Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease that affects a wide range of adolescents and some adults. As a globally consumed beverage, coffee's effects on skin health, particularly on acne vulgaris, have attracted increasing attention. Research suggests that coffee constituents, such as caffeine and chlorogenic acid, may exert beneficial effects on acne suppression through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulatory properties. Additionally, coffee may indirectly influence skin health by modulating the gut microbiota through the gut-skin axis. However, the effects of coffee consumption are significantly influenced by individual variability, and additives such as sugar and dairy products in coffee may exacerbate inflammation, potentially counteracting its benefits. This review summarizes current evidence regarding the effects and potential mechanisms of coffee and its major components on acne vulgaris, aiming to provide a theoretical basis and scientific guidance for understanding the potential link between coffee consumption and skin health.