5 Common Myths About the Causes of Acne
Many myths persist today about what causes acne despite a lack of scientific evidence to support those myths.
By understanding what is causing your acne, you can take effective measures to treat it and keep it under control. Even though doctors are still not exactly sure what causes acne and why some people are not affected, there is more knowlegde and treatment options available today than in the past.
The Top 5 myths about the causes of acne:
Myth #1: Poor hygiene or dirty skin causes acne.
While bacteria in the skin is involved in the creation of acne, and antibiotics can help improve acne, lack of cleanliness is not the actual cause for the acne breakouts. Acne is caused by excess oil and dead skin cells that clog the pores and build up under the skin. Cleansing your skin of oil and debris with a gentle cleanser that kills the acne bacteria is important for preventing breakouts, but it’s not necessary to use harsh cleansers or abrasives. Scrubbing too hard or washing your face too often can irritate and dry out your skin, and can actually make your acne worse.
Myth #2: Acne is caused by chocolate or other foods.
Chocolate has long been blamed for causing acne, along with pizza, soda and french fries; yet studies have shown no scientific evidence that this is true. The myth that chocolate and fast food are what causes acne may persist because many teens have acne and these are also favorite foods for teenagers. While no particular food can be blamed for causing acne, some people may find they react to certain foods and can try avoiding them to see if there is an improvement in their acne.
While your acne will most likely not simply disappear with a healthy diet, it is important to eat healthy foods that contain nutrients that support healthy skin. Some find improvement by avoiding meat and dairy products that contain hormones and switching to organic products.
Myth #3: When you outgrow your teen years, your skin will clear up.
There are a variety of acne treatment options available both over-the-counter and prescription medicines from a dermatologist. While many will find their acne improves or goes away completely with time, there is no reason to not treat it and prevent permanent scarring. Many will need to treat their skin continually well into adulthood because it will not simply go away with time.
Others unfortunately find their acne worsens or shows up for the first time in their 20s. This adult acne can be difficult to treat, and when severe, needs an aggressive approach. You will not outgrow adult or chronic acne. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed successfully.
Myth #4: Acne is caused by using makeup.
While some makeup is not recommended for acne, today there are many lines of oil-free products that can be used. Look at the label for the term “noncomedogenic” which means the product does not cause comedones or acne from clogged pores. Another term you may see is “nonacnegenic” which is also safe for acne prone skin. You will also find water-based makeup with added ingredients that actually prevent breakouts. It’s important to use the right kind of cosmetics, but using some makeup can help improve your confidence and self-esteem while you treat this unpleasant skin condition.
Myth #5: Popping pimples will clear them up faster.
Although it is tempting to get rid of pimples by popping the, this can actually make them worse by spreading the infection and damaging the skin. Severe acne cysts or nodules need to be treated by a doctor who can safely remove them. Trying to pop a cysts can spread the infection deeper into the skin and damage the skin’s collagen causing permanent scars.
By understanding the true causes of your acne, you can take appropriate measures to treat your skin and keep it under control.
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