5 Common Acne Myths You Need To Stop Believing

Acne is one of the most common skin problems around the world. It is basically a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that causes spots and pimples on the face and in some cases on the other parts of the body including shoulders, back, neck, chest, and upper arms. There are different types of acne too. While some can be red and slightly yellow pimples, others can be whiteheads, blackheads, cysts, and nodules. However, just like this skin condition the myth surrounding it is also very common. So, let us focus on debunking a few of these myths: 

Toothpaste Removes Acne

There are who apply toothpaste on their pimples in order to get rid of them. However, as per the sources the fact is toothpaste contains baking soda, essential oils, hydrogen peroxide, menthol, and triclosan, elements that turn the skin dry and in worst cases cause irritation and rash. Especially, if you have sensitive skin, this hack may backfire. Instead of toothpaste, you can opt for benzoyl peroxide-based acne treatment, something that is meant to cure acne.

Acne Is Not For Adults

While acne is most common among teenagers, this doesn’t mean it never affects adults. The only difference is the condition in both the age groups are slightly different. Reportedly, in adults, the condition is of two subtypes. The first one is called persistent acne and the second one, late-onset acne. While the persistent acne continues from the teenage years and fails to clear, the late-onset acne begins after the age of 25. 

Unclean Skin Leads To Acne 

The real reason behind acne lies in your own body. Also, there is no specific reason for the development of acne as it is a multifactorial process. As per the sources, acne is defined as a disorder of the pilosebaceous unit of the skin. This particular unit consists of an oil-producing gland. The activity that takes place in this gland is directly affected by the hormones, therefore under certain circumstances the gland increases in size and produces more oil. 

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Chocolate Makes Acne Worse

While there are lots of reports on the role of chocolate and its effects on acne, a study by Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center in Winston-Salem, North Carolina stated that certain skin conditions such as clogged pores may trigger acne, but food items, including chocolate, doesn’t. “Acne occurs when the skin's pores become clogged with excess oil produced by hair follicles. This allows dirt, bacteria, and dead skin cells to build up in the pores and form the lesions and blemishes of acne. What triggers this isn't clear. Hormonal changes can prompt the overproduction of oil, and heredity can be a factor. But eating chocolate is not. That goes for pizza, potato chips, french fries, and cheeseburgers, too,” said the study. 

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Acne Is Contagious

Acne is not a communicable disease that can spread from person to person. This is one unusual myth that acne is contagious. There is no way one can catch the acne bacteria by touching or coming in someone’s contact who has acne. However, even on a general basis it is best to not share the same towel or soap with anyone.