7 Supplements That Can Cause Acne

If you’ve ever suddenly gotten acne or your existing condition has become worse, it’s reasonable to suspect that your skincare routine is the culprit. Perhaps you’ve started using a new facial cleanser or cosmetic product. However, you may not have thought that a vitamin, protein powder, or other supplement could be causing your acne. For instance, hormones play a major role in the formation of acne, and if you’re taking a supplement that is impacting your hormones, it could very well make an acne breakout more severe. Are you taking something that might be worsening your acne? Check out these 7 supplements that have been associated with acne.

Vitamins B6 and B12

High doses of vitamins B6 and B12 have been linked to acne in some people. Scientists aren’t certain why, although some are pointing their finger at Cutibacterium acnes, the bacteria associated with acne. B12 is essential for bacteria, and the additional amount of the vitamin could be causing the bacteria to produce compounds that promote inflammation, causing a breakout or making it worse. To be clear, not everyone who takes vitamin B supplements will develop acne, but if you’ve noticed a breakout after starting a high-dose supplement, you should visit your doctor to discuss dosage.