Greek yogurt for skin: benefits and tips for use

Greek yogurt adds more than just texture to foods. The thick, creamy dairy product is probably what your skin needs. In fact, its consistency makes it an ideal skin care ingredient. Use Greek yogurt for skin as it can moisturize your skin. This is a benefit that can be enjoyed especially in winter when most people complain about dry skin. The yogurt, containing calcium, lactic acid, probiotics, and various vitamins, can also help treat acne and protect against sun damage. You can apply it directly to your face or mix it with other ingredients to get glowing skin.

What is Greek yogurt?

Greek yogurt is a dairy product in which the whey liquid, which is rich in sugar and lactose, is removed from regular yogurt. Due to the lower water content, this yogurt is much thicker and creamier than regular yogurt. It is a rich source of proteins, probiotics and minerals such as calcium and zinc.

Nutritional value of Greek yogurt (100 grams) according to the US Department of Agriculture:

• 83.56g water
• 9.95g protein
• 3.94g carbohydrates
• 115 mg calcium
• 0.6 mg zinc
• 0.8 mg vitamin C
• 0.52 micrograms of vitamin B12
• 0.044 mg vitamin B1
• 0.233 mg vitamin B2

What benefits does Greek yogurt have for the skin?

1. Exfoliating properties

“The lactic acid in Greek yogurt is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is naturally exfoliating and helps remove dead skin cells,” says dermatologist Dr. Nishtha Patel. It is naturally gentle, making it great for people with sensitive skin. Regular use of Greek yogurt can lead to glowing skin.

2. Calming properties

“When consumed in the form of Greek yogurt, probiotics can make the skin’s natural microflora healthier. This helps reduce inflammation, redness or skin irritation,” says the expert. Its soothing properties can also help with sunburns by soothing the skin.

3. Moisturizes the skin

The thick and creamy texture of Greek yogurt is rich in healthy fats and proteins. They can help lock in moisture and keep skin soft. “Use Greek yogurt for the skin, especially in winter, as it is great for dry skin,” says the expert.

4. Brightens skin

It is a treatment used to treat skin pigmentation and melasma, a common skin condition characterized by brown patches or patches. A 2005 study published in the journal Dermatologic Surgery found lactic acid to be an effective and safe agent in the treatment of melasma. Due to the lactic acid, it inhibits melanin production. Therefore, this is a great natural ingredient that gives the skin an even complexion and a more radiant appearance.

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5. May combat signs of aging

Use Greek yogurt for skin regularly to reduce signs of premature aging such as fine lines and wrinkles. “Vitamin B12 in Greek yogurt aids in cell regeneration and helps repair skin cells. Vitamin B2, also present in this yogurt, is known for the synthesis of collagen, the structural protein of the skin that contributes to its elasticity,” says Dr. Patel. Additionally, a 2015 study published in the International Journal Of Women’s Dermatology showed that probiotics can help protect against signs of aging.

6. May help people with acne

It is an antibiotic and can kill the bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes) that leads to acne, a skin condition in which skin pores become clogged with bacteria, oil, and dead skin. Use Greek yogurt for skin as it can help balance the skin’s natural sebum and prevent further breakouts. A 2022 study published in Life Journal showed that cosmetics containing probiotics can help improve the skin condition of people with acne.

7. Protects skin from sun damage

Zinc in Greek yogurt may help protect skin from the damaging effects of the sun’s ultraviolet rays. It can also help protect cells from sun damage. Zinc oxide, which contains zinc and oxygen atoms, can provide a high level of protection against UVB and UVA radiation, according to a 2017 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.

Greek yogurt for skin: who can use it?

“Those with hypersensitive skin should avoid using Greek yogurt on the skin as it can irritate the skin. Otherwise, it is suitable for all skin types, but always do a patch test before using Greek yogurt for skin,” says the expert.

• Healthy fats and proteins in Greek yogurt moisturize the skin, making it great for dry, flaky, and dehydrated skin.
• Oily skin can also benefit from Greek yogurt, as its lactic acid content is a great exfoliator, balancing the skin’s natural sebum production and protecting it from breakouts.
• For those with sensitive skin, probiotics in Greek yogurt are extremely beneficial due to their calming effects and reduction of skin irritation.

How to use Greek yogurt for skin?

1. Body mask: For body relaxation, use it as a body mask after adding a few drops of essential oil such as lavender oil.
2. Face pack: Mix aloe vera gel with Greek yogurt, apply it on your sunburned areas and get a soothing effect.
3. Under eye care: You can apply Greek yogurt under your eyes to reduce dark circles.
4. Peeling treatment: Add sugar or oatmeal to Greek yogurt and enjoy the exfoliating properties of this mask.
5. Skin brightening face mask: Add a teaspoon of honey and a pinch of turmeric to Greek yogurt to brighten skin.

What are the side effects of using Greek yogurt for skin?

• People with an allergy to dairy products or those with lactose intolerance should not apply Greek yogurt to the skin.
• Infections can occur if stored unhygienically.
• Excessive consumption can cause skin irritation and rashes due to the lactic acid in Greek yogurt.

Greek yogurt for skin has many benefits, even for people with dry skin. Even though it has skincare benefits, you should do a patch test before incorporating this kitchen ingredient into your daily routine.