Does Ashwagandha Use Aggravate or Clear Up Acne Breakouts?

How Ashwagandha Can Influence Acne

Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb gaining popularity for its adaptogenic properties. But some wonder if ashwagandha use could worsen acne breakouts. Here's an in-depth look at the evidence.

What Is Ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a medicinal herb long used in traditional Indian medicine. Compounds in the plant root powder provide antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

Many take ashwagandha supplements to ease anxiety, boost immunity and improve energy levels. However, hormones also play a role in its mechanisms.

Does Ashwagandha Affect Hormones?

Yes, ashwagandha acts as an adaptogen - helping regulate cortisol and other hormones related to stress response. Research confirms it can:

• Lower elevated cortisol
• Reduce anxiety-associated high cortisol
• Mildly boost testosterone and improve sperm parameters

These hormonal influences drive many benefits but also raise questions around acne and breakouts.

Studies on Ashwagandha and Acne

Only a few studies evaluate ashwagandha use specifically related to acne and skin effects. Two important ones found:

Significant Acne Improvement

A 2019 double-blind, placebo-controlled study gave participants ashwagandha root extract or placebo over 12 weeks. The ashwagandha group experienced marked improvement in acne lesions versus the placebo group.

Hormonal Modulation Effects

An earlier study in Phytotherapy Research notes ashwagandha's abilities to modulate cortisol, DHEA-S, testosterone and thyroid hormone levels - all of which impact skin health and acne.

So evidence indicates Ashwagandha not only fails to worsen acne but may actively improve it.

How Could Ashwagandha Improve Acne?

There are a few key ways ashwagandha may reduce breakouts:

Cortisol Lowering

Excess cortisol drives inflammation, exacerbates acne and suppresses immune function. By lowering chronically high cortisol, ashwagandha tackles systemic causes of breakouts.

Hormonal Regulation

Balancing testosterone, estrogen and thyroid hormones prevents spikes that trigger excess sebum oil production and clogged pores - two acne precursors.

Antimicrobial Properties

Withaferin A and other compounds in ashwagandha demonstrate antimicrobial effects against P. acnes bacteria responsible for inflammatory lesions.

Together these actions address underlying drivers so ashwagandha both prevents and treats blemishes.

Other Acne Causes to Consider

While ashwagandha shows promise for clearing skin, many factors provoke breakouts. It pays to evaluate additional potential acne culprits like:

Diet

High glycemic foods, dairy products and foods triggering inflammation often aggravate acne. Track if cutting out items like sugar or milk reduces pimples.

Makeup or Skin Products

Harsh cosmetics, skin oils and heavy creams could clog pores and create blemish-breeding conditions. Examine your routines for comedogenic items.

Stress Levels

Emotional stress drives excess cortisol production which disrupts hormone balance and skin health. Lowering stress assists clearing acne long-term.

Medications

Certain prescription drugs boost androgen hormones or trigger inflammation - both acne contributors. Record breakouts with new medications.

Consider all influences together for the fullest acne treatment approach alongside ashwagandha.

Additional Tips for Clear Skin

When using ashwagandha for acne also incorporate these practices:

Take at Recommended Doses

Follow dosage guidelines on your ashwagandha supplement to allow proper hormone regulation benefits. Taking too much could backfire by overly increasing testosterone.

Consistency Is Key

Stick to a regular ashwagandha routine for at least 2-3 months to let acne-clearing actions accumulate and balance hormones long-term.

Boost Collagen Formation

Vitamin C enables collagen production for healthy skin cell structure. Foods like citrus, peppers and strawberries or collagen supplements help fortify skin.

Avoid Triggers

While correcting hormonal imbalance, limiting proven acne triggers allows your bodys natural healing. With diligence youll clear and maintain clear skin.

The Takeaway

Not only does ashwagandha NOT cause acne according to studies, it demonstrates specific acne-reducing abilities. By lowering cortisol, controlling excess androgen hormone activity and providing antimicrobial actions, ashwagandha addresses several root causes of breakouts.

While research is still limited, the hormone-regulating adaptogen remains an excellent addition to your acne treatment plan when used responsibly. Follow usage guidelines while incorporating complementary skin health practices.

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.