Do e-cigarettes and vaping cause acne?

It has already been established that smoking cigarettes ages the skin in a few different ways. However, there is limited research on the effect of vaping on the skin, and it is not clear whether vaping e-liquids can cause acne. Acne is a common skin condition that is caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics, and the overproduction of oil in the skin.

A Recent Headline by The Sun: “I’m a dermatologist – here’s all the ways vaping is ‘destroying your skin’ from acne to wrinkles”

Despite the many scare-mongering reports in the media, with hyperbolic headlines in The Sun like “I’m a dermatologist – here’s all the ways vaping is ‘destroying your skin’ from acne to wrinkles”, there is limited data and few studies that have demonstrated this is the case. It also fails to mention that vaping is a smoking cessation tool, providing an alternative for people to quit cigarettes and the harmful effects tobacco has on their health, including their skin.

That being said, it is possible that vaping could potentially contribute to acne by increasing the production of oil in the skin, as some of the ingredients in e-liquids, such as propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), can have a drying effect on the skin. However, more research is needed to determine the exact relationship between vaping and acne.

Take care of your skin

It is generally recommended to practice good skin care habits to help prevent acne, including washing your face regularly with a gentle cleanser, avoiding picking at or squeezing pimples, and using non-comedogenic skincare products.

If you are concerned about the effect of vaping on your skin or are experiencing persistent acne, it is a good idea to speak with a dermatologist or healthcare provider for personalised advice.