Does Vaping Cause Acne

Updated Sep,2020
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More research is necessary to determine a clearer link between vaping and acne. However, evidence does suggest that the vapor and chemicals found within e-cigarettes is harmful to your skin in some capacity. Those looking to clear up acne blemishes would do well to quit smoking entirely.

What's the difference between cigarettes and e-cigarettes?

The primary difference between cigarettes and e-cigarettes is that the latter doesn't contain tobacco. But while e-cigarettes market themselves as "tobacco-free," they still contain a plethora of other harmful chemicals, such as formaldehyde and nicotine.

Without tobacco, e-cigarettes are technically safer than regular cigarettes. While more studies are required, they do seem to expose the user to fewer chemicals than tobacco cigarettes. This is why e-cigarettes often market themselves as a safe way for smokers to quit regular cigarettes.

Cigarettes are known to be bad for the skin, what about vaping?

Cigarettes are bad for your overall health. They contain carbon monoxide, which removes oxygen from your skin. It restricts blood flow, leaving your skin looking prematurely dry. This is why smokers are at a greater risk of wrinkles, pigmentation, and acne.

The science is still out when it comes to how vaping interacts with your skin. Some people claim vaping actually helped their acne because their skin wasn't exposed to the same chemicals as cigarettes. Since vaping doesn't have as many chemicals, it's possible it doesn't affect the skin as harshly.

However, e-cigarettes still contain nicotine, which breaks down collagen. This dries out the skin, which may make your glands produce more oil. Theoretically, that could result in higher acne rates.

As of right now, studies are conflicting. But even if vaping doesn't cause acne, the other chemicals found within e-cigarettes are not good for you. It could lead to other skin problems.

Can nicotine make acne worse?

Nicotine is a harmful stimulant. Whether you come into contact with it via cigarettes or e-cigarettes, it's bad news for your skin.

Basically, nicotine suffocates the skin. This is why smokers have an increased rate of wrinkles and fine lines. The chemical has decreased their skin's elasticity. You get the same reaction when you use a nicotine-based vape.

But splotchy skin is only the beginning. Other harmful effects of nicotine include a heightened risk of:

  • Lung disease
  • Heart disease
  • Diabetes
  • Stroke

Other common acne causes

A vape pen may not give you acne. However, other causes have more concrete evidence. So if do or have any of the following, you should take steps to mitigate their impact to better help your acne.

  • Stress - When you're stressed, your body produces a substance called cortisol. This hormone stimulates your skin's oil glands, which leads to acne. Find ways to relax and release endorphins to combat the effects of cortisol.
  • Touching your face - It's tempting to pop a pimple. However, you want to keep your hands away from your face at all costs. Your hands bring bacteria to your pores, which can clog up and create acne.
  • Dirty pillowcase - You probably don't think about all of the grime and debris that ends up on your pillowcase overnight. Wash your face before going to bed. Additionally, wash your pillowcase often so that debris doesn't end up in your pores.

Here's the best ways to treat your acne

While acne breakouts and pimples are inevitable at some point in your life, it's not something you have to live with forever. There's a wide range of treatment options that have shown to combat those pesky red bumps for good.

  • Benzoyl Peroxide: Typically a main ingredient in many acne facial cleansers and lotions, benzoyl peroxide goes into your pores to lift and remove excess oil, dirt and debris (acne-causing agents).
  • Glycolic Acid: An alpha-hydroxy acid, this ingredient exfoliates dead skin cells and removes surface impurities. This stops your pores from clogging; preventing future breakouts.
  • Retinoids: One of the most successful acne treatments, retinoids expertly diminish sebum (excess oil), dirt, bacteria, and any other acne-causing agents on your skin's surface to prevent future breakouts. This powerful drug has also been proven to stop acne scars from forming, leaving behind only smooth, radiant skin.

Treat your acne fast! Get a prescription retinoid, today!

We understand how annoying and bothersome acne breakouts can be. Whether it's picture day at school, or you've got a job interview, acne is not a welcome friend. Fortunately, it's a treatable condition. Our licensed physicians make it easy and more comfortable to have a discussion about your skin and the best treatment options available for you.

Talk to one of our reputable online physicians to get your prescription Retinoid, today!

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