Myth #5

MYTH 5 - THE MORE YOU WASH YOUR FACE, THE LESS ACNE YOU'LL HAVE

If acne is not caused by dirt, it stands to reason that acne cannot be simply washed away.  The makers of abrasive acne scrubs would have patients/clients believe that a harsh wash is a treatment for acne, a concept that is not supported by studies.  A study that compared an abrasive cleanser with the same cleansing agent without the abrasive granules for acne found the two treatments equal in effect.  Of course, this is not to suggest to patients/clients that washes cannot help acne, as those with ingredients such as benzoyl peroxide, salicyclic acid and sulfur compounds can help to abate acne, most specifically on the face.  The key washing myths to debunk are (1) that plains soap and water improve acne;  (2) that abrasive cleansers help acne;  (3) that constant washing - even using the right products - helps decrease acne.  In fact, irritation from the interaction between harsh cleansers and topical retinoids may decrease compliance.