Creatine supplementation may contribute to acne, but studies on its effects are limited. Some theorize that changes in insulin levels when taking creatine with sweet drinks may be a factor. More research is needed to determine the connection between creatine and acne.
Some people who supplement with creatine notice an increase in the amount of acne they have or develop new acne for the first time while taking it. Studies on the effects of this substance on acne are not readily available, however, much of the evidence suggesting that it increases acne is anecdotal. Since only some people report increased acne based on supplementation, creatine is thought not to cause acne but may contribute to it. In fact, some people theorize that it’s not the creatine itself that’s causing a problem; instead, some people think that the increase in acne may be a result of changes in the hormone insulin when a person takes creatine with a sweet drink.
Creatine occurs naturally in the human body and in some of the foods people eat. Some people choose to supplement with it, however, due to its ability to help increase lean muscle mass in the human body. Many also use it to improve performance in sports and bodybuilding. For these types of applications, a person can supplement it in powder or capsule form taken by mouth or in fitness and bodybuilding drinks, snacks, and energy bars that contain it. Usually, it’s people who supplement with it who notice a connection between creatine and acne.
Most of the medical sources that discuss creatine and supplementation with it do not mention acne. The relationship between acne and creatine is usually discussed based on the experiences of some individuals taking larger amounts in hopes of increasing their physical performance and building lean muscle mass. Many people who consume high levels of this substance report an increase in acne or the development of new acne spots despite having clear skin in the past. However, those reports are not proof of the relationship between creatine and acne.
While there may be a connection between creatine and acne, it may not be a cause and effect connection. Some people theorize that the substance doesn’t cause acne but instead makes it worse in some people. For example, if a person has oily skin or hormonal fluctuations that contribute to acne, this can increase the likelihood that creatine will make the situation worse. Others theorize that changes in insulin levels that occur when taking creatine with sweet drinks may be to blame. Research studies are needed, however, to determine if any of these theories are correct and to further explore the possible connection between creatine and acne.
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