If you suffer from acne, you know it can knock down your confidence and make you feel self-conscious. The frustration of avoiding acne and trying product after product to find the ultimate acne treatment, an elixir for all your pimple problems can crumble your positivity and empty your pocket. However, zapping zits are a big no, since the more you try it, the redder it becomes, not to mention the pain, leading to the spread of bacteria and scarring. Though the market is practically flooded with skin creams for acne and products promising clear skin and overnight pimple elimination the results are far from it.
Preventing the recurrence of acne is a two-way solution, from the outside and from within the body. If you’re interested in banishing old wives’ tales and finding facts as to what works and what doesn’t, then keep reading. Below are 9 myths debunked for clearer skin:
Myth #1: Only Teens Are Prone to Acne
Whoever believes in this myth is yet to encounter adult acne, yikes it’s a nightmare! According to a survey published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology almost 50% women from the ages of 20 and 29 years old suffer from acne, similarly, 35% women get acne from the ages of 30 to 39 years and 26% women between 40 and 49 years have acne too. Adult acne is more common amongst women than in men. It is vital to note that the levels of estrogen increase when you get your first period and the same is experienced peri-menopause. This hormone increases oil production which ultimately leads to bacterial inflammation and acne.
Myth #2: Makeup Aggravates Acne
Though it’s true, some makeup products clog pores and can lead to breakouts, but it’s not the case for all. Experts suggest powder-based mineral foundation which contains silica, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. Since powder foundation absorbs oil it doesn’t clog pores, on the other hand, if you enjoy liquid foundations, opt for non-comedogenic ones, since these are specifically designed not to promote acne.
Myth #3: Sunblock Clogs Pores
This myth has left numerous people avoiding sunblock. There are two types of sunscreens, those which absorb UV light, which contains oxybenzone and avobenzone and physical sunscreens which reflect UV rays, these are made with titanium dioxide and zinc oxide. It is recommended you avoid chemical sunscreens which irritate the skin, cause breakouts and inflammation. Physical sunscreens are a better option since zinc oxide helps eliminate acne-causing bacteria. Make reading labels a common practice but skipping on sunscreen is not a good idea.
Myth #4: Ban All Chocolate for a Lifetime
This age-old myth may be true to some extent, but it is not entirely true. Basically, any food which has a high glycemic index can shoot blood cortisol levels and aggravate acne. Refined carbs can further increase insulin levels to spike, that leads to sebum production and clogged pores. The bottom line is cocoa itself is not an issue, it’s the amount of sugar it is loaded with that leads to breakouts. You may want to consider choosing a bar of dark chocolate over milk chocolate, with a content of over 70% cocoa since it will contain lower levels of glycemic index.
Myth #5: Stronger Products Work Better
If you are a frequent user of acne treatments, you are no stranger to benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. These are two of the most powerful pimple treatments, benzoyl peroxide eliminates bacteria, while salicylic acid unclogs pores. However, it is essential to ensure you do not go overboard with these products, especially benzoyl peroxide since stronger acne products can irritate the skin and leave it feeling over sensitive.
Myth #6: Soaking Sun is Good for Acne
Unlike what most people think, too much exposure to sunlight is not good for the body in any aspect. Though it is true that sunlight reduces inflammation in the body, and since acne is inflammation, it can reduce its appearance as well. Exposure to the skin over time reduces collagen, the protein that maintains skin’s elasticity and enables it to maintain a youthful look. Sun damage, however, makes it difficult to repair itself, which exposes it to a risk of acne scarring. Additionally, sun exposure is one of the leading causes of skin cancer, so why risk it?
Myth #7: Say No to Moisturizers
Although it may seem that moisturizing on top of oily skin and pores must be counterintuitive, over-washing and dehydrating the skin makes the skin produce even more pore-clogging oil than usual. Applying a lightweight moisturizer or using a dermatologist recommended moisturizer on a daily basis would enable your skin to maintain elasticity and keep it hydrated adequately.
Myth #8: Exfoliate and Wash Your Face More Frequently
Isn’t it evident that the more you wash your face the cleaner and less oiler it will be? Wrong! This is incorrect. You should always wash your face with a gentle cleanser which does not strip it of its natural oils. Furthermore, exfoliating though is very beneficial for the skin, it is not advisable when you have a breakout as harsh beads in the product can lead to popping pimples which can spread bacteria. Using abrasive exfoliators and harsh skin creams for acnecan cause dryness, skin irritation and redness which can deteriorate the condition. Instead try herbal face packs and exfoliators, they are gentle on the skin and do not contain any additional chemicals.
Myth #9: Dirt Clogged in Pores Are Blackheads
Many people believe blackheads are caused due to trapped dirt in the skin. This is false. Skin cell turnover is a natural process which enables oil to push debris out of your pores, keeping them clean. When this doesn’t happen quickly enough, your pores collect oil, protein and skin debris which show up in the form of blackheads. Hence dermatologists all over the world recommend retinoid to help reduce the appearance of blackheads. Vitamin A promotes skin cell turnover which helps keep pores clear.
It is essential for your wellbeing that you accept acne for what it is, a natural skin condition and not consider it a beauty hindrance. Certain anti-acne creams work faster than others, but nothing works instantly. We recommend Herbion Naturals Dermidoc Anti-Acne Cream. Our best pimple cream is rich in antiseptic properties and is safe to use up to 2 to 3 times a day. It leaves the skin refreshed and helps remove pimples and acne scars efficiently for a beautiful clear complexion.
