Healthy Body Musings

Acne has been a problem for a wide cross-section of the population for a long time. Because it is a widespread and perennial complaint, its actual causes, remedies, prevention, and most other facets of the condition have given rise to many unlikely stories, ranging from old wives tales, to actual truth. However it is sometimes difficult to separate the myths from the facts. You will actually be surprised that some of the things you think you know about acne are actually untrue.

MYTH #1 - Washing your face often will help get rid of acne

Although washing your face can cleanse it from oil and dirt that clogs the pores, washing it too often and scrubbing or rubbing it too much can actually lead to more acne! Excessive washing and using too much force on your face will only irritate your skin and give rise to more acne. The best way to wash your face is by doing it not more than twice a day, with a mild cleanser, and using gentle, circular motions and patting the skin dry afterwards.

MYTH #2 - Exposure to the sun or getting a tan can help get rid of acne

One thing's for sure with this information, a tan can temporarily mask acne, but getting a tan or staying under the sun cannot get rid of acne. The truth is, lengthened exposure under the sun can cause premature aging and skin cancer. Those who tan under the sun or through other devices actually end up with dry, irritated, and burned skin. Sun burn is actually skin damage.

Getting healthy doses of sun can provide Vitamin D, but make sure not too over-expose yourself. Be smart and stay protected! Always apply a sunscreen with at least SPF 15 and that is non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic, which actually means it won't clog pores. Oil-free sunscreens are best if you are prone to acne breakout.

MYTH #3 - Chocolates and greasy foods are number one sources of acne

Years of research has proven that no specific food can actually trigger acne. Some people attest that their breakouts are worse after eating specific food like chocolates or french fries. This depends on the person, and if it is the case for you, it can help to avoid it and see if it will make any difference. Steering clear of overly greasy foods and enjoying a healthy diet and lifestyle will undoubtedly improve your health generally, including benefitting your skin.

MYTH #4 - Popping your pimples will get rid of acne

If you want your pimples to be less noticeable, popping your pimples can help you but it is going to be only temporary. The truth is that popping your pimples can actually make the pimple stay around longer. Squeezing your pimples and zits pushes bacteria, dead skin cells, and oil deeper and deeper into the skin, which actually causes more redness and swelling. What's worse is that this can also lead to acne scarring. These marks can last for many months, and deeper scars like dents and pits can be permanent.

If you are unsure about whether something you have heard about acne is true, the best recommendation is to find a reliable source to test it against.

About the Author:

For more Free Acne & Skin Care Information download Annie's Free Acne & Skin Care Information Series at http://www.free-acne-info.com and join thousands of other people who are dealing with their acne and pimple issues. For other free information on a variety of issues please visit www.free-info-site.com

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