About Breakouts

Breakout Myths

Breakouts are the most widespread skin condition in the world - yet there are still many misconceptions clouding public awareness about them. These ‘myths’ are passed down from a friend or family member... reinforced by advertising... even published in magazines. Following are some of the most common myths... use this list to test your knowledge. Because the more you know about breakouts, the more you can do to address them.

Breakouts are Caused by Dirt

Breakouts are caused by a number of factors - but dirt isn't one of them. Blemishes form when dead skin cells mix with your body's natural oil, forming a plug in your pores. This has nothing to do with dirt, so frequent washing of your face or body (more than twice a day) will not make your breakouts better. Overwashing or stripping with alcohol in an effort to ‘clean’ your skin can actually make blemishes worse.

Certain Foods Cause Breakouts

No, those chips you had yesterday didn't give you new blemishes today. In fact, scientists have been unable to find ANY substantial connection between diet and breakouts. So all the foods you've been afraid of - pizza, chips, chocolate - are fine. Enjoy a balanced diet, but don't be afraid to indulge every now and then.

Breakouts are for Teenagers

Unfortunately, breakouts can strike at any age. Over 85% of all people aged 12-24 have breakouts. Breakouts can also start as late as our 20s or 30s... especially in women, whose hormones are constantly fluctuating. It's estimated that one in four adults between the ages of 25 and 44 experiences breakouts, and nearly half of all adult women experience mild to moderate blemishes.

Just Leave Your Blemishes Alone - You'll Grow Out of Them

Ignoring blemishes can leave permanent physical and emotional scars. No matter how old you are, it's important to start dealing with breakouts early. And the best way to manage breakouts and blemishes is to prevent them from appearing in the first place.

Breakouts are Just a Cosmetic Condition - It's No Big Deal

Yes, breakouts do affect the way people look - it's not a serious threat to a person's physical health. But it can also affect the way you feel about yourself and the world around you, causing low self-esteem. Don't let anyone discourage you from seeking help because your breakouts are just ‘a little problem’.

Sun Exposure Helps Breakouts

Wrong... the "Bronze Age" is over! While small amounts of sun exposure may initially improve blemishes, continuous sunbathing often increases plugging of the pores - producing comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) and small blemishes. Ultimately, the risks of sun exposure outweigh its minimal benefits.

Breakouts are Curable

Not yet... but don't lose hope. You can help prevent breakouts with continued daily use of products, such as Proactiv® Solution, which contain effective ingredients. And remember this: even if your blemishes go away, your breakouts are not cured. It's important to be diligent about your skincare plan, even after your skin is clear.