Masturbation and acne have no proven link. The myth that masturbation can cause acne has possibly resulted from the fact that both appear around puberty and are related to levels of testosterone.

As a male enters into his teens, puberty starts and levels of male hormones including testosterone rises in the body. This leads to over-activity of oil glands in the skin producing more oil/sebum, which can clog the pores, incite inflammation and cause acne, especially when bacteria like C. acnes is present. This teenage acne is a very common phenomenon, such that many people do not think of it as a medical problem.

When the testosterone levels rise, the body also starts showing secondary sexual characteristics like development of beard and pubic hair, and gives rise to urge for masturbation, which is also a normal occurrence. Tests have shown that testosterone levels rise mildly during the act of masturbation, but go back to normal afterwards with no long lasting effect. This mild and temporary rise of testosterone levels don't have any effect on sebum production or acne.

If you are suffering from teenage acne, please visit a dermatologist and get a correct diagnosis and treatment plan, as this acne can be long lasting and leave cosmetic problems like marks and scars.