What Is Donkey Milk?
Donkey milk is the liquid produced by female donkeys, Equus asinus. It is naturally low in fat yet rich in lactose, vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C and D as well as minerals like calcium and phosphorus. It also contains whey proteins and bioactive peptides that help hold water on the skin’s surface. Stories claim that Cleopatra bathed in donkey milk to keep her skin soft, and European spas later adopted it for beauty rituals. Modern cosmetic labs collect the milk through gentle mechanical milking, filter it to remove impurities then either pasteurize or spray-dry it into a powder that is easy to blend into formulas. You will see donkey milk in creams, lotions, sheet masks, anti-aging serums and soothing cleansers where its mildness suits sensitive skin.
Donkey Milk’s Cosmetic Benefits/Uses
In skin care formulas donkey milk is prized for one main job: skin conditioning. Its mix of natural sugars and proteins draws moisture to the surface so skin feels supple and looks smoother. The vitamins add an antioxidant touch that can brighten a dull complexion while the light lipid content nourishes without leaving a greasy feel. All this makes it a gentle choice for daily hydration and comfort.
Who Can Use Donkey Milk
Donkey milk is generally well tolerated by most skin types, including normal, dry, combination and sensitive skin, thanks to its lightweight moisture and soothing proteins. Very oily or acne-prone complexions can still use it, though they may prefer formulas where donkey milk is paired with non-comedogenic oils to keep pores clear.
Because donkey milk is an animal-derived ingredient it is not suitable for vegans and may be avoided by some vegetarians who choose to exclude all animal products. Those looking for a plant-based alternative might reach for oat, rice or soy milks instead.
Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals can typically use skincare products containing donkey milk, as the ingredient is applied topically and absorption is minimal. This is not medical advice; anyone who is expecting or nursing should show the full ingredient list of any cosmetic to their healthcare provider for personalised guidance.
Donkey milk does not make skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is not considered photosensitising. Daily sunscreen remains important for overall skin health. People with a known allergy to cow or goat milk proteins may wish to exercise caution since cross-reactivity is possible, though uncommon.
Potential Side Effects/Adverse Reactions
Side effects from topical donkey milk can vary from person to person. The points below list potential reactions, but they are not the norm. When formulated correctly most users will enjoy the benefits with no problems.
- Allergic reaction – redness, itching or hives in those sensitive to milk proteins
- Contact dermatitis – irritation if the skin barrier is already compromised or if the formula contains additional harsh ingredients
- Breakouts – rare clogged pores or small pimples in very oily skins if the overall product is rich or occlusive
- Bacterial contamination – risk of infection if raw or poorly preserved milk is applied, though reputable brands pasteurise or dry the milk to prevent this
If any discomfort, rash or persistent breakout occurs stop using the product and consult a qualified healthcare professional.
Comedogenic Rating
Rating: 1 / 5. Donkey milk contains very little oil so it is unlikely to block pores on its own. Its main components are water, lactose, proteins and trace lipids that sit lightly on the skin. This makes it generally suitable for people prone to acne or breakouts. As with any ingredient the finished formula matters; extra heavy butters or waxes mixed with donkey milk can raise the overall pore-clogging potential.
Summary
Donkey milk conditions the skin by delivering lightweight moisture, water-binding sugars and soothing proteins. A bonus mix of vitamins offers mild antioxidant support that can brighten and smooth the complexion. While not as mainstream as cow milk derivatives its history of royal beauty rituals and a recent boost from K-beauty have given it a boutique appeal.
Topically applied donkey milk is considered safe for most users with low risk of irritation or pore clogging. Still, skin is personal so it is wise to patch test any new product containing this ingredient before committing to full-face use.