Let’s face it, there is a LOT of misleading and downright wrong information out there about acne. Thankfully, scientific research has dispelled a lot of these ‘acne myths’ over the years, but there’s still a lot of misinformation out there. Let’s take a look at six of the most common acne myths that I hear about regularly.
Acne Myth #1: Acne is caused by eating certain foods
Ever heard someone say that eating pizza, chocolate, nuts, or greasy foods would cause you to breakout in acne? This one has been around a long time yet is not supported by scientific proof. Although some people may experience outbreaks when they eat certain foods, this is not common.
Acne Myth #2: Acne is related to dirt or having dirty skin
Although having clean skin has other benefits, dirt does not cause acne. Acne is formed under the surface of the skin and is due to build-ups of sebum and dead skin cells. It’s not dirt that clogs your follicles.
Acne Myth #3: Washing your face all the time will clear up acne
This kind of relates to myth #3. Having clean skin is not the answer to preventing acne. Overdoing it as far as washing your face can actually make matters worse, as tripping your skin of oil could lead to future breakouts.
Acne Myth #4: Only teenagers get acne
It is true that 9 out of 10 teenagers experience acne, but it is also true that about 1 in 4 adults get it also. Acne seems to be connected with hormones which would explain why teenagers have such a high incidence of acne, but adults also go through hormonal changes at various times in their lives.
Acne Myth #5: Stress causes acne
Scientific evidence shows that stress is not that large of a factor in acne. It was believed for many years that stress caused bouts of acne but it simply isn’t so.
Acne Myth # 6: Acne can be cured
Many people view acne as a disease that can be permanently cured. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Acne can be controlled and prevented through proper skin care, but it cannot be cured.
