You may have heard all sorts of opinion about acne, explaining why you develop acne and what you should do about it. Unfortunately, not all of those opinions have strong bases. There is possibility that the information you receive is just a myth.
These are some myths and facts about acne:
- Stress causes acne.
Some people believe that stress can trigger acne. It may have some bases in reality, but it’s hard to be sure if it’s causative. A study found that not all students with acne have increased breakouts during stressful times. Although there is possibility that stress can affect acne, it also depends on other factors such as hormonal changes. It is only the extreme stress that can stimulate discharge certain hormones. Daily stress may not stimulate acne.
- Acne only appears in teenagers.
That’s not true because everyone can have acne. Surveys have found that significant numbers of adults are still getting acne into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. Most teenagers have acne because of hormonal changes in their teenage years.
- Acne is just a cosmetic problem.
Acne can have lasting consequences in how you feel about yourself — and left untreated, or improperly managed, it can leave permanent scars.
- Chocolate can cause acne.
There is little evidence that certain foods can cause acne. If a reaction does occur, it depends on the individual and other factors including: overall diet, their genetic predisposition to acne and other health factors. However, it is better to eat chocolate in moderation since certain types may contain high sugar and fat. To stay on the safe side, you should eat more fruits and vegetables.
- Acne is caused by dirt.
Acne is not caused by dirt or surface skin oils. The emergence of acne caused by sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria that clog the skin pores. Blackheads are not dirt on the skin, but the color of dead cells that have clogged pores on earlier.
- Frequent washing can reduce acne.
Acne is caused by poor hygiene. If you believe this myth, and wash your skin hard and frequently, you can actually make your acne worse. Washing your face is important to keep the skin clean and healthy. But if you do it too often, it can irritate or dry out your skin. Washing your face more often can also spread the infection further and leave a scar on the skin.
- Don’t wear makeup if you have a breakout.
Some makeup can exacerbate acne, particularly thicker liquid foundations that can clog pores and stage-type pancake makeup. But lighter, looser powder foundations, like mineral powder, aren’t nearly as aggravating to your skin.
- Toothpaste can cure acne.
This is not true. To cure acne, you should use topical like benzoyl peroxide. Salicylic acid is another drug that can be used. Antibiotics can help if you have inflamed pimples. Consult with your doctor before taking any acne medication.
- You just have to wait and let acne go away with time.
Don’t do that because things may get worse. Acne can be cleared up. There are many treatments now available for acne, discuss with the doctor to find the right option for your condition.
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