Acne is a dermatological term that includes clogged pores, pimples and lumps or cysts that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders, and upper arms.
It does not just affect teenagers, although it is more common amongst them, older males and females can be affected too.

The more severe cases can leave permanent scars on affected areas.

Here are some myths that you may or may not have heard:-

Poor hygiene. It does not matter how often you scrub your face and other areas affected by acne. This has no bearing on either the status or current breakout of, or the creation of, new problems. In fact, this rigorous regimen of washing and scrubbing can actually irritate skin and make the acne worse; not improve it. It does not matter whether you wash your face or not, acne is not caused by the lack of soap and water.

Diet. Greasy food and chocolate do not cause spots. Extensive scientific research has been conducted, searching for a link between diet and a possible cause of acne, and have not found anything conclusive. However, some people have noticed that they have an outbreak of acne when they eat or drink certain foods or liquids. If you find that you are more susceptible to an outbreak of acne after eating a certain food or drinking a certain drink, reduce your intake and see if it helps.

Stress. When we are stressed we produce a hormone called cortisol which can irritate acne. So, too can some medications that we take to help us control emotional stresses like depression.

It will go away on its own. It is a dermatological condition and will not disappear on its own.

Tanning clears the skin. It dries out the acne spots and can actually cause more acne. Dry skin from sunbathing can cause itching. When you scratch, the germs under your finger nails will be spread to other parts of your body. Also, choose a sun cream that does not contain oils as these can irritate your skin.

Only adolescents get acne. 25% of 25 to 44 year olds encounter acne at some point in their lives.

This is by no means an extensive list. I have only given you the most common myths. If you have a look on the Internet you will find a few more.

Researchers now believe that the tendency to develop acne comes from our genes. In studies by scientists, a connection has been found between those currently suffering from acne and their family history.. It has been stated that acne is not an inherited disease, at least not in medical terms. However, it is true that it is more common in children born to sufferers of acne. Other cases are caused by cosmetics, medication, the environment, pressure or friction from headgear or clothing.

There are several different types of acne, and varying from mild to aggressive. The milder forms can be managed by using natural or over the counter remedies. For the more aggressive forms, you will need to seek advice from your General Practitioner. The best advice is to establish a routine and stick to it. Do not deviate from your routine unless you get results that improve your condition.

Finally, a myth is something that is widely believed to be true but is actually false. Always seek further advice before acting on them.

Dawn Robertshaw has written numerous articles and ebooks on coping with life in the 21st century. For more free articles, tips, advice and a range of health and relationship targeted information products in written and audio form for immediate download visit us at http://www.InThe21stCentury.com