Does Drinking Water Help with Acne?

You've probably heard that drinking more water will clear up your acne. It's one of the most common skincare tips shared online and by well-meaning friends. But does it actually work? The scientific evidence suggests drinking water alone won't cure acne, though staying hydrated supports overall skin health.

The American Academy of Dermatology does not recommend drinking more water specifically to treat acne. While proper hydration benefits your body in many ways, research hasn't shown that increasing water intake directly reduces breakouts or clears existing acne.

What Research Shows

Scientific studies on water intake and acne are surprisingly limited. A 2020 study found that over 60% of people believe drinking more water helps acne, but researchers noted there's no scientific proof of this relationship.

Studies do show that drinking 2 liters of water daily for 30 days can improve skin hydration, particularly in people who previously drank less water. However, improved hydration doesn't automatically mean fewer breakouts. Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Aimee Paik notes that the water you drink has no direct impact on your skin's hydration levels.

How Water May Support Skin Health

While water won't cure acne, staying properly hydrated may support your skin in indirect ways:

• Supports skin barrier function: Well-hydrated skin maintains a healthier barrier, which can be important since acne-prone skin often has impaired barrier function.

• May help immune function: Proper hydration supports your immune system, which plays a role in how your body responds to acne-causing bacteria.

• Helps regulate body processes: Adequate water intake supports blood sugar regulation and natural waste removal, though these effects on acne are theoretical rather than proven.

Setting Realistic Expectations

If you're struggling with acne, increasing your water intake won't hurt and supports overall health. However, don't expect it to be the solution to your breakouts. Acne develops from a combination of excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation. These factors require targeted treatments, not just more water.

Focus on proven acne treatments like salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or retinoids alongside a consistent skincare routine. Keep yourself properly hydrated as part of overall wellness, but look to evidence-based treatments for real acne improvement.

When to See a Dermatologist

If you've been drinking more water and trying over-the-counter treatments without seeing improvement, it's time to consult a dermatologist. Schedule an appointment if you experience:

• Moderate to severe acne that doesn't respond to lifestyle changes or drugstore products

• Painful cystic acne or deep nodules

• Acne that's leaving scars or dark marks

• Breakouts that significantly impact your confidence or daily life

A dermatologist can prescribe stronger treatments tailored to your specific skin needs and help you develop a comprehensive plan that actually addresses the root causes of your acne.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much water should I drink for healthy skin?

The Mayo Clinic recommends about 11-15 cups of water daily for general hydration, though individual needs vary based on activity level, climate, and overall health. This is for overall wellness, not specifically for acne treatment. Listen to your body's thirst signals and aim for pale yellow urine as a sign of good hydration.

Can drinking more water make acne worse?

No, drinking more water won't worsen your acne. While it may not cure breakouts, proper hydration doesn't have negative effects on skin health. However, if your tap water contains irritating minerals or contaminants, washing your face with it could potentially affect your skin.

How long does it take to see skin improvements from drinking more water?

Studies show that skin hydration can improve within 30 days of increased water intake. However, improved hydration doesn't necessarily mean clearer acne. If you're looking to improve breakouts specifically, you'll need targeted acne treatments rather than relying on water alone.

The Bottom Line

Drinking more water won't cure your acne, despite what popular advice suggests. While proper hydration supports overall skin health and may provide indirect benefits like better barrier function and immune support, there's no scientific evidence that increasing water intake directly reduces breakouts.

Stay hydrated for your overall health, but rely on proven acne treatments like topical retinoids, salicylic acid, or benzoyl peroxide for actual improvement in your skin. If over-the-counter options aren't working, a dermatologist can provide prescription treatments that target the real causes of acne: excess oil production, clogged pores, bacteria, and inflammation.