6 acne myths that everyone need to know about and how to stop them

Acne isn’t just a skin issue—it can also affect confidence, self-esteem and mental health. Acne (among other acne marks such as pimples, blackheads, and cysts) occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. Hormones, diet, stress and genetics have all been linked as contributing factors.

The commonality of acne has led to a plethora of myths and misconceptions about the condition. So many people believe these myths and as a result they end up with the wrong skincare regimen, overuse products or blame themselves for no good reason. The result? Long-lasting frustration and usually worsening pimples.

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“Acne doesn’t come because of dirt or being unclean as a lot of people still believe,” says Noida- based Dr Anjali Mehra, a dermatologist who focuses on helping treat adolescent and adult skin health in particular. Effective acne management, she says, is all about separating fact from fiction and embracing evidence-based remedies.

Here are 6 of the most popular acne myths

• Myth:

Acne is a Result of being Dirty

Washing your face too much won't help stave off acne, and it may actually make your skin and breakouts worse.

• Solution:

Wash your face gently, twice a day, with a mild cleanser. Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-cleansing.

• Myth:

Greasy Food is the Only Culprit Behind Acne

Eating pizza or fries by themselves won’t cause acne, but diet can have an effect on the health of your skin.

• Solution:

Healthier looking skin can be achieved by maintaining a balanced diet that is high in natural produce and low on refined sugar, and processed foods, however an occasional indulgence will never directly trigger breakouts.

• Myth:

Only Teenagers Get Acne

Although classic acne isn’t widely reported in adults, female cases of adult acne are prevalent, and we include information about them below.

• Solution:

Adult acne often follows a different, more custom treatment course; sometimes it can mean hormonal therapy.

• Myth:

Sun Exposure Clears Acne

A suntan may temporarily cover redness, but the sun can make acne worse and damage skin in the long run.

• Solution:

Apply a non-comedogenic sunscreen to your skin every day for sun protection that won’t clog pores.

• Myth:

Popping a Pimple Makes it Heal Faster

Popping pimples can still cause significant damage, as the action is forcing bacteria into deeper layers of the skin which can result in infections, scars or slow healing.

• Solution:

Let pimples be; treat with spot treatments that contain benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. For more extreme cases of acne, seek the advice and expertise of your dermatologist.

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• Myth:

Acne Will Disappear Over Time

Some cases of PNH resolve spontaneously, but many demand intervention. If left untreated, acne can scar and continue coming back.

• Solution:

Proper skincare (even over-the-counter treatments or prescription ones) can stop long-term damage in its tracks.