There are a number of misconceptions surrounding acne. However scientific knowledge is slowly getting around to clearing up these acne myths. Even still there are certain acne myths that seem to persist. We have listed some of these myths do you know:

Myth #1 - one myth surrounding acne is that acne is caused by poor hygiene. This myth about hygiene and acne may have come about as a result of certain skin infections that are associated with acne. What we really know is that the mixture of dead cells and sebum trapped beneath the surface of your skin is quite difficult to clean away. However by gently cleaning your skin twice per day with soap and water you will be keeping your skin as healthy as is possible. You want to be careful that you do not scrub your skin too hard as this might make your acne worse.

Myth #2 - another acne myths is that acne is caused by particular foods or that there are foods to help fight acne... that there is a relationship between acne and diet or acne causing foods. Most folks belief that eating chocolate will cause acne breakouts or a breakout of pimples. However we have found that there is no scientific evidence supporting this. Most studies have indicated no significant relationship between eating chocolate and acne. This non-relationship is true of other foods such as potato chips and sugar. It is known however that consuming too much of these foods is not healthy. Do these foods cause acne? We don't think so. Limiting your consumption of these foods is a great idea for your general health however.

Although foods such as chocolate and french fries might not cause acne, there are some foods which may seem to aggravate your acne. We may get in trouble from the dairy producers but there may be a relationship between milk and acne. Also foods that contain high amounts of iodine may also cause pimples. You will find iodine in seafood, so us folks suffering from acne may want to limit our seafood consumption.

Myth #3 - some folks seem to believe that acne must run its course. Today we know that there are many treatments that are available for acne. These treatments include over-the-counter medicine as well as medications that might be prescribed by your dermatologist. So for those folks who may be suffering from the embarrassment and discomfort of acne, please know that they are remedies available.

Myth #4 - lots of people seem to think that acne is only a condition that teenagers experience... so called teen acne. Although it is true that the majority of young folks experience acne, acne can also afflict adults - so called adult acne. We know that acne will most likely clear up by the time you enter your early 20s. But some folks suffer from acne for their very first time when they are in their 30s or 40s.

Myth #5 - there are some people that think that acne in only effects one's appearance. We now know that acne is a condition which can also result in psychological distress. Those folks suffering from severe acne may also suffer from feelings of depression and low self-image. We have found that there is a strong link between having severe acne, acne depression and withdrawing socially.

Myth #6 - unfortunately some people seem to feel that the best way to get rid of pimples is by popping them. We now know that popping your pimples can easily aggravate their acne by spreading the bacteria which causes the acne in the first place. Popping your pimples can also result in acne scars which can be permanent.

Myth #7 - many folks feel that sunbathing will help their acne. Exposing oneself to sun light does have the effect of drying out any excess oils, so in the short term sunbathing may have a beneficial effect. However as the skin quickly becomes used to or accustomed to the sun's exposure, there is no long-term benefit. Excessive exposure to the sun might also result in damage skin and may increase your chances of developing skin cancer.

Myth #8 - it is also commonly believed that makeup work cost that takes will cause acne. While it is true that some cosmetics will clog your pores and be detrimental to the health of your skin, those cosmetics that are labeled "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic" are safe to use. Some brands may even include ingredients which may help to treat your acne.

Myth #9 - there are some people who believe that the more acne medicine they take, the better. Some of us think that if their acne worsens, they should take more medicine. By using too much acne ointments however you may irritate your skin. Oral medicines may be dangerous when taken in quantities larger than prescribed. You want to insure that you follow the labelling directions all on the acne medications.

Myth #10 - Acne is related to sex. There is no evidence for this. There is a link between sexual activity and hormone production, however, but the relationship between sex and the production of sebum (the oily substance which combines with dead skin cells to cause acne) is unclear. Anger and stress also affect hormone levels.