Myths and Facts About Acne

The Facts Behind Common Acne Myths

You might think an embarrassing acne breakout is just part of life and that it has to run its course. Fact is, acne is almost always treatable. It helps to know more than what acne looks like. You need to understand what causes it and how to prevent breakouts. Let’s start by separating acne facts from fiction.

Myth: Acne Means You Don't Wash Your Face Enough

You do not have acne because your skin is dirty or you don’t wash enough. The culprit behind acne is an oily substance known as sebum. Your skin naturally produces sebum to keep it from getting too dry. Acne develops when too much sebum is produced or its chemical makeup changes. Your genes, changes in hormone levels, and certain medicines are among the factors that can affect sebum production. 

Fact: Greasy Foods Do Not Cause Acne

Many people believe eating chocolate, pizza, or greasy fries triggers acne breakouts. Really, there’s no scientific evidence to support this claim. There are many health benefits to eating a well-balanced diet low in oily or fatty foods. However, experts say that acne prevention is not one of them. 

Myth: Scrubbing Your Skin Helps Get Rid of Acne

It may seem like a good idea to scrub and exfoliate your skin. However, scrubbing can do more harm than good. Trying to scrub away skin oils doesn’t help. That's because acne forms below the skin's surface. But, scrubbing can irritate your skin and trigger a breakout. Instead, clean your skin gently with a mild cleanser two times a day and after exercising. 

Fact: Stress Can Make Acne Worse

Stress does not actually cause acne. Stress can, however, cause your body to make more hormones called androgens. And, changing hormone levels can lead to acne or make acne worse. It's important to understand that facing constant stress can have a negative effect on your skin and aggravate existing breakouts. 

Myth: Only Teenagers Get Acne

Acne usually starts during the teenage years. Still, adults can get acne. In fact, some people don't develop acne until they are in their 50s. There are various reasons why adults may get acne. Changes in hormone levels that occur during pregnancy or menopause may be to blame. Certain medication, greasy makeup, and some skin care and hair products also can trigger acne breakouts in adults.

Fact: Getting a Tan Doesn't Help Treat Acne

Tanning may help hide acne scars, but it does not help treat the skin condition. Exposure to the sun, however, will raise your risk of skin cancer. It also can speed up the formation of wrinkles. Also keep in mind that some acne treatments can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. This includes the use of retinoids and antibiotics. To protect your skin, wear an oil-free sunscreen of at least SPF 30 before heading outside.  

Myth: Appling Extra Acne Cream Clears Skin Faster

Use your medication as directed by your doctor. Do not use more acne medicine in hopes of getting clear skin faster. Using too much can backfire. Like any other medicine, acne treatments may cause side effects. These can include skin peeling, itching and burning. Even over-the-counter acne treatments can cause your skin to become dry and irritated if you use more than you should.

Fact: There Is No Quick Fix for Acne

Be patient and give your acne treatment time to work. There is no “quick fix” when it comes to this skin condition. Treating acne often requires a combination of treatments. It also could take 6 to 8 weeks before you see an improvement in your skin. Acne treatments are not cures. Even after your acne clears up, you will probably need to take steps to prevent future breakouts.