Can Coffee Cause Pimples?
It is no secret that drinking coffee can have some beneficial health effects; however, when your morning latte becomes associated with dreaded pimples and blemishes, it’s time to take a closer look at what’s happening.
How Coffee Could Cause Pimples
While there is no definitive scientific proof that coffee is linked to breakouts, there are a few theories as to how it could be to blame.
Dehydration – Coffee is a diuretic, meaning it increases the rate at which we eliminate fluids from our body as urine. This can lead to dehydration, which can trigger an inflammatory response and ultimately cause breakouts.
Caffeine Overload – Caffeine is present not only coffee but many of the other beverages we consume, including energy drinks and soft drinks. Having too much caffeine can disrupt your body’s internal hormonal balance, leading to increased sebum production and an increase breakouts.
Sugar and Creamers – Many coffee beverages can be loaded with sugar, which can feed certain types of bacteria that are responsible for acne breakouts. Creamers can also be full of trans fats, which can trigger inflammation.
How to Enjoy Your Coffee Responsibly
If you’re concerned about the potential of coffee causing blemishes, there are a few simple steps you can take to minimize any risk:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Limit your caffeine intake and avoid energy drinks
- Choose coffee beverages that are low in sugar and creamers
- Avoid adding milk, creamer and/or other ingredients that can trigger inflammation
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
- cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser to remove excess oils and toxins
While there is no definitive proof that coffee is the culprit behind your breakouts, it may be worth cutting back on your daily dose and seeing if your skin’s condition improves.
