Why Does Acne Appear After Starting New Supplements
Many people start taking supplements to improve their health, like stronger skin or better workouts, only to notice pimples popping up soon after. This happens because certain supplements can change how your body works, leading to more oil on the skin or irritation that clogs pores.
Collagen supplements are a common culprit. They add extra protein to your system, which some bodies struggle to digest right away. If the collagen comes from sources with hormones or additives, it can upset your gut and spark inflammation that shows up as acne on your face. Marine collagen, made from fish, tends to cause fewer issues because its smaller particles absorb easier without as much gut trouble.
Biotin, often taken for hair and nails, feeds the bacteria that love clogged pores and can block them directly. It might also throw off other vitamins your skin needs to stay clear. Creatine, popular with gym-goers, raises testosterone and a hormone called DHT. These boost oil production in your skin glands, making cells stick together and form breakouts.
Vitamin D supplements can do the same in high doses. They help if you are low on this vitamin, but too much ramps up testosterone, especially in people already prone to acne. Your skin glands get extra sensitive, swell, and trap dirt or oil inside.
Not everyone reacts this way. It depends on your skin type, dose, and if the supplement has junk fillers. High amounts beyond what you need can overload your body, while cleaner versions from good sources cause less hassle.
To dodge this, pick supplements tested by outside labs with short ingredient lists. Start low and build up. Support your gut with probiotics first, since poor digestion often links to skin flare-ups. If breakouts hit, pause the supplement, eat anti-inflammatory foods, and try skin-friendly options like zinc or omega-3s instead. Zinc calms swelling and balances oil, while omega-3s fight body-wide irritation.
Sources
https://wellbeingnutrition.com/blogs/gut-detox-cleanse/how-to-prevent-acne-from-collagen-supplements
https://emmediane.com/blogs/skin-tips/are-your-supplements-sabotaging-your-skin
https://www.performancelab.com/blogs/multi/can-vitamin-d-cause-acne
https://www.dermatologyadvisor.com/factsheets/diet-and-acne/
