Chocolate is a beloved treat worldwide, but its reputation has often been tarnished by claims that it causes acne. So, what does science say? This article explores the latest research on chocolate, diet, and their link to skin health.

Does chocolate cause acne?  Science says, “It’s complicated.”

As a dermatologist, Dr. Adhami is asked this question all the time. Many people are questioning if chocolate causes acne. Probably because chocolate is SO good and many of us love to indulge – but it might come with a cost of breakouts and exacerbated acne.

To date, scientific studies have yielded varied results. As with many things – it is a totally individual experience for every person based on factors of genetics, age, hormones, diet, lifestyle, etc.

But some answers have come to light that may help those struggling with acne.

Chocolate and Acne: The Research
The idea that chocolate causes acne has been around for decades. However, studies have shown mixed results. Some research suggests that high-sugar and high-fat diets may contribute to skin inflammation, which can lead to breakouts. Chocolate itself, particularly dark chocolate, contains antioxidants and nutrients that may not be the primary culprits.

A 2019 article on CNN(1) highlights that the connection between chocolate and acne isn’t as straightforward as previously thought. It’s not just chocolate but overall dietary habits, including high glycemic index foods, that may influence acne.

Acne culprits: Chocolate or sugar?

When it comes to diet, there’s good data to suggest that high glycemic index foods – rich in refined carbohydrates and sugar, including sugary drinks and processed breads and snacks – are bad for acne-prone skin. These foods cause a spike in blood sugar, which increases production of insulin, an insulin-like growth factor and hormones known as androgens, which results in more sebum production.

Sebum is an oily substance secreted by the sebaceous glands that keeps skin moist. When the glands produce too much sebum, the oil can combine with dead skin cells and become trapped in pores. This leads to blackheads, whiteheads and pimples.

Dr. Patricia Farris, a dermatologist and fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology, answers, “Spikes in insulin are acne-genic, so we don’t want high-glycemic diets,” Farris said. “We’ve connected the dots there … but we haven’t completely connected the dots on chocolate.”

In fact, kids who eat chocolate candy and break out afterward might attribute their acne to chocolate, but in reality, their pimples may proliferate because these junk foods are sugar-rich and cause blood sugar and insulin spikes.

“The chocolate your average kid consumes is a small amount of chocolate wrapped around a piece of gooey caramel or in some ice cream. The chocolate is probably less of an influence on that kid than the rest of the junk food they’re eating,” Farris said.

Evolving research reveals breaking news on breakouts

Chocolate lovers have long faced the question: does eating chocolate cause breakouts? Several studies suggest there may be a connection, though the relationship is complex and not fully understood.

The Jelly Bean vs. Chocolate Study
One study compared chocolate bars to jelly beans, both with the same glycemic load—a measure of how much a food raises blood sugar. Participants consumed both, and the results were telling. While jelly beans had no effect on acne, chocolate led to an average increase of five pimples.

“Some people might say, five pimples, no big deal,” said Dr. Gregory R. Delost from University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center. “But for someone getting ready for a big event, five pimples can be significant.”

Delost is convinced chocolate can worsen acne, but his study used milk chocolate. This may have been a limitation since milk has been linked to acne in some research.

Dark Chocolate’s Role in Acne
Another study in 2016 tested 99% dark chocolate—free of added sugars or milk—on 25 acne-prone males. After four weeks, researchers observed a significant increase in blackheads and pimples compared to baseline.

“We did not conclude that chocolates cause acne, as this condition is caused by multifaceted factors,” said Dr. Pravit Asawanonda of Chulalongkorn University in Thailand. However, their study did suggest that dark chocolate could worsen acne symptoms.

This study did not test non-acne-prone individuals or female participants. Women are often excluded from acne research due to hormonal fluctuations during menstrual cycles that could skew results.

The Fat and Inflammation Connection
In milk chocolate, dairy sugar may play a role in acne. Dark chocolate, however, contains cocoa butter, which has oleic acid and stearic acid—fats that may clog pores. Oleic acid, in particular, has been shown to influence pore clogging in animal studies.

Interestingly, cocoa’s flavonoids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, but fats in chocolate may still trigger skin inflammation.

Berman’s Study: Pure Chocolate Capsules
Dr. Brian Berman of the University of Miami conducted a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study using pure 100% chocolate capsules with no milk or sugar. His study, involving young men with a history of acne but no lesions at baseline, showed an increase in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne lesions.

Although Berman’s study had only 14 participants, he noted that the findings align with real-world patient experiences.

The Complex Nature of Acne
“The pathogenesis of acne is complicated,” said dermatologist Dr. Farris. Acne results from a buildup of skin cells at hair follicle openings, leading to trapped sebum and bacterial growth that triggers inflammation.

“Nutrition plays a role, but acne is a four-pronged process. Avoiding chocolate may address one piece of a very large puzzle.”

In summary, while chocolate might not directly cause acne, it can exacerbate symptoms in those prone to breakouts. For clearer skin, balance your diet and pay attention to how your skin reacts to certain foods.

The Role of Diet in Skin Health

Certain foods with a high glycemic index—like sugary snacks and refined carbs—can cause spikes in blood sugar. This triggers a chain reaction in the body, leading to increased sebum production and skin inflammation. These factors can contribute to acne.

Experts recommend a balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins to support skin health.

Should You Avoid Chocolate?
While cutting out chocolate may seem like the solution, moderation is key. If you notice breakouts after eating large amounts of chocolate, it may be worth reducing your intake and observing your skin’s response.

Final Thoughts
Chocolate may not directly cause acne, but diet and lifestyle choices can play a role in skin health. If you’re concerned about acne, consider focusing on overall dietary habits rather than singling out specific foods.

Keeping a food journal can help you determine whether your acne worsens when you eat chocolate, something Delost advises for some of his patients.

But unfortunately, that may mean giving up the indulgence, at least some of the time. “Everybody has their own triggers. If chocolate breaks you out, stop eating it,” Farris said.

It’s simple. If you experience acne outbreaks after eating even moderate amounts of dark chocolate, unfortunately, limit or stop eating chocolate.

If you’re concerned about the potential link between chocolate and acne, incorporating skincare products that help manage breakouts is essential. Vivoderm’s Zinc Repairing Facial Cream and Acne Treatment, and Acne Facial Mask are ideal for calming and nourishing acne-prone skin. Zinc is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, helping to reduce redness, soothe irritation, and minimize the appearance of blemishes. Vivoderm’s formulations are also rich in natural botanicals that promote healing and restore the skin’s barrier, essential for managing acne and preventing future breakouts. By combining a balanced diet with targeted skincare, you can better support clear, healthy skin.

 

(1) Resource: https://www.cnn.com/2019/02/15/health/chocolate-acne-food-drayer/index.html