MOST COMMON ACNE MYTHS
Acne is the most widespread skin condition in the
world - yet there are still many misconceptions
clouding public awareness about it. These
"myths" are passed down from a friend or
family member... reinforced by advertising... even
published in magazines. For those who suffer from
persistent breakouts, these little seeds of
misinformation can blossom into a bigger skin problem.
Following are some of the most common myths... use this
list to test your knowledge. Because the more you know
about acne, the more you can do to fight it.
Myth - Leave your acne alone" -
Untreated acne can leave permanent physical and
emotional scars. No matter how old you are, it's
important to start treating breakouts early. And the
best way to treat breakouts and blemishes is to prevent
them from appearing in the first place.
Myth - Spot treatment works" -
Since blemishes take 2-3 weeks to develop, you're
treating an old symptom of the problem rather than the
problem itself. The best way to treat acne is to help
stop the blemishes from developing in the first place -
which means treating the whole face or area every day,
even when you aren't breaking out.
Myth - Acne is just a cosmetic condition" -
Yes, acne does affect the way people look - it's
not a serious threat to a person's physical health. But
it can also affect the way you feel about yourself and
the world around you, causing low self-esteem and even
depression. Don't let anyone discourage you from
seeking treatment because your acne is just "a
little problem."
Myth - Acne is caused by Dirt" -
Acne is caused by a number of factors - but dirt
isn't one of them. Blemishes form when dead skin cells
mix with your body's natural oil, forming a plug in
your pores. This has nothing to do with dirt, so
frequent washing of your face or body (more than twice
a day) will not make your acne better. Overwashing or
stripping with alcohol in an effort to "clean" your
skin can actually make blemishes worse.
Myth - Certain foods cause acne -
No, those french fries you had yesterday didn't give
you new zits today. In fact, scientists have been
unable to find ANY substantial connection between diet
and acne. So all the foods you've been afraid of -
pizza, french fries, chocolate - are fine. So use your
common sense, but don't be afraid to indulge every now
and then.
Myth - Acne is for Teenagers" -
Unfortunately, acne can strike at any age. Over
85% of all people 12-24 have acne. Acne can also start
as late as ages 20s or 30s...especially in women, whose
hormones are constantly fluctuating. It's estimated
that one in four adults between the ages of 25 and 44
experiences acne, and nearly half of all adult women
experience mild to moderate acne.
Myth - Sun exposure helps acne" -
Wrong...the "Bronze Age" is over! While
small amounts of sun exposure may initially improve
acne, continuous sunbathing often increases plugging of
the pores - producing comedones (blackheads and
whiteheads) and small pimples. Ultimately, the risks of
sun exposure outweigh its minimal benefits.
Myth - Acne is curable" -
Not yet...but don't lose hope. Acne can be
prevented and controlled with continued daily use of
products, such as Proactiv® Solution,
which contain powerful acne-fighting ingredients. And
remember this: Even if your blemishes go away, your
acne is not cured. It's important to be diligent about
your treatment plan, even after your skin is clear.
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