Acne-Safe Protein Powders (and Bars!)

By Deborah Berry

Did you know your daily protein shake could be triggering your breakouts? It’s more common than you think. Many popular protein powders contain acne-aggravating ingredients like whey, casein, soy, biotin, and even certain “super greens.”

But don’t worry—I’ve curated a list of acne-safe options, including powders, bars, and even a DIY recipe to help keep your skin clear while meeting your protein goals.

 Why Some Protein Powders Cause Breakouts

• Whey & Casein: Dairy-based proteins that spike insulin and trigger oil production.

• Soy: Can disrupt hormones and worsen acne.

• Super Greens: Spirulina, chlorella, algae, maca, kelp, and seaweed can inflame acne-prone skin.

• Biotin: Often marketed for hair and nails, but too much can block pores and cause breakouts.

 Acne-Safe Protein Powder Picks

Here are some of my go-to favorites that support clear skin:

• Alani Nu Plant Protein

• Aloha Plant-Based Protein Powder

• Ancient Nutrition Bone Broth Protein

• BeWell by Kelly Grass-Fed Beef Protein

• Designs for Health PurePaleo

• Four Sigmatic Organic Plant-Based Protein

• Further Foods Marine Collagen

• KOS (except Chocolate Peanut Butter)

• MRM Nutrition Egg White or Veggie Elite

• Nuzest Clean Lean Protein

• Ora So Lean & So Clean

• Orgain Organic Protein™ (avoid greens versions unless noted)

• Owyn Plant-Based Shakes

• Ritual Essential Protein

• Tone It Up (all flavors safe, including greens)

• Truvani (avoid Chocolate PB flavor)

• Vega Protein Made Simple™ and Vega Sport® (avoid PB flavors)

• Vital Proteins Collagen & Marine Collagen

 Acne-Safe Protein Bars

Skip the peanut butter and try these instead:

• Aloha Protein Bars (avoid PB flavors)

• Go Macro (avoid PB flavors)

• Lenny & Larry’s Complete Cookie® (avoid PB flavors)

• No Cow Bars (avoid PB flavors)

• RX Bars (avoid PB flavors)

 DIY Acne-Safe Protein Bars

Ingredients:

• 1 cup non-dairy milk (no carrageenan)

• 3 scoops acne-safe protein powder

• 3 cups rolled oats

• ½ cup almond butter

• ½ cup dark chocolate chips, dried fruit, or coconut

Directions:

1. Mix dry ingredients.

2. Knead in almond butter.

3. Add milk slowly to bind.

4. Press into dish and chill for 1 hour.

5. Cut and enjoy!

   
   

Endless ways to customize, no breakouts in sight.

Want to try something new? Check out my full skincare line here.Loved this article? Share it with a friend! Great skin is even better when it’s shared.

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