Does Chocolate Cause Acne? What Does Research Say?

A box of chocolate can be an instant stress buster or happiness booster. However, a few believe chocolate can trigger acne. But does chocolate cause acne? What is the connection? Are there scientific studies to prove this claim? If you love chocolate but avoid it for fear of acne breakouts, you may read this. In this article, you will find answers to all your doubts regarding the connection between chocolates and acne. Keep reading to know more.

Chocolate And Acne Is There Any Link?

Does chocolate give you pimples? Well, it is widely believed that chocolate causes acne in certain individuals. But, currently, the scientific communitys take on whether chocolate causes acne is inconclusive (1). However, there are many studies that speculate it may be partially responsible. Lets take a look at them:

• A study conducted in Brazil speculated that the biologically active compounds in chocolate can affect acne (2).
• There have also been several studies that have shown that chocolate exacerbates acne (3), (4). But the sample size, lack of control group, and an inconsistent methodology have put them under scrutiny (5).
• Other ingredients in chocolate bars such as dairy and sugar have also been established to cause acne (5).

Further research is required to prove that eating chocolate can aggravate acne. We suggest that you maintain a food journal to identify which foods trigger your acne and if chocolate is one of them. You can also track how other foods that cause acne affect your skin.

Chocolate is also believed to offer many benefits for your skin. Find out more in the next section.

Is Chocolate Good For Your Skin?

Yes. Research shows that cocoa powder and dark chocolate are nutrient-dense and rich in antioxidants and flavonoids (6), (7).

• Cocoa can protect the skin from oxidative damage from UV radiation when applied topically (7). Thus, it is speculated to have anti-aging benefits like smoothening out fine lines and wrinkles and preventing skin damage with its high antioxidant content.
• A study conducted in the UK showed that the flavonoids found in chocolate can improve blood flow to the skin and protect it from sun damage (8).
• In fact, a study conducted in Germany reported that women who consumed cocoa powder (which is rich in flavanol) for 12 weeks had improved skin health. It was observed that the thickness of their skin increased and the transepidermal water loss from their skin decreased (9).

Therefore, you can include a limited quantity of chocolate in your diet for the many benefits it offers.

Did You Know?

Mesoamerica, now known as Mexico is the place where chocolate was first invented around 4000 years ago.

But, does that mean you pick up any chocolate bar? Keep reading to learn which type of chocolate is a healthier option.

Does The Type Of Chocolate Make A Difference?

Yes! Dark chocolate is richer in nutrients and antioxidants compared to milk or white chocolate. Milk chocolate contains milk and sugar, which have been linked to acne (5). Moreover, white chocolate does not contain cocoa powder. Hence, it does not contain the antioxidants or flavanols that are beneficial for the skin. So, it is recommended to consume dark chocolate or cocoa powder to reap the benefits of dark chocolate.

Pro Tip

Opt for organic, non-GMO varieties of dark chocolate without any fillers like toffee chips, caramel, or crisps to prevent breakouts.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the side effects of chocolate?

Excess consumption of chocolate may lead to side effects like lower bone density and strength and increased bacterial growth on your skin (which may aggravate acne) (10), (11).

What can I replace chocolate with?

You can replace chocolate with a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fish that may help in managing your acne (12).

Do sweets cause acne?

Yes, foods and beverages high in sugar have been linked to adult acne as they are believed to have a high glycemic index. This, in turn, may play a role in developing acne (13), (14). They quickly absorb into the bloodstream and rapidly increase blood sugar levels. As a result, the pancreas secretes insulin at a faster rate (15). High insulin level promotes an increase in the rate of androgen synthesis activity, resulting in excess sebum production, which is related to acne severity (16). Therefore, insulin and carbohydrate (sugar) metabolism may play a key role in acne breakouts and severity.

Watch the following video as science delves into the age-old question: Does chocolate truly cause acne? Get insights backed by research to unravel this common myth and discover the truth about this indulgent treat’s impact on your skin.

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Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Dr. Anna H. ChaconMD, FAAD

     

Dr. Anna Chacon is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in medical, surgical, and cosmetic dermatology with over 9 years of experience. She enjoys practicing all aspects of dermatology and is licensed to practice in 49 states.

Read full bio of Dr. Anna H. Chacon

Annie JangamBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Annie Jangam is a researcher-turned-content writer with 11 years of experience. She enjoys dissecting complex clinical studies and shuffling through the scientific jargon to make science interesting and easy to understand.

Read full bio of Annie Jangam

Eshna DasAssociate Editor

Eshna is an associate editor and a certified skin care coach. She has over three years of experience, a triple main bachelor’s degree in psychology, English, and journalism from Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru, and a master’s degree in psychology from Sampurna Montfort College, Bengaluru.

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Monomita ChakrabortyBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

Monomita has a graduate degree in mass communication and video production from St. Anthony's College, Shillong, and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communication from the Royal Global University, Guwahati. She is also a certified skincare coach with a keen interest in skin, hair, tattoos, nail art, and lifestyle trends.

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