One of the most common skin disorders, acne affects people of all ages, but it is most prevalent in teenagers and young adults. Despite its prevalence, acne remains widely misunderstood. From blaming chocolate to over-washing your face, countless myths surround this skin condition. At Skin Health Centre Chennai, we believe that education is key to proper skincare.
In this blog, our experienced dermatologists reveal the Top 5 Acne Myths and explain the truth behind them—so you can take the right steps toward healthier skin.
Myth 1: Only Teenagers Get Acne
Reality: Acne can affect anyone, regardless of age.
Although hormonal changes during puberty make acne more prevalent, teens are not the only affected population. Many adults experience acne in their 20s, 30s, or even 40s due to factors like hormonal imbalance, stress & even certain medications.
At Skin Health Centre, we treat patients with acne across age groups, offering customised treatment plans.
Myth 2: Eating Chocolate or Greasy Food Causes Acne
Reality: Diet plays a role, but it’s not that simple.
It’s a popular belief that chocolate, oily foods, or fried snacks cause acne. The truth is no single food directly causes acne, though some foods may influence hormone levels or inflammation in the body.
Refined carbohydrates (like white bread or sugary drinks) and dairy might worsen acne in some people, but that doesn’t mean everyone will react the same way. Moderation and a balanced diet are more important than cutting out chocolate altogether.
Our dermatologists at Skin Health Centre Chennai assess your skin condition and lifestyle to identify real dietary triggers if any.
Myth 3: Washing Your Face Frequently Prevents Acne
Reality: Over-washing can irritate your skin and worsen acne.
It’s essential to keep your face clean, but washing it too often or using harsh cleansers can strip the skin of its natural oils. This can trigger the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, making acne worse.
We recommend washing your face twice a day with a gentle, dermatologist-approved cleanser. Over-scrubbing or using alcohol-based products will likely do more harm than good.
Skin Health Centre offers personalised skincare routines based on your skin type and acne severity, ensuring you don’t overdo it.
Myth 4: Sun Exposure Clears Up Acne
Reality: Tanning might temporarily dry pimples, but it damages your skin.
Sun exposure is thought to “dry out” acne, according to some people. While it may appear to reduce inflammation in the short term, UV rays actually damage your skin, cause premature aging, and increase the risk of skin cancer.
Moreover, excessive sun exposure can trigger post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin tones, making acne scars more visible.
At Skin Health Centre Chennai, we recommend using non-comedogenic sunscreens daily—even on cloudy days—to protect your skin while treating acne.
Myth 5: You Can Cure Acne with Over-the-Counter Products Alone
Reality: OTC products help mild cases, but stubborn acne needs expert care.
While over-the-counter products like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide can help mild acne, they may not be effective for moderate to severe breakouts and if used incorrectly may aggravate the damage. Acne is a medical condition, and it requires professional dermatological treatment.
Delaying a visit to a dermatologist can lead to scarring, pigmentation, contributing further to emotional stress. At Skin Health Centre, our team creates customised treatment plans that may include:
- Prescription topical &/or oral medications
- Chemical peels
- Laser therapy
- Acne scar management
- Holistic lifestyle recommendations including diet and exercise
How Skin Health Centre Chennai Can Help
As a leading skincare clinic in Chennai, Skin Health Centre combines medical expertise with the latest technology to deliver long-lasting results. Our board-certified dermatologists are highly experienced in:
- Identifying and treating the various forms of acne, such as cystic acne, comedonal acne, truncal acne.
- Helping prevent and reduce acne scars
- Providing comprehensive skin care by assessing hormones, stress, and food
We take a patient-first approach, educating clients about what works and what doesn’t.
✨ Acne Care Tips from Dermatologists
Want to keep your acne under control? Follow these expert tips from the Skin Health Centre team:
- Be consistent with your skincare routine.
- Don’t pick or squeeze your pimples—it causes scarring.
- Use oil-free, non-comedogenic products (makeup and moisturisers).
- Manage stress through yoga, meditation, hobbies.
- Stay hydrated and get 7–8 hours of sleep.
- Never self-medicate without professional advice.
Poor skin habits, postponed treatment, and even permanent scars might result from misinformation. Now that we’ve debunked these top 5 acne myths, we hope you’re better equipped to take the right steps toward clear, healthy skin.
If you’re struggling with persistent breakouts, don’t rely on social media trends or non-medical skincare advice. Visit Skin Health Centre Chennai, where trusted dermatologists provide evidence-based treatments tailored to your skin.