The Facts About Adult Acne

Get the facts about adult acne, and avoid the myths. This is a list of the most common acne myths.

Acne Only Happens to Teenagers

False: Acne can affect anyone at any age. Adult acne in women is more common than in men due to hormonal changes. Up to 25% of all adults are affected by acne, and almost 50% of adult women are affected.

You Will Eventually Grow Out of Your Acne

False: While your acne may disappear for a period in your life, it can come back at any age. If you do not treat your acne, it can leave permanent scarring. You should treat acne early on. Preventative maintenance is the best solution to acne.

Dirt and Poor Hygiene Causes Acne

False: Acne is caused when your body secretes oil that mixes with dead skin cells and clogs your pores. Washing your skin too excessively, or with vigor, can cause irritation and make the acne worse. It is best to gently wash your face no more than twice per day.

Greasy Foods and Chocolate Cause Acne

False: There has been no scientific proof that your diet contributes to your acne.

The Sun Helps Acne

True and False: Minimal amounts of sun may mildly improve acne, but excessive sun can often contribute to clogged pores. In addition, lengthy sun exposure can cause cancer risks.

Acne is Curable

False: Unfortunately acne can only be prevented and treated, but cannot be cured.

Acne can be Caused by Stress:

False: Stress does not cause acne. Some medications that relieve stress may have side effects that include acne.

Acne is Only Cosmetic:

True and False: While it does affect the way you look, it does not affect your physical health. It can cause permanent scarring on your skin, however. In addition acne can lower one’s self-esteem.