Do you see some of the misstatements you’ve heard about acne in the list below?
- Myth: You can buy something that can clear your acne overnight.
Truth: Treating acne takes time. It is important to be realistic. Don't be tempted by overnight promises; you want to find the best treatment for YOU.
- Myth: Acne is just a cosmetic disease.
Truth: Acne is a medical condition that can benefit from professional treatment. Even mild acne can have an emotional, as well as a physical, impact.
- Myth: I can only see a dermatologist about my acne.
Truth: While dermatologists are 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.
- Myth: All acne medications are the same.
Truth: 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 you are just not satisfied with your current treatment regimen, talk with your doctor, who can help you decide on the skincare regimen that is right for you.
- Myth: You will grow out of your acne.
Truth: Some people continue to experience breakouts into their 20s, 30s and beyond. But, there is no reason for someone to endure acne. Acne can be cleared up with proper treatment. If the acne products you’ve tried haven’t worked, you should see a doctor.
- Myth: Acne is caused by poor hygiene.
Truth: Acne is not caused by dirt or surface skin oils. Far from preventing acne, frequent washing may actually irritate pores and worsen acne.
- Myth: Acne cannot be cured.
Truth: 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.
- Myth: Getting a suntan can help clear acne.
Truth: The sun may appear to clear existing acne while reddening your skin. However, a sunburn is actually skin damage. Sun exposure causes irritation which can make acne worse.
- Myth: Foods, such as chocolate, cause acne.
Truth: There is no scientific evidence that proves a connection between diet or food and acne. Chocolate, french fries, pizza? Enjoy! But if you truly feel a certain food makes your acne worse, it makes sense to avoid it.
- Myth: Popping a pimple will make a zit heal faster.
Truth: Popping a pimple may make a zit temporarily stand out less noticeably on your face. However, pimple-popping may make it take longer to clear up. Why? When you pinch the pimple, you can also squeeze dead skin cells, oil and even bacteria further into your skin. As a result, a red or brown mark or scar can form and take weeks or months to clear. If a skin dent or pit forms instead, it will never go away.
Don’t let myths about acne keep you from getting the most effective therapy for your acne. Make an appointment to see a doctor today. While you’re there, ask if Epiduo® Gel could be right for you.