Does Smoking Cause Acne?

If you've noticed breakouts after smoking, you're not alone in wondering whether there's a connection.
While smoking itself doesn’t directly cause acne, several factors related to tobacco use can worsen existing breakouts or contribute to other skin problems.

How Smoking Can Affect Your Skin

Although nicotine and tobacco don’t directly clog pores, the act of smoking can impact your skin through several indirect pathways:

Smoke Exposure and Skin Damage

Cigarette smoke contains thousands of chemicals, including free radicals that create oxidative stress. This reduces blood flow to the skin, slows healing of existing blemishes, and damages collagen and elastin — leading to dull, uneven skin tone and premature aging. The smoke residue itself can also irritate skin and clog pores, especially when it comes in contact with the face or hands.

Hormonal and Inflammatory Effects

Smoking raises levels of cortisol — the body’s main stress hormone — and can alter other hormones that influence oil production. This can increase sebum output and inflammation in the skin, both of which may worsen acne in susceptible individuals. Over time, chronic nicotine exposure may also impair the body’s natural stress and immune responses, affecting how your skin recovers from breakouts.

Lifestyle Factors

People who smoke may also have habits that indirectly aggravate acne. Smoking can reduce motivation for consistent skincare, contribute to dehydration, and is often paired with poor diet or higher stress levels. Lack of sleep, frequent face-touching, and increased exposure to pollutants can also play a role.

Protecting Your Skin

If you smoke and are concerned about acne or overall skin health:

• Wash your face after smoking to remove residue and pollutants.
• Avoid touching your face with your hands or cigarettes.
• Stay hydrated to support your skin’s barrier and reduce dryness.
• Use antioxidant-rich skincare (like vitamin C or niacinamide) to help counter smoke-induced oxidative stress.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables to offset inflammation.
• Consider reducing or quitting smoking — even partial reduction can improve circulation and skin tone within weeks.

When to See a Dermatologist

See a dermatologist if you have persistent or worsening acne. They can recommend treatments tailored to your skin type and lifestyle, and help you protect your skin from the long-term effects of smoking.