Myth 1
Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
The reality: “Acne is caused by multiple factors, including oil production by the oil gland, the blockage of pores, hormonal issues, and inflammation,” says Dr. Cohen, “so hygiene is not a problem.” In fact, overwashing your face can irritate your skin and aggravate acne. Stick to cleansing twice daily with a mild cleanser.
Myth 2
Junk food causes you to break out.
The reality: “There is very little evidence that food will cause acne,” says Dr. Cohen. “But there is new evidence that some acne is related to milk or dairy intake—it is believed a lot of these products contain hormones that cause people to break out.” Although fried food isn’t a direct culprit, it is important to follow a well-balanced diet.
Myth 3
Sunlight clears up acne and gets rid of scars.
The reality: “Sunlight will mask your acne, but in the long run it can actually make it worse,” says Dr. Cohen. Plus, UV rays increase your risk of skin cancer.
Myth 4
Squeezing a pimple is allowed as long as you use a Q-Tip instead of your fingernails.
The reality: “Any way you squeeze a pimple there is a risk that you can leave a scar or cause an infection,” says Dr. Cohen. Instead, go see a facialist or apply a spot treatment and wait it out.
Myth 5
Acne is only for teenagers. Your skin will clear up once you become an adult.
The reality: According to Dr. Cohen, 80-90% of people will have acne at some point in their lives (40% of adults have acne!). But don’t worry, just because you have acne now doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get adult acne.
Myth 6
You have to wait until you grow out of acne.
The reality: “Treatments are available that can cure acne for some people,” says Dr. Cohen. “Some women actually need birth control pills [or antibiotics] to keep their acne under control.” Keep in mind it can take six to eight weeks for creams or medications to work, so you have to be persistent and give them a chance.
Dr. Cohen’s acne prescription:
• Wash your face twice daily with a mild cleanser.
• If your skin is very oily and isn’t irritated, use an exfoliator once or twice a week.
• Be sure your moisturizer, sunscreen, and makeup are all oil-free.
• When choosing products, look for ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide (up to 5%) or salicylic acid (from 3-5%).
• “Someone with severe acne should see a dermatologist,” says Dr. Cohen. Some over-the-counter treatments are excellent, but depending on the type of acne you suffer from, they may not be as effective as what your doctor can prescribe. |
For a clear complexion try:
Noxzema Triple Clean Pads, $8
Bioré Pore MinimizingRefining Exfoliator, $13
Almay Clear Complexion Blemish Clearing Spot Concealer in Neutralizing Green, $11
Clinique Acne Solutions
Cleansing Foam, $23
