There is no scientific evidence that directly links marijuana with acne, but more research is still being carried out. Smoking weed does not cause acne but behavioral changes, skin healing time, and testosterone levels can play a big role especially to those using weed. If you already have acne, the problem can get even worse or even improve. So, the question remains, does smoking weed cause acne? In this article, we are going to look at the link between the two and the other side effects that come with smoking weed.
Smoking weed will lead to behavioral change giving the person increased appetite. When your appetite increased, you end up eating processed foods that are high in fat, carbohydrates, and sugar. Such foods will increase your blood sugar and, in some cases, they can also increase inflammation. Your body will start producing sebum because of the increased inflammation and if your body produces a lot of sebum, your pores will clog causing acne.
Changes in hormonal levels can also be caused by smoking weed. Testosterone levels tend to rise as hormones are released from your body. Most teenagers who smoke weed will have an increased rise in testosterone levels which leads to the development of acne. Most teenagers normally have skin conditions, especially during puberty. Note that smoking weed does not result in a rise in testosterone.
Effects of Smoking Weed
People who smoke weed will be affected differently and it will all depend on the quantity and the method it was taken. Dopamine is normally released from your brain when you smoke weed. That feels high mood that you experience is what will affect your brain function, mood, heart rate, and sometimes your rate of breathing. Some people will have anxiety, paranoia, allergic reaction, memory problem, among others.
What Causes Acne?
There is no single fact that can be said to cause acne, but hormones and genetics are the number one causes. Acne will only occur when your body produces sebum in excess. Combined with dead skin and blocked pores, bacteria become trapped in the pores causing swelling and eventually triggering acne. Poor hygiene and eating certain foods will also cause acne breakouts.
People who sweat a lot tend to have acne problems. This becomes worse if they do not take regular showers. Check on the kind of cosmetics that you use as some of them can cause acne to develop. Those who use steroids are prone to get acne. Make sure to reduce your stress levels because it affects how your body reacts to different environmental issues.
Treatment
Acne is a skin condition that can be treated using skin cream or antibiotics. Using benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid can help reduce the occurrence of breakouts. If you have a mild skin cleanser, you can use it to keep your skin clean.
Summary
Smoking weed will not cause you to have acne but if you already have, you need to stop or even reduce your intake. Increased smoking can make the situation even worse. Until we get substantial evidence linking marijuana and acne, you should try and stay clean and in case the problem persists, you can consult with your dermatologist.