Acne: The Ten Most Common Myths You Sholud Know

What we know about acne continues to be replaced by what scientists are learning. Meanwhile, many myths continue to circulate and endure.

Myth # 1: Acne only affects the appearance of acne can also cause profound psychological disorders. Severe acne can lead to low self-esteem and depression. There is a close relationship between severe acne and social withdrawal.

Myth # 2: Acne is caused by poor hygiene
While skin infections are associated with acne, lack of cleanliness is not the reason for acne outbreaks. The combination of oil and dead skin cells that cause acne below the skin surface where it is impossible to clean it immediately. Gentle cleansing with soap and water once or twice a day to keep your skin as healthy as possible. Scrubing too hard may worsen acne.

Myth # 3: Acne is caused by certain foods
Chocolate has long had a reputation as a producer of grain. Studies have shown no scientific evidence that this is true. The same goes for potato chips and sugar. There are some foods that seem to aggravate (not cause) the condition: milk and foods high in iodine, such as seafood.

Myth # 4: Acne has to run its course
There are many acne treatments available both OTC drugs and stronger than a dermatologist.

Myth # 5: The more acne medicine the better
Some people believe that if your acne worse simply use more medicine. That's a bad idea because medicines can be dangerous when taken in large quantities. The excessive use of acne creams can only irritate the skin further.

Myth # 6: Sunbathing is good for acne
Sun exposure dries excess fat, so acne does not improve in the short term. However, long-term skin adapts and the acne is unfazed. Worse, there is no scientific evidence that sun exposure damages the skin and increases the likelihood of skin cancer.

Myth # 7: Makeup causes acne
Some makeup products can clog pores, which is bad for the health of your skin. Cosmetics that are labeled "non comedogenic" or "nonacnegenic" are safe to use. Some brands are made with ingredients that actually treat acne.

Myth # 8: Acne is only a teenage condition
Although most adolescents have acne, so many adults. Acne usually disappears by age 20. However, some people experience acne for the first time as late as 40 years. And for the most unfortunate of all, many people experience acne flare-ups throughout their lives.

Myth # 9: Acne is related to sex
We've probably all heard that either celibacy or too much sex causes pimples. No proof. There is a link between sexual activity and hormone production, but the relationship between sex and the production of sebum (the oily substance which combines with dead skin cells that cause acne) is not known. Stress and anger also affect hormone levels.

Myth # 10: Popping pimples is the best way to get rid of them
The fact is popping pimples can make acne worse by spreading the bacteria that is causing it. Popping can also lead to further scarring, which in severe cases, may be permanent.