Does Vaping Cause Acne? Let’s Talk About It.
By Aura & Sol | Acne Specialist in Anchorage, Alaska
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read) – Can Vaping Cause Acne?
Yep, it definitely can. Vaping introduces nicotine and other chemicals that increase oil production, trigger inflammation, and slow down your skin’s healing. If you’re acne-prone or dealing with stubborn breakouts (especially around your mouth or jawline) vaping might be playing a role. The good news? With the right acne-safe skincare, a solid routine, and personalized support (hi, I got you 🙌), your skin can heal.
This topic has been coming up a lot lately. Whether it’s clients bringing it up during facials or me seeing it pop up on my feed, I figured it’s time to give my two cents: Does vaping actually cause acne?
Short answer? It can. But let’s break it down.
Vaping & Acne: What’s Actually Happening
Even though vaping might feel like a “cleaner” alternative to smoking, it still introduces nicotine and other harsh chemicals into your system — and your skin absolutely notices.
Here’s how it can contribute to breakouts:
Reduces blood flow to the skin, which slows healing
Disrupts your hormones, leading to overactive oil production
Triggers inflammation, which is a major factor in acne
If you’ve noticed more breakouts around your jawline, mouth, or cheeks (especially since vaping more often), this might be your skin’s way of saying, “Hey… I’m not loving this.” OR it could be another reason, but that’s another topic. 🤓
Not Everyone Will Break Out… But Many Do
Just like not everyone breaks out from dairy or certain makeup, not everyone who vapes will get acne. But if you’re already acne prone, sensitive, or navigating hormonal changes, vaping can definitely tip the scale.
As an acne specialist in Anchorage, I look at the full picture with each client. Their lifestyle, stress, skincare, and yes… vaping, too. Your skin tells the truth, even when the rest of us are in denial.
If You Vape and Break Out, Here’s What You Can Do
No judgment here 🙅🏽♀️ if you're not ready to quit, that’s okay. But if you're noticing breakouts and want to give your skin a little extra love, try this:
✔️ Double cleanse, especially if you vape in your car or indoors
✔️ Support your barrier with calming + hydrating products
✔️ Sweat intentionally (sauna, walks, light workouts — it helps detox)
✔️ Get on a treatment plan that works with your skin, not against it
My Go To Product Picks for Vaping Related Acne
Here’s what I personally recommend and keep stocked at the studio. Curated specifically for acne prone, sensitive, or stressed out skin:
💧 Face Reality Ultra Gentle Cleanser or Mandelic Face & Body Wash
– Acne safe, non-stripping, and great for daily use. Mandelic also supports uneven tone and texture.
🌿 Hale & Hush Hush Hydrate Gel
– This is a must if your skin feels hot, tight, or reactive. Think of it like a glass of water and a hug for your face.
💦 Face Reality Hydrabalance or HydraRemedy Gel Serum
– This lightweight gel serum layers beautifully under moisturizer and helps calm inflamed, thirsty skin. Especially if you're barrier compromised from stress or vaping.
🧴 Face Reality Clearderma or Skinscript Light Aloe Moisturizer
– Two solid acne safe moisturizers that hydrate without feeling greasy or heavy. Clearderma also has a little antibacterial boost.
✨ Face Reality Sulfur Spot Treatment or Hydropeptide’s Spot Correction Acne Eliminating Treatment
– Great for managing those deep, hormonal style breakouts around the mouth or jaw. Gentle but effective. ** Don’t forget to ICE those active breakouts to reduce inflammation and redness, which will heal the breakouts faster while using these spot treatments 😉**
☁️ Jazeena's Body Serum Candles
– The softest way to unwind. These melt into a nourishing body serum, perfect for a post shower ritual that feels as luxe as it smells. Continue your facial experience at the comfort of your home 😌🕯
🧴 TIZO Mineral Sunscreen
– A daily non-negotiable. TIZO is elegant, acne safe, and gives physical sun protection without the white cast or greasy feel.
I offer local product pick up in Anchorage and shipping if you're not nearby. DM or book a consult and I’ll get you on a routine that fits your skin and your lifestyle.
Your Skin Is Always Speaking! Let’s Listen 👂🏼
If your skin’s been off lately and you’ve tried "everything"... consider this your gentle nudge to look deeper. Vaping might not be the only cause of your breakouts, but it could be part of the puzzle.
Whenever you're ready, I'm here to help with personalized acne facials, curated skincare, and no shame attached!
Ready to reset your skin?
📍 Book an acne facial which includes a consult and skin analysis
📦 Anchorage pick up + shipping available
🤍 Holistic support from someone who gets it
