Top 5 Acne Myths about What Causes Acne

Although there is a lack of scientific evidence to support them, there are many myths that people still believe today about what causes acne.

Doctors still are not sure exactly what causes acne, and why some suffer from chronic acne while others are not effected. Perhaps this is why there are still myths about the causes and what the best treatment is. By understanding what is causing your acne, you can treat it effectively and keep this skin condition under control.

Here are the Top 5 myths about what causes acne:

Myth #1: Acne is caused dirty skin.

The bacteria in your skin does contribute to the development of acne, which is why antibiotics can help improve your skin, but this does mean your skin is unclean or you need to wash more often. Actually washing your face too often and using harsh cleansers can dry out your skin and aggravate your acne. You simply need to wash the oil and debris with a gently cleanser that kills the bacteria in your skin to prevent breakouts.

Myth #2: Chocolate and fried foods causes breakout.

Chocolate has long been blamed for causing acne, along with pizza, soda and french fries; yet studies have shown no scientific evidence that this is true. The myth that chocolate and fast food are what causes acne may persist because many teens have acne and these are also favorite foods for teenagers. While no particular food can be blamed for causing acne, some people may find they react to certain foods and can try avoiding them to see if there is an improvement in their acne.

You acne is not likely to simply dissapear by following a healthy diet, it is important to eat foods that contain the nutrients your skin needs to be healthy. Many have found improvement in their skin when avoiding foods with hormones and antiobitics such as dairy and meat, or by switching to organic.

Myth #3: When you outgrow your teen years, your skin will clear up.

While it’s true that most people with acne find it improves with age and may clear up completely by their early 20s, there are many others that do not outgrow their acne. It is a myth that simply being a teeanager is what causes acne and that it will just clear up in time. It’s important to treat acne in your teens to prevent permanent scars that can be difficult or impossible to remove later. Today there are many acne treatments available both over-the-counter and stronger medicines from a dermatologist, and there is no reason to simply wait out your acne.

Others unfortunately find their acne worsens or shows up for the first time in their 20s. This adult acne can be difficult to treat, and when severe, needs an aggressive approach. You will not outgrow adult or chronic acne. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed successfully.

Myth #4: Acne is caused by using makeup.

The first cosmetics were oil based and could definitely make acne worse, but today there are many makeup products that are created for acne prone skin. As long as you use make up that is oil-free and does not contain any other ingredients that can clog pores you can use makeup to help improve the appearance of your skin. Hiding blemishes and the redness of active acne can go a long ways towards improving your self-esteem as you work to control your acne. Be sure to read the labels and look for the term “noncomedogenic” which means the product does not cause comedones or acne from clogged pores. Another term you may see is “nonacnegenic” which is also safe for acne prone skin. Today there are even some makeup brands which include acne fighting ingredients that actually improve your skin!

Myth #5: Popping pimples will clear them up faster.

Attempting to pop cysts can spread the infection deep within the skin which can lead to severe scars. Although it is difficult not to pop pimples, its best to speed up the healing by treating them with acne medications. For severe cysts and nodules, its best to be treated by a doctor who can remove them safely.

By understanding the true causes of your acne, you can take appropriate measures to treat your skin and keep it under control.

Looking for some anwers to Stubborn Acne? Visit Joy Byers’ skin care website Healthy Skin Resources and finally discover some Real Solutions for Acne.


Unfortunately there are still a lot of myths around, what causes acne and subsequently, how to get rid of acne. However, if you want to be able to cure acne for good, you need to understand exactly what causes your acne. Find all the information you need about the most common skin disease explained in an easy understandable way in Acne Uncovered - The REAL Truth About Acne!

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