Myth #3: Only Teenagers Get Acne
Many people claim that acne is only found in teens and that adults cannot have acne. False! That’s not true. Acne can be found in people in their 30s and 40s. You can even find acne in people in their 50s! Are you surprised? Here’s why it is that way.
Hormonal disturbances, diet, stress, lifestyle, and many other factors cause acne in adults.
It is found a lot more in women than men. When women begin to approach menopause, estrogen begins to reduce, and testosterone increases. These hormonal changes can lead to acne breakouts!
While teenage acne is found in the cheeks, forehead, and T-Zone, adult acne is mostly found on the chin and jawline.
Adult acne may be less inflammatory than teenage acne and may have more cystic forms.
Truth: Acne can affect adults well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, and diet.
Myth #4: The Sun Clears Up Acne
You may see someone with acne standing in the sunlight and facing the sun. As strange as this sounds, there is a myth that sunlight treats acne.
Not only is this not true, the reverse is the case. Sunlight worsens acne! Here’s how.
Even though exposure to UV rays may dry out acne temporarily, it will have more deadly long-term effects.
When exposed to UV rays, the skin is stimulated to produce more sebum. This increases the odds of pores getting blocked and worsens acne breakouts.
There is also increased inflammation and a higher chance of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation from acne.
Using sunscreen is essential for managing acne. It prevents excessive UV rays and protects against further breakouts and hyperpigmentation.
Truth: UV exposure temporarily dries out pimples but increases oil production, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging.
Myth #5: Natural DIY Remedies Work Better Than Medical Treatments
The internet is laden with a plethora of natural DIY remedies for acne—baking soda, toothpaste, lemon juice, etc. These may even have unverified testimonials attached to them! Many claim that these natural remedies are better than medical treatment.
These unverified natural remedies may be more harmful than you think. They could irritate or burn the skin. They could even worsen your acne.
It is wise to opt only for medically verified ointments and skincare products. These ensure your skin is protected and that you get the desired results!
Truth: While some natural ingredients have minor benefits, they can’t replace clinically proven treatments. DIY remedies may even irritate and worsen acne.
Myth #6: Acne Will Go Away on Its Own Without Treatment
“Just let acne be, and it will disappear on its own. ” As nice as this sounds, this is untrue!
Leaving acne untreated can worsen the inflammation. This can deepen the damage done to the skin and permanently damage it. The results can be really bad. Hence, early treatment is highly recommended!
Truth: Untreated acne can persist for years and lead to permanent scars. Early intervention is key.
Myth #7: Moisturizer Makes Acne Worse
Are moisturizers bad for acne, as many claim? No, they are not! This myth isn’t true.
Hydration is always a welcomed part of skin care.
Note that choosing the right moisturizer (water soluble and non-comedongenic) and applying it properly (not excessive or too little) is essential. Getting these wrong is the only way your acne can worsen!
Truth: Skipping moisturizer can lead to more oil production, making breakouts worse.
Myth #8: You Can Shrink Your Pores
You cannot permanently shrink your pores. However, there are things you can do to reduce its appearance.
These include Microneedling, ViPeel, Stellar M22 IPL, and Laser Genesis. These help refine skin texture and reduce pore visibility.
Myth #9: You Only Need Acne Treatments When You Have Breakouts
Acne treatment must not be restricted solely to when there is a breakout. Preventive skin care is important!
Keeping the pores clear, maintaining the right oil proportions, and removing dead skin cells will prevent breakouts and ensure healthy and smooth skin.
Myth #10: Professional Acne Treatments Are Too Harsh
Professional acne treatments are FDA-approved. These treatments have been duly reviewed and judged safe for the greater percentage of the population.
These treatments are gentle and accommodate your skin type. They do little to harm most skin types.
While some outliers may experience bad results from these treatments, the majority of people will not!
Truth: Modern, non-invasive treatments are designed to be gentle yet effective.
Myth #11: Acne Means You Have Dirty Skin
Some claim that dirty skin will trigger acne breakouts. They recommend washing the skin multiple times and vigorously.
Acne doesn’t have to do with whether your skin is dirty. The primary causes of acne are excessive oils or dryness, hormones, bacteria, genetics, and lifestyle.
Washing too often and scrubbing the skin vigorously will irritate the skin and worsen acne breakouts!
Truth: Acne is not caused by “dirt” but rather by excessively oily or dry skin, hormones, bacteria, and genetics. Overwashing strips the skin’s barrier and makes breakouts worse.
Myth #12: “Diet Has No Impact on Acne”
Diet has an impact on acne and its severity. Some foods are called inflammatory foods. These foods are pro-inflammation and will stimulate inflammation in the body. These will worsen acne and increase the chances of scarring.
Truth: While diet isn’t the sole cause, dairy, high-fructose foods, and processed sugars can trigger breakouts in some people.
What Actually Works? The Best Acne Treatments Backed by Science
With the vast rumours about acne scars, we will need to know what actually works! Here are some proven solutions to acne:
- Appropriate & Balanced Topical Skincare
- Laser Therapy
- Microneedling
- Morpheus8 (RF Microneedling)
- Chemical Peels
It is important to have a consultation with an expert. They will guide you through your choices and ensure you get the best care for your skin!
Conclusion: Stop the Myths, Start Real Solutions
In a world with umpteen rumors and myths about acne and its management, the need for proper information about acne treatment is vital. Focus on receiving medically verified treatment for your acne. Get recommendations from our experts on the best treatment options for you!
Book a consultation with one of our experts today!
- Recap how misinformation can prevent people from getting the right acne treatments.
- Reinforce that professional treatments, not myths, lead to real results.
