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Spiro Helped my Cystic Acne, Weightlifting Made It Come Back?

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Hi everyone, My acne journey is similar to many of...

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Hi everyone,
My acne journey is similar to many of yours. Acne started around 12yrs old, came and went with varying levels of severity. Noticed at 26yrs of age more cystic acne. My skin was amazing while on Diane 35 and with both of my pregnancies. Cystic acne worsened but mostly only located on my chin. Have been on spiro for 5 years and has been a godsend for me! the first month was tough adjusting to the diuretic effects (stay hydrated!!). Thankfully the only major side effect on spiro has been my shortened menstral cycle. 50mg was enough for me, but have adjusted up to 75mg over the years.
I started focusing on lifting weights about 6 months ago (up to 4 times a week). Gradually since then, now that I think back, my skin has been getting worse. Larger pores, more sebum, more breakouts. I've also been drinking whey protein powder as well as a plant-based protein powder.
Over the last 2 weeks I've broken out badly with cysts and of course the red/dark scarring that comes along with it.
I'm definitely frustrated. I have increased my dose to 100mg/day and am awaiting to see my derm to see if i should start a BCP as well. The thing is I LOVE weight training! But will my skin continue to get worse with more muscle I gain?!? I've stopped taking any protein supplements for the last two weeks, just to see if it could be the whey.
I'm sad to even think about not lifting weights, but can't tolerate cystic acne break outs.

LalaMJ's provider

Dr. Hawkins

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Replies (2)

This is probably dietary related. As whey creates more sebum I would guess that’s the main reason for your new breakout. I would also look into dairy and how it affects acne if you react to whey. Give it a month or so, and check if your skin is better. It usually takes 3 months to see the full results after cutting curtain food off your diet.
This happened to me too! I couldn’t figure out what caused my severe acne for awhile, until I realized it started at the exact time I started drinking lots of protein powder. I had to stop drinking it completely and now find other/natural sources for my protein. It can be hard sometimes as I know weightlifting requires a lot of protein, but get creative with your diet and include more lean meats and egg whites. I still weight lift with no problems, it was definitely the powder in my situation. Good luck!
Thanks for the reply! Do you take spiro or anything else for acne?