Does creatine cause acne?

Despite claims by creatine users that supplements do not cause acne, scientific evidence shows creatine causes or amplifies acne, according to Progressive Health. Supplement users point to high glycemic diets or dehydration as factors that drive acne increases, but studies show a direct correlation to high amounts of creatine.

People generally get moderate levels of creatine in meat proteins, although vegetarians often take supplements to get productive levels. Athletes who use creatine supplements for enhanced workout performance ingest amounts that lead to acne problems. Progressive Health reports that creatine boosts levels of testosterone, insulin-like growth factor and dihydrotestosterone, which lead to acne.