MYTH

TRUTH

Acne is caused by dirt.

Acne is caused by a number of things, but dirt is not one of them.  Blemishes form when dead skin cells mix with your body’s natural oil, forming a plug in the tiny hair follicles  This has nothing to do with dirt, so over-washing your face or body (more that 2-3 times a day) will not make your Acne better.  In fact, too much washing or the over-use of harsh scrubs and “pore strips” can actually strip the skin of the oil it needs to stay soft and pliable.  The result?  Dry, flaky skin that may actually produce more oil.

Acne is a teenage problem.

This myth is harmful in several ways.  First, it can lead teenagers to “wait it out” instead of seeking treatment for the Acne, resulting in plummeting self-esteem and, in severe cases of Acne, scarring.  Second, this myth can cause alienation in adults who suffer from Acne.  The truth is, Acne can strike at any age; it is not your fault.  However, it is treatable.

Acne is just a cosmetic condition and not a serious skin disorder.

Yes, Acne does affect the way people look and is not a serious threat to a person’s physical health.  But it can, and does, affect the way you feel about yourself and the world around you, causing low self-esteem and even depression.  And, after it’s gone, Acne can leave permanent physical and emotional scars.

Scrubbing and toning the skin stops Acne.

Since Acne is not caused by dirt, excessive washing won’t make it go away.  Harsh over-the-counter exfoliants can actually irritate or tear the skin, increasing the chances of infection and more breakouts.  Likewise, alcohol-based toners can strip the skin of necessary oils, leaving it dry and irritated and more likely to start producing more oil.  For best results, use a gentle soap (such as ARMSTRONG SKIN AID’s 100% Olive Oil soap) and a mild alcohol-free toner.

Spot treatment works.

Unfortunately, this is not true even though for over 30 years products have been making the claim that a dab of medicine directly on the pimple will clear up Acne.  Since blemishes take 2-3 weeks to develop, you’re treating an old symptom of the problem rather than the problem itself.  The best way to treat Acne is to stop the blemishes from developing in the first place – which means treating the whole face or area every day, even when you don’t have blemishes.

Certain foods cause Acne.

No, those French fries you ate yesterday did not give you new zits today.  In fact, scientists have been unable to find ANY substantial connection between diet and Acne.  So all the foods you have been afraid of – pizza, French fries, chocolate – are fine.  Of course, that doesn’t mean a healthy diet is not important.  On the contrary, your diet will help your body to have the strength needed to help you in your fight against Acne.  So, use common sense, but don’t be afraid to indulge now and then.

Make-up causes Acne.

Most make-up today is non-comedogenic, which means it won’t clog your pores. When shopping for cosmetics, look for products that are non-comedogenic, oil-free (water based) and hypoallergenic (no added fragrance). And do not use heavy cosmetics when exercising.

Sweating cleans out your pores.

While working out is an important part of a healthy life-style, it can cause flare-ups of Acne for some people. Vigorous exercise stimulates oil production, which combines with heat, perspiration and friction to aggravate Acne on the forehead, chest and back. You can minimize irritation by wearing loose cotton clothing and by showering immediately after exercising.

Sun exposure helps Acne.

Wrong! Minimal amounts of sun exposure may initially improve the appearance of Acne because as the skin darkens, blemishes may be less noticeable. But prolonged sun exposure (and tanning booths) promote more rapid exfoliation of dead skin cells, so you are more likely to get clogged pores. In addition, Acne’s unsightly souvenirs, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and scars, will actually get darker as you tan. And, of course, sun exposure dramatically increases your chances of getting some form of skin cancer. Use sun protection products that are oil-free and have an SPF of at least 15 for both UVA and UVB rays.

Stress causes Acne.

This myth is based in reality. While stress does not cause Acne, it can trigger flare-ups. When the body encounters stress, it steps up production of cortisol, which causes the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum (oil). Individual stress responses vary, so it’s difficult to gauge “typical” effects on the skin. But, even “good” stress, such as the excitement of planning a wedding, can trigger a stress response. Read more articles about stress and how to handle it.

Acne is curable.

Not yet. But it is highly treatable. The best way to treat Acne is to prevent blemishes from happening by following a beneficial skin care routine which includes ARMSTRONG SKIN AID for ACNE. Just remember this: Even if your blemishes go away, your Acne is not cured. However, any subsequent breakout of Acne will be of significantly less severity and can be effectively controlled and diminished with the use of ARMSTRONG SKIN AID for ACNE.