Myth #1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene
If you believe this myth and wash your skin hard and frequently, you can actually make your acne worse. Acne is not caused by dirt or surface skin oils. Although excess oils, dead skin, and a day's accumulation of dust on the skin look unsightly, they should not be removed by hard scrubbing. Vigorous washing will actually irritate the skin and make acne worse. The best approach to hygiene and acne: Gently wash your face twice a day with a mild soap, pat dry--and use an appropriate acne treatment for the acne.
Myth #2: Acne is caused by diet
Extensive scientific studies have failed to find a connection between eating specific types of food and the development of acne. Not chocolate. Not french fries. Not pizza.
However, there is some evidence that eating too many carbohydrates (sugars, pastas, bread, sodas) might be related to the development or worsening of acne. It is generally a good idea to limit the consumption of such snacks. (Acne and diet).
Myth #3: Acne is caused by stress
The ordinary stress of day-to-day living is not an important factor in acne. Severe stress that needs medical attention is sometimes treated with drugs that can cause acne as a side effect. If you think you may have acne related to a drug prescribed for stress or depression, consult your physician.
Myth #4: Acne is just a cosmetic disease
Yes, acne affects only one's appearance and is not otherwise a serious threat to a person’s physical health. However, acne and acne scars can affect the way people feel about themselves to the point of disrupting their confidence and self-worth.
Myth #5: You just have to let acne run its course
The truth is, acne can be cleared up. If the over-the-counter acne medications you have tried haven’t worked, consider seeing a dermatologist. With the products available today, there is no reason why someone has to endure acne or get acne scars.
Myth #6: Sun Exposure can make acne go away
Although a suntan can temporarily lessen the appearance of acne lesions, it won’t make them go away. The ultraviolet light can also lead to significant skin irritation among those using some acne medications, and the sun can damage the skin in other ways (wrinkles, skin cancer).
Overall it is best for everyone, even those with acne, to regularly use sunscreen and follow basic sun protection measures.
Source: Vivacare
Last updated : 3/26/2020