Acne is an inflammatory skin condition that causes spots and pimples, particularly on the face, shoulders, back, neck, chest, and upper arms. Whiteheads, zits, pimples, cysts, and nodules are all different types of acne. It is the most well-known skin condition. It usually happens during adolescence, when the sebaceous glands activate, yet it can happen at any age. It isn’t hazardous, however, it can leave skin scars.

Here are some fast facts about Acne:

Acne is a skin problem including the oil glands at the base of hair follicles
It affects 3 in every 4 individuals between the age of 11 to 30 years
It isn’t life-threatening, however, it can leave skin scars
Treatment relies upon how severe and persistent it is

Risk factors that may lead to acne include genetics, menstrual cycle, anxiety and stress, hot and humid atmospheres, using oil-based cosmetics, and squeezing pimples.

Let us bust some of the common Acne myths:

With regards to acne, a million myths accumulate around its cures. Some of these supposed solutions can really worsen the issue. Beware!

Myth: Blood purifiers can help clear acne and purify skin

Fact: Acne happens because of a bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes and also due to hormonal imbalance. It has nothing to do with pure or impure blood.

Myth: A person can get acne if they have bad bowel movements and constipation

Fact: There are no studies to prove the fact that constipation has a direct effect on acne. Although, if a person is overly stressed about their constipation, the stress hormone may certainly pop or trigger acne.

Myth: People with a lot of heat in their body are more likely to get acne

Fact: Infections, fever, thyroid disorders, exercise, etc. can all cause the body heat to increase. It may cause rashes or prickly heat, but it does not cause acne.

Myth: Oily and fried foods trigger acne

Fact: As per research, food with a high glycemic index and dairy products trigger acne. No relation has been found between oily food and acne.

Myth: Acne occurs only on the face

Fact: Acne can pop-up wherever the Sebaceous glands exist. It can be the face, back, chest, arms, shoulders, and buttocks

Myth: Only teenagers suffer from acne

Fact: Hormonal changes make teenagers the most affected by acne but even adults suffer from it too. More than 50% of women and 25% of men experience acne between the age of 25 – 45 years.

Myth: Lack of hygiene and dirt on the face can cause acne

Fact: The dirt on the skin has nothing to do with acne. Although, a dirty face can cause the bacteria to enter the existing acne and give rise to larger boils. It is advised to keep your face clean.

Myth: Blackheads and acne are not the same

Fact: Blackheads are another form of acne or pimples. Pimples are just a layman’s term for acne. Acne includes cysts, blackheads, pustules, nodules, and whiteheads.

Myth: Getting facial regularly will clear the skin of acne

Fact: Facials include massage of the skin with oils and creams followed by using masks. The massage will activate the oil glands to emit more oil prompting more acne.

Myth: Lemon juice, garlic, and toothpaste can dry the pimples easily

Fact: Though Lemon juice and garlic without a doubt have antibacterial properties. Both can cause irritation and rash, thereby developing an oozing, agonizing injury that will leave behind a mark after healing. Toothpaste may contain baking soda and different synthetic compounds that can dry out a periodic pimple. Yet, that doesn’t mean every one of your zits will vanish. In fact, your issues could deteriorate if your skin is delicate or adversely affected by ingredients in the toothpaste. By drying out the skin, toothpaste can develop redness and peeling. It is best to visit your Dermatologist for the appropriate therapy for your acne severity and your skin type.

Self-care (What can I do?)

Try not to pick or squeeze your spots as this usually aggravates them and may cause scarring.

However, your acne affects you, it is important to take action to control it as soon as it appears. This helps to avoid permanent scarring and reduces embarrassment. Your Dermatologist will advise you.

Expect to use your treatments for at least two months before you see much improvement. Make sure that you understand how to use them correctly so you get the maximum benefit.

Make-up may help your confidence. Use products that are oil-free or water-based. Choose products that are labelled as being ‘non-comedogenic’ (should not cause blackheads or whiteheads) or non-acnegenic (should not cause acne).

Cleanse your skin and remove make-up with a mild soap or a gentle cleanser and water, or an oil-free soap substitute. Scrubbing too hard can irritate the skin and make your acne worse. Remember, blackheads are not due to poor washing.

Your skin and health will benefit overall from a balanced diet including fresh fruits and vegetables