7 Things That Definitely Don't Cause Acne ...

Dirty Skin • Stress • Sunscreen • Skin Bacteria • Make-up • More ...

By Eliza • Sep 3, 2014 MD

If you suffer from frequent breakouts, you’ve probably gotten tons of advice, but I’m here to share with you some of the things that don’t cause acne. You might have heard that certain things you’re doing or eating are contributing to the problem, but some of them are myths and nothing to worry about. However, if you do get acne, it’s a good idea to talk to a dermatologist about appropriate treatments which can clear up your skin and make you feel more comfortable. So, check out these things that don’t cause acne and you can go ahead and rule them out as the cause of the condition.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Want more like this? Subscribe for personalized picks.

Successfully subscribed.

Check your inbox for personalized content.

1. Dirty Skin

Many people make the mistake of thinking that excess oil is dirty, but among the things that don’t cause acne is getting dirty. When your skin gets extra oily, you might naturally assume you should wash more. That can actually make acne worse by drying out your skin. The experts suggest washing once or twice daily. That is sufficient to clear your pores and even if your face gets dirty, you aren’t going to wake up to a face full of pimples.

2. Stress

According to medical experts, there is no proof that stress leads to breakouts. Stress can increase the oil production on your skin however, stress itself isn’t likely the trigger. But if you rub or wipe your face with your hands or pick at your skin when you’re stressed, you might notice more acne during that time. Try relaxation techniques to keep stress under control.

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Want more like this? Subscribe for personalized picks.

Successfully subscribed.

Check your inbox for personalized content.

3. Sunscreen

If you have sensitive skin, you must be careful which sunscreen you choose, but if you find the right one, it shouldn’t bother your skin at all. Some types of sunscreen might contain ingredients that bother your skin, but it’s not the actual sunscreen that is causing the issue. Plus, it’s never a good idea to get too much sun without sunscreen because then you run the risk of sunburn and ultimately skin cancer.

4. Skin Bacteria

You might be wondering how this could possibly be true. Yes, bacteria can cause acne, but it isn’t the kind on the surface of your skin. It’s the bacteria that has worked its way into your pores that can lead to a breakout. So simply touching your face with dirty hands isn’t going to be result in an immediate pimple. But again, washing once or twice a day is enough to clear that bacteria away and keep your pores clear.

5. Make-up

Yes, some ingredients in make-up can certainly contribute to acne, but it’s not the make-up itself. Even if you’re prone to acne, you can still wear make-up products by making sure you choose items that are non-comodogenic, which means they are free of ingredients that clog your pores and cause breakouts.

6. Chocolate

You’ve probably heard the myth that eating a lot of chocolate leads to acne. Well, good news chocolate lovers! That simply isn’t true. The myth originated after a couple of research studies found a link between dairy and acne. In subsequent trials, the results couldn’t be substantiated. If you worry about dairy and acne, try varieties that don’t have any milk in them, such as dark chocolate.

7. Junk Food

While we’re on the subject of food, it bears mentioning that other types of junk food won’t cause acne either. That includes soda and potato chips, both of which have been blamed for breakouts in the past. However, healthy skin is dependent on a well-balanced and healthy meal plan so you can’t live on junk food and expect to have a clear, clean complexion.

The causes of acne vary from person to person, which is why it’s a good idea to see a doctor to find out the triggers that cause yours. In the meantime, do you have any other tips and tricks to add about treating acne?

acne.org

webmd.com

everydayhealth.com

kidshealth.org

Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Want more like this? Subscribe for personalized picks.

Successfully subscribed.

Check your inbox for personalized content.

Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

  • Alley

    2014-09-06T14:20:46.962Z

    This article is completely untrue , I'm an esthetician . I poked holes in everyone of your theories. You should really get expert opinions instead of just posting internet opinions
  • SugarPoww55

    2014-09-03T15:10:49.807Z

    I usually like your articles but you are SO wrong this time!
  • Splashhhh

    2014-09-03T22:14:34.019Z

    it does to me :(
  • Ella

    2014-09-03T14:17:21.891Z

    I'm sorry but I think most of these are very inaccurate
  • Harlea

    2014-09-12T18:42:38.252Z

    some of these are true dark chocolate is suppose to be healthily and make up I know some that cover up and clean it. not saying everything is true just some
  • Aneesa

    2014-09-06T16:39:41.135Z

    This is so not true. All of these things cause acne for many people maybe not you. Don't say something is scientifically proven just because it doesn't happen to yourself
  • Kayla

    2014-09-03T22:41:01.849Z

    This is entirely wrong in my opinion. I've had acne since I was 10 and I know by now that if my skin is dirty I will break out worse. I also know that that chocolate and other sugar foods do make my acne worse. Same with potato chips and salty snacks. Acne is different for everyone,so this article isn't a true fact for many of us! Everyone's skin is different, not one thing is true for all
  • Venus

    2014-09-03T18:30:35.344Z

    Acne is a inflammatory disease. Diet is a HUGE factor.I have had acne for 22 years since I was 9. I have tried everything from Retinol A, antibiotics, birth control, facials, laser light, tanning, microdermabrasion, chemical peels, pro-active, and Accutane. None of it worked. Until, I read Dr. Perricone, MD. that dared me to try eating right for 28 days. It worked in 5! I don't work nor am I getting anything for mentioning this book. Simply try NOT eating breads, sugar, cream cheese etc. For a list of foods NOT to eat look it up online. Don't cheat eat ONLY what they recommend and watch your acne improve in a week.
  • Alba

    2014-09-04T09:45:09.372Z

    You are so wrong, sugar do cause acne.
  • bonbon

    2014-09-04T03:49:13.750Z

    Cocoa might not cause acne, but the sugar that chocolate contains will. My dermatologist told me that bacteria that causes acne loves sweets.
Commenting as
Add allwomenstalk.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Allwomenstalk app icon

Don't Miss the Latest Version

Get the latest stories, save favorites, and share with friends — all in one place.

New Earn badges & level up while you read

Create your profile. Earn badges. Level up your reading.

Join Allwomenstalk to track your streaks, collect badges, and earn XP for the things you already do—reading, sharing, and taking quizzes.

  • 🔥
    Daily streaks with gentle boosts for 3, 7, and 30 days.
  • 🏅
    Collect badges like Reader I–III, Socialite, and Quiz Ace.
  • ⚡️
    Earn XP for reads, deep reads, likes, comments, and shares.

It’s free. Takes 30 seconds. Already have an account? Sign in.

10,000+ badges earned last month

Level

3

Streak

7 🔥

XP420 / 700

Badges

🔥 On a Roll
📖 Reader I
📣 Socialite

Trending products

Other Cool Reads

Related Topics

7 Things That Might Be Causing Sudden Breakouts ..... 7 Ways to Prep Your Skin for Chilly Fall Days ... 7 Skincare Conditions That Affect Your Feet ... how to get tan without damaging skin 7 Tips for Using Konjac on Your Face ... Don't Let These Nasty Environmental Toxins Anywher... 5 Tips to Help You Have the Best Skin of Your Life... 7 Skincare Steps You're Probably Skipping, but Sho... 7 Easy Ways to Determine Your Skin Tone ... wellness mama oil cleansing
Featured article image