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A Guide To Acne Myths: Myths Finally Put To The Test

If you or anyone you know has ever had any acne at all, you have probably heard some farfetched myths before. Once a rumor gets started it is hard for the truth to surface- so how does an acne sufferer know what to believe and what they should disregard as nonsense?

Common Acne Myths

Diet is, scientists say, part of a good acne fighting regime. But as myths go, it is said that foods like pizza can cause acne. But in many studies, there just hasn't been any proof. It is long believed that a good diet can help influence acne- but certainly not enough to cause major breakouts in most cases.

Likewise, the consumption of chocolate and fried foods has also been noted to have no proven effect on acne. So what, then, do these myths originate from? In many cases, it might not be what you consume, but the level of grease on your hands. If you handle greasy food and touch your face, the grease may interact with your skin to give more likelihood of a breakout.

More interestingly, few studies have been shown to link dirty skin to acne. There have been some connections made to foliated skin and acne, however, so one should still keep a good exfoliation regime in their daily routine. Of the many studies, some of them conflict with another to the point where it is hard to know what side to take. Results have, however, been seen through daily skin washing regimes.

Myths On Improving Acne

A nice change from the normal scare-tactic myths are the beneficial myths. These myths seek to give teens information in fighting acne, but aren't necessarily true. Among the top three is tanning, prescription drugs, and even ivory soap.

First off we have sun exposure. Sun exposure puts important vitamins into the skin, and also seeks to kill germs on the face. In short term effects, it may seem like sun exposure can indeed help cover up acne or even prevent it. But in the long run, it can help keep blemishes and scars visible for long periods of time- and you also run the risk of skin cancer through vast exposure.

The use of harsh soaps has been associated with improving acne. But harsh soaps can easily irritate skin- and for some skin types, it can make breakouts exponentially worse. In that case, it is best to stay away from ivory soap or other harsh soaps that will do more harm than good.

The fact that prescription drugs are prescribed by doctors doesn't make them work. Prescription drugs don't work for everyone, albeit there are some harsh drugs that can claim vast success rates. These drugs can have frightening side effects, however, and one is usually better off seeing another route to fighting acne.

Final Thoughts on Acne Control

The acne problem many face isn't long term. In many cases, the problem goes away within a few years. If you happen to be one of the individuals who go through this tough period in life, try to keep a good routine going to help keep your skin clear. Be sure to stay away from the aforementioned myths- doing so can mean all the difference in your results in perfect complexion.