There has been a significant rise in SARMs users in recent years, as they look to overtake anabolic steroids in the bodybuilding world. But of course, with any type of oral steroids and muscle building supplements, there are always side effects to look out for.
When it comes to a SARMs cycle, the topic of acne is one particular side effect of SARMs that comes up time and time again.
But do SARMS cause acne? And if they do, how can it beat? Don’t worry, we’re here to cover everything about SARMs and acne, including how to treat acne when it does occur.
Anabolic steroids vs SARMs
There has long been a debate between steroids and SARMs. With many claiming that SARMs offer a safer alternative to your typical bodybuilding steroids, some claim that the side effects of SARMs are much milder.
Androgens, SARMs and acne
Typically, the whole intention of bodybuilding supplements and SARMs is to increase testosterone levels. After all, your testosterone levels play an important role in muscle growth, performance and energy levels.
While many men seek ways to increase their testosterone levels in order to build muscle mass, it isn’t always necessarily your T levels that are stunting muscle growth.
But what’s the link between SARMs and acne? Is it really as bad as users make out?
The link is between heightened testosterone levels and sebum. Increased androgen levels cause a larger amount of sebum to be produced. If you’re unsure what sebum is, sebum is an oil-like substance that typically keeps your hair shiny and keeps your skin from becoming dehydrated.
So, of course, when sebum levels are increased, your skin can get oily, with dead cells unable to leave the body via your pores. When these become clogged, acne can occur.
As you’re undoubtedly well aware, a SARMs cycle increases androgen activity, making them a culprit for acne.
Do SARMS cause acne?
In a roundabout way, yes, SARMs and acne are possible, due to the increase in sebum levels.
Also Read: YK-11 side effects: Benefits, Uses, Dosage (SARMS)
This can result in acne – or what bodybuilders often refer to as ‘steroid acne’.
Cardarine acne
If you’re asking, ‘do SARMs cause acne?’, the chances are, you’re using Cardarine.
Many users of Cardarine report acne and other skin problems during their cycle, from “small puss pockets” to severe acne across their face, back and shoulders.
Different types of acne and SARMs
We all respond differently to oral steroids, treatments and even ordinary oral antibiotics. This means that you may experience acne during a SARM cycle, or you may be lucky enough to escape it! It can totally depend on the user.
Mild acne
This may be the appearance of blackheads and whiteheads. Typically, these will disappear after your SARM cycle ends.
Moderate acne
Moderate acne may feature abrasions with both inflammatory and non-inflammatory properties. This has the potential to scar, but this can be quite rare.
Severe acne
Now we’re talking about some seriously severe acne right here. Inflammed, reddened and scars all over. This is incredibly rare, however.
Where to expect acne from SARMs use
Surprisingly, steroid acne doesn’t usually appear on the face. Instead, steroid acne – if it does occur- will form on the upper back, shoulders and upper chest.
Since these areas contain the most androgen receptors, they are the most affected areas.
Popular safe and legal steroid and SARMs alternatives
Should I use SERMs during a SARM cycle to prevent steroid acne?
Definitely not. While you may think SERMs can help to prevent steroid acne, they may do more hard than good. Don’t worry, if you’re concerned about SARMs and acne, I’m going to explain a little more below about how to treat acne.
How to treat acne as a result of a SARM cycle
While steroid acne may not be covering your face, it can still be pretty daunting waking up to see acne forming across your upper back, upper chest and shoulders.
The first thing to do is not panic. Be sure to take a moment to assess your skin and see if you’re experiencing mild acne or if things have gotten severe.
Also Read: Steroids vs natural (How to tell)
If you’re experiencing mild acne from SARMs, you can either ride it out until the end of your SARM cycle, or opt for topical retinoids. You can get them over the counter and should help to provide treatment to the affected area.
When heading out in the sun, be sure to use plenty of sunblock, as topical retinoids can increase your risk of sunburn.
Salicylic acid for acne
If you’re feeling self-conscious as a result of steroid acne, you can also seek salicylic acid to unclog blocked pores. It works by breaking down the bones between dead skin cells so that they can release from the pore more easily.
Benzoyl peroxide for acne
Benzoyl peroxide is often used to treat acne, working as an antiseptic to reduce the number of germs on the surface of the skin.
Keeping a food journal
It can be difficult to determine if SARMs and acne really do go together. We advise keeping a food journal during your cycle to monitor any changes in your body.
If you experience mild acne during your cycle, you can typically continue to the end of your cycle. However, in severe cases, we’d recommend ditching your SARMs immediately.
Concerned about severe acne as a result of SARMs? Speak to a healthcare professional for advice on treatment.
Dealing with SARMs and acne (severe acne)
In this case, if you’re suffering from severe acne, I’d advise stopping your use of SARMs right away. After doing so, get yourself some anti-androgen drugs to help treat severe cases.
A doctor may prescribe prescription corticosteroids to treat steroid acne.
Are SARMs legal?
SARMs are currently not approved for human use, with healthcare professionals recommending avoiding SARMs and anabolic steroids altogether.
Also Read: Ultimate guide to SARMs
With many SARMs containing potentially dangerous ingredients, this novel class of drugs are similar to androgenic steroids, including testosterone. We do not support illegal steroid use in any way.
SARMs and acne: Is it worth it?
While not all users of SARMs report experiencing acne during their cycle, steroid use can have different side effects from one guy to the next. A topical retinoid can help to treat mild cases of acne as a result of SARMs use.
Do safer SARMs exist?
Of course, they do. If you’re looking to prevent acne, while experiencing insane muscle growth, you’re in the right place.
We have carefully developed 100% natural, legal alternatives to SARMs. So you can experience rapid fat loss, huge lean muscle gains and increased energy and stamina with ZERO side effects and no acne.
If you’re struggling with Cardarine acne, you may want to check out our 100% natural alternative – CARDALEAN for extreme fat burning, lean muscle protection and more.
