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To help you achieve a healthier relationship with your skin, Dermatology Specialist Dr. Myrna El Shareef busts common myths about acne.
18 December 2023
| Last updated on 8 January 2024
Acne vulgaris is a very common skin condition that can be very frustrating to patients.
"So I find it important to clarify 6 common acne-related myths that I often get asked about in the clinic," said Dr. Myrna El Shareef, Dermatology Specialist at Mediclinic Al Sufouh.
Myth 1: Acne vulgaris is a problem that only affects teenagers.
While acne is most commonly linked to the changes in hormone levels during puberty, it can start at any age. Some patients continue to get acne well into their 30s, 40s, and even 50s. And what we call adult-onset acne is most common in women going through menopause.
Myth 2: Acne is caused by having dirty skin and poor hygiene, and cleaning the face is adequate treatment.
There is enough scientific evidence to show that air pollution can aggravate acne. But the major triggers of acne are usually internal, and thus over-washing/ over-cleaning the face won’t help. This might actually worsen the skin condition. Acne needs proper treatment with the medications that are most suitable for the particular patient.
Myth 3: I can eat whatever I want, it has nothing to do with acne.
Several studies have shown that foods that raise your blood sugar quickly, or what we call high-glycemic foods, can increase the inflammation in the body and subsequently worsen acne. Examples of such foods are white bread, corn flakes, potato chips, French fries, doughnuts or other pastries, sugary drinks such as milkshakes and sodas, and white rice. Cow’s milk consumption can also worsens acne in some patients.
"So following a low glycemic-index diet based on foods such as green vegetables, most fruits, raw carrots, kidney beans, chickpeas and lentils, may help reduce the incidence and severity of acne breakouts," added Dr. Myrna.
Myth 4: Vitamin D and acne vulgaris are not related.
Emerging evidence suggests that people with acne vulgaris are more likely to have vitamin D deficiency. And some studies suggest that vitamin D deficiency may be correlated with acne vulgaris severity. So it would be a good idea to get your vitamin D level tested if you’re struggling with acne vulgaris.
Myth 5: All makeup products are created equal. I can just choose a makeup brand I prefer to cover my acne.
When it comes to makeup, or any product applied on the face, it is important to choose the products that are most suited for your skin type, regardless of the preferred brand. Acne patients need to choose products with one of the following descriptions:
- Oil free
- For acne-prone skin
- Non-comedogenic
Applying the wrong makeup products to cover the blemishes may block the pores and exacerbate the acne resulting in the patient entering a vicious cycle of having acne and covering it.
Myth 6: Once I finish the treatment that my dermatologist prescribed I can stop it and be done with acne.
If the acne triggers persist, then the acne will definitely recur after finishing the prescribed treatment. Therefore, maintenance is important. Consult your dermatologist to devise the best treatment and maintenance plans for your specific condition.
By Dr. Myrna El Shareef, Dermatology Specialist at Mediclinic Al Sufouh.
Concerned about acne vulgaris? Book your consultation below at Mediclinic Al Sufouh.
Dr. Myrna El Shareef
Dermatology Specialist
Mediclinic Al Sufouh, Dubai
