Acne and Chemicals

There are various industrial chemicals that have been shown to cause acne, both in acne-prone individuals and those without any history of acne. Many of these substances can be found in the workplace. This type of acne is very resistant to treatment and exposure to the chemicals should be avoided.

Here are a few examples of acnegenic chemicals and oils:

• Dioxin- active ingredient in various herbicides
• Coal tars and pitches- road workers and roofers are susceptible to exposure
• Paraffin oils
• Petroleum oil
• Cutting oils
• Grease from grills or french fryers- cooks or those working in fast food restaurants are vulnerable.