Chocolate Causes Acne Breakouts
Many people limit their consumption of chocolate, or avoid it altogether, fearing it will lead to an acne breakout. While certain studies have linked high-sugar, high-fat diets to an increase in skin oil production (sebum), there’s no direct evidence suggesting that chocolate causes acne. “There is little evidence that chocolate or any specific fatty foods will cause acne,” said Dr. Ava Shambanbut, a professional dermatologist working in the Los Angeles area. So go ahead and indulge yourself with a piece of that chocolate bar you’ve been eying in the pantry.
Acne Only Affects Teenagers
Wouldn’t it be great (for adults, at least) if acne only affected teenagers? While teenagers have a higher chance of developing pimples and skin blemishes, adults aren’t immune from this condition either. Both men and women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s may still develop acne. Acne typically manifests itself differently in adults, creating pinkish-reddish nodules in select locations as opposed to highly visible whiteheads and blackheads.
Sun Exposure Cures Acne
This is yet another myth that needs to be laid to rest. Basking under the hot summer sun may create the appearance of improved skin and less acne, but looks can be deceiving. The sun’s powerful ultraviolet rays will turn your skin a darker tone, which subsequently masks the redness caused by acne. The acne will remain on your face; it’s just concealed somewhat by the sun.
Of course, long-term sun exposure can lead to a wide variety of other problems, such as the creation of cell-damaging free radicals, fine lines, wrinkles, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Don’t be fooled by this myth. Protect your skin and health from the damaging effects of sun exposure by wearing a high-SPF sunscreen lotion when staying outdoors for 30 minutes or longer at a time.
Need a Pimple Removed? Try Popping It.
When you wake up in the morning with an unsightly pimple, avoid the temptation of popping it. Doing so will push the bacteria deeper into the skin while creating an open sore that’s prone to infection. A normal pimple may heal within 3-4 days, but popping, prodding or otherwise messing with it could prolong this amount to 7 or more days.
It’s important to note that even special pimple-popping tools, such as blackhead extractors, are equally as bad. Infomercials and online advertisements often make these tools appealing to regular acne sufferers, but it reality they will only make your acne worse.
