|
-
Myth #1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
Acne is not caused by dirt or surface oil, and the presence of acne does not mean your face is dirty. Harsh scrubbing and washing will irritate the skin and make breakouts worse. Therefore only gentle cleansing is advised.
-
Myth #2: Acne is caused by poor diet.
Extensive scientific studies have not found a connection between diet and acne. However, contrary to popular belief, eating foods like chocolate and french fries does not cause acne. It’s not what you eat, but what you don’t eat. Eating a variety of foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products, will help encourage skin health from within.
-
Myth #3: Acne is caused by stress.
While everyday stressors are not a primary cause of acne, it can be a trigger which may acerbate a pre-existing condition.
-
Myth #4: Acne is just a "phase" and not
very serious.
Acne has been labeled a normal part of growing up, but many people don't realize the devastating effects that it can have on one's self-esteem and quality of life. There is no reason why a treatable skin condition should be left alone. Although mild cases of acne may be controlled with over-the-counter products, moderate and more severe acne (such as nodular or cystic acne) may need prescription medications that a dermatologist can provide for you.
-
Myth #5: Popping your pimples is the best way to get rid of them.
Some people might tell you that squeezing your pimples will make them less noticeable and help them heal faster, but they're wrong. In fact, your attempts can damage the structures under your skin and cause the pimple to become inflamed or leave a permanent scar.
-
Myth #6: Getting a tan clears up acne.
Although a tan may temporarily mask acne, the sun can make the skin dry and irritated, leading to more breakouts in the future. Many medications used to treat acne can actually make your skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light.
-
Myth #7: You just have to let acne run its course.
Why run the risk of letting acne run its course? There have been great advances in the treatment of acne and with the right treatment, acne can be controlled.
-
Myth #8: Acne can be cured.
Not yet—but don't despair, it can be treated effectively.
-
Myth #9: Only teenagers have acne.
Acne can affect all age groups. Some babies have mild acne and some people don't get acne until after they've reached adulthood. About 25% of all people between the ages 25-44 have active acne. Many adult women have acne due to the constant fluctuation of their hormones during each menstrual cycle. Medications (like birth control pills) and pregnancy can also contribute to adult acne.
-
Myth #10: The more you scrub your face, the fewer breakouts you'll have.
Although washing your face helps to remove dirt and oil from your pores, washing too much can lead to dryness and irritation, causing more breakouts. Also, avoid scrubbing your face, which can irritate the skin. As a general rule, wash your face twice a day with mild soap and water in a circular motion and gently pat dry when you're done.
|
