Some people with sensitive skin notice that what they eat can affect their eczema symptoms, such as irritation, dryness, and itching. Figuring out which foods trigger eczema can be hard. But paying attention to how your skin reacts — especially to ingredients like whey protein — can help you find relief from symptoms.

Before you add a new dietary supplement or ingredient like whey protein to your diet, it’s important to understand how it might affect your eczema. Here’s what you should know about milk, dairy, and whey protein before buying a big tub of protein powder.

What Is Whey Protein?

Whey protein comes from cow’s milk. It contains eight milk proteins that are usually pasteurized (heated to kill harmful bacteria) and added to food products and dietary supplements. Whey protein is considered a complete protein because it has all the essential amino acids: the building blocks of protein.

You can find whey protein in protein shakes and bars, infant formula, and various processed foods. Some types of whey protein include whey protein concentrate, isolate, and hydrolysate. Hydrolysate is broken down the most, so it’s the easiest one to digest.

Many people use whey protein to build muscle, gain weight, or heal wounds. But for others, whey protein can cause digestive problems or other side effects. Some protein supplements made with whey may be contaminated with heavy metals or other harmful substances. Many also have added sugar, artificial sweeteners, or other additives that may not be healthy.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, it’s usually better to get your protein from whole foods than supplements. But if you want to try protein powder, watch your body for signs of skin reactions or digestive issues, especially if you have eczema. Check with your doctor or dietitian to find out if protein powder is a good choice for you.

Whey Protein and Dairy Allergies

Food allergies are common in people with atopic dermatitis, the most common type of eczema. Health researchers estimate that about 30 percent of people with atopic dermatitis also have a food allergy.

It’s important to know the difference between food allergies and sensitivities and intolerances. Lactose intolerance is a common digestive problem linked to dairy. It can cause gastrointestinal symptoms like bloating and diarrhea. A dairy allergy is different — it can lead to rashes or even potentially life-threatening allergic reactions that affect breathing. Some types of whey protein may be safe for people with lactose intolerance. But anyone with a milk or dairy allergy should avoid whey completely.

Scientific journals have reported some surprising cases of people having allergic reactions to whey protein but not to milk in general. This isn’t well understood yet. Researchers think it may have to do with how whey protein supplements are processed or how each person’s immune system reacts.

“I am in the process of evaluating whether whey protein flares my skin up,” wrote one MyEczemaTeam member who thought they had a whey protein allergy rash. “Currently, it’s the fifth day without the supplement. However, I’m still eating other dairy foods (with some reduction) and reducing gluten as well. The main issue seems to be the whey protein.”

Members’ Tips for Protein Sources

Protein isn’t just for bodybuilders. Your muscles, bones, and immune system rely on this nutrient to stay strong and healthy. Several MyEczemaTeam members who avoid dairy products, milk, or protein powders have shared how they get protein in other ways:

• “I tried sardines for extra protein, which seems to work well for me. I’m really careful with dairy.”
• “I tolerate animal protein well, so I get most of my protein from elk, beef, turkey, chicken, salmon, sardines, cod, and mahi-mahi. I occasionally use protein powder, but not too often, as I react to dairy.”
• “I’ve limited my dairy products and switched to soy milk. That seems to have helped.”
• “I have totally given up dairy and only have goat’s milk and goat cheese. Sometimes when I eat foods that contain dairy, my skin goes tight and dry, and I get blisters. Then the eczema flares up.”

You can also combine plant-based and animal-based foods to meet your body’s protein needs. Adults need 5 to 7 ounces of protein daily, depending on their health status and activity level.

Foods high in protein include:

• Eggs
• Beans
• Lentils
• Nuts
• Seafood
• Chicken
• Beef
• Pork
• Soy
• Dairy

Protein powder options beyond whey protein include products made from casein (another type of milk protein), egg, pea protein, hemp, or soy.

Does Whey Protein Trigger Eczema?

Researchers are still studying the complex relationship between whey protein and eczema flare-ups. At the moment, it’s not recommended to use whey protein as an eczema supplement unless your doctor says it’s safe.

While it’s helpful to read about others’ experiences, remember that eczema is different for everyone. The best way to manage it is to work with your dermatologist (skin specialist) to create a personal eczema treatment plan. Together, you can look at your atopic dermatitis triggers, overall health situation, and other factors that affect your skin.

Not everyone’s eczema is related to their diet. However, some MyEczemaTeam members have said that removing certain food triggers have helped improve their symptoms:

• “I’m back to being 100 percent gluten- and dairy-free. I currently have no flare-ups.”
• “After changing my diet, my flare-ups come down to a change of weather, stress, or tiredness.”
• “What works for me is having a fairly clean diet (little processed foods), exercising, using clean products, and making sure I’m not stressed-out.”

Managing Allergies and Building an Eczema-Friendly Diet

If you think food might be affecting your skin, talk to an allergist to get tested for common food allergens. A registered dietitian can also help you figure out your triggers and build an eczema-friendly eating plan that supports your skin health. A diet that’s balanced and full of nutrients helps your body heal and stay strong over time.

If controlling your eczema means cutting out a food group, like dairy, you may need calcium or other dietary supplements to help prevent a nutrient deficiency. It’s important to work with your healthcare providers to build a diet and lifestyle plan that supports your skin and overall health. Practicing good skin care, regularly applying an eczema-friendly moisturizer, and sticking to a treatment plan from your dermatologist can also help improve your skin health and reduce flares.

Talk With Others Who Understand

MyEczemaTeam is the social network for people with eczema and their loved ones. On MyEczemaTeam, members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with eczema.

Have you noticed skin problems after consuming whey protein? What food sources provide most of your protein? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.