It’s a rumor we’ve all heard…eating chocolate can cause breakouts or make existing acne worse. And if you’re a chocolate lover like we are, this news can be tough to swallow (especially around Valentine’s Day!). But is this rumor true or just another urban skincare legend? We did some research to find out the answer.
What's the link between chocolate and acne?
The first study to try and figure out the relationship between chocolate and acne was conducted all the way back in 1969. That study found eating chocolate did not worsen or cause acne. But (womp womp), it turns out the study had some flaws that called the results into question.
Fast forward a few decades, and many other researchers have attempted to find out if there’s a connection between chocolate and blemishes. In 2016, researchers conducted a study with 54 college students, where they gave one group a milk-chocolate bar and the other group 15 jellybeans. Two days later, the researchers evaluated the students’ skin. Then they repeated the experiment, but they switched what each group ate. In both cases, the researchers found the students who ate the milk chocolate had “an increase in acne lesions.”
But here’s the thing... that doesn’t necessarily mean the chocolate caused the breakouts. First of all, most blemishes take longer than 2 days to form. The build-up of dead skin and sebum that blocks pores and leads to acne can actually take weeks to occur. In addition, the study didn’t take into account any other foods the students ate. The study itself actually ends by saying that further research with a bigger sample size and “more diligent documentation of the participants' diets” is needed.
Other studies we looked up also showed inconclusive findings—meaning that the answer to the question “Does chocolate cause acne?” is (pardon the pun) not clear.
What should I eat for clear skin?
So, what’s a chocolate lover to do? Well, most derms agree that there’s no need to give up chocolate entirely. But you should focus on overall healthy eating. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, there is a proven link between acne and a high-glycemic diet. As dermatologist Naana Boakye, M.D., told our friends at Allure magazine: “High glycemic foods, processed foods, and sugar are definitely triggers for acne.”
And according to the American Academy of Dermatology, drinking cow’s milk may also contribute to acne. It’s unclear why, but the AAD notes: “One theory is that some of the hormones in milk cause inflammation inside the body. Inflammation can clog your pores, leading to acne.”
You best plan to keep breakouts at bay is to eat a healthful, balanced diet and follow an anti-acne skincare routine:
1. Exfoliate consistently to prevent dead skin cells from building up. LUXE+ Sonic Dermaplaning is a derm-approved choice to remove dead skin cells gently, but make sure you’re NOT dermaplaning over cystic acne or active breakouts. (If you’re unsure, always consult with your dermatologist.)
2. Use a gentle acid toner like Botanical Ketoacid Toner to help control oil and keep pores clear. You can apply it 2X per day with your fingers or a cotton pad.
3. Don’t pick or squeeze your blemishes! Unclogging pores with DERMAPORE+ is a safer and gentler option. This device uses Ultrasonic Technology to gently loosen up gunk and the rounded spatula allows you to extract it without pain or irritation.
So there you have it…enjoy your Valentine’s Day chocolate (in moderation) and focus on a consistent skincare routine to keep your skin looking healthy and clear.
