Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, but it can be confusing to understand what is true and what is false when it comes to acne. In this blog post, we will be exploring the myths and facts about acne to help you better understand this condition. We will discuss some of the most common myths about acne, the latest research findings, and what you can do to prevent and treat acne. Acne myths persist because they are often perpetuated by word of mouth, from family and friends. Additionally, these myths can be perpetuated by misinformation that is spread through social media, internet forums, and other sources. People may also mistakenly believe these myths because of a lack of access to accurate information about skincare and acne treatments. By the end of this post, you will have a better understanding of the truths and misconceptions about acne.
Acne Myths Debunked
Everyone knows what the blotches, blackheads, and pimples of acne look like, but there are many myths and misconceptions about this condition. Lots of people have lots of different ideas about what causes acne and how to get rid of it. Generally, when we think of acne we think of acne vulgaris. Vulgaris in Latin means “common”. It is a disorder of the hair follicles and their attached oil glands in the skin, and its symptoms can vary from just a few pimples to many deep cysts. Acne isn’t caused by inadequate hygiene or poor diet (too much chocolate, fried foods, and sugar), although these factors can make acne worse. Use of contraceptives and corticosteroids, including anabolic steroids, also can contribute to, but do not cause, acne. These are simply myths, or things that are untrue. There is only one cause of acne: Too much oil being produced by the oil glands in the skin. Remember, pimples form beneath the surface of the skin, so no amount of surface scrubbing can prevent them entirely. Here are some myths and facts about acne.
Common Misconception and Truth
- Diet: You may have heard that eating certain foods, such as pizza and chocolate, will cause breakouts. Many of the traditional food links to acne are considered myths by health professionals. Greasy or fried foods, such as French fries or pizza, do not cause breakouts. Chocolate, nuts, and soda don’t give you pimples either. Scientists have found no connection between these foods and acne. You have likely heard the recommendation to stop eating fried foods or chocolate in order to prevent a breakout. There is no proof that any foods cause acne. However, some people may find that certain foods can make their acne worse. If so, avoid those foods that cause problems.
- Hygiene: Another myth is that poor hygiene causes acne. That belief can drive people to scrub their face repeatedly, which only further irritates the skin. As someone who suffers from acne, you may have been accused of being a dirty person. Acne is not caused by poor hygiene. Dirt and oil on the surface of your skin are not the causes of breakouts. Acne forms deep under your skin, where soap and a washcloth can’t reach. In fact, if you scrub your face, it can actually make your acne worse. Scrubbing or over washing your face can irritate the skin. This irritation can lead to breakouts.
- Stress: Many people claim that when they’re stressed out, they develop pimples. However, the regular stress of day-to-day living does not cause acne. There are certain medicines used to treat stress or depression that may make acne worse. If you are taking one of these medicines, check with your doctor if you notice that your breakouts are becoming more severe.
- Dabbing toothpaste on a spot: No. It is perhaps not surprising that you have heard this, as many people get so desperate that they will try anything. Asking people what they have tried produces some interesting answers. Household disinfectants even when diluted, they can still cause serious chemical burns. Cleaning powders, dish-washing detergents and industrial degreasing chemicals, do not work for acne and might cause damage to your skin. Sticky tape left on the skin overnight and pulled off in the morning. Although this will remove dead skin cells and excess oil, it does not remove comedones and it might even cause more damage to your skin. And you might develop an allergy to the glue.
- To Squeeze or Not to Squeeze: If you absolutely, positively must squeeze your blemishes, here’s the dermatologist-approved method – and it’s only valid for whiteheads. Clean the area well. Light a match and hold the tip of a needle in the flame for three seconds. Then gently nick the surface of the pimple. Use a cotton swab to drain it, then clean it with hydrogen peroxide, if you wish. But don’t squeeze or pick -you’ll make it worse. To “squeeze” a blackhead, use a blackhead extractor, available in drugstores. Soften the blemish with a hot-water compress for 10 minutes before you use it, and wash your hands beforehand to reduce the chances of infection. Never ever try using tweezers, needles, pins, Stanley knife, nail scissors or sandpaper to clear up your acne.
Surprising Facts
A key hormone during male adolescence is testosterone. More important, there is greater activity of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase in the skin, which converts testosterone to a metabolite known as DHT (dihydrotestosterone). These hormones, as well as the delicate balance of estrogen and progesterone, along with stress hormones, play a role in female adolescent, as well as in adult female and male acne.
Acne Myths vs Facts
Myth: Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
Fact: Acne is caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics, diet, and stress. Poor hygiene can sometimes aggravate existing acne, but it is not the cause.
Myth: Acne is caused by eating greasy foods.
Fact: Acne is not caused by eating greasy foods. Acne is caused by an overproduction of oil in the skin, which can be caused by a variety of factors including hormones, genetics, stress, and certain medications.
Myth: Acne is caused when tiny holes in the skin.
Fact: Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including excess oil production, bacteria, and clogged hair follicles.
Myths: Acne will always get better on its own.
Fact: While mild acne may improve on its own, it is important to seek treatment for more severe forms of acne in order to prevent long-term scarring and damage to the skin. Over-the-counter medications and topical treatments can help to reduce inflammation and treat acne, and more severe cases may require prescription medications or other medical treatments.
Myth: Washing your skin frequently with clear acne-fighting products can help prevent acne.
Fact: Washing your skin too frequently and with harsh acne-fighting products can actually make acne worse by irritating and drying out your skin. It is important to wash your skin daily with a gentle cleanser and warm water, but over-washing will not prevent acne.
Myth: To pick or not pick.
Fact: It is not recommended to pop acne. Popping acne can cause scarring or infection. It is best to speak to a dermatologist about the best way to treat your acne. Popping acne can cause more harm than good, as it can make the acne worse, increase the risk of infection, and lead to permanent scarring. Additionally, squeezing or picking at blemishes can spread bacteria to other areas of your skin, leading to more breakouts. It’s best to leave acne to a dermatologist or to treat it with over the counter topical medications.
Myth: Sweat and acne are connected.
Fact: Sweat does not cause acne, nor does it make it worse. Acne is caused by hormonal imbalances and blocked pores. Sweat can, however, make acne worse if it is not washed off the skin quickly. Sweat can contain bacteria, dirt and oils which can clog pores and cause breakouts. Therefore, it is important to wash the skin regularly, especially after sweating, to keep the pores clear and reduce the risk of acne.
Myth: Acne is caused by not washing.
Fact: While poor hygiene may contribute to acne, it is not the sole cause. Acne is primarily caused by hormones, which stimulate the production of sebum, an oily substance produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. This excess sebum and dead skin cells can clog the skin’s pores, leading to acne. Other factors such as stress, genetics, specific medications, and certain types of cosmetics can also contribute to the development of acne.
Myth: Acne is not just a problem for teenagers.
Fact: Acne can affect people of any age, including adults. Acne can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or race.
Myth: Popping pimples will make them go away faster.
Fact: Popping pimples can actually make them worse and increase the risk of scarring. It is best to let pimples run their course rather than attempting to pop them.
Myth: Acne is not related to diet.
Fact: Acne is not directly related to diet, but certain foods can worsen acne. Foods that are high in sugar and dairy can cause acne to flare up or worsen.
Myth: Chocolate and dairy could cause acne.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to prove that chocolate and dairy can cause acne. However, it is possible for certain individuals to be sensitive to certain types of dairy, such as cow’s milk, which can lead to an increased risk of developing acne. Eating too much chocolate or any other sugary food can also lead to an increase in inflammation and hormone imbalances, which could in turn contribute to acne. Therefore, it is important to keep a balanced diet and limit the amount of sugary foods and dairy products consumed.
Myth: Tanning helps to reduces acne.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that tanning helps to improve acne, and in fact, it may even make acne worse. Tanning can increase inflammation in the skin, which can make acne worse. Additionally, UV radiation from tanning beds can damage the skin, which can lead to further skin irritation and breakouts. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid tanning if you have active acne.
Myth: Acne results from a person’s inability to properly take care of themselves.
Fact: Acne is caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics, and bacteria. Proper hygiene, diet, and lifestyle can help reduce acne, but they are not the root cause.
Myth: Acne is caused by eating chips and chocolate.
Fact: Acne is not caused by eating chips and chocolate. While these foods may contribute to acne in some people, diet alone is not the primary cause of acne. Acne is a multifactorial condition, meaning it is caused by a combination of factors including hormones, genetics, stress, and skin care habits.
Myth: Wearing makeup causes acne.
Fact: Wearing makeup does not cause acne, but certain types of makeup may clog pores and cause breakouts. Makeup can irritate acne-prone skin. Heavy makeup can clog pores, leading to further breakouts. Products that contain non-comedogenic ingredients and are labeled as oil-free and non-acnegenic are best for those with acne-prone skin. It is important to choose makeup labeled “non-comedogenic” to reduce the risk of clogged pores. Additionally, makeup should be removed every night before going to bed to avoid further irritation.
Myth: Cell phone worsens acne.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence to suggest that using a cell phone causes or worsens acne. While it may be true that the oils and bacteria on your hands and face may be transferred to your phone, there is no proof that this transfer results in any kind of skin problem. In fact, acne is caused by a combination of factors, including hormones, genetics, and diet.
Myth: No treatment that really works with acne.
Fact: There is no single treatment that works for everyone with acne. Treatment options vary based on the severity of the acne, and can include topical treatments, medications, laser treatments, and lifestyle changes. Topical treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids are often used to reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and reduce oil production. Oral medications such as antibiotics, hormonal agents, and isotretinoin may be prescribed depending on the severity of the acne. Laser treatments such as blue light therapy, fractional laser therapy, and chemical peels can help reduce the appearance of acne scars. Finally, lifestyle changes such as reducing stress, avoiding certain foods, and getting adequate sleep can help improve the skin’s overall health and reduce the severity of acne.
Myth: Keep your hair away from your skin.
Fact: The common myth that hair and acne are related is false. Hair and acne are unrelated, and the health of one does not necessarily impact the other. Although hormones may play a role in both conditions, hair and acne are not linked.
Myth: Do not eat or drink anything that contains dairy.
Fact: Focus on eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, as well as other foods that are high in fiber and low in sugar. Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, as this helps to flush out toxins. Wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, and apply a moisturizer with SPF to protect your skin from the sun.
Myth: You can catch acne from someone else.
Fact: Acne is not contagious, so you cannot “catch” it from someone else. Acne is caused by a combination of factors, including hormones, certain medications, stress, and genetics.
Myth: Acne scars are hard to treat.
Fact: Many people find that it takes time and a combination of treatments to get their acne under control. The difficulty of healing acne scars depends on the severity of the scarring. Mild scarring can sometimes disappear over time, while more severe scarring may require medical treatment such as laser therapy, dermabrasion, chemical peels, and fillers. Additionally, there are a variety of home remedies that may help reduce the appearance of acne scars, such as applying aloe vera gel, tea tree oil, honey, and lemon juice.
Myth: Strong cleansers and constant scrubbing are helpful.
Fact: Harsh cleansers or abrasive scrubbing can damage the surface of your skin and strip away natural oils, leading to irritation, dryness, and even skin damage. Gentle cleansers and lukewarm water are best.
Myth: Acne is just genetic.
Fact: Acne is not thought to be caused by genetics alone, however there is some evidence that certain genetic factors may influence the development of acne. This includes the presence of particular genes that may influence the production of hormones, oil production, and skin inflammation.
Myth: Toothpaste heals acne spots. OR You can dry up acne blemish with a toothpaste.
Fact: Toothpaste can temporarily reduce the size of a pimple and reduce the redness, but it cannot get rid of the pimple or dry it up. Toothpaste is not an effective treatment for acne spots. The best treatments for acne are topical medications, such as benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and retinoids. If over-the-counter treatments are not enough, a dermatologist can prescribe stronger medications.
Myth: Drinking alcohol doesn’t cause acne.
Fact: Although there is no scientific evidence that proves drinking alcohol causes acne, drinking alcohol can contribute to skin inflammation, an underlying factor in acne.
Myth: Boys do not care about their appearance.
Fact: Boys can be just as self-conscious about their acne and appearance as girls. While boys may not talk about it as much, they can be just as affected by their acne and appearance as girls.
Myth: Acne is just a stage that people go through during adolescence.
Fact: Acne is a skin condition that can occur at any age and is caused by a variety of factors, including hormones, genetics and lifestyle.