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Does Ashwagandha Supplements Cause Acne Breakouts? A Science-Based Look

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Does Ashwagandha Cause Acne Breakouts?

Acne is a common skin condition that affects people of all ages. While genetics and hormonal changes often play a role, lifestyle factors like diet and stress can also trigger breakouts. Recently, some people have wondered if the popular Ayurvedic herb ashwagandha might lead to acne as a side effect.

What Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an herb used in Ayurvedic medicine for over 3,000 years. It is commonly used to manage stress, improve concentration, boost energy levels, and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Can Ashwagandha Cause Acne?

There is some speculation that ashwagandha could trigger acne breakouts due to its effects on hormones, but research has not conclusively shown this. Here's an overview of what science says so far about ashwagandha and acne:

  • May impact hormone levels like testosterone and progesterone
  • Effects on sebum production are unknown
  • Could theoretically trigger acne in those prone to hormonal breakouts
  • Very limited data exists on actual acne side effects

Tips If Experiencing Acne on Ashwagandha

If you do notice increased breakouts after starting ashwagandha, there are some things you can try. Strategies like managing stress levels, tweeking your dosage, or stopping supplements for a period may help.

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FAQs

Does ashwagandha cause acne because of hormones?

Maybe. Ashwagandha may mildly impact hormones like testosterone and progesterone. It's theorized this could contribute to acne in those already prone to hormonal breakouts. But more research is still needed.

I started taking ashwagandha and broke out. What should I do?

Stop taking ashwagandha for a few weeks to see if your skin clears up. This can help determine if ashwagandha supplements are the culprit. You can also try strategies like lowering your dosage, managing stress, and improving your diet.

Why would ashwagandha cause cystic acne?

There isn't evidence that ashwagandha causes severe or cystic acne specifically. If you develop cystic acne while taking ashwagandha, it may be coincidental or due to an underlying condition.

Should I avoid ashwagandha if I'm acne-prone?

Not necessarily. While more research on ashwagandha and acne is needed, there isn't strong data showing it routinely causes breakouts. The benefits may outweigh any small risk for many acne-prone people.

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.

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