Acne Myths

There are many acne myths and much of the misinformation surrounding the issue is so commonly known and deeply rooted that it doesn’t even occur to many people to question it.

While there is something to be said for the wisdom and ingenuity of homemade treatments developed with the benefit of experience, some old wives tales will actually do you more harm than good.

Take a look at some of these common acne myths and see if you’ve fallen for any of them.

Myth #1 - Acne Only Affects Teens

This is a common but harmful myth.

Actually many adults are affected by acne; in fact, statistics show that one out of four adults will deal with acne.

The truth is, acne can strike at any age.

Myth #2 - Dirt Causes Acne

Many people think that dirt or poor hygiene cause acne, but it is actually sebum, dead skin cells, and bacteria that really cause acne.

So, washing your body more is not going to prevent or cure acne.

If you believe this myth, and wash your skin hard and frequently, you can actually make your acne worse.

Myth #3 - Foods Can Cause Acne

While many people have been led to believe that food causes acne, this is just another myth.

So far there is not real connection between your diet and acne.

In other words, food does not cause acne. Not chocolate. Not french fries. Not pizza.

Of course a healthy diet can help improve your health, but greasy foods and chocolate are not the ones to blame.

Myth #4 - Sun Exposure Can Help

Some people seem to think that sun exposure will help their acne problem, but the opposite is actually true.

Too much time in the sun irritates the skin and can aggravate acne and can lead to skin damage as well.

Although sun is not the enemy, we get our vitamin D form it, you should limit your sun exposure in the areas afected by acne.

Myth #5 - More Scrubbing Will Get Rid of It

Scrubbing your skin is not the answer, and it can actually make the problem worse.

Too much scrubbing can actually increase the chance of breakouts and it can even lead to infection.

The best bet is to wash very gently with bare hands, no washcloths since they can irritate the skin, and only wash twice a day.

Myth #6 - Stress Triggers Acne

This one may be ever-so-slightly true.

Stress can theoretically set off hormones that encourage acne, but it should be no match for a consistent skincare routine.

Myth #7 - Sex and Masturbation Cause Acne

This works much the same way as stress. It could happen, but not likely.

This myth was likely perpetuated to dissuade hormonal teens from premarital sex.

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