Here are some common misconceptions about acne and the truth behind the myths:

• If you wash frequently you won’t have acne.
  This
  is not true as the frequent scrubbing can irritate acne and make it
  worse.  It is far better to wash with a mild soap once or twice a day
  then pat dry.

• Eating junk food gives you acne.
  In
  reality, research has been conducted on this subject and no significant
  correlation has been found between certain foods and acne.  Instead it
  appears that food affects people differently.  While some may break out
  after eating a chocolate bar, others may not.  The best thing to do is
  stay aware of what you eat and discontinue a food if you notice a
  breakout shortly after eating it.

• Stress gives you pimples.
  While
  stress can increase levels of cortisol, it is more common to experience
  a breakout as a side effect of medication taken to control stress.

• Just ignore it and it will go away.
  With
  all the options for treatment today, there is no reason to leave acne
  untreated.  Mild acne can usually be treated with medication and severe
  acne can be treated with the help of a dermatologist.

• Get a tan and forget about it.
  While
  tanning can server to will only serve to cover up acne, the sun can dry
  the skin and make acne worse.  If you have to tan, make sure that you
  use an oil-free sun block to avoid clogging up pores even more.

• If you pop your pimples they’ll go away sooner.
  Popping
  whiteheads can actually push bacteria deeper into the skin and prolong
  the healing process.  Not to mention it can lead to scarring.

• Adults don’t get acne.
  In
  reality, if you examine a large group of adults between the ages of 25
  to 44 you will find that 20% – 30% of them will have acne.  Therefore,
  acne is not just for young people.

There are probably
many more myths propagated by well-meaning family members but these sum
up the most popular ones.  Just remember to always get the facts before
you proceed with any treatment.

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