If you have recently started vaping and noticed breakouts on your face, chest or back, you might be wondering if the two are connected. Acne can be triggered by many different factors, including hormones, skincare habits and diet, but could vaping also play a role?
This guide looks at what is currently known about vaping and skin health, whether it can lead to acne and what you can do if you are experiencing breakouts.
Is there a link between vaping and acne?
There is no confirmed evidence that vaping directly causes acne, but it may contribute in indirect ways. For some users, skin changes begin shortly after switching to vaping, while others report no change at all.
Vaping introduces nicotine and other compounds into the body, which can affect hormone levels, hydration and inflammation. Each of these can influence how your skin behaves, especially if you are already prone to acne.
How could vaping affect your skin?
Here are some of the ways vaping might indirectly contribute to acne or skin issues:
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Nicotine: It restricts blood flow and may affect hormone balance, which could impact oil production
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Dehydration: Vaping can lead to dry mouth and general dehydration, which might reduce skin hydration and trigger oil overproduction
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Flavourings: Certain artificial flavourings may increase inflammation in some users, though this varies
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Immune response: If your body is reacting to the vapour, it may increase overall sensitivity, which can include the skin
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Touching your face more: If you are constantly holding a vape near your mouth or chin, you may be transferring oils and bacteria to your skin
None of these causes acne directly, but together they can create conditions that make breakouts more likely.
Does nicotine make acne worse?
Nicotine affects your circulation and can slow down the healing process. That means existing spots may take longer to clear. It can also influence hormones like insulin and cortisol, which are sometimes linked to acne flares.
Devices like the Lost Mary BM6000 use nicotine salt for smooth delivery at a standard strength of 20 milligrams per millilitre. While convenient for cravings, if you are vaping heavily and experiencing breakouts, it may be worth reviewing your nicotine intake and frequency.
Are certain flavours more likely to trigger breakouts?
Some users report that very sweet or dessert-style flavours seem to coincide with more breakouts, while others notice nothing at all. The reality is that most flavourings are not absorbed through the skin but may still contribute to inflammation or sensitivities if you are vaping large amounts every day.
If you suspect a flavour might be contributing to your skin issues, try switching to a simpler fruit or mint profile and monitor any changes.
Can vaping affect skincare routines?
Yes. Dryness caused by vaping can change how your skincare products interact with your skin. For example, if your skin becomes dehydrated, you might start over-cleansing or applying heavier products, which can clog pores.
Also, if vapour sits on your skin after exhaling and you do not rinse or cleanse properly, it could contribute to surface irritation or clogged pores in the long run.
Washing your face regularly, drinking plenty of water and using a non-comedogenic moisturiser can help reduce the risk of acne while vaping.
What can you do if you notice acne?
If you are vaping and seeing more breakouts than usual, try the following:
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Reduce how often you vape if possible
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Take shorter, less frequent puffs to limit vapour exposure
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Switch to a lighter flavour or lower nicotine strength
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Avoid touching your face after vaping
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Rinse your face or hands after using your vape
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Use a simple, gentle skincare routine and stay consistent
If acne persists despite these changes, it is worth speaking to a doctor or dermatologist. They can help rule out other causes and recommend treatment options if needed.
Want more health guidance?
If you want to learn how vaping affects other parts of the body, from breathing and digestion to sleep and skin, visit our health guides. Each article is written for UK users and based on questions vapers ask every day.
Final thoughts
Vaping does not directly cause acne, but it can create conditions that may contribute to breakouts in some people. Nicotine, dehydration, and certain flavourings may play a role, especially if you are already prone to skin sensitivity or hormonal changes.
Pay attention to how your skin reacts, keep your hygiene routine consistent and consider adjusting your vape use if breakouts continue. If you are exploring new flavours or switching devices, the Lost Mary BM6000 collection offers plenty of choices to suit your preferences.
If you’re noticing other skin issues, see what does a vape rash look like.
You may also find does vaping cause hair loss useful if you’ve noticed broader skin and hair changes.