We have all had acne one time or the other, and also some talks on how to get rid of them or even not to have them at all, while some may be true, you would agree with me that most are lies or myths, and these myths has become beliefs, well this article will be revealing the facts and myths, what is true and what is not.


1. Acne is not the same as spots - MYTH

Many do believe that acne is different to spots. In truth there is no real difference between these two words. Acne is the medical term doctors use to describe bad spots, and can be medically treated.


2. Acne is for teenagers only - MYTH

Acne occurs both in teenage and adult years. In adults, acne consists of two subtypes: 'persistent acne' - that continues from teenage years and fails to clear and 'late-onset acne' - beginning after the age of 25 years.


3. Adult acne affects women more than men - FACT

Acne in adulthood affects the female sex more compared to the male. Somewhere between 12-22% of women will suffer from acne as an adult compared to about 3% of men.The reason is, women are more reactive to hormonal changes, for example during the menstrual cycle and many will find their skin worsening before their periods.


4. Acne is genetic - FACT

Surely genetics have a large part to play in the growth of acne. Some research have suggested that nearly 80% of acne is due to the presence of certain genes that are inherited. Though, we are unfortunately still not at the stage where we understand all the causes and what we can do to reverse it.


5. Acne is caused by unclean skin - MYTH

The growth of acne is a multifactorial process. Acne is a disorder of the pilosebaceous unit of the skin, which consists of an oil-producing gland, hair follicle and hair. The size and activity of the oil-producing gland is affected by hormone levels. Under some certain circumstances the gland increases in size and produces more oil. Skin cells start to become "sticky" trapping pores. Bacteria known as P. acnes multiply and these factors result in spots.


6. Lifestyle affects acne - FACT

There is evidence that taking of dairy and foods with a high GI-index can aggravate acne so it is suggested that one should limit these and for them to live a healthy lifestyle. Furthermore, stress can aggravate many skin diseases, including acne, so finding methods of reducing this e.g. through exercise or meditation may indirectly have some benefit.


7. Chocolate makes acne worse - MYTH

The role of chocolate and its effects on acne is argumentative. A recent laboratory study showed chocolate consumption in the presence of P. acnes bacteria led to the increased release of chemicals that cause inflammation. However, the link is not that sure as it might be a specific ingredient in chocolate itself that may have a role to play for example cow's milk, which does contain hormones, and sugar. Well-designed clinical studies in the future will establish the real role of diet as a causative factor for acne but currently I recommend everything in moderation.


8. Acne is contagious - MYTH

Acne is not contagious or transmittable and cannot spread from person to person. Whilst acne bacteria has a role to play in its growth, it cannot be transmitted like most bacterial infections. But not withstanding, it is not a good idea to share towels or pillows with someone else for general hygiene reasons.


9. Acne prone skin needs moisturising – FACT

Moisturising the skin keeps the integrity of barrier function intact and is important for good skin health. Even oily skin needs moisturising as excess oils do not mean there is effective skin hydration. It is necessary to follow a continuous good skincare routine. Skin should be washed twice a day – morning and evening with a cleanser specially made for acne (these products often contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide). After cleansing, use a light gel-based moisturiser that does not block pores as this prevents the formation of blackheads. Finally, using a prescribed retinoid product on the skin before bed will help unclog pores, reduce the formation of blackheads or whiteheads, and calm inflammation.


10. Avoid abrasive products - MYTH

A common myth about dealing with acne is to avoid using abrasive or harsh products. Though it is actually good for those with oily skin to gently exfoliate once a week, as it rapidly removes the dead skin cells from the surface resulting in a brighter appearance, and in the longer term, reduce the development of blackheads. It is important not to overdo exfoliation otherwise you will end up irritating the skin and making things worse not better.


11. Don't squeeze spots - FACT

It is not advisable to pick, scratch or squeeze your spots. All of these do lead to skin damage and might result in permanent pigmentation marks or scarring of the skin. It is better to use a spot-directed treatment directly onto the area of the skin such as salicylic acid, which can dry it up and help settle the inflammation. If spots has been a continuous issue, then it is a good idea to see a dermatologist who will be able to give you tips regarding skincare and treatments.


12. Avoid makeup - MYTH

There is no need to avoid makeup if you have acne and many people choose to conceal their spots as it provides self-confidence. It is important to choose the right products for oily, blemish prone skin, opt for an oil-free makeup tools.


13. Spots can be a signal of health problems - MYTH

There is little evidence to suggest that facial mapping for acne is effective for example showing that someone is intolerant to gluten, or bad digestion. However, acne in certain areas of the face might be caused by specific factors:


Forehead acne can be due to some certain hair styling products like waxes and oils, which block the pores. It can also occur if you have a fringe, as hair rubs against the forehead skin causing irritation and potentially contributing to breakouts. The same applies for regularly wearing hats, caps, and helmets.


Cheek and jawline acne might develop from phone use. Touchscreens contain large numbers of bacteria on their surface and placing your phone against your cheek creates pressure that may activate your oil-producing or sebaceous glands. This is also combined with the heat generated from the phone.


Jawline and around the mouth - acne affecting the lower half of the face has often been linked to hormonal changes, especially in women that develop spots at a later age. This can often occur as deep, red painful cysts under the skin rather than blackheads or whiteheads.

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