Many people are confused about the fact that masturbating causes acne. Excessive sebum production is one of the main causes of this skin problem. So let us know, does masturbation actually cause acne?
There are many benefits from masturbation. Apart from providing pleasure, it can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality. It is considered a natural activity, during which hormones like endorphins and dopamine are released. Masturbation, also called masturbation, can have many positive effects on your health. But it is also linked to a common skin problem. Many people are confused about the fact that masturbating causes acne. Excessive sebum production is one of the main causes of this skin problem. So let us know, does masturbation actually cause acne?
First know what is masturbation?
Masturbation is an activity during which a person stimulates himself by touching his intimate parts for sexual arousal or pleasure. According to a 2015 study published in the Journal of Sex Education and Therapy, married women who masturbated experienced more sexual pleasure and higher self-esteem. Their sexual desire was also better and they were more satisfied with their sex lives.
Another study published in Frontiers in 2019 showed that participants who masturbated saw improved sleep quality. It can improve your mood. According to research published in the International Journal of Sexual Health in April 2024, masturbation and the resulting orgasms can have a positive effect on your mood (masturbation).
Are there any benefits to the skin by masturbating (skin benefits of masturbation)?
Masturbation and orgasms release feel-good hormones like oxytocin and endorphins, which can reduce stress levels. “Reducing stress reduces cortisol levels, which can indirectly benefit the skin by reducing inflammation,” says beauty therapist and cosmetologist Dr Karuna Malhotra. Improved blood circulation during arousal and orgasms can also deliver more oxygen and nutrients to the skin, enhancing the skin’s natural glow.
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“Masturbation is not a skin-care treatment, but the stress-relieving aspect may contribute to overall skin health,” the expert says. Additionally, the quality of sleep improves after orgasm, while it helps in skin repair and promotes cell regeneration, keeping the skin healthy.
Masturbation and acne: what is the connection between the two (does masturbation causes acne)?
There are many potential benefits of masturbation, but some people believe that it can affect the skin in a negative way. So, is there a connection between masturbation and acne? Despite popular myth, masturbation has no effect on acne, according to research published in the Postgraduate Medical Journal in 2006.
There is no direct scientific evidence that shows a link between masturbation and acne, which is often caused by hormonal changes.
1. Hormones
“Some people think masturbation and acne are linked due to temporary changes in hormones,” the expert says. This minimal hormonal change is not enough to trigger acne in people. According to research published in the journal Clinics in Dermatology in 2017, sex hormones like testosterone and progesterone can affect the skin, and cause excess oil production.
According to research published in the Journal of Basic and Clinical Andrology in 2021, masturbation affects the secretion of hormones such as endorphins, prolactin, dopamine, and oxytocin. But these hormones have nothing to do with acne or oily skin.
2. Stress
Even though masturbation and acne are not directly linked, myths related to it can create unnecessary stress, which can indirectly increase acne. Hormones released in the body during stress can cause acne.
Why does acne occur?
There is no link between masturbation and acne. But there are many other factors that cause this common skin condition. Acne Hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, causing pimples, whiteheads and blackheads.
1. Excessive sebum production
Even though masturbation and acne may not be related, the skin contains sebaceous glands that produce an oily substance called sebum to keep the skin hydrated. “Overproduction of sebum, often triggered by hormonal changes, clogs pores and creates an environment where acne-causing bacteria can thrive,” says Dr. Malhotra.
2. Hormonal changes
Hormones, especially androgens such as testosterone, are increased due to sex, periods, pregnancy or conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome. “These hormonal spikes can stimulate the sebaceous glands, leading to more oil production and clogged skin pores,” the expert says.
3. Bacteria
The bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (now called Cutibacterium acnes) lives naturally on the skin. “When the pores of the skin become clogged, the number of these bacteria increases, which increases inflammation in the skin and leads to redness, swelling and formation of cysts on various parts of the body,” the expert says.
4. Medicines
Some medications, such as corticosteroids, or contraceptive pills with specific hormonal compositions, can help reduce inflammation in the body and prevent pregnancy. “But these medications can trigger acne, or make it worse.”
Now know how to treat acne
1. Topical treatment
- Retinoids: Retinoids, derived from vitamin A, help prevent clogged pores and promote cell turnover.
- Benzoyl Peroxide: It fights acne-causing bacteria, and reduces inflammation. It is especially effective for people with mild acne.
- Salicylic Acid: A beta-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin and unclogs the pores. Salicylic acid is a common ingredient in many over-the-counter products designed to fight acne.
- antibiotic cream: These reduce bacteria and inflammation and prevent acne from growing.
2. Oral Medication
- Antibiotics: “Oral antibiotics like doxycycline and minocycline are used to treat moderate to severe acne and reduce bacterial growth and inflammation,” the expert says.
- hormonal therapy: Contraceptive pills or anti-androgens like spironolactone can control hormonal imbalance in women, as well as reduce sebum production.
- Isotretinoin: This medicine, derived from vitamin A, is used for severe, cystic acne.
3. Lifestyle changes
No, you do not need to give up masturbation, as there is no link between it and acne. But you need to eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, zinc and antioxidants to boost skin health. “Participating in activities like yoga, meditation, and regular exercise help reduce cortisol levels, which can help reduce acne,” says Dr. Malhotra.
There is no connection between masturbation and acne, so don’t believe this myth. Hormones play a role in acne, but the hormones released during masturbation have nothing to do with this skin condition. If you have persistent acne, you need to consult a doctor.
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