One of the most common misconceptions when quitting smoking is that it would cause a breakout of pimples. However, is this consistent with reality? Let's find out in this article.
Does quitting smoking cause pimples?
Does quitting smoking promote the appearance of facial pimples: myth or reality?
Smoking causes numerous skin damages, such as accelerated skin aging , a dull complexion, an increased risk of skin cancer, etc. However, simple actions exist to limit these harmful effects , which include skin cleansing or UV exposure, although quitting smoking remains the best solution to minimize these effects over time.
Firstly, it's important to know that no scientific study has proven that quitting smoking can cause skin breakouts.
However, it is possible to observe this in some individuals, and it depends on each person's individual variability. Indeed, a skin rash during withdrawal can be due to stress, a change in diet, or environmental factors (pollution, UV rays, etc). However, these are reasons independent of smoking cessation. If you notice the appearance of pimples following the cessation of smoking, discuss it with your dermatologist.
Contrary to popular belief, tobacco consumption can actually cause breakouts. Indeed, the oxidative stress caused by smoking leads to the formation of squalene peroxides that can clog pores and have a comedogenic effect, which can trigger the onset of acne.
Sources
BOUWES BAVINCK J. N. & al. Relation between smoking and skin cancer. Journal of Clinical Oncology (2001).
MORITA A. Tobacco smoke causes premature skin aging. Journal of Dermatological Science (2007).
PICARDO M. & al. Acne and smoking. Dermato-Endocrinology (2009).
COPE G. Smoking and skin ageing: how aesthetic nurses can identify and prevent damage. Journal of Aesthetic Nursing (2013).
ARMSTRONG E. J. & al. Psoriasis and smoking: a systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Dermatology (2014).
FIROOZ A. & al. Cigarettes smoking and skin: A comparison study of the biophysical properties of skin in smokers and non-smokers. Tanaffos (2019).
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