Truth About Acne
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions, however, I still find from patients that it is poorly understood in many cases and that many misconceptions persist.
I list the 5 myths I come across most often.
Eating Chocolate & Greasy Foods Causes Acne
Scientific studies thus far have not been able to prove any link between the aggravation of acne and diet. It is an area where a lot of ongoing studies exist. It does, however, appear that certain individuals find that certain food groups aggravate or bring on acne outbreaks. A healthy lifestyle is beneficial in general so it is definitely worthwhile to experiment with dietary changes.
Sun Tanning Or Tanning Beds Will Improve Acne
It is true that the sun may temporarily help to “dry out” pimples. However, in the long run, it actually leads to a higher potential for leaving behind pigmentation and scarring once those lesions heal. With sun exposure there is also the additional risk of causing skin cancer. One of the best skincare products to own is a good non-comedogenic sunscreen.
Dirty Skin Causes Acne
Acne is not caused by dirty skin and is not at all a reflection on your hygiene. Specifically - blackheads are not dirt-filled pores. They have blocked pores filled with a protein called keratin. When this protein comes into contact with air it oxidizes and turns black. Washing or scrubbing acne-prone areas too often may in fact make it worse by leading to irritation. This irritation may cause inflammation and lead to pigmentation and scarring. Cleaning the affected areas twice a day is sufficient.
There Is No Cure, Acne Will Clear Up In Its Own Time
This may be true to some extent. However, the immediate and long-term effects of acne have been well documented. The sooner acne is treated the better the chance for stopping the progression. You also gain long-term benefits by preventing pigmentation and scarring. Most importantly the emotional effects of acne on the general well being of the affected person have been well studied. Acne affects the self-esteem and body image of almost every affected individual. This may lead to poor performance at school or work, anxiety, withdrawal from social interaction and in as much as 10% of cases to overt depression. In treating acne soon these emotional effects of acne are usually avoided Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) may lead to remission of acne in 2/3 of acne sufferers when given at the appropriate dose for an appropriate period of time. A thorough consultation is required with a doctor prior to using this medication. Discuss with your doctor if you think you may benefit from this treatment.
Only Teenagers Get Acne
About 80% of people in their teen years suffer from acne in various degrees. Even though many find that acne may improve after the teen years the prevalence decrease to about 40% the ’20s; 35% in the ’30s; 25% in the ’40s and 15% in the fifties. It is by no means a condition of the teenager. Treatment is adjusted to fit the older skin types.
