Although there is a lack of scientific evidence to support them, there are many myths that people still believe today about what causes acne.
While doctors are still not exactly sure what causes stubborn acne in some while others are not affected, there are many persistent myths about acne. Understanding what is causing your acne will allow you to take the appropriate measures to treat your acne and keep it under control.
Here are the Top 5 myths about what causes acne:
Myth #1: Poor hygiene or dirty skin causes acne.
The bacteria in your skin does contribute to the development of acne, which is why antibiotics can help improve your skin, but this does mean your skin is unclean or you need to wash more often. Actually washing your face too often and using harsh cleansers can dry out your skin and aggravate your acne. You simply need to wash the oil and debris with a gently cleanser that kills the bacteria in your skin to prevent breakouts.
Myth #2: Chocolate and fried foods causes breakout.
Chocolate has long been blamed for causing acne, along with pizza, soda and french fries; yet studies have shown no scientific evidence that this is true. The myth that chocolate and fast food are what causes acne may persist because many teens have acne and these are also favorite foods for teenagers. While no particular food can be blamed for causing acne, some people may find they react to certain foods and can try avoiding them to see if there is an improvement in their acne.
Even though a healthy diet is not likely going to cure your acne, it is important to eat healthy foods which have the nutrients that skin needs to be healthy. Some people have found their skin improved when they avoided dairy products and meat that contain hormones or by switching to organic foods.
Myth #3: You will outgrow your pimples when you pass adolescence.
While it’s true that most people with acne find it improves with age and may clear up completely by their early 20s, there are many others that do not outgrow their acne. It is a myth that simply being a teeanager is what causes acne and that it will just clear up in time. It’s important to treat acne in your teens to prevent permanent scars that can be difficult or impossible to remove later. Today there are many acne treatments available both over-the-counter and stronger medicines from a dermatologist, and there is no reason to simply wait out your acne.
Some unfortunate people find their skin gets worse or acne begins to develop in their twenties even if they had clear skin in their teens. When it shows up in adulthood it can be difficult to treat. Adult acne cannot be cured but it can be managed with continual use of topical or other medications.
Myth #4: Makeup causes pimples.
While some makeup is not recommended for acne, today there are many lines of oil-free products that can be used. Look at the label for the term “noncomedogenic” which means the product does not cause comedones or acne from clogged pores. Another term you may see is “nonacnegenic” which is also safe for acne prone skin. You will also find water-based makeup with added ingredients that actually prevent breakouts. It’s important to use the right kind of cosmetics, but using some makeup can help improve your confidence and self-esteem while you treat this unpleasant skin condition.
Myth #5: Popping pimples is the best way to get rid of them.
While its tempting to pop pimples in an attempt to get rid of them quickly, it can actually worsen acne by spreading the bacteria that is causing it. Popping acne cysts can cause the infection to spread in the deeper layers of the skin, damaging the skin which leads to scarring. In cases of severe acne, this scarring can be permanent. Acne cysts or painful nodules should be treated by a dermatologist who knows how to treat them safely.
By eliminating the common myths and learning what really is causing your acne, allows you to prevent future breakouts by treating your skin appropriately.
Are you tired of Stubborn Acne that won’t go away? Visit Joy Byers’ skin care website Healthy Skin Resources and finally learn what really causes acne and discover some Real Solutions for Acne.
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Tags: acne myths, Clear Skin, makeup for acne, Pimples, Skin Care, What Causes Acne