Does Cannabis Use Cause Skin Breakouts and Acne?

The Link Between Marijuana and Skin Issues

Marijuana, often referred to as pot, weed, or cannabis, has become increasingly popular and decriminalized in recent years. As more people use this substance recreationally or medically, questions have emerged regarding the potential side effects. One such question is: does smoking or ingesting marijuana cause skin problems like acne and breakouts?

What Does the Research Say?

There is limited research specifically examining the link between marijuana and skin issues. However, some studies provide early evidence that cannabis may negatively impact skin health:

• A test-tube study found that THC, the primary psychoactive compound in marijuana, led to increased oil production and inflammation in skin cells (1). This indicates that THC may exacerbate acne.
• Survey data found that heavy marijuana users were more likely to show signs of premature aging, including wrinkles and sagging skin (2). This suggests that long-term use could accelerate skin aging.
• All forms of smoking release toxins that narrow blood vessels in the outer layers of skin. This diminishes blood flow and nutrient delivery to skin, resulting in oxidative damage (3). Therefore, smoking marijuana may directly harm skin.

Possible Reasons Marijuana May Promote Skin Problems

There are a few key reasons why experts theorize that using marijuana, especially smoking it, could contribute to skin issues like acne and rashes:

1. Smoke irritates skin and clogs pores. Marijuana smoke contains many of the same toxins and tar as cigarette smoke, which is known to cause skin damage over time.
2. THC influences hormone regulation. The endocannabinoid system, which is activated by THC, helps modulate hormone secretion. Altered hormone levels from marijuana use could lead to increased oil production and breakouts.
3. Cannabis impairs immune function. Animal and cell studies have shown that THC suppresses the immune system (4). A weakened immune system has a harder time keeping skin infections in check.
4. Pot may act as an allergen. Allergic reactions are a potential side effect of marijuana use, causing hives, itchiness, and skin rashes in sensitive people.

Common Skin Conditions Linked to Marijuana

A number of skin ailments appear more frequently in marijuana users compared to non-users. These include:

• Acne: Smoking pot may worsen breakouts by promoting inflammation, oil production, and possibly bacterial overgrowth in pores.
• Atopic dermatitis: Chronic itchy rashes resulting from skin inflammation and allergies may flare with marijuana use (5).
• Psoriasis: The psychoactive effects of cannabis likely worsen inflammation and speed the rapid buildup of skin cells that form thick, scaly plaques (6).
• Impetigo: Bacterial skin infections like impetigo are more common in smokers, indicating marijuana could increase susceptibility (7).

Best Practices to Prevent Skin Issues from Marijuana

If you use cannabis medicinally or recreationally, there are some steps you can take to minimize skin health risks:

1. Opt to ingest oral formulations like oils, edibles or capsules when possible rather than smoking marijuana.
2. If smoking, avoid sharing joints or pipes to prevent transmission of bacteria or viruses that cause skin infections.
3. Be diligent about washing hands before and after smoking to limit spread of germs.
4. Moisturize regularly with all-natural, non-comedogenic lotions to combat drying effects and keep skin's barrier healthy.
5. Exfoliate gently twice a week to lift away dead skin cells that could clog follicles.
6. Use over-the-counter acne treatments containing benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or retinol to kill bacteria in pores while smoothing skin.

When to See a Dermatologist

Noticeable changes in skin health after starting or increasing marijuana use may warrant medical attention. See a dermatologist promptly about any of the following:

• Sudden severe acne or a breakout lasting over one month
• Intensely itchy skin rashes persisting more than 2-3 days
• Blisters, oozing or crusting areas on skin signaling infection
• Jaundice (yellow tone) in the whites of eyes or on face
• Hives or swelling concentrated in mouth/face, impairing breathing

With dermatological treatment guided by a skin exam and questions about cannabis use, you can get to the bottom of what’s causing skin inflammation and blemishes. Temporary discontinuation of marijuana may be advised in some instances for conditions provoked or worsened by its use.

The Bottom Line

Does pot make you break out? Research is still emerging, but indicates marijuana can negatively impact skin health. Smoking pot may clearly provoke more skin problems due to lung and tissue damage from smoke exposure. Further investigation is required on the true risks of THC and other cannabis compounds on skin.

If you choose to use marijuana medicinally or recreationally, your best defense is moderating intake, ingesting orally instead of smoking when possible, and maintaining good skincare hygiene to counterbalance potentials side effects.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.