Discover the Truth About Acne
Face the clear facts behind acne
Sure, breakouts can begin in your teens, but it’s not a phase you necessarily outgrow. That’s just one of the many myths about acne—here’s your chance to separate fact from fiction.
Click the plus signs to reveal the facts about acne!
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Fiction: Acne is just a cosmetic condition.
Fact: Acne is a medical condition that can benefit from professional treatment, but even mild acne can have an emotional, as well as a physical, impact.
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Fiction: People get acne because they don’t wash their face.
Fact: While proper cleansing is important, acne isn’t caused by dirt or surface skin oils. Acne begins below the skin’s surface when hair follicles become plugged with sebum (hormone-produced oil) and dead skin cells. Washing your face too much or too vigorously can actually irritate your skin and make your acne worse.
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Fiction: I can only see a dermatologist about my acne.
Fact: While dermatologists are the experts in skincare, even your current doctor or pediatrician can navigate you down the path to clearer skin and help customize a skincare regimen for you.
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Fiction: Using makeup causes acne.
Fact: Some makeup can clog pores. Use beauty products labeled “non-comedogenic,” meaning they’re specially formulated to not clog pores or aggravate skin. This also applies for any other non-comedogenic skincare products you use, such as cleansers and moisturizers.
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Fiction: All acne medications are the same
Fact: All acne medications are not created equal. It is important to know different medications contain different ingredients. If you haven’t found a treatment that works for you or if you are just not satisfied with your current treatment regimen, talk with your doctor, who can help you decide on a skincare regimen that is right for you.
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Fiction: Popping pimples usually makes them heal faster.
Fact: The temptation can be overwhelming, but resist the urge to pop those pimples! Squeezing, scratching or picking at pimples leads to more redness, swelling and inflammation. Plus, popped pimples are more likely to lead to acne scars.
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Fiction: Acne is caused by stress.
Fact: The stress of a big deadline or test, a hot date or any other day-to-day fear factor doesn’t cause blemishes. That being said, sometimes stress can lead to an increase in sebum and make existing acne worse. So, it’s a good idea to manage the stress in your life for overall skin health—and happiness!
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Fiction: Acne is a fact of life—you alone have to let it run its course.
Fact: While most people get acne at some point in their lives, you don’t have to give up the quest for clear skin. Only a doctor can diagnose different types of acne and decide what treatment option is best for you. So, why not make an appointment today and take control of your condition?
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Fiction: Only people with severe acne need to see a doctor.
Fact: 40% of acne sufferers in their mid-teens have acne that needs a dermatologist’s attention. Even mild acne can benefit from professional help. How do you know if you need help? The only person who can tell you if your acne needs treatment is your doctor. You’ve got nothing to lose! Make an appointment today and find out what treatments work best for you.
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Fiction: Acne cannot be cured.
Fact: While there is no “cure” for acne, acne can be managed, and for many people, it eventually recedes with the right treatment. There is a wide range of acne medications currently available. Doctors can evaluate your skin and help you determine the right treatment for your particular skin type and the kind of acne you may have.
