High sugar consumption causes acne.
Acne not only affects your appearance, but it can also impact your mood. When it comes to treatment, there are many myths that, instead of helping, can make the situation worse. One of the most common myths is that diet does not affect acne. However, modern science has proven that diet does play a crucial role, especially sugar consumption.
Sugar and its relation to acne
High sugar intake stimulates insulin production, which, in excess, can contribute to the development of acne. As insulin levels rise, sebum production in the skin also increases, which clogs pores and promotes the formation of pimples. Foods with a high glycemic index, such as white bread, sodas, sweets, and beer, are the main culprits of this excess sugar. It is recommended to avoid these foods to reduce the chances of developing acne.
The impact of other foods on the skin
In addition to sugar, some other foods can influence the health of your skin. For example, dairy products, due to the hormones they contain, can increase sebum production, promoting the appearance of pimples. On the other hand, certain foods are beneficial for the skin. Those with a low glycemic index, such as whole wheat bread, cashews, cauliflower, and cucumbers, can help reduce the number of pimples. It is also important to include zinc-rich foods in your diet, such as eggs, meat, mushrooms, fish, and shellfish, which aid in skin recovery. Vitamin A, found in carrots, cabbage, and spinach, also helps in acne healing.
Other common myths about acne
Apart from diet, there are other acne myths that need to be clarified:
Stress does not cause acne, although it can worsen the situation by slowing down the skin's healing process.
Smoking does not cause acne, but it affects skin regeneration, which can make pimples take longer to heal.
Cosmetics do not always worsen acne. If you choose non-comedogenic products and avoid those with oils or alcohol, you can use cosmetics without problems.
Tanning does not help treat acne. In fact, sun exposure can activate sebaceous glands, worsening the skin condition.
Washing your face frequently will not eliminate acne. Acne is not caused by dirt but by pore blockages due to excess sebum. Excessive washing can irritate the skin and make the situation worse.
Toothpaste is not an appropriate acne treatment. While it may temporarily dry out pimples, it can also irritate the skin and cause more breakouts.
Final tips
To treat acne effectively, it’s better to avoid these myths and focus on a balanced diet, choosing foods that promote skin health, and using products specifically designed to treat acne. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding squeezing pimples will also help prevent infections and scars.
