You may have heard that drinking soda or eating chocolate and junk food will give you acne, but these are only myths. Your diet does not play a role in acne, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Hormones and hygiene is the culprit of acne. If acne is a concern for you, talk to your primary care physician or dermatologist about the best treatment options for your acne.
CLAIMS
The AAD does recognize the fact that there have been multiple studies in regards to diet and acne, and the fact that a few researchers disagree. Some researchers believe that milk may cause acne, while others believe our Western diet causes acne due to the large amount of carbohydrates that Americans consume. The theory behind cow's milk is that milk from pregnant cows has more hormones in it than when it comes from a non-pregnant cow. The researchers who believe the Western diet causes acne hypothesize that eating a low-glycemic diet, consisting of fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, helps the body use insulin more efficiently. These researchers link the use of insulin and oily skin, but more research is needed to prove this theory.
CAUSES
Since you know that diet doesn't affect acne, you may wonder why you suffer from acne. The answer could be a few things. Hormones can play a major role in acne---even when you're an adult. Hormones stimulate sebaceous glands, or oil glands. When your oil glands are stimulated by hormones, they can become overactive, which can lead to clogged pores and acne. Hygiene plays a role because if you don't cleanse your face often enough, dead skin cells can build up, along with excess oil, and contribute to more acne.
TREATMENT
Cleansing your skin with lukewarm water and a mild cleanser can help remove dead skin cells and excess oil to keep your pores clear. Do not use abrasive or harsh cleansers because they can aggravate acne and worsen it. Avoid wearing makeup and be sure to keep gel or hairspray away from your skin as much as possible, as they can contribute to acne. If you suffer from body acne, such as on your back or chest, wear clothes that fit properly and aren't too tight. Cotton clothes allow your skin to breathe more than polyester, rayon or nylon.
CONSIDERATIONS
Not all treatments will work for everyone. Experiment with different cleansers. Different cleansers are formulated with various active ingredients; stick with the one that works best for you. Over-the-counter cleansers or acne products may not be strong enough. If you suffer from persistent acne, your doctor may prescribe something that's stronger to help clear your acne.
Posted in: Skin Care