Does Spicy Food Cause Acne?

Spicy food is not the direct cause of acne. It is the bacteria and hormones that can directly cause acne. However, it is a trigger rather than causing acne. Spicy foods often have capsaicin in them which is the ingredient that makes chili peppers hot and spicy. 

The Science: Is Spice the Real Culprit?

Technically, spicy food itself does not directly cause acne. However, it acts as a trigger rather than a root cause. Capsaicin heats up the body, which after that can result in two things that can be harmful to your skin:

• More Sweat: Sweat and oil on the face together with bacteria can close your pores and contribute to acne
• Inflammation and Redness: A spicy meal makes the blood vessels dilate. If you have inflammatory acne or rosacea, this "flush" can make the pimples that you already have look even more swollen and red.

Spicy Food vs. Other Dietary Triggers

Often, it isn't the spice itself that causes the pimple, but what the spice is paired with. Many spicy foods are also high in oil, dairy, or refined sugars—all of which are scientifically linked to breakouts.

How to Enjoy Spice Without the Breakouts

You don’t have to delete your favorite hot sauce just yet. If you think spicy food causes acne for you, try these expert tips to mitigate the damage:

1. Wash your face after the meal: If you were sweating while eating a spicy dish, then wash your face gently afterward to get rid of salt, oil, and sweat that remains on the skin. 
2. Look at the components: Choose spices that are fresh like turmeric and ginger which are anti-inflammatory rather than a sauce that is full of vinegar and sugar. 
3. Drink: During your meal, drink a lot of water as it will help in detoxification and will also cool down your body. 

Conclusion 

Does spicy food cause acne? The answer is no, at least not directly. Spicy food can, however, worsen existing inflammation and result in sweat that blocks the pores. If you see this happening regularly, your skin might be sensitive to the heat.