Pimples (Acne): Myth vs. Fact

Pimples, also known as acne, are a common skin condition that affects millions of people worldwide. They occur when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, leading to the formation of small, red, and sometimes painful bumps on the skin. While pimples are most commonly associated with adolescence, they can affect people of all ages and can be a source of embarrassment and discomfort. Understanding the causes, prevention, and treatment of pimples is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing long-term scarring or skin damage.

Myth: Blood purifiers like basil, lemon juice, and beetroot can clear acne and purify the affected regions of the skin.

Fact: Propionibacterium acnes is a bacteria that is behind most cases of acne. It can also be caused due to hormonal imbalance. The purity of blood has no relation to the appearance of pimples.

 

Myth: Recent history of constipation or bad bowel movements can cause acne in a person.

Fact: Even though the correlation between bad bowel movements and pimples has not been explored yet, being overly concerned about the problem can result in stress. Stress is known to aggravate skin conditions, thanks to the stress hormone.

 

Myth: Those people whose bodies tend to run hot are more likely to have a bad case of pimples.

Fact: Body heat may increase due to various reasons like infections, hormonal imbalance, and fevers. This can result in rashes or prickly heat, but it does not cause acne.

 

Myth: Pimples are brought on with the consumption of oily or fried foods.

Fact: Despite no correlation between fried foods and pimples being found, according to many studies, foods with a high glycemic index and dairy products trigger acne.

 

Myth: The face is the only body part where pimples can appear.

Fact: Sebaceous glands play a role in the formation of acne. They exist on the face, back, chest, arms, shoulders, and buttocks, so acne can pop up in any of these places.

 

Myth: Acne is seen only in teenagers.

Fact: Hormonal changes is a major reason behind acne and this makes teenagers the most easily affected group, but even adults suffer from it. Around 50% of women and 25% of men between the age of 25 – 45 years are likely to develop pimples.

 

Myth: Acne is caused by unhygienic practices and dirt on the face.

Fact: The dirt on the skin does not directly cause acne. Lack of hygiene causes the bacteria to enter the existing acne and aggravate the condition to larger boils. This is why it is advised to keep your face clean.

 

Myth: There is no difference between blackheads and acne.

Fact: Acne or pimples are common to men terms for the same condition. Acne can be classified into cysts, blackheads, pustules, nodules, and whiteheads.

 

Myth: Regular facials will keep the skin clear of acne.

Fact: Ironically, facials involve massaging the skin with oils and serums. This can activate the oil glands present in the skin and lead to more pimples. 

 

Myth: When substances like lemon juice, garlic, and toothpaste are applied to pimples, they dry easily.

Fact: Even though home remedies for mild cases of acne can help, they react aggressively when applied directly onto the skin. It can cause redness of the skin, dryness, and itchy sensations while the skin deteriorates.