Common Myths on Pimple Treatment

Have you ever so damp your face more than two times a day to clear up your own skin? Do you ward off chocolate and oily foods in the hopes that when you look in the mirror, you won’t see another blemish? Have you ever drank more H2O, or avoided or increased your exercise to prevent acne flare-ups? If you did answer yes to any of the above questions, you are not alone.

Pimple is one of the most common skin troubles affecting nearly 86 % of all people. While the variety of working pimple treatments continues to grow, so does the number of myths on how to moderate the condition.

“Although new acne treatments are developed each day, a remedy for pimple has not yet been discovered. As such, many patients choose to selftreat or try out with unconventional treatments,” stated by a doctor. “Yet many of these treatments are based on anecdotal observances and haven't been rigorously proven by Science. The survey points that these myths are still affecting how patients care for their acne.”

Myth: Bad Hygiene Worsens Pimples

The relationship between face washing and pimples has always been greatly misinterpreted, with most people believing that dirt and poor hygiene contributes to pimple or acne. In fact, a recent study conducted at Stanford University asked players about what they thought made their pimple problem worsen, and the majority, 92 %, mentioned poor hygienics. “If a patient believes that dirty skin causes pimple, they logically reason out that washing their face more often will improve their pimple,” said by a doctor. “But skin doctors caution patients against washing too much, as the resulting irritation can worsen their acne.”

To determine the technological validity of this myth, the effects of face washing acne were recently studied at Stanford University. A group of twenty-four males washed their faces twice a day for two weeks using a mild over-the-counter facial cleanser. Then the participants were randomly selected to wash their faces either once, twice or four times a day for another 6 weeks. The study found that washing the face either once, twice or four times daily did not significantly change the appearance or condition of acne, and determined that the positive effects of increased facial cleansing are minimal at best. dermatologists continue to recommend washing the face twice daily to conserve good overall skin health.

Myths: Exercise Can Clear Pimples or Worsen Pimples?

The relationship between pimples and exercise continues to show high levels of individual variability. Some believe that exercise and sweating can help clean out the pores, specially on the chest and back; while others note that their skin worsens when they exercise, especially those who use special equipment that rubs against their skin.

In another study conducted at Stanford University of patients with acne specifically pimples , it was determined that exercise-induced sweat does not have a significant positive or negative influence on pimple of the chest and back. Twenty-three male participants were assigned to three groups: no exercise, regular exercise
followed by immediate showering and regular exercise followed by delayed showering. The number of pimple lesions on the chest and back were counted over a two week period and no difference was noted between the three groups. “Based on the finding of this study, regular exercise can be encouraged for patients with pimple,” stated Dr. Boer Kimball. “But they should avoid tight-fitting clothing and equipment. If tight-fitting equipment is required, it should be cleaned on a regular basis.”

Other Pimple Myths

While misconceptions about facial hygienics and exercise are still the most commonly accepted pimple beliefs, the Stanford survey also found that respondents believed that poor diet and decreased sleep can negatively affect pimple. In addition, more than 80 % of players believed that raised stress, touching the face and popping pimples exacerbated the condition. Among male and female participants, the only differences noted were that more females believed that increased stress could worsen acne and that drinking more water would improve the quality of their skin. The study also found that some beliefs that were previously popular about pimples were no longer viewed as true, including the idea that tanning improves the appearance of pimples.

“What this survey and these studies have shown is that essential differences still exist between popular belief and scientific support, yet this doesn't change the way patients attempt to care for their acne,” stated by a doctor. “It is important for anyone who is affected by acne to seek the help of a dermatologist who can diagnose and provide treatment choices that are specific to the patient’s skin type to effectively address the condition or status.”

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the biggest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatological associations. With more than 14,000 physicians members worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating tight criteria in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.