Does Kratom Cause Acne?

Native to tropical regions of Southeast Asia, over the last decade, kratom has become a very popular product in Western countries. Only in America, millions of people use kratom regularly to cope with many health issues. But kratom can also have some unpleasant side effects. Could acne be one of them? Does kratom cause acne? Even though there is no scientific research about kratom and acne, that does not mean that there is no relation. In this post, we will try to explore if kratom can actually cause acne or not. So, read below to learn more.

What does Kratom Do?

Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree in the coffee family that has gained popularity (and controversy) thanks to its multiple effects. Its leaves contain a large number of alkaloids and other compounds (including alkaloids mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) that activate the delta and mu receptors in your brain. As a result, these receptors give your brain the order (so to speak) to relieve pain, relax or boost your mood. In fact, the list of kratom’s effects is quite long and includes analgesia, relaxation, stimulation or euphoria. That’s why so many people are using kratom nowadays: because it helps them cope with so many different health issues.

People commonly use kratom for:

• Relieving pain
• Boosting their energy levels
• Relaxing
• Fighting anxiety
• Coping with depression
• Improving sleep
• Coping with drug withdrawal

But as we will see below, this herb also has side effects. Is acne one of them? Does kratom cause acne? Let’s find out!

Common Side Effects of Kratom

You will hardly find acne in a list of kratom side effects, even if these side effects do not affect all users equally. Every person is different, so whereas some users report to experience the side effects of kratom often, others claim they have never experienced any of them. In any case, the side effects of kratom are commonly the result of large doses and very frequent use of kratom.

What are the side effects of kratom that its users experience most often?

• Constipation
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Headaches and migraines
• Dehydration
• Eye wobbles

The best way to avoid these unpleasant side effects is by following these simple tips: be careful with your dosage, do not take kratom every day, and change kratom strains regularly. These tips will also help you avoid kratom tolerance, which occurs when your body gets so accustomed to the alkaloids of kratom to feel their effects. Kratom tolerance is not uncommon at all. In fact, it is an issue that happens very often. Therefore, moderate use is crucial if you want to avoid it.

Does Kratom Cause Acne?

There is no scientific evidence that links kratom and acne. But there is no evidence on the contrary either. Actually, there aren’t so many studies on kratom and most of them are focused on the analgesic and anxiolytic effects of the plant. So far, acne is not a priority for kratom research. However, that does not mean that there is no relation between acne and kratom.

But if you look through anecdotal evidence, you will find that it is not uncommon to find testimonies of kratom and acne. Does kratom cause acne? For some kratom users, it does. These users report acne outbreaks soon after they start using kratom. Sometimes, this acne is more than simple pimples, but cystic acne that goes deep into your skin. But could this acne be due to kratom or to something else? The truth is that we don’t know. On the other hand, some other users think that these outbreaks can be due to other factors, such as the use of certain medications or the process of tapering off some drugs. But again, they are all speculations. So, does kratom cause acne? We don’t know.

How to Know If Kratom Is Causing You Acne

If you notice acne breakouts the moment you start using kratom, knowing if kratom is causing you acne is quite easy. Quit kratom until your pimples go away. Then, wait for a while to make sure acne does not return. If acne returns, then you can be sure that kratom is causing you acne. But even if kratom were somehow related to acne, you must consider whether acne is a “bearable” side effect or not. Do the benefits you get from kratom outweigh acne? If you decide to continue with kratom despite acne, there are some things you can do to relieve its symptoms. Look for skin products that can help you relieve acne and its symptoms. You may even consider following an anti-acne diet. And visit your dermatologist to get treatment for your acne.