'Six Myths You Might Not Know About Acne

There are many myths about acne, which are also called pimples or zits. These myths have grown over the yeas, and are passed on by well-intentioned people who think they are giving good information, but in actual fact, they are incorrect. Let' take a look at some of the most common myths.

One common misconception is that popping pimples gets rid of them. This is wrong. When you pop a pimple the germs and bacteria that cause it go under the skin. This can cause pain, redness, swelling and even infection. Another problem that can develop is scaring which can be permanent.

The second myth is that chocolate and fried foods cause pimples. While eating nutritious foods can help in total health, including acne, and fruits, vegetables, whole grains and moderate amounts of lean meats and dairy products are good for you and may help acne, fried foods and chocolate will have no effect according to most studies. For many years people thought that chocolate, French fries, pizza and other junk foods, especially fried foods caused acne, probably because teenagers ate so much of these foods. There was probably a mental association made also with oily skin and oily fried foods, but there is no rational or medical connection.

Third myth concerning acne is stress. Stress is a part of life, and certainly a part of adolescence. Teenagers who worry about tests or sports events or problems at home will get acne, and those who don't worry will also. We all suffer from stress at one time or another, and feeling stress is a part of growing up. However, it will not make your acne worse.

The fourth myth is that a suntan will get rid of acne. This is also inaccurate. Actually the sun can harm the skin, causing it to become dry, burned, and irritated, and people with suntans are at greater risk of wrinkles and skin cancer in later years. This myth may come from the fact that skin becomes darker when tanned and the redness of acne may not be as easily noticeable on a tanned person. People going out in the sun, especially those with acne should protect their skin with a sunscreen with a listed protection factor on the label of at least SPF 15. If the sunscreen is marked as noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic, this is often the better choice because it means that the sunscreen won't clog pores, which can make acne worse. Wearing a hat and also sunglasses can also help when outside and in need of skin protection. Also, avoid tanning beds. Tanning beds can cause an increased risk of skin cancer, are expensive and are just plain dangerous.

Myth number five is that washing your face will prevent or clear up acne. The truth is that washing your face or any other part of your body is always a good idea. Personal hygiene is a good thing. Washing your face will remove excess oil, dirt and even dead skin cells. Over washing or rough scrubbing however can irritate the skin and dry it out, which worsens acne. Gently washing your face once or twice a day using a mild cleanser is better. After washing, pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Avoid products with alcohol because they dry out the skin and can cause irritation and avoid exfoliates, which can irritate acne. Many years ago people thought that applying alcohol to the skin would dry out pores and kill germs to fight acne, but this is not a wise thing to do.

Myth number six is don't wear makeup. Wearing noncomedogenic or nonacnegenic makeup products in moderation should be no problem. These products will not clog pores. Also, some make up products contain ingredients like Benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, which can help fight acne.

In addition, many people think that using more and more medicine will get acne under control. However, too much acne medicine can irritate skin or dry it out. Whether you are using an over the counter medicine or a prescription medicine, overuse can cause more harm than not using it at all. The best way to cure acne is sensible hygiene, good nutrition and time. Everyone eventually grows out of chronic acne problems. If you believe you have excessive acne, consult a doctor.