#1 Poor Hygiene
Although acne pustules may sometimes make a person feel less than clean, acne has nothing to do with being unhygienic. The blackheads and blemishes are caused by a combination of excess oil and dead skin cells which create a plug inside the oil glands. Regularly washing the face in the morning and evening will help clear away the dust, dead skin and oils that accumulate, but will not put an end to the development of new pustules.
#2 Eating chocolate and fried foods
Chocolate and greasy/fried foods such as pizza are often cited as causes of acne. However, no connection between eating these foods and developing acne has yet been identified. Nor have these foods been implicated in the worsening of acne.
#3 Too little or too much sexual activity
It's hard to believe that 'not getting enough sex' or being 'led on' by the opposite sex are still cited as reasons for developing pimples. In some cultures, too much sexual activity is considered a cause. These twin myths appear to be linked to the hormonal surges of puberty - the time of life that most cases of acne develop.
#4 Too little sunshine
Basking in the sun will not improve your acne. This myth likely arose from the observation that blemishes are less visible against a background tan. Spending time in the sun without the proper protection can further irritate acne-prone skin, not to mention cause burns and wrinkles.
#5 Too much stress
Although people always seem to break out before exams or that very important date, this really is coincidence. Stress can make your skin produce more oil (sebum), but this alone does not cause acne breakouts.
A Few Truths
While acne isn't curable and can continue throughout life, it is treatable. A mild case of acne can be successfully treated with over-the-counter acne control formulations such as the Oxy range of products available from London Drugs.
If your acne is more severe, you should visit your doctor, who may prescribe controlling medication. Here are a few pointers on preventing breakouts:
- Keep your fingers away from your face. Picking or squeezing pimples may cause breakouts to worsen.
- Don't exfoliate the skin. Acne-prone skin is already irritated and should be treated gently with products especially formulated for acne sufferers.
- Use a mild soap or cleansing formula/pad. Harsh soaps can further irritate skin that's prone to breakouts.
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