We all know that acne is a common problem among teenagers, and its becoming more and more clear these days that it doesnt always disappear by the time they reach adulthood. There are considerable problems that can occur with both teen and adult acne, and treatments to counteract both. Recognizing the causes of acne is key to treating it, but knowing what doesnt cause acne can be equally important. Over the years, many myths have been formed about what causes acne, creating many misconceptions about this condition. This article will cover some of those myths and perceptions, and will dispel some of the misconceptions associated with them.

Over the years, many people have maintained that ones diet does not affect their chances of getting acne. However, a 2003 study that was published in the December issue of Archives of Dermatology indicates the contrary. It shows that the Western diet of fatty foods may be the root cause of 79% to 95% of acne among teens in the U.S. It showed that no acne was found in a group of over 1,200 people between the ages of 15 and 25 on Kitava Island, where the people eat a low fat, high carbohydrate diet of vegetables, roots, and fruits. It is important to have some fat in your diet, but eating a high-fat diet, like many Americans do, can increase oil production, which leads to bacteria-causing acne.

If you think that spending hours in the sun or worse, under a hot tanning light, is going to clear up your skin, think again! The idea that getting a tan can help clear up acne is a myth. Even though a tan might help to cover the redness caused by acne, it wont actually prevent or heal it. Add to that the cancer risks associated with tanning beds and the sun, the skin damage that can occur, the aging that they can do to your skin, and youll see how this can hurt more than it can help.

Another myth about acne is that washing your face excessively will clear up acne. Dont get me wrong, washing your face is good for your skin, it gets rid of excess dirt and oil and also removes dry skin. But, if you wash your face too many times, you will start removing essential skin oils, irritate your skin, and possibly dry it out. While this wont create acne, it will keep acne from healing. By not over washing your face, you are allowing the bodys essential oils to work, but you dont want to stop washing all together, because washing removes dirt and dead skin that can clog pores, which can cause acne.

Another common acne myth is the notion that popping pimples will help them clear up more quickly. While this can make the pimple less noticeable, it can actually make the healing process take longer. This is because popping a pimple can push the pimples bacteria deeper into the skin, making the skin around it red and irritated. Devices designed to help pop your pimples, such as blackhead extractors, arent safe either, as they result in the formation of scars.

Another myth is you cant wear makeup or shave if you want to have clear skin. The truth is that most makeup can help cause acne, however, it is okay to use products that are nonacnegenic or noncomedogenic if you have acne, because these wont clog pores and cause breakouts. Also, some concealers now have salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide in them that can work to help fight acne.

These are some of the main acne myths, but, of course, there are many other myths associated with acne and what causes it. It is important to understand the true cause of your acne before you will be able to treat it. For this reason, it is a good idea to consult a dermatologist if you are unsure about possible causes and treatments, or if you feel your skin may require medical attention.