Keeping acne under control can be a challenge for teenage and adult acne sufferers alike, and the constant flare-ups, skin discoloration and overall discomfort often has both emotional and physical side effects. Getting rid of acne completely often requires a rigorous treatment program – and dermatologist intervention – but over-the-counter beauty products and media advertisements can easily make you think otherwise.   

Magazines instruct acne sufferers to ‘watch the diet and drink more water’ while marketers promote the latest quick fix acne formula.  Unfortunately, many of these strategies are simply a myth – and one that you may also believe.   

Here are just five myths on how to get rid of acne – and some real solutions that can help restore the skin to good health:  

Myth #1: Get Rid of Acne by Cleansing More Often

Keeping the skin clear of oil, toxin buildup and dirt is a necessary part of every skincare regiment, but cleansing the skin more than twice per day can aggravate and dry out the top layer. This may encourage more frequent acne breakouts, and make it difficult for the skin to heal and restore itself naturally.

Solution: Maintain a healthy skincare regiment that involves cleansing with a dermatologist-approved cleanser once or twice per day. Avoid quick-fix acne ‘solutions’ available over the counter that can easily dry out the skin and even lead to skin inflammation.  

Myth #2: Get Rid of Acne by Staying Out of the Sun

While excessive sun exposure is harmful to any type of skin, keeping the skin healthy may require picking up a tan. Sunlight is a valuable source of Vitamin D which is essential for healthy insulin secretion, blood pressure regulation and warding off diseases such as Alzheimer’s and some types of cancer (Source:algaecal.com). Acne inflammation may be reduced after exposure to the sun, and will help the skin stay healthy overall.  

Solution: Using an SPF-infused moisturizer before heading outdoors will protect the skin and reduce the risk of skin cancer. Add frequent sun exposure to a skin maintenance plan and keep skin healthy.  

Myth #3:  Get Rid of Acne with a Facial Toner

Facial toners often contain a high concentration of alcohol, and while these can help remove bacteria buildup and toxins from the top layer of skin, they cannot go deeper into the skin’s layers – the areas where most acne inflammation occurs. Using excessive amounts of facial toner often aggravates and dries out the skin, and may trigger even more inflammation as a result.

Solution: Use only a medicated toner recommended by your dermatologist, and avoid applying toner to aggravated skin. Help skin calm down with facial rejuvenation treatments such as Intense Pulsed Light or a Chemical Peel.  

Myth #4: Get Rid of Acne with a Healthy Diet

Nutritionists and beauty experts continue to tout the benefits of a healthy diet and its effects on the skin, but acne cannot simply be ‘cured’ with food. Eating well can improve healthy functioning of the glands, organs and even promotes healthy blood circulation, but nutrients themselves won’t be able to correct internal skin problems.   

Solution: Maintaining a healthy diet can keep skin cells functioning at a healthy level and prevent hormone imbalances that can trigger an acne outbreak. Eating a wide variety of foods including fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains can keep the body – and skin - in balance.  

Myth #5: Get Rid of Acne by Reducing Stress

Stress may trigger high blood pressure that increases circulation, but this does not cause an acne breakout itself. Acne can become aggravated from the increased circulation, but in some cases, this may be a valuable process for healing. It’s important to note that some stress-reducing drugs can cause skin inflammation and acne, so it’s best to consult with a doctor about potential damage to the skin before starting a treatment program.  

Solution: Keeping skin strong and resilient with facial rejuvenation treatments can keep skin strong and make it less prone to acne. Daily stressors are less likely to affect your complexion when your skin is healthy and resilient.  

Acne is a common skin condition that affects millions of men and women of all ages, but there are several ways to keep the skin healthy. Avoid these common skin myths so you can help the skin heal and maintain a vibrant and healthier look. Learn more about acne treatments in our information guide, or consult with a dermatologist in your area to develop a healthy skincare regiment.