Acne Myths & Facts
There is a host of misinformation about acne out there. Friends
and family may offer advice, but their information may be inaccurate.
Learn the truths about the skin you're in.
Myth: Acne is a result of poor hygiene
Fact: As a result of this myth, people tend to
overwash their skin, scrubbing hard with abrasive cleansers. Acne
is not caused by dirt or surface oil. Cleaning skin too often may
aggravate acne and can cause flare-ups. Hand wash skin twice a day
with a mild soap, pat dry, and use appropriate acne treatment.
Myth: Poor diet affects acne
Fact: Scientific studies have found no correlation
between diet and acne breakouts. In other words, eating pizza, chocolate,
or potato chips will not result in a breakout in the morning. However,
if you find that certain foods affect your skin negatively—which
may turn out to be a food allergy—avoid them.
Myth: You have to let acne run its course
Fact: Acne is a treatable condition. There is no
need to wait for skin to clear up on its own. The longer you wait,
the more likely your chances are of permanent scarring. If the treatment
you're trying isn't working, it may be time to see a dermatologist.
Myth: Stress causes acne
Fact: Overactive oil glands—stimulated by the hormone
androgen—mixing with dead skin cells, cause acne. This is particularly
true during the teenage years when androgen production is at its
highest.
Myth: Acne is just a cosmetic disease
Fact: While acne is a physical condition and poses
no serious threats to a person's physical health, it can affect
a person's self-image.
Myth: Everyone outgrows acne
Fact: While acne is most prevalent in teenagers,
due to androgen production during puberty, it is a condition that
also affects men and women into adulthood. Some do outgrow acne.
When hormone production regulates, skin clears up. But for others,
acne is a lifelong battle. Don't wait for acne to disappear on its
own. Treat it!
Myth: Sensitive skin should be cleaned frequently
Fact: Sensitive skin should be handled with care.
Do not wash your face with abrasive soaps or cloths, wear tight
fitting clothing or equipment, or touch your acne.
Myth: Teens are the only ones affected by acne
Fact: Acne affects adults as well as teens. Androgen
production is highest in the teenage years but is continuously produced
in the body. The circumstances around adult acne are slightly different
from that of teens, particularly for women. Women between 18 and
40 may have breakouts that occur most frequently when they are premenstrual.
Myth: Acne affects teenage males and females at
the same rate
Fact: Acne affects teenage boys at a higher rate
than girls because of the production of the male hormone androgen.
However, these figures even out in adulthood.
Myth: Suntanning reduces acne
Fact: While a tan may make blemishes and scars
less apparent, many acne treatments make skin sensitive to ultraviolet
(UV) rays. In addition, suntans cause the skin to increase sebum
production to heal damaged skin, causing more acne.
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