Self-exploration or simply self-love is very common across cultures around the globe. Although, due to unnecessary parental pressure or even wrong peer influence can give you wrong information about it. Thus, inherently there’s hardly anything wrong with masturbation. One of the popular myths that we will discuss today is that ‘masturbation causes acne’. After talking to an expert in the field we have come up with enough evidence to dig into the origins of this myth.
Where did this myth come from?
For a long time, older generations have persistently held the opinion that masturbating causes acne, which serves as a discouragement to engage in sexual activity. This idea may have arisen from the fact that acne appears at the same time as puberty when sexual exploration also starts. It’s important to realize, though, that correlation does not imply connection. Sexual development and acne are two distinct processes that do not inevitably lead to one another.
Does masturbation affect hormone levels?
Sexual activity and masturbation do cause brief hormonal shifts in the body. These alterations, nevertheless, are not substantial or persistent enough to result in acne. For example, following an orgasm, both biological males and females have a brief spike in the hormone prolactin. Studies show that orgasm does not upset a man’s testosterone balance. There is little data to support the theory that hormone fluctuations from sex or masturbation cause acne. Also, the research on the consequences of orgasm-induced hormonal shifts in females is limited.
Does masturbation cause acne?
It is a common misconception that acne originates from masturbating. However, the truth is that numerous factors contribute to the development of acne, such as hormonal fluctuations, unusual skin cell shedding, bacterial presence, and genetic predisposition. Hormonal changes throughout puberty are a major factor in the development of acne. They can increase sebum production, which jams pores and produces pimples when mixed with germs and dead skin cells. Dr Avreen Shah, Consultant Urologist in Shah Hospital Advanced Laparoscopic Gynae and Urology Centre, Ludhiana, Punjab says, “Nevertheless, the hormonal alterations that result from sexual activity or masturbation are not significant enough to have a direct impact on the development of acne.” Hormone changes due to masturbation have little effect on sebum production, which is the main cause of acne development. Therefore, it’s probably coincidental rather than causal if you break out with acne after masturbating or having sex.
Ultimately, there is no scientific proof to support the idea that acne develops by masturbation. Sexual activity does cause hormonal changes, but they are not strong enough or last long enough to cause acne. There is no risk of acne from masturbation; it is a normal and healthy part of human sexuality. For specific guidance and treatment choices, it is advisable that you see a dermatologist if you have concerns about acne or the health of your skin.
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