8 Myths About Acne Debunked

At North Pacific Dermatology, we want to help you get clear, acne-free skin. So many myths and misconceptions surround acne, leading to confusion about its causes and treatment. Our providers are committed to empowering you with accurate information. 

Read on to learn more about eight common acne myths and learn the truth about this common skin condition. We also offer advanced treatments, like AviClear®, to help you achieve clear and radiant skin.

Myth 1: Acne only affects teens

Fact: While it's true that acne often emerges during adolescence due to hormonal changes, it can affect people of all ages, including adults. Adult-onset acne is a real concern for many, and it may be triggered by various factors such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or underlying medical conditions. As many as 25% of women in their 40s and 12% of men report having problems with acne. 

Myth 2: Poor hygiene causes acne

Fact: Acne is not caused by dirty skin or poor hygiene. Over-cleansing or scrubbing the skin vigorously can worsen acne by stripping away natural oils and irritating the skin. Gentle cleansing twice daily is sufficient to maintain skin hygiene without exacerbating the condition.

Myth 3: Junk food causes acne

Fact: While diet can influence overall skin health, there is no direct link between eating chocolate, greasy foods, or sugary treats and acne development. Some people may find certain foods, like dairy, trigger their acne. 

Myth 4: Sun exposure clears acne

Fact: Sun exposure may temporarily improve acne due to its drying effect on the skin. However, prolonged sun exposure can cause long-term damage, increasing oil production and potentially worsening acne. Using sunscreen made for sensitive skin is crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays.

Myth 5: Acne goes away on its own

Fact: While some cases of acne may improve with time, leaving it untreated can lead to scarring and persistent skin issues. Seeking professional advice and using appropriate treatments is essential to prevent long-term consequences.

Myth 6: Makeup aggravates acne

Fact: Not all makeup products contribute to acne. Non-comedogenic and oil-free makeup products are designed not to clog pores and are safe for acne-prone skin. Look for labels that indicate "non-comedogenic" or "oil-free" to make acne-friendly choices.

Myth 7: Squeezing pimples helps them heal faster

Fact: Squeezing or popping pimples can lead to inflammation, infection, and scarring. It is best to avoid touching or picking at acne lesions. Instead, use appropriate topical treatments to help them heal effectively.

Myth 8: People with acne don’t need moisturizer

Fact: Moisturizer is vital to overall skin health. The topical products you use to treat acne can dry and irritate your skin. An oil-free moisturizer can help you maintain natural moisture and may improve acne.

Aviclear is a proven treatment for acne

Aviclear is a breakthrough acne treatment designed to address the root causes of acne. This laser treatment works on existing acne and minimizes the potential for new breakouts. The heat energy targets the sebaceous glands responsible for sebum production. Sebum is the oil that gets trapped in pores along with dead skin cells or hair to cause breakouts.

Don't let myths guide your acne care. Seek guidance from our dermatology professionals, who can provide accurate information and effective treatments tailored to your skin's needs. At North Pacific Dermatology & Aesthetics, we believe in the power of knowledge and Aviclear as an innovative solution to combat acne and achieve radiant, blemish-free skin. 

Call today or use this website to set up your consultation at any of our offices in Arcata or Crescent City, California.