The leaves are turning a rich golden brown, the evenings are unmistakably growing longer, and you're already starting to regret not bringing a coat for a night out; autumn is definitely in the air.

For many people, the ‘-ber months’ bring a wealth of Halloween treats, cozy nights at your local pub with a crackling fire, and, of course, steaming mugs of creamy pumpkin spice lattes.

Originally created to celebrate the time between summer and Christmas, the PSL has become a beloved seasonal tradition for thousands of sweet treat enthusiasts across the nation.

But did you know your favorite autumn Starbucks drink could be having a negative impact on your health?

A classic grande (473ml) pumpkin spice latte with whipped cream and pumpkin spice topping contains 32.9g of sugar and 89.1mg of caffeine, according to the coffee chain’s website.

Your daily PSL habit could cause skincare issues to arise (Getty Stock Image)

If you decide to go for a larger size, the sugar content jumps to a staggering 42.3g, and caffeine amounts to 133.6mg with venti drinks (561ml).

The sugar levels in both sizes are quite concerning, especially considering the NHS recommends adults consume no more than 30g of free sugars - sugars added to foods or drinks and those naturally occurring - each day.

Excessive sugar consumption can lead to weight gain, heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, and increased chronic inflammation, according to Harvard Health.

But having a fondness for the PSL might also contribute to skin problems, an expert has disclosed.

Speaking to Wales Online last year, Hayley Walker from Justmylook explained: “The caffeine, sugar, and acidity in these drinks can easily trigger inflammation, leading to increased oil production and acne.”

Caffeine causes cortisol spikes

Sugary milk-based caffeine drinks could cause acne, an expert warned (NHS)

Health authorities recommend that adults consume no more than 400mg of caffeine daily. This means one venti-sized pumpkin spice latte contains just over a third of your daily limit.

Excess caffeine can increase cortisol secretion, leading to sleep disturbances, muscle weakness, and elevated blood pressure.

High cortisol levels can also result in skin dryness, accelerated aging due to collagen breakdown, and a higher risk of skin infections.

"While [caffeine] gives you the energy boost you crave, it also triggers a stress response in your body by raising cortisol levels,” Walker said.

"Cortisol, often referred to as the ‘stress hormone’, can lead to inflammation. When inflammation is present, your skin becomes more susceptible to breakouts, as it creates the ideal environment for acne to develop."

Sugar spikes can cause acne

Elevated sugar levels in your system can prompt your body to produce more sebum, an oily substance in your skin.

Excess sebum mixes with dead skin cells, clogging pores and creating an environment where bacteria can thrive, leading to further inflammation and eventually acne lesions.

Skincare brand Olay suggests that reducing your sugar intake can help stabilize insulin levels, which decreases oil production and inflammation, leading to fewer breakouts.

We’re not suggesting you completely eliminate pumpkin spice lattes! But perhaps consider limiting yourself to one a week instead of daily indulgence?

PSLs increase acidity

It's advised you add some skincare saviours to your beauty cupboard if you're planning to indulge this season (Getty Stock Image)

Walker noted that adding caffeine to milk-based drinks like PSLs can increase acidity.

“When your body’s pH balance shifts toward the acidic side, it can result in inflammation and skin irritation.

“Moreover, for those with dairy sensitivities, the milk in a pumpkin spice latte can trigger acne and exacerbate it by causing more inflammation and excess oil production.”

Skincare holy grails can reduce breakouts

If your skin is already experiencing the effects of autumn-themed indulgences, incorporating a few skin saviours into your daily routine may help.

Walker recommends anyone experiencing skin issues start using beta hydroxy acids (BHA) like salicylic acid in a cleanser or treatment form to clear out clogged pores.

Niacinamide, a type of vitamin B3, will help strengthen the skin barrier and soothe redness and irritation caused by caffeine or high sugar intake.

The skincare expert also suggests using hero products like retinol, hyaluronic acid, and benzoyl peroxide.