With the endless amount of information surrounding the causes of acne, it can often be hard to distinguish fact from fiction! We’re here to set the record straight on some of the most common myths around the internet. Check them out below.
MYTH: Toothpaste can heal your acne
An old-school remedy that most of our grandparent’s claim will work wonders! But does it actually help cure your acne? The simple answer is no; toothpaste is not a viable treatment for your acne. However, certain ingredients in most brands of toothpaste contain baking soda, hydrogen peroxide, alcohol and menthol, which can help dry out inflamed pimples. The issue with using this as a treatment is that it can often lead to further irritation and cause other types of rashes. Instead of swapping one problem for another, try using a specific spot treatment made for your skin – it’s much more efficient and won’t leave your face smelling minty fresh!
MYTH: Acne can be a sign of cancer
It’s very easy to jump to conclusions when you have an ongoing condition affecting your body or skin. Just one google search and a visit to WebMD will lead you to conclude every symptom is a fatal one! However, stop right there – acne is a common affliction that affects many people of all ages. Always take care to check any abnormalities, but acne is almost never a sign of something as serious as cancer.
MYTH: Moisturizing is bad for oily skin
If your skin type leans toward the oily side, applying moisturizer may seem like the worst idea. Believe it or not, moisturizing your skin, even if oily, is a crucial part of your skincare routine. People with larger pores and thicker skin, tend to produce more sebum, which in turn leads to clogged pores and acne-prone skin. Eliminating a daily moisturizer will dry out your skin and cause it to produce even more oil – something you definitely want to avoid! Instead of cutting it out completely, you should find a product that is suited to your skin type, such as non-comedogenic moisturizers. These include ingredients such as glycerin, hyaluronic acid, and aloe that won’t clog your pores, help hydrate your skin, and keep your face free of pimples.
FACT: Sun can help clear acne
While it’s certainly true that the sun can help clear all those pesky pimples, it’s not the best long-term treatment. The reason the sun works wonders is because the UV rays’ slow bacterial growth, including p acnes, which are the primary cause of most acne breakouts. It’s often why after a few hours under the sun, we find our skin has a healthy clear glow. However, skin cancer is a real concern and there better ways to clear your acne. A visit to the dermatologist is a much more beneficial and doesn’t require putting your health at risk.
MYTH: Sunscreen can cause acne
With the rise of skin cancer, it’s crucial we do everything we can to protect ourselves from the sun’s UVB rays. However, when applying any product to your skin, it’s important to always check the ingredients! If your skin is particularly prone to acne breakouts, avoid sunscreens that contain mineral oils and silicone – these heavy, greasy ingredients will clog your pores and leave your skin irritated and inflamed. Instead, stick with water-based sunscreens, and you’re in the clear (get it?).
