6 Myths About Adult Acne
Most people think that adult acne is the same as teenage acne. Acne isn't just a teenage problem, and it's not something that only happens because you didn't wash your face. Instead, acne is largely genetic. An unfortunate conspiracy of misinformation, myths, and old wives' tales keeps people from understanding adult acne. We will dispel these myths and inform you on how to prevent adult acne and control it once it occurs so that you can live a happy and healthy skin-free life. Don't avoid treatment out of fear when the causes of adult acne are easily treatable and often available over the counter at your local drugstore. Put the power in your hands with the information you need to combat this problem holistically.
Here are some myths about adult acne:
1. Adult Acne Is Caused By Dirt And Bacteria
Wrong! Even if you did grow up in a very clean household, you probably still get adult acne. The main reason is that hormones increase oil production in the skin, so even if you've washed your face twice a day for years and years, oil can build up over time. This can lead to clogged pores (or comedones), which makes your skin look shiny or greasy.
2. You Need To Wash Your Face Every Day To Prevent Or Cure Adult Acne
False! Washing your face twice a day won't magically make it disappear overnight, either; only spot treatments can help reduce breakouts when used correctly twice a day (or even once a day) for three weeks before being re-evaluated by your physician/dermatologist. Also, remember that washing too much can dry out your skin, so if you experience dryness after cleansing, try switching up your cleanser.
3. Acne Is Just For Teenagers
Wrong! Adult acne is a common problem and can occur in anyone at any age. If you’re over 25 and have never had acne, you might wonder whether it’s normal to have breakouts on your face.
The truth is that even if you’re well-adjusted, you may still be susceptible to adult acne as your hormones fluctuate through the years. While it may not seem like a big deal to see your skin erupt with pimples every once in a while, these signs of hormonal imbalance can affect your quality of life.
4. You Can Prevent Acne With A Diet
While diet does play a role in how our bodies function, the amount of food we eat is only one factor that shapes our health over time. The other factors include genetics, lifestyle choices (including how much sun we get), and environmental exposures like pollution from cars or industry emissions — all of which are beyond our control or awareness.
5. Acne Is Caused By Dirt On Your Face
The truth: Your skin is covered with oil glands that produce natural sebum, which keeps your skin healthy and moist. This is why most people have normal-to-dry skin, but some people are more prone to acne.
6. You Can Get Rid Of Acne With An Over-The-Counter Product
The truth: While most products on the market work, there's no such thing as a "miracle cure." Acne products are typically made up of two types of ingredients:
1) Drying agents that help remove excess oil from clogged pores; and
2) topical antibiotics to kill bacteria that cause acne, although these products don't treat the root cause of the problem.
Bottom Line
It's nothing to be ashamed of about adult acne. In fact, given everything you know now, you should be proud of your ability to wage war on zits. Because that's what it is: a war. You fight daily, in your own way, against the invading forces of breakouts around your chin, cheeks, and nose and all the potential embarrassment they bring. Don't lose hope—you may not win every battle (yet), but with some smart treatment strategies and a bit more knowledge about adult acne, you will come out the other side with a clearer face, a clearer mind, and more peace of mind than you had before. Good luck!
