Acne is the most common skin condition in Canada. Acne doesn't always resolve on its own and can cause damaging skin inflammation and discolouration. Importantly, it can also leave lasting scarring on your skin, which can significantly impact one's personal and mental well being.
As many as 50% of individuals turn to the internet or social media as their main source of information for acne treatment. Unfortunately, there's also a lot of misinformation out there that can lead to ineffective or, worse, harmful side effects.
Today, DermCafé is debunking common myths on acne.
At the end of the day, the most important step in your acne treatment is to see a Board Certified Dermatologist to receive evidence-based, safe and effective treatment.
Book an OHIP-covered Dermatology appointment today! dermcafecanada.com/booknow
#1) Acne happens when I don’t cleanse aggressively enough - FALSE
Over-cleansing can actually worsen acne!
Acne is actually caused by:
Activity of male hormones
Increased oil in the skin
Excess dead skin buildup
Overgrowth of P. Acnes bacteria
Skin inflammation
#2) Acne only occurs in teenagers - FALSE
Over 40% of adults (men & women) will experience new or ongoing acne into their 50s or later!
#3) Acne only happens in oily skin! - FALSE
Acne happens in all skin types.
Increased sebum (oil) production is only ONE of many causes of acne!
#4) Oily skin doesn’t need moisturization. And petrolatum/mineral oil/silicone cause acne! - FALSE
Moisturizers are key for protecting the skin barrier and improving tolerability of topical medications
Choose oil-free or water-gel formulations
Research has actually shown that petrolatum/ mineral oil/silicone are all non-comedogenic
#5) Acne is curable and treatments work fast - FALSE
It takes time for acne to form, & treatment will also take time to work
It’s normal for treatment to take months before a noticeable improvement
It’s also normal for acne to flare in the beginning of treatment.
Book an OHIP-covered Dermatology appointment today!