Despite being one of the most common skin conditions among people of all ages, there are a lot of myths surrounding acne. Let’s clear up some of those most common myths, once and for all, but first, let’s learn a little bit more about acne.

What is acne?

• Acne vulgaris (acne) is a common dermatology condition. It is an inflammatory skin disease involving the pilosebaceous unit (hair follicle, arrector pili muscle, and sebaceous gland).
• Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, papules, pustules and even deeper cysts or nodules.
• It is caused by a complex interaction between androgens, increased sebum production, inflammation with subsequent colonization of Cutibactrium Acne (aka Propioni bacterium acne) and abnormal keratinocyte actions within the gland’s epithelial lining.

Who does acne affect?

• Although its major impact is on 85% of the teen population, it can and does continue into adulthood.
• It has been estimated to affect almost:
  85% of those aged 12 to 24
  64% of those aged 20 to 29
  43% of those aged 30 to 39

Acne myths

MYTH: The more often you cleanse your skin, the more quickly you will clear your acne problem.
FACT: If you wash your skin aggressively and frequently, you can worsen your acne condition.

MYTH: Acne is caused by diet.
FACT: Research shows that dermatologists can no longer dismiss the association between acne and diet *

• There is now reasonably compelling evidence that food containing high amounts of refined sugars and carbohydrates may aggravate acne.
• It’s important to consider other factors such as hormones, daily diet, medications, etc.
• The effects of other foods and the cause and maintenance of acne also must be further explored.

MYTH: Tanning clears up the skin.
FACT: Although a tan may temporarily mask acne, it will not eliminate it.

MYTH: Squeezing pimples will help them go away faster.
FACT: By squeezing pimples, you can push bacteria further into the skin, damaging the ostia and causing more swelling and redness. Permanent scarring may also occur.

MYTH: Acne skin is sensitive and should not be exfoliated.
FACT: You must exfoliate your skin. However, do not use abrasive, mechanical exfoliants such as microbeads or granules. Beta Hydroxy Acids (Salicylic Acid) and various Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Mandelic Acid, Lactic Acid) have proven to be very effective to exfoliate and treat acne lesions. Enzymatic exfoliants are also beneficial.

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