you wrinkles).