Myths About Pimples

Myths about acne abound.

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Acne is the most common skin condition in the world, so there is no wonder there is so much talk about what causes it and how to treat it. Science has verified some information as fact. However, other information, repeated often enough, has given rise to myths. Especially if you or a loved one is trying to manage acne pimples, it’s important to separate the myths from the facts.

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Wash your face gently with your hands, and do so at most twice a day. Myth has it that washing your face many times throughout the day will help clear up acne pimples. Actually, frequent washing may irritate your pores and clog them -- and a washcloth may irritate your skin even more.

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Treat blackheads with medicine, not by washing only. Some myths suggest that acne is caused by poor hygiene. In fact, blackheads are not “dirt.” They are a mixture of sebum, which is the oily substance that mixes with dead skin cells to cause acne. You cannot get rid of them by washing alone.

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Spend no more than 20 minutes per day in the sun if you have light skin and no more than 30 minutes per day if you have darker skin, and always protect your skin with a sunscreen. Contrary to what some people think, overexposure to the sun will not "dry up" pimples; it will create skin damage.

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Abstain from popping or bursting pimples with your fingers or a pin. Myth has it that popping pimples is the most effective way to treat them. In reality, popping pimples may cause pain, redness and swelling, and spread the bacteria that caused them in the first place. Worse, it can lead to scarring.

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Eat chocolate and potato chips in moderation, as there is no proof that they directly cause acne pimples. Use moderation because junk food isn’t good for anyone’s diet.

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Apply makeup in moderation and in confidence, for it does not cause acne. While it’s true that some makeup can clog the pores, using those labeled “noncomedogenic" may actually include acne-fighting ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

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