Are you struggling with acne? Are you wondering how you to go about it the right way? Then you need to learn about the truths and myths about acne to manage it properly.
What is acne? It is a skin condition that happens when oil and dead skin cells plug into your hair follicles. As a result, it causes pimples and different kinds of spots usually on the face.
Moreover, acne comes in different types. Aside from pimples, acne can manifest as blackheads, whiteheads, nodules, and cysts. An acne breakout can cause discomfort – it can even leave a psychological impact and affect your self-esteem.
The question now is how do you effectively manage it? What are the myths that you need to stop believing to address the matter more effectively? Continue reading below for the answers.
Myth 1: Acne Is Only for Teens
One of the most common myths about acne is that it only happens to teenagers. This is likely because 85% of teens develop acne.
Why is this so? It is because some of the triggers of acne are on overdrive during puberty. During the teenage years, the levels of the hormone ‘androgen’ go up.
When this happens, the oil glands under your skin also grow. As the glands become large, they produce more sebum. This is the oily liquid that carries your dead skin cells through the hair follicles.
Since the production of sebum is on overdrive, they break down the walls in your pores. Hence, bacteria will start to grow and develop into acne.
What then is the truth? Even adults well into their 20s and 30s can still develop acne. Their number may not be as high as the teens battling the breakouts, but acne can happen even as an adult.
Myth 2: Ready, Set, Pop!
Another myth that can lead to unwanted effects is that it is ok to pop your pimples. People with acne are itching to reduce the pimples they see as they look in the mirror. They feel the urge to pop a few of them, thinking that it will dry up and eliminate the pimples.
Popping your pimples in the hope that they will reduce your acne cannot be any farther from the truth. When you squeeze and pop a pimple, you risk driving the bacteria deeper into the pore. In some cases, you may even spread the bacteria to nearby pores.
When this happens, you can expect more breakouts to follow. Also, another risk that comes with popping your pimples is scarring. Popping your pimples increases the chances of skin damage, leaving scars on your face.
What then can you do instead of popping away your acne? The best thing you can do is to remain patient. Leave your pimples alone and let them take their course until they go away.
If you cannot stand the inflammation, take a piece of ice cube and wrap it around a clean cloth. Apply the ice cube over your inflamed pimples.
Myth 3: You Can Cure Acne
This is one of the most controversial myths about acne. Some people believe that they can cure acne. In reality, you cannot cure acne.
It is a chronic condition that may manifest during your teens until you’re in your 30s. Essentially, it is a condition that continuously takes place on your skin. It can also go away at any point.
Nevertheless, there are many ways to help you manage your acne problem. Firstly, daily cleansing of the face can help keep your acne under control. Aside from cleansing, add exfoliation and hydration to your daily skin regimen.
You may also try some of these products as alternatives.
If you have mild to moderate acne, tea tree oil may help control it. Also, don’t believe the lie that sunlight can help you get rid of acne. Your acne-prone skin and sunlight do not mix.
Sure, you may feel the sunlight drying up your pimples. However, it’s only the mild sunburn that will temporarily cover the breakout. Moreover, the harmful UV rays can damage your skin.
When this happens, your skin will release some free radicals. It will also destroy your cellular DNA and cause premature aging.
Myth 4: Your Dirty Skin Is the Culprit
Your dirty skin is not the reason behind your acne problems. What causes acne then?
It is the bacteria that are already in your skin that cause acne. Even as you read this article, they are already feasting on your excess oil.
However, washing your face is still essential. Washing helps reduce bacteria on your face. It will also remove excess oil that the bacteria target.
Don’t be too excited when washing your face. Doing this too often in a day will only worsen your condition. Too much washing and scrubbing can irritate your skin.
In turn, you will get micro-tears and tiny scratches. These small openings are where skin infection can starts. Thus, wash your face no more than two times a day.
Myth 5: Chocolates and Fries Cause Them
Last but not least is the myth that your favorite chocolates can lead to breakouts. The same thing goes with your yummy French fries. However, the truth is that the grease that you get from these food items does not cause acne.
Starchy foods come with a high glycemic index that can shoot up your sebum production. However, it doesn’t mean that you can binge on these things. They may not cause your breakouts but they sure can add to your weight.
Also, there is no hard evidence that drinking a lot of water can flush away your acne. Sure, hydration benefits not only your skin but also your body in general. However, there is not enough evidence that correlates drinking a lot of water and acne.
Go Beyond Busting Myths About Acne
Now you know the truth behind the myths about acne, you can now manage your breakouts effectively. You can also avoid certain practices that may only complicate your struggles. However, learning how to treat acne is only a small portion of effective skincare.
We invite you to read our other blog posts on health and wellness. Check out our other topics on skincare and maintain the health, glow, and beauty of your skin.