An American YouTuber has sparked a fresh wave of debate about cannabis and appearance after sharing before and after photos he says show a dramatic shift in his complexion. Patrick Merino, known online for candid videos about breaking bad habits, claims that smoking marijuana didn’t just affect his mindset. He believes it also seriously damaged his skin.
Merino has built his channel around personal accountability, talking openly about everything from frequent weed use to struggles with pornography addiction. In one of his most talked about uploads, he posted close up images from the period when he smoked regularly alongside newer photos taken after he quit. The difference, at least in his case, looks striking, with earlier shots showing more inflammation and acne, and later ones appearing clearer and calmer.
In the video, titled “How marijuana ruined my face,” he says his skin would flare up almost every time he smoked. He describes pimples turning into blackheads and developing yellow pus, which left him confused and frustrated. He also insists the outcome did not depend on how he consumed it. Whether he used rolling papers, a bong, or a vape, he claims his face still reacted the same way.
Trying to make sense of it, Merino landed on his own explanation that smoking may “open” pores and make it easier for bacteria to trigger irritation. It is a simple idea that matches his lived experience, even if it is not a tidy, universal rule. His point is less about scaring people and more about urging them to notice patterns in their own bodies.
What does science say about cannabis and skin. Some health focused sources suggest smoking marijuana can influence the face in a few ways, mostly through THC, the compound responsible for the high. THC can affect blood vessels and glands, which may help explain common short term effects like red eyes and dry mouth. Long term impacts depend a lot on how often someone uses cannabis and how it is consumed.
There is also the broader issue of smoke exposure. Inhaling smoke, much like tobacco smoke, is often linked with processes that can break down collagen and elastin over time, which are proteins that help skin stay firm and springy. When those supports weaken, the skin can look more tired, with fine lines becoming more noticeable.
Acne is still the murky part. Researchers are still exploring how cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate oil production in the skin. THC may influence sebum levels, while CBD has been discussed for potentially reducing oil in some settings, especially when applied topically in skincare. For now, the clearest takeaway is that reactions can vary widely, and Merino’s experience may be a warning sign for some, not a guarantee for everyone.
Have you noticed your skin changing with cannabis use or after quitting. Share your experience in the comments.
