Does prolonged abstinence in women cause acne?
Disease description:
I am a 25-year-old female. Recently, due to a busy work schedule and high life stress, I have not had sexual activity for a long time. I have recently noticed that I started breaking out on my face, and I am wondering: can prolonged abstinence from sex cause acne in females?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Extended abstinence in women does not directly lead to acne. Acne has multiple causes, primarily related to hormonal imbalances, excessive sebum production, blockage of hair follicles and sebaceous glands, bacterial infection, and inflammatory responses. There is no direct causal relationship between abstinence and acne.
Although sexual activity may help relieve stress and improve mood to some extent, thereby indirectly benefiting skin health, this does not mean that abstinence will cause acne. Long-term abstinence may affect one's emotional state, such as causing anxiety or depression, but these emotional changes do not necessarily directly trigger acne.
If you experience acne, it is recommended to address factors such as diet, sleep patterns, and skincare. Maintain a light diet and avoid excessive intake of oily and spicy foods; ensure adequate sleep and avoid staying up late; choose skincare products suitable for your skin type and keep the skin clean. If acne persists or becomes severe, seek timely medical attention from a professional dermatologist. Additionally, maintain a positive mindset and avoid excessive anxiety about acne, as this can also aid in skin recovery.
