When it comes to acne, most folk wisdom contains just enough of the truth to sound legitimate. Maybe that explains the leap from "Wash your face daily" to "Wash your face with glass cleaner" — one of the weirder bits of acne lore. Most people will disregard "advice" that aims to clean your face and bathroom mirror. But, what about outgrowing acne? And blaming pizza for breakouts? Forget these fables and read on for the facts.
1. It’s a teen thing.
Many people survive their teen years with the thought of an acne-free adulthood. Unfortunately, nearly a third of women and a fifth of men still suffer from acne after they turn 20, writes Charlotte Libov for WebMD.
Typically, adult breakouts are caused by hypersensitivity, an imbalance in hormones, reactions to medications or cosmetics. The treatment varies from that of teens, Libov writes, because an adult’s skin is less oily, so it takes time to find the right combination of products.
2. You are what you eat.
On a certain level, it makes sense to connect greasy foods with oily breakouts, but research hasn't found a definitive link between acne and diet. Eating well is of course important, but burgers and fries shouldn’t get the blame for all breakouts.
Individuals may notice their skin condition improves or deteriorates in connection with certain foods because of allergies or sensitivities. Acne Guide recommends avoiding a suspected food for a few weeks; then introduce that food back into your diet to see if there’s any change.
Consult your doctor for advice on creating a food diary or testing for allergies. In general, if you’ve got an effective regimen for your acne, doctors say diet is in the clear.
3. S-e-x triggers acne.
Though parents have been searching for the perfect teen abstinence tool for centuries, the idea that sex causes breakouts is just another legend. According to Acne Guide, the only kernel of truth in this myth is that it’s about sex — but not the act. Instead, it’s all about sex hormones.
As teens reach puberty, their hormones take over to guide them on the journey to adulthood. The same hormones that lead to sexual maturity also cause most teens to get acne, but breakouts have nothing to do with sexual activity.
Product picks
- Peter Thomas Roth Beta Hydroxy Acid 2% Acne Wash is an oil-free, gentle wash that penetrates pores for lasting protection against acne without leaving skin parched.
- Murad Acne Wash is a triple-action body wash that exfoliates, deep cleans and contains moisture-retaining humectants to prevent drying.
- NeoCeuticals Acne Spot Treatment Gel uses vitamin A derivatives to effectively treat blemishes as they appear. Plus, the gel is clear, so it doesn’t draw attention to treated areas.
- If you’re looking for complete acne care, Murad Acne Complex Kit packs a punch with four products that clean, exfoliate, spot treat and moisturize acne-prone skin.
- SensiClear 60 Day Deluxe Acne System is a cleanser, toner and lotion trio. Its secret weapon, the patented ingredient Retextra, is a powerful acne-fighter gentle enough for even the most sensitive skin.
Learn everything you need to know about acne-fighting skincare in our Complete Acne Handbook.