Acne is quite a common skin problem that most individuals experience at some point in their lives. Over the years, a lot of information as well as beliefs on acne causes have emerged, including how to get rid of it. However, before we figure out which information is correct and which is not, it is important to know and understand some of the common myths about acne. Here are 10 of some of the well-known myths about acne:
1. Poor hygiene causes acne
Acne is not caused by dirt on the skin’s surface or on the oily skin surface. Blackheads are not remains of dirt but rather of dead skin surfaces. Aggressive skin washing is more than likely to worsen pre-existing acne. It is best that you wash your face two times per day with mild soap. Then pat your face dry and apply some anti-acne medications.
2. Diet causes acne
This is one of the ancient myths. Extensive studies have not shown any connection between acne and diet. In other words, French fries, pizza, chocolate, as well as other fast foods don’t cause acne. However, it makes sense to limit the intake of fatty foods to prevent cardiovascular disease and obesity. Studies also show that foods that high on iodine, for example shellfish, can worsen existing acne, rather than causing it.
3. Stress causes acne
The usual stress that teenagers experience every day does not cause acne. Ironically, it is the many medicines prescribed for depression or stress that can cause a side effect such as acne.
4. Acne is only a cosmetic condition and one will get scars if they continue picking
Yes, acne can affect your appearance and can cause permanent physical scars. But squeezing blackheads hardly causes scarring. Poking and picking at acne lesions may make lesions last longer. In addition, the temporary stain formed when you squeeze a blackhead can make you look like you have more lesions than is really the case.
5. We should just leave acne to run its course
Actually, acne can be eliminated. If you have used acne products and they are not working, consider visiting a dermatologist. There are many products today and there’s no reason why you should suffer from acne or develop acne scars. Just find the best acne treatment method for your skin and get rid of the problem.
6. The main cause of acne is oily skin
Oily skin does not cause acne. It is a problem whereby the cells lining up the hair follicle get shed normally but do not get to the surface of the skin in order to be washed off. These cells accumulate, mix with bacteria and oil, and create a plug. Though kids with acne have oily skin, it is not a cause of acne but rather a symptom.
7. Acne is contagious
This is a popular myth mostly spread by fathers to isolate their teen daughters from teen boys with acne. Acne is not contagious and thus cannot be passed from one person to another.
8. Don’t use makeup in case you have acne
Most dermatologists agree that cosmetics, even for those with oily skin, don’t result in acne or aggravate the problem if it’s already there.
9. The stronger the medication, the better it is
Most teens believe in this myth. If a 2.5% topical Benzoyl Peroxide solution is working, then a 10% solution will work even better. The fact of the matter is that if a lower dosage works well, there is no point in increasing the dose as it will only cost more money and have no effect.
10. Acne is hereditary
Some families might have certain skin disorders that increase the risk of their children developing acne. Thus, this 10th and final ‘myth’ might be somewhat true!
Daniel Stevenson is an excellent writer who contributes to Acne24.Net. It is of the most trusted websites and it contains information about acne treatment solutions.
This is very good article telling us about the causes and types of acne. Now I would love to read an article on this blog which tells me about the recovery or preventions to get rid of the acne problems that have been listed above..very informative .Thanks a lot!