The 5 Most Popular Myths About Acne

Acne is not only unattractive but it’s also difficult to manage. People have been battling skin issues since the beginning of time, so naturally there are thousands of myths about acne in circulation. Unfortunately, believing some of those myths can make matters worse. Therefore, it’s important to know the facts if you’re going to enjoy a healthy and attractive complexion.

[Link: The Hidden Causes Of Acne]

The 5 Most Popular Myths About Acne

Many people mistakenly believe that they know everything about acne management. However, you may be surprised to learn that some of things you’ve heard are merely folklores developed by desperate individuals. Some of the most common myths about acne are as follows:

MYTH #1: Washing your face frequently can lessen the number of breakouts you have.

TRUTH

It’s true that washing your face often can keep acne at bay; but, washing too much can actually have the opposite effect. In fact, frequent washing may cause extreme dryness, irritation, and even more breakouts. While refraining from washing your face too much may seem counterproductive, it makes a lot of sense once you understand what’s going on.

Your skin naturally creates an oil barrier that protects it from dirt and damage, and that oil barrier is an important part of healthy skin. Therefore, you should only wash your face once or twice per day and it should always be done with a mild soap and warm water.

Never scrub your face either, as this may damage your pores and allow bacteria to spread. Always wash in a circular motion and gently pat your face dry when you’re done. To limit the number of breakouts you experience, follow up with a hypoallergenic, oil-free moisturizer.

MYTH #2: Popping your zits makes them go away.

TRUTH

Popping your pimples is only a temporary fix, but it can have lasting consequences. Although you may not want to let unsightly zits sit on your face, doing so can protect your skin from future breakouts.

The reason is simple: when you squeeze a zit, it pushes the bacteria causing it deeper into your skin. It also shoves dead skin cells and oil into your pores which causes more acne. In addition, it can make your complexion inflamed and red, not to mention it could create permanent scars, dents, and pits. In other words, don’t pop your pimples if you know what’s good for you.

[Link: How To Naturally Fade Acne Scars]

MYTH #3: Makeup makes your complexion even worse.

TRUTH

There is a lot of truth to this myth, but the lines are somewhat blurred. If you use lots of pore-clogging makeup and never wash it off then yes, you will most likely get a breakout or two. However, if you use noncomedogenic makeup, you should be alright.

Furthermore, some makeups contain things like salicylic acid and/or benzoyl peroxide which are specifically designed to cover up breakouts while treating them.

MYTH #4: Things will probably get worse before they get better.

TRUTH

This is only the case sometimes, and it’s usually associated with prescription acne medication. Your dermatologist will likely warn you before the regimen is started. As for over-the-counter medications, worsened acne is a sign that the medicine is not only ineffective but also damaging to your complexion.

Most acne medications contain large amounts of benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid which are used primarily as strong bacteria killers and drying agents. So, using too much medication can dry out your skin and making breakouts even worse.

Ask your doctor about how often you should use medications or how long you should expect to wait before results are rendered. Most of the time, the doctor will tell you that 6-8 weeks is the average wait period and that you should always use a good moisturizer in conjunction with your medication.

MYTH #5: Eating too much junk food will make you break out.

TRUTH

While there is a clearly defined link between your diet and your skin’s condition, it’s probably not what you’ve been told. People with acne usually have oily skin and thus, they’ve believed for a long time that oily and/or greasy foods should be avoided at all costs to keep breakouts at bay. Getting the grease from your food on your skin may have an immediate effect, however, as it’s likely to clog pores and cause acne.

Interestingly, it’s been found that seemingly healthier foods have a greater impact on your complexion. Milk, for instance, is now associated with increased acne. Alternatively, eating a diet rich in fiber can reduce the number of breakouts you experience. Stick with a low glycemic index eating plan for best results (meaning you can still have some of your favorite junk foods and be just fine).