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Acne Myths
Over the years, a number of acne myths have been passed down about what causes it and the result has been many incorrect ideas and perceptions. This page covers a few of those perceptions and myths and it will attempt to dispel the misconceptions associated with those acne myths.
1. Acne is a result of poor hygiene
Dirt and grime leads to acne Dirt will not directly lead to acne, but it might be the reason if there is too much dirt or grime on the skin and it gets mixed with the oil secreted.
2. Chocolate and fried fried fatty foods cause pimples
Up until today there is no real evidence to support the idea that, a persons diet has any direct affect on acne.
3. Acne is a teenage condition
While most teenagers deal with acne to some degree, it is by no means limited to them. Most people's acne clears up by the time they reach their 20's, but there are others who continue to have problems in adulthood. Some people even experience it for the first time in their 30's and 40's.
5. Sun is good for acne
Sun exposure is not a good way to deal with acne. It can help to dry out excess oils from the skin so it does have a short-term benefit but the skin gets used to the change quickly and the benefit is lost. Plus, sun can seriously damage the skin and lead to skin cancer, so the risk is greater than the benefit.
6. Acne is caused by stress
This statement is only partly true, stress is not a sole cause for acne, but it does trigger acne and at times when the boil gets aggravated it could be due to high stress. When a person is stressed out, his body increases sebaceous glands functioning which leads to excretion of oil. For a lady who is trying to conceive, she might worry each day about whether she is pregnant or would she ever get pregnant or not. This will add to stress that builds up inside her system and is released in the form of acne.
7. Acne can be cured
Many people view acne as a disease that can be permanently cured. Unfortunately, this isn't the case. Acne can be controlled and prevented through proper skin care, but it cannot be cured.
8. Acne is just a cosmetic disease.
That is true, but acne can adversely affect self esteem and become emotionally traumatic. Acne can cause scars and pitting. In some cases surgery is needed.
Look for our list of eleven other myths about acne
9. Men that suffer of Acne should not shave
This is partially true. If the pimple is red, painful and seems to have pus men should avoid that zone during shaving for a day or two in order to prevent the infection from spreading to other skin areas too. Otherwise, a sharp blade and a quality shaving gel can be used by a man that has Acne.
Acne Facts
1. Popping pimples can lead to more pimples, causing bacteria to get into the skin, which can cause infection and scarring.
2. Medicines that treat epilepsy and different types of depression containing steroids, barbiturates, lithium, or iodides can contribute to the cause of acne.
3. If other family members have/or had acne, it's more likely that you will, too.
4. People of all races and ages can get acne.
5. An acne treatment that works for one person may not work for you.
6. Acne has nothing to do with lack of cleanliness.
7. Oil build-up in the skin can contribute to pimples. Gently wash your face at least twice a day with a mild soap and warm water.
8. Acne vulgaris is more common in males than in females during adolescence.
9. Some birth control pills can help acne by slowing down over-producing oil glands in the skin.
10.Acne is not contagious.
There are many other myths associated with acne and what causes it. It is important to understand what really is causing your acne before you will be able to treat it.
Consult a dermatologist if you are unsure about possible causes and treatments, or if you feel your acne may require medical attention.
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