Acne Myths: Discover 9 Ugly Lies About Acne Causes and Treatments

It's unbelievable ... What if I told you that most of the popular beliefs about acne, are in fact myths?

Let’s take a look at some popular beliefs about acne to dispel any other rumors ...

Myth #1: Is it true that increased stress spreads acne?

Not exactly. What is true is that ultimately stress can have a very minimal or minor influence all by itself. It cannot actually cause acne, but it can influence reoccurrences of acne as stress increases the body’s creation of a substance called cortisol that in turn causes your sebaceous glands to produce increased amounts of sebum oil that can be blocked in pores. Note, however, that some medications people take when trying to deal with or treat stress can have a large influence on acne as the result of medication side effects.

Myth #2: Acne is contagious, true or false?

Not! No one can "catch" acne; it is non-communicable.

Myth #3:You’ll outgrow acne, so just leave it alone - myth or truth?

This is false. Acne strikes all ages and is treatable, but shouldn’t be left alone to possibly worsen.

Myth #4: Being out in the sun helps acne, right?

In the long run, no. The sun may appear to help clear up your blemishes and redden your skin, thus lessening the overall reddish effect of the targeted acne area when it was outstanding. However, rays from the sun can cause skin damage and actually irritate skin more, worsening any existing acne problems in the process and clogging more pores as skin cells dry up and slough off quicker than normal. So use caution (and sunscreen) here!

Myth #5: Sweating helps clean out your hair follicle areas, myth or reality?

Another myth. In reality, strenuous activity can temporarily increase your body’s oil production that can actually worsen acne problem areas, causing recurrence or intensification.

Myth #6: Acne problems are directly proportionate to sexual activity, or lack thereof; true or false?

False, another myth. Just because teenagers are going through hormonal changes, does not mean that this has anything to do with acne. Both are separate issues. Same with adult acne and sex; two entirely different issues.

Myth #7: People with acne are dirty and don’t wash enough.

Not! This is another myth. Acne is the result of a build up of oil, dead skin cells and bacteria in a closed pore. Period. Dirt is not even a factor in the equation.

Myth #8: Acne is only on external issue or surface deep; i.e. people shouldn’t make such a big thing out of it, myth or reality?

Myth. In reality, yes, it basically is only on your skin (and underneath the surface a little bit). However, the effects run much more deeper than that in many instances. More than 50 percent of those suffering acne problems reported negative comments and other feedback from members of society, regardless of whether or not there was any scarring left for others to see afterwards. And resulting internal depression and low self-esteem can be harmful emotionally not only short-term but over a person’s lifetime.  So acne can indeed be a very big issue requiring healthcare treatment and support.

Myth #9: OK, myth or reality: there is a cure for acne?

Myth. Although there is no cure at this time, there are many treatments available that do a great job. As the saying goes, "Prevention is the best medicine;" however, there is no need to suffer in silence with all the options available on the market today for all price ranges.

So there you have it ... now that you are armed with this information you can do something to treat your acne condition. Why not visit Emily Clark's website at http://www.faqon.com/acne.html now to get more helpful information and subscribe to her free newsletter.

Acne Medication Potential Side Effects

Patients with mild or occasional acne may be able to treat themselves without the use of prescription medication.  Such remedies may include an alteration in diet and exercise habits, regular cleansing to remove residue and buildup on the skin, choosing the right cosmetics and eliminating stress.  But for some individuals, this simply isn’t enough.  For those who suffer from moderate to severe acne, a stronger medication may be needed in order for that individual to find relief from their condition.

There are several different types of medication that are commonly used to treat acne, each of which may contain the potential for certain side effects.  As is the case with most over-the-counter acne medication, prescription medicines are usually available as gels, creams, lotions or solutions.  In determining which is the best choice for the patient, a physician will study the skin type, severity of acne and the patient’s likelihood of having a negative reaction to any medication.  Once a prescription is written, the physician will explain how often to use the medicine and how to properly apply it to the skin.

As mentioned previously, it is not uncommon for individuals to have a reaction to strong acne medication.  For some it is only temporary, but others may require a change in their prescription.  The most widely seen reaction is that of the skin’s condition actually worsening.  Many physicians agree that most medications will cause the skin to worsen before it actually improves, which may take 6-8 weeks of using a medication.  However, additional side effects may include extreme redness, burning, stinging, peeling, soreness, scaling or a discoloration of the skin.  If individuals notice these side effects becoming increasingly worse or if they do not go away after a specified period of use, which should be indicated by a physician, the medication may need to be changed.

Individuals who take oral medications for the treatment of acne may face an entirely different set of potential side effects, including an upset stomach, dizziness and skin discoloration.  Certain types of medication can be dangerous to women who are pregnant or children under a certain age, so individuals should report any possible conditions to their physician prior to accepting a prescription.

As with any medication, there are often risks and benefits of it’s use.  The best way to learn of these is to speak with a physician, ask about any potential side effects and completely disclose your current medical condition and any medications that you are currently taking.  In some instances, medications may negatively react with one another and this can be very dangerous to the patient.  Acne medicine is no different and the patient should have a complete understanding of how it operates before using it.

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only.  It should not be considered as, or used in place of, medical advice or professional recommendations for the cause, diagnosis or treatment of acne.  If necessary, individuals should consult a medical doctor or dermatologist for information regarding the use of acne medication or other effective treatment methods.

Acne Causes and Treatment

Acne is one of the most common skin problems affecting people worldwide.  A big misconception is that acne affects only teenagers, but many are surprised to learn that adults also suffer from this same inconvenience.  Among the many causes are clogged pores resulting from makeup, everyday air particles and often a simple case of hormonal changes.  While acne is a part of life for many individuals, it can be effectively treated.

One of the best natural remedies for acne is to wash your face at least twice on a daily basis.  Early in the morning and late at night are both good times to cleanse the face.  A moisturizing soap will be the most gentle for your skin whereas others with a harsh ingredient may strip the skin of it’s natural moisture and may even cause itching and/or redness.

Many people choose to use retail acne treatment products, which can be effective if used properly.  It is very important, however, that consumers read and understand the instructions and/or warning labels found in the packaging.  All acne treatment creams, pads or face wash products should be kept away from the eyes and are for external use only.  This is not only true of retail products, but prescribed medications as well.

For a recurring or severe case of acne, many sufferers turn to a dermatologist for a more aggressive treatment.  In most cases, a prescribed routine and medication can help to treat acne.  In most cases, a follow-up visit will be scheduled so that the doctor may monitor the patient’s progress and determine whether additional steps should be taken to treat the problem.

It is very important to avoid aggravating, or disrupting, any and all acne blemishes.  Otherwise, the sufferer will face a possible bacterial infection from dirt and/or germs that may reside underneath the fingernail.  Many believe that just because their fingernails appear clean, there is nothing to worry about.  That’s simply not true.  There are many germs and bacteria, which are not visible to the naked eye, that reside underneath the fingernail.  This is why an acne sufferer should avoid any direct contact between their hand and the blemish area(s).

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only.  It should not be considered as, or used in place of, medical advice or professional recommendations for acne diagnosis and/or treatment.  If necessary, acne sufferers should consult a dermatologist or qualified physician for acne treatment.

Acne Advice For People Wanting Blemish Free Skin

Acne is a disorder of the skin that affects adults as well as teens. It occurs when follicles, or pores, become blocked. Oils, naturally present in skin, are unable to drain and become blocked inside the follicles. Before long bacteria begins to grow.

Skin blemishes referred to as blackheads and whiteheads then begin to appear. When the oil and bacteria that is trapped remain below the skin, the blemish is referred to as a whitehead. A blackhead occurs when the oil and bacteria are partially exposed. The color of the blemish turns black due to pigmentation within the skin. Blackheads usually last far longer than whiteheads due to the fact that it takes longer to drain.

It is believed that hormones, diet, stress and vitamin deficiency may play a role in the development of acne. While acne includes both whiteheads and blackheads, there are a variety of types of acne that range in severity.

Acne Vulgaris is the most common form of acne and includes everything from whiteheads and blackheads to cysts. Acne Vulgaris may be either mild or moderate as well as severe. The mild and moderate forms of Acne Vulgaris include common pimples with inflammation apparent below the surface of the skin as well as blackheads. Small red bumps that have no ‘head’ may also be present and are known as papules.

Acne Vulgaris in its most severe form includes lesions that are known as nodules and cysts. These are normally much larger than mild or moderate acne and may be more painful. Nodules are usually small and hard, below the skin and do not contain pus while cysts do. Scars can appear if Acne Vulgaris is not treated correctly.

A gentle cleanser and a benzoyl peroxide cream can be effective in treating mild to moderate forms of Acne Vulgaris. Avoid overwashing; gently cleansing the face in the morning and at night should be sufficient. Taking care not to touch your face during the day and using oil free cosmetics may also help. Extreme caution should be used in trying to ‘pop’ pimples, as this can result in scarring. Papules (small red bumps with no head) should never be popped or squeezed.

Acne Rosacea can easily be confused with Acne Vulgaris and often appears to be quite similar. Most people who suffer from Acne Rosacea are adults over the age of 30. A red rash along with bumps and pimples signal the presence of Acne Rosacea, which normally appears on cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Blackheads are normally not present with Acne Rosacea. This type of acne can be quite serious because when it is left untreated it can actually cause excessive tissue to begin growing.

There are three types of extremely severe acne; all of which can be disfiguring. Acne Conglobata usually appears in men instead of women. It is commonly found on the trunk and limbs of the body instead of the face. Individuals normally develop this form of acne at some point between the ages of 18 and 30. It can remain active for several years and can be extremely difficult to treat. Dermatologists normally use Accutane as a treatment.

Young men sometimes experience what is known as Acne Fulminans. Typical acne may be accompanied by fever and aching joints with the onset of Acne Fulminans. Oral steroids as well as Accutane may be used to treat this form of acne.

Women between the ages of 20 and 40 may experience what is known as Pyoderma Faciale. This type of acne is generally confined to the face. Unlike other forms of acne, this form does not last for years; instead its presence is normally restricted to a year or less. It can, however; be very painful as well as disfiguring.

An excellent source for quality articles on acne treatments is http://www.acne.lifestyle-health-news.com

Severe and extremely severe acne should be treated by a dermatologist.