There has never been any concrete evidence that sex causes acne. It has been suggested that hormones produced during puberty and sebum (oil) clogging the pores cause this skin condition.
During sexual activity there is a lot of rubbing of body parts. This could lead to friction that may lead to acne.
Sex hormones
Nothing ruins the blissful afterglow of sex like waking up to find a pesky pimple on your face. The truth is that sex has many health benefits, but hormone changes can also trigger acne flare-ups.
The first outbreak of acne often happens during puberty when hormone levels rise, causing the sebaceous glands to produce more oil (sebum). The androgens in testosterone can stimulate the growth of hair follicles and clog pores. These clogged pores can lead to inflammation and the formation of comedones.
These comedones can take different forms: whiteheads are closed pores characterized by a whitish appearance; blackheads are open plugged pores that appear dark in color; and pus-filled bumps, or nodules, are deep blemishes that may be painful. Acne can occur in all skin colors, from light to dark.
The fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone triggered by the menstrual cycle can also contribute to acne. Estrogen, released in larger amounts during the early part of the menstrual cycle, encourages sebum production. When the levels of progesterone begin to dip, the skin is more sensitive to androgens, and this can increase the likelihood of an acne breakout.
Massage oils
Massage oils are designed to make a massage session relaxing and restorative. They also help hydrate the skin. Unlike body lotion, which is a combination of water and oils, massage oil contains only rich carrier oils and essential oils. These oils absorb into the skin quickly. They also create a smooth, silky texture and enhance the skin’s tone. However, if you’re acne-prone, it’s best to avoid using massage oils on your face. These oils can trigger the production of excess oils, which may result in sex bumps.
When selecting a massage oil, look for pure and organic ingredients. You should also choose one that doesn’t contain any additives or preservatives. Additionally, be sure to follow the dilution instructions. This will ensure that the oils are properly diluted and won’t irritate your skin.
Some of the most popular massage oils include jojoba oil, sesame oil, grapeseed oil, and avocado oil. Jojoba oil is a popular choice for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to penetrate deep into the skin. Sesame oil is nourishing and has many benefits, including the ability to flush toxins from the body. And if you’re looking for an invigorating massage, tea tree oil is an excellent choice. It’s strong antibacterial properties are great for blemish-prone skin, and its scent is very invigorating. Moreover, it has been found to relieve itching caused by eczema and psoriasis.
Face hair
There’s a lot of rubbing that happens during sexual activity, including rubbing your face against your partner’s. That friction can encourage pimples, especially if your partner has thick facial hair.
Also, excess facial or body hair may be a sign of an imbalance in your hormones. If you develop rapid or severe hair growth and other symptoms of a hormone problem (like virilization) over several months, see your doctor for assessment. You may be referred to a specialist in hormone disorders or skin problems, such as an endocrinologist or dermatologist.
Lastly, bumps on the face and genitals could be signs of an STD. Genital warts, syphilis and herpes are all common STIs that cause painful sores that bleed or leak a clear liquid. See a doctor or nurse — like the staff at your local Planned Parenthood health center — for diagnosis and treatment as soon as possible.
Dirty or unhygienic surroundings
During sexual activity, you may be rubbing your face against different body parts. The friction can irritate your skin and encourage oil production, leading to acne. This is particularly true if the surrounding area is dirty or unhygienic.
Moreover, penile and vaginal secretions are warm and moist, which can make them breeding grounds for bacteria and fungus. This can lead to infection and inflammation, causing your acne to flare up.
You should also be careful when having sex in public places, such as parks or beaches, where there are lots of people around. The dirt and dust can get into your pores and irritate your skin, leading to acne breakouts. You should also avoid touching your face and body with your hands if you are in these areas, as this can increase the risk of infection.
