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Does smoking weed cause acne, or can it actually help your skin?

cbd for acne

Article written by

Dr. June ChinChief Medical Officer

Content reviewed by

Dipak HemrajMedical Cannabis Researcher

Table of contents

  1. Does weed cause acne?
  2. Cannabis’s effects on the skin
  3. Using cannabis for acne: Helpful or harmful?
  4. The bottom line: Cannabis may help or hurt acne, and how you consume it matters
  5. References

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns. If you’re someone who uses cannabis, especially by smoking it, you may be wondering: Does smoking weed cause acne?

The short answer is: it might. However, the relationship between marijuana and acne isn’t quite that simple. From hormonal changes to inflammation and stress, cannabis interacts with several systems that influence skin health.

Whether you’re managing acne or just trying to prevent breakouts, here’s how weed may be helping, or hurting, your complexion.

Leafwell language note: “Cannabis” vs. “marijuana”

The term “marijuana” has a complicated history and ties to racism in the early 1900s, when it was used during cannabis prohibition to fuel xenophobia against Mexican immigrants.

We prefer to use the term “cannabis,” which is the plant’s scientific name. However, we may occasionally use the term “marijuana” because it is widely recognized and more accurate when referring to certain U.S. state medical marijuana programs.

Does weed cause acne?

Acne is usually caused by:

  • Hormonal fluctuations, especially in male sex hormones, like testosterone
  • Excess oil (sebum) production
  • Clogged pores
  • Bacterial overgrowth and inflammation
  • Psychological stress

Cannabis can influence all of these factors because it affects several contributing pathways.

Cannabis and hormones

Research has shown that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) can temporarily raise testosterone levels. Higher testosterone can increase oil production in the skin, which may clog pores and lead to more acne.

Other research suggests long-term cannabis use might suppress testosterone, but results vary between studies.

Because testosterone levels are closely tied to acne risk, this hormonal shift may play a role in breakouts, especially in men.

Cannabis and inflammation

Inflammation is a key factor in acne formation. Cannabinoids like cannabidiol (CBD) and THC have demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially calm acne-related flare-ups.

Some individuals report clearer skin after using CBD oil topically or orally. This may be related to a reduction in inflammation, though more research is needed to confirm this effect. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of terpenes like pinene may also contribute to this effect if using whole plant products.

There are also other cannabinoids that have potential benefits for acne due to their skin-drying, anti-inflammatory, and anti-anxiety effects, like:

  • Cannabigerol (CBG)

  • Cannabigerovarin (CBGV)

  • Cannabichromene (CBC)

  • Cannabidivarin (CBDV)

  • Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)

Cannabis and stress

Experiencing high stress increases cortisol levels. When elevated, this hormone increases oil production in the skin and worsens acne.

People often use cannabis to relax and unwind. Cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system to regulate mood and reduce perceived stress. This may be an indirect but potentially powerful benefit for individuals who are prone to acne.

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Cannabis’s effects on the skin

Even if marijuana doesn’t directly cause acne, it does have noticeable effects on skin health.

Relieves inflammation

Cannabinoids, especially CBD, can reduce the inflammatory response in skin cells. A 2019 review published in Molecules highlighted CBD’s potential to balance immune responses and reduce skin irritation, making it promising for acne and other skin conditions.

Balances oil production

A groundbreaking 2014 study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that CBD reduces lipid production in human sebocytes (the cells that produce sebum). This effect can be beneficial for people dealing with oily or acne-prone skin.

Reduces stress

Cannabis can help regulate stress, which is a major factor in hormonal acne. In a 2024 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, participants in the survey said they found CBD helpful for managing anxiety, pointing to its potential as a natural stress-reliever.

Using cannabis for acne: Helpful or harmful?

So, does marijuana cause acne or treat it? It depends on your method of consumption.

  • Topicals and skincare: CBD-infused creams, serums, and oils can offer localized relief for inflammation and oiliness. These products do not enter the bloodstream and are generally considered safe and beneficial for acne-prone skin. They can also be helpful to minimize redness or rosacea.
  • Smoking and vaping: Smoking exposes the skin to free radicals and can trigger oxidative stress, which may aggravate acne and accelerate skin aging. Anecdotally, some users notice more breakouts when smoking regularly.
  • CBD vs. THC: CBD is anti-inflammatory and non-intoxicating, making it ideal for acne treatments. THC may help with stress, but it can affect hormone levels in unpredictable ways. If acne is a concern, CBD-dominant products may be the safer option.

The bottom line: Cannabis may help or hurt acne, and how you consume it matters

Does smoking weed cause acne? It might, especially if you’re sensitive to hormonal changes or smoke regularly.

But cannabis can also support clearer skin by reducing inflammation, oil production, and stress. Topical CBD products may help with breakouts, while smoking or using high-THC products might worsen them for some people.

Getting a medical marijuana card gives you access to high-quality, vetted products. A consultation with a knowledgeable doctor can also help you find the right dose or product, whether you’re treating acne or trying to avoid making it worse while using cannabis for something else.

References

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Frequently Asked Questions

Check out answers to some FAQs about cannabis use and skin health.

What does marijuana do to your face?

Cannabis can reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin when used topically. However, smoking marijuana can lead to dryness, dullness, and possible breakouts for some users.

Does smoking cause acne pimples?

Smoking, whether tobacco or marijuana, introduces toxins and free radicals that can clog pores and increase inflammation, potentially leading to acne.

Does smoking marijuana affect your skin?

Smoking marijuana may irritate the skin and worsen acne, but cannabinoids like CBD may improve skin conditions when used topically or in other forms.

What are the hormone effects of marijuana?

THC can temporarily increase testosterone, potentially increasing oil production in the skin. Chronic use might suppress testosterone over time. Hormonal shifts could influence acne, but the effects vary.

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