Can Spearmint Tea Really Help With Acne?

If you’ve ever scrolled through skincare threads on social media or explored natural remedies for breakouts, you’ve probably come across spearmint tea as a suggested solution for acne especially hormonal acne linked to conditions like PCOS. But does it actually work?

While spearmint tea does offer some promising properties, the evidence for its acne-clearing abilities is still evolving. Here's what the research and dermatologists say about sipping your way to clearer skin.

Why Spearmint Tea Might Help Acne

Spearmint (Mentha spicata) is a fragrant herb with a long history of medicinal use. Its appeal as an acne remedy comes from four key properties:

• Anti-inflammatory effects: Chronic inflammation plays a role in acne, and spearmint contains compounds that may help reduce swelling and redness.

• Antibacterial and antimicrobial properties: Spearmint appears to kill or slow the spread of acne-causing bacteria on the skin.

• Antiandrogenic activity: This is perhaps the most relevant for hormonal acne. Studies have found that spearmint can help lower levels of testosterone a hormone that often spikes in people with PCOS and contributes to increased sebum (oil) production and clogged pores.

• Antiproliferative effects: Although mainly explored in cancer research, this quality may help reduce excessive skin cell turnover that clogs pores.

What the Research Says

Several small studies have investigated spearmint’s hormonal effects. One study published in Phytotherapy Research found that women with PCOS who drank two cups of spearmint tea daily for five days showed reduced levels of free testosterone. Another trial reported hormone shifts after 30 days of use, including increased levels of estrogen and luteinizing hormone (LH).

However, while these hormonal changes could theoretically benefit skin health, direct evidence linking spearmint tea to fewer breakouts is still lacking. Most of the support comes from anecdotal reports and indirect hormone data.

How to Use Spearmint Tea

If you’re interested in trying spearmint tea for acne, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Start with 1–2 cups per day, ideally for several weeks or months to see if there’s a noticeable change.

• Make sure you're using spearmint, not peppermint. The two are often confused, but spearmint contains less menthol, making it gentler and more targeted for hormonal concerns.

• Spearmint can also be found in supplements, capsules, and topical products, but tea is the most commonly used form for hormonal support.

Is Spearmint Tea Safe?

For most people, drinking moderate amounts of spearmint tea is considered safe. Still, high doses may carry some risks, including:

• Drowsiness

• Kidney or liver strain (in very large amounts)

• Slowed breathing if taken alongside sedatives

• Potential allergic reactions, especially if applied topically

If you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications that affect your kidneys, liver, or hormone levels, speak with your healthcare provider before making spearmint tea a daily ritual.

Other Proven Acne Treatments

While natural remedies like spearmint tea may offer gentle support, persistent or severe acne often benefits from evidence-based care. Options include:

• Topical treatments like retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid

• Prescription medications such as hormonal birth control or spironolactone

• Dermatologic procedures including chemical peels, corticosteroid injections, or laser therapy

The Bottom Line

Spearmint tea contains anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiandrogenic compounds that make it a potential natural aid for hormonal acne. While it may support skin clarity—especially in people with PCOS its effects likely vary and aren’t guaranteed.

If you’re struggling with ongoing breakouts, consider incorporating spearmint tea as part of a holistic skincare approach, but don’t skip a conversation with your dermatologist. They can guide you toward the most effective options for your unique skin needs.

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