Acne is the most common skin condition, so it is not surprising that there are many misconceptions about the causes and treatment of pimples. Here are typical misconceptions about pimples and blackheads.
Misconception number 1: Wash your face frequently.
The face should be washed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Washing too often irritates the skin and clogs the pores. Washing with a flannel can also irritate the skin and bring bacteria into the pores.
Misconception number 2: Blackheads are caused by impurities.
Blackheads are not dirt, but an oily substance mixed with dead skin cells. Washing alone will not make them disappear. Blackheads must be treated with special skin products.
Misconception number 3: Sun dries out spots.
Sunbathing for hours dries out the skin, but not the pimples. Sun cream that is not specifically for the face and décolleté can also clog pores and cause spots. Going out in the sun unprotected, on the other hand, damages the skin. As a general rule, you should not be exposed to the sun for more than 30 minutes at a time and avoid the midday sun.
Misconception number 4: Squeezing pimples heals them faster.
Squeezing the pimples spreads the bacteria that caused them to other pores and leads to inflammation and swelling. In worse cases, scars remain.
Misconception number 5: Chocolate and crisps cause spots.
There is no evidence that chocolate and potato crisps are directly responsible for the development of spots. You should only eat junk food in moderation because it is generally not healthy.
Misconception number 6: Make-up causes spots.
Although make-up primer can clog pores and cause pimples in some cases, products labelled as non-pore-clogging (noncomedogenic) contain antiseptic substances that help against pimples.
Misconception number 7: Use acne medication liberally.
Too much treatment of the skin leads to increased irritation and dries out the skin. Anti-acne products should be used exactly according to the package instructions and in moderation.
