Myths and Truths About Acne
Acne plagues thousands of people, especially so for those going through puberty. However, adults between the ages of 20 to 40 can also suffer from acne, and there are many treatments, both true and untrue, which will be stated further in the article.
Acne is a skin condition that affects the skin’s oil glands and hair follicles. These glands produce an oily substance called sebum. Sometimes, the hair, sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria clump together, forming a pimple. Acne can usually be found on the face, neck and shoulders, leaving pitted scars in their wake. Since there is a lot of misinformation about acne, here are some of the most popular acne myths out there.
Acne Myths
- Acne is caused by diet
There is no evidence that would lead researchers to conclude that acne is related to any food consumption. However, if you do have allergies to certain foods, eating them may cause breakouts. But if you have a good acne treatment solution, there is no need to worry about what you eat.
- Acne will go away by itself
Unlike a common cold that goes away after a few days, acne will most likely worsen if it is not dealt with properly. The pores can clog up and result to skin trauma. This can cause facial scarring and visible hardening of the dead skin tissue. Take the time to research on the products you use, and if they do not work, seek help from a dermatologist.
- Acne is caused by stress
Stress in any form or severity does cause acne. However, medication given to treat high levels of stress have been known to have sides effects of causing acne. If your stress medication is causing your acne, talk to your doctor about switching medication.
- Excessive washing can eliminate acne
Excessively washing areas with acne can worsen the situation. Frequent washing can strip the face of its natural oils. Without these oils, the skin will get too dry and start peeling. The dead skin can easily build up, clogging up the pores. Washing acne prone areas twice daily with a gentle oil-free cleanser and applying topical acne treatments is sufficient.
- Squeezing pimples clears the skin
Some believe that squeezing pimples, then washing them immediately clears the skin, which is not true. Squeezing pimples can push bacteria and pus deeper into the skin, resulting in further inflammation and can leave you with permanent pits or acne scars.
- Vitamin A will not cure acne
Many believe that Vitamin A can help treat acne. However, it has no effects on acne at all. Taking too much vitamin A when consumed in large amounts can cause Hypervitaminosis A that can alter bone metabolism and metabolism of other fat-soluble vitamins whichcan be detrimental to your health.
Acne Truths
- Genes can play a big part
Acne is strongly genetic, and studies have shown that having a first degree relative with acne increases your risk of getting it by four times. The ‘acne genes’ can have great influence on how sensitive your skin is to hormones or the strength of inflammatory response to bacteria such as P. Acnes.
- Shift in hormone levels
Any changes that occur in your hormone levels can cause acne breakouts. Androgen and testosterone are the hormones that are ultimately responsible for producing sebum in the sebaceous glands. Acne is common among females during their monthly menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.
- Medications can cause acne
Medications such as Cortisone, anti-tuberculosis, antiepileptic or any other medication containing bromides or iodides as these drugs are known to have side effects that cause acne.
If you desperately need help to eliminate your acne and acne scars, don’t settle for the conventional treatments, as everyone’s skin condition is different, some treatments might not work for you, or may even worsen your condition.
The best way to minimize the chance of getting acne is to wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser twice a day and use a non-comedogenic moisturizer, which does not clog up your pores.
These are some of the most common acne myths and facts. If you need more information that this article did not provide, you could further your research by looking at more articles or seek help from your dermatologist.