Acne is one of the most common skin problems affecting people worldwide. Regardless of age and skin type, acne can be challenging and often cause uncertainty. Surrounded by myths and misinformation, it can be difficult to separate the facts from the misconceptions. In this article, we dispel the most common acne myths and provide you with sound information to better understand and care for your skin.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition caused by the clogging of hair follicles with oil and dead skin cells. This often leads to pimples, blackheads and sometimes painful inflammation. Although acne usually occurs on the face, it can also occur on other parts of the body, such as the back, shoulders and chest.
Why are there so many myths about acne?
Almost everyone has an opinion or a supposed “tip”, because acne is so widespread. Many of these myths have been passed down through generations or are based on outdated information. However, modern dermatology has disproved many of these assumptions and now offers solutions based on scientific evidence.
Myth 1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene
It is a widespread belief that acne is directly linked to a lack of hygiene. But the truth is different. Acne is not primarily caused by dirt or uncleanliness. Instead, factors such as hormones, genetics and inflammation play a crucial role in the development of acne.
Truth about skin cleansing and acne
While good skin care is important, excessive washing or aggressive scrubbing can irritate the skin and actually worsen acne by disrupting the skin microbiome and thus the skin barrier. Here are a few tips for skin-friendly cleansing:
- Gentle cleansing: Use mild cleansers in the morning and evening. Avoid products which contain irritating substances, that can dry out the skin.
- Water-based products: Choose water-based skincare products, that won’t clog pores and choose appropriate products, which gently cleanse pores.
- Gentle drying: After cleansing, gently pat your face dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing it.
Excessive hygiene measures can weaken the skin’s protective barrier and even exacerbate the acne problem. It’s about finding a balance, which supports your skin rather than irritating it.
Myth 2: Eating certain foods causes acne
The debate about the influence of diet on acne is extensive and complex. Whilst it is true that certain foods can trigger acne flare-ups in some people, there is no universal “acne-causing” food type, which applies to everyone.
Examination of the scientific evidence
Scientific studies have shown some links between dietary habits and acne, but an incredible amount happens between food intake and the effect of that food on the skin: Our digestive system breaks down the food into its components; some is absorbed into our blood; the liver and kidneys filter and process the components; a large proportion is excreted; a small proportion that has been absorbed into our blood shows up on our skin.
Whether dairy products affect acne is not directly confirmed. However, there may be a link between too much sugar and poor skin condition.
However, a balanced diet remains the be-all and end-all of a healthy system: A diet rich in fresh fruit, vegetables, wholemeal products and healthy fats can contribute to overall skin health and reduce inflammation in the body.
It is important to emphasise that the reaction to food varies from person to person. What triggers acne in one person does not necessarily have the same effect on another person.
Personal observation and adaptation
If you suspect that certain foods are aggravating your acne, it can be helpful to keep a food diary. Make a note of what you eat and how your skin reacts to it. With this information, you can better identify which foods may be problematic for you.
Understanding that diet is only one piece of the acne puzzle helps to avoid unrealistic expectations and frustration.
Myth 3: Only teenagers get acne
A common misconception is that acne is exclusively a problem of the teenage years. However, the truth is that acne can affect people of all ages, from babies to middle-aged adults.
Acne regardless of age
- Adult acne: Many adults experience the first appearance of acne or a continuation of teenage acne into their thirties, forties and beyond. Hormonal changes, such as those that can occur during pregnancy, the menopause or due to medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), play a major role.
- Acne in babies: Also known as neonatal acne, it can occur in babies due to the hormones they receive from their mothers during pregnancy. This form of acne is usually mild and disappears on its own.
- Acne in middle age: Stress, medication, cosmetics and even environmental factors can also be triggers for acne in later life.
Thus, it is a misconception that acne is solely a problem of youth. Rather, it is a disease that is influenced by a variety of internal and external factors and affects people of all ages.
Dealing with acne in adulthood
Dealing with acne in adulthood can be particularly frustrating, especially when you think you’ve left this phase behind. However, a combination of topical treatments, medication and possibly lifestyle changes can be effective. It is often advisable to seek dermatological help in order to receive treatment tailored to individual needs.
Acne is a complex skin problem, which requires treatment tailored to individual circumstances. Recognising that acne does not only affect adolescents is important in order to develop suitable and effective treatment methods.
Myth 4: Make-up makes acne worse
It is a common belief that make-up can make acne worse. Whilst some cosmetic products can actually exacerbate acne problems, this depends hugely on the type of products used and the skincare regime.
Choosing the right cosmetic products
If you use make-up and are prone to acne, here are some important tips to keep in mind:
- Mineral make-up: Many dermatologists recommend mineral make-up as it contains fewer irritants, whilst covering blemishes.
- Remove make-up regularly: It is crucial to remove make-up thoroughly every night before going to bed. Sleeping with make-up on can provoke acne breakouts.
- Replace products regularly: Be sure to note the expiry date.
Make-up doesn’t have to be your enemy when it comes to acne. In fact, with the right choice and application, it can help boost your confidence without exacerbating your skin problems.
Make-up and skin health
It’s also important to regularly check and replace your make-up products to avoid the build-up of bacteria. Cleaning applicators and regularly washing your brushes and sponges can also help minimize skin irritation.
With these tips, you can use make-up safely without aggravating your acne.
Myth 5: Sunbathing helps against acne
It is a common misconception that sunbathing can improve acne. Whilst a slight improvement in the skin condition may seem possible in the short term, long-term sun exposure can actually do more harm than good for acne sufferers.
The role of sun exposure in skin health
- Short-term improvement: Some people notice a temporary improvement in their acne from sunlight, as UV rays have antibacterial properties and can dry the upper layers of the skin. This can cause the skin to appear clearer at first.
- Long-term risks: However, regular and intensive sun exposure can damage the skin and lead to a thickening of the epidermis. This can block the sebaceous glands and ultimately lead to worse acne breakouts. Too much sun also increases the risk of skin ageing and skin cancer.
Sun protection as an essential component of acne therapy
It is crucial to use suitable sun protection even if you have acne. Here are some tips on how to protect your skin:
- Broad spectrum sunscreen: Choose a sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
- Daily protection: Apply sunscreen every day, not just on sunny days. UV rays can also reach your skin on cloudy days and through window glass.
- Regular use: Renew your sunscreen application every two hours, especially when you are outside or sweating.
An SPF of at least 30 is advisable, ideally the SPF should be 50.
Striking the right balance and protecting your skin from the sun is important to effectively manage acne and maintain your skin health in the long term.
Myth 6: Acne disappears by itself
It is a common belief that acne will simply disappear if left untreated. While this may be true to some extent for mild forms of acne in adolescence, moderate to severe cases of acne often require targeted treatment to avoid long-term skin damage and scarring.
Importance of the treatment
- Early treatment: Early intervention can help to control acne and minimize the risk of scarring. Dermatologists offer a range of treatments tailored to the severity and type of acne.
- Various treatment options: There are many treatment options, including topical creams, antibiotics, hormone therapies and, in more severe cases, isotretinoin-containing medications. Each treatment has its own advantages and disadvantages and should be discussed with a dermatologist.
Long-term consequences of untreated acne
- Scarring: Acne, especially if severe and persistent, can lead to permanent scars. These scars can be both physically and psychologically distressing.
- Emotional impact: Acne can have significant emotional and psychosocial effects, including decreased self-esteem and social withdrawal.
It is therefore important not to simply ignore acne in the hope that it will disappear on its own. Appropriate treatment can not only improve the appearance of the skin, but also reduce long-term psychological stress.
Other common myths and misinformation
There are a few more common myths that are worth addressing:
- Quick fixes and “miracle cures”: Many products on the market promise quick and easy solutions for acne. However, it is important to understand that acne treatment takes time and needs to be personalized.
- Stress and acne: Stress is often cited as a cause of acne. Although stress alone does not cause acne, it can exacerbate existing acne by influencing inflammatory responses in the body.
Summary
In this article, we have debunked some of the most common myths surrounding acne and backed them up with scientific facts. We have seen that hygiene plays a role, that certain foods do not necessarily cause acne and that acne is not exclusively a problem for teenagers. The assumption that make-up generally makes acne worse and that sunbathing helps against acne are also myths, which do not stand up to critical scrutiny. In addition, the idea that acne simply disappears by itself is often misleading and can lead to unnecessary scars and psychological distress.
Treatment for acne should be individualized and may include a combination of medical products, lifestyle changes and medical advice where appropriate. It is important to critically challenge myths and rely on sound medical advice to promote and maintain long-term skin health.
Frequently asked questions
No, acne is mainly influenced by hormones and genetic factors, not by poor hygiene.
Not necessarily. High-quality cosmetic products can be used safely as long as they are removed thoroughly in the evening.
People of all ages can get acne, not just teenagers. Adult acne is common and can have various causes.
While short-term improvements are possible, too much sunlight can be harmful in the long term and make acne worse.
While mild acne can sometimes improve without treatment, moderate to severe cases often require professional treatment to avoid scarring and other complications.
American Academy of Dermatology, Can the right diet get rid of acne?
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