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Top 10 Common Acne Myths Busted by Dermatologists

A young woman examines cheek blemishes in a mirror, highlighting acne and acne treatment in Charleston, SC.

For anyone who has dealt with stubborn breakouts, treating acne can feel like an endless cycle of trial and error. One week, it’s a new cleanser; the next, it’s a diet trend, and before long, the bathroom shelf is full of half-used products that didn’t deliver on their promises. Add in advice from friends, social media influencers, or “miracle cures” seen online, and it’s no wonder so many people feel overwhelmed.

The problem isn’t a lack of information; it’s too much of the wrong kind. Myths about acne not only lead people down frustrating paths but also cause emotional stress, wasted money, and, in some cases, long-term skin damage. For teens struggling with confidence, adults frustrated by persistent acne, and parents wanting safe solutions for their children, separating fact from fiction is essential.

At Sheperd Integrative Dermatology, we’ve seen firsthand how these misconceptions hold people back from getting the right acne treatment. By addressing the most common causes of acne and debunking myths, you can protect your skin and finally focus on real, effective solutions.

What Is Acne?

Acne is one of the most common skin conditions worldwide, affecting up to 85% of people at some point in their lives. It occurs when oil glands produce excess sebum, which mixes with dead skin cells and clogs pores. Add bacteria into the mix, and inflammation develops, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or deeper cysts.

While acne often begins during puberty, it’s far from a “teen problem.” Adults experience it too, sometimes for the first time in their 30s or 40s. Genetics, hormones, stress, medications, and even environmental factors all play a role. Because the causes are so varied, effective treatment requires a customized approach, not one-size-fits-all “hacks” from the internet.

The Top 10 Acne Myths and the Truth Behind Them

Acne Is Caused by Poor Hygiene

Acne isn’t a sign you’re not washing your face enough. In fact, over-cleansing or using harsh soaps strips the skin’s natural barrier, which can worsen breakouts. Gentle, consistent cleansing is best.

Only Teenagers Get Acne

While puberty is a prime time for acne, adult acne is increasingly common. Hormonal changes, pregnancy, stress, and even certain medications can trigger breakouts long after high school is over.

Sun Exposure Clears Acne

A tan might temporarily disguise redness, but UV rays actually inflame the skin, stimulate oil glands, and worsen pigmentation. Sunscreen is crucial even for acne-prone skin. Look for oil-free, non-comedogenic options.

Chocolate and Greasy Foods Cause Acne

Diet alone doesn’t “cause” acne, but studies suggest high-glycemic foods (like sugary snacks) and dairy worsen breakouts for some. Instead of cutting foods out entirely, focus on balance and observe how your skin responds.

Popping Pimples Helps Them Heal Faster

Tempting as it may be, popping pimples often drives bacteria deeper, leading to more swelling, a longer healing time, and potential scarring. Dermatologists use sterile techniques for safe extractions, something best left to professionals.

Acne Will Go Away on Its Own

Mild acne may fade with age, but for many people, acne is persistent. Without treatment, it can continue for years and leave behind scars. Early treatment is key to minimizing long-term effects.

Makeup Always Makes Acne Worse

The truth is, makeup doesn’t have to cause acne. Non-comedogenic formulas are designed not to clog pores. The real culprit is often failing to remove makeup properly before bed.

Scrubbing Your Skin Gets Rid of Pimples

Scrubbing feels satisfying, but it can irritate and inflame acne-prone skin. Gentle exfoliation with dermatologist-recommended products is safer and far more effective.

Acne Scars Are Permanent

This is one of the most discouraging acne scar myths. With treatments like microneedling, chemical peels, and advanced laser therapies, significant improvement is possible, sometimes dramatic. The earlier the scars are addressed, the better the results.

Over-the-Counter Products Work for Everyone

Drugstore cleansers and creams may help mild breakouts, but persistent or severe acne often requires prescription-strength solutions. Dermatologists can provide personalized acne treatment that goes beyond what OTC products can achieve.

Why Busting These Myths Matters

Believing acne treatment myths doesn’t just waste time and money; it can also impact your self-confidence. Many people delay seeing a dermatologist because they think acne is their fault or that it will simply fade away. The truth is, professional care helps you:

  • Get results faster with evidence-based treatment
  • Prevent long-term damage like acne scars
  • Save money by avoiding ineffective fads and products
  • Improve emotional well-being by restoring confidence in your skin

Who Benefits from Professional Acne Care?

Professional acne treatment is valuable for anyone struggling with breakouts, but certain groups benefit most:

  • Teens and young adults navigating puberty and social pressures
  • Adults with persistent acne frustrated that it didn’t “go away” after high school
  • Parents of teens seeking safe, medically sound care for their children
  • People considering dermatology treatments but are unsure what’s fact vs. myth
  • Skincare enthusiasts who want trusted acne skincare facts, not marketing hype

No matter your age or skin type, there’s an option that fits your lifestyle and skin goals.

What to Expect from Professional Acne Treatment

A dermatologist-led approach to acne treatment looks different from self-treatment because it’s customized for you. At Sheperd Integrative Dermatology, patients typically experience:

  • Pre-Treatment Consultation: A thorough skin evaluation, review of medical history, and discussion of lifestyle factors are conducted.
  • Treatment Plan: Options may include topical or oral prescriptions, light therapy, chemical peels, or isotretinoin for severe cases.
  • During Treatment: Most sessions are quick, minimally invasive, and designed for comfort. For example, light therapy takes less than half an hour.
  • Recovery and Results: Improvement is often visible within 6–12 weeks, though ongoing maintenance may be recommended for lasting results.
  • Scar Improvement: If scarring is a concern, procedures like microneedling and laser therapy help smooth skin and reduce visible marks.

This structured approach ensures that every patient receives safe, effective care, not guesswork.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does stress cause acne?

Stress hormones can trigger increased oil production, making existing acne worse, but stress alone doesn’t directly cause acne.

Can natural remedies cure acne?

While some natural remedies may soothe skin, they rarely address the root causes. Professional acne treatment is more reliable for lasting results.

Is acne contagious?

Acne isn’t an infection and can’t spread from person to person.

Does acne mean my skin is oily?

It is also possible for people with dry or combination skin to experience breakouts due to hormonal or genetic factors.

Are scars inevitable with acne?

With early, effective treatment and avoidance of habits like picking at pimples, many people can prevent scars entirely.

Ready for Clearer Skin?

You don’t have to sort through endless acne treatment myths on your own. Whether you’re dealing with new breakouts, adult acne that won’t go away, or scars that affect your confidence, expert help is available.

At Sheperd Integrative Dermatology, our dermatologists provide personalized acne treatment in Charleston, SC, using proven solutions, not gimmicks. Every patient receives a customized care plan designed to improve skin health and prevent long-term damage.

Take the next step toward clearer, healthier skin:

Get the Facts – Clear Up Acne Myths Today

Please book a consultation online or call our office to speak with a member of our team. Don’t wait for acne to “run its course.” Professional care can help prevent breakouts, minimize scarring, and restore your confidence.

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Lulu is the energy behind the warm welcome everyone receives at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology.  She models enthusiasm and curiosity to our entire team, which motivates us to engage fully with our amazing patients.  She reminds us to greet each new day with wonder, and shows us that excitement is waiting around every corner.  We just have to sniff it out!

Carter Hebel

MD

Board Certified Physician

A South Carolina native, Dr. Carter Hebel attended Clemson University and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelors in biomedical engineering. She then continued her education at the Medical University of South Carolina as a medical student and then Dermatology Resident. During her time at MUSC, she was elected to Alpha Omega Alpha, the national medical honor society, and was named Chief Resident of MUSC’s Dermatology Department

Dr. Hebel believes that diseases of the skin deserve the same thoughtful, diligent treatment as diseases in any other part of the body. She supports patients in feeling beautiful, confident, and healthy in their skin, recognizing that skin health is an essential aspect of total well-being.

Dr. Hebel treats a full range of skin conditions, including skin cancers, autoimmune diseases, acne, rosacea, hair loss, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, nail problems, skin cancer and hidradenitis suppurativa. And of course, Dr. Hebel will offer her aesthetic skills to patients through neurotoxins, fillers, lasers and medical grade skincare!

Dana Aman

PA-C

Board Certified Physician Assistant

Dana is a board-certified Physician Assistant with Sheperd Integrative Dermatology.  Originally from Florida, Dana obtained her undergraduate degree from Florida State University and then went on to earn a Master’s in Physician Assistant Studies from North Greenville University in Greenville, South Carolina.  After obtaining her advanced degree, Dana completed a rigorous 6-month dermatology training program in California as well as a Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants.  After three years of specialized clinical dermatology practice in California, Dana moved to Charleston in 2023.  Dana’s patient care philosophy centers around active listening and shared decision-making. She believes that every patient should be an active participant in their healthcare journey and looks forward to establishing positive patient relationships at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. 

Amy Jetter

BSN, RN

Amy brings her whole heart to her role on the Sheperd cosmetic team.  A graduate of Elon College and the Medical College of Virginia, Amy has been a board-certified nurse for over 30 years.  Bringing her skills as an ICU nurse into her role in cosmetic patient care, Amy provides a warm, reassuring presence to all her clients, listening to their concerns and collaborating with them in a plan to bring forth and enhance their natural beauty.  A standing member of the American Association of Plastic Surgery Nurses and a past RN trainer in cosmetic and aesthetic procedures, Amy offers all types of laser treatments, botox and dermal filler injections, and chemical peels.

Melissa Mancuso

Body Contouring Specialist

Melissa has six years of experience in body contouring, beginning with her role as the CoolSculpting representative for Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. Since joining the Sheperd team, she has received additional training and now offers chemical peels, Vivace micro-needling, and Diamond Glow dermal infusion. She loves helping patients feel good about their bodies and teaching them about how the various cosmetic procedures can help them achieve the results they are seeking.

Margaret Gierhart

LE

Margaret, a South Carolina native, is a Licensed Esthetician and makeup artist with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. She earned a BA in Psychology from the University of South Carolina. She began her career in beauty as the resident makeup artist for Bobbie Brown cosmetics at Saks Fifth Avenue in Charleston. In order to expand her knowledge, she earned her degree in esthetics from Trident Technical College, graduating with honors. She joined the Sheperd Integrative Dermatology staff in 2014 and is certified in a wide array of cosmetic procedures and skin care products. Her offerings include laser skin resurfacing, IPL, micro-needling, chemical peels, radio frequency, laser hair removal, and body contouring. Her background in both psychology and artistry gives her a deep capacity to care for patients and understand what makes them feel beautiful. A mother of two daughters, Margaret understands beauty as not only external appearance, but also as a manifestation of the inner qualities of kindness, generosity, and well-being.

Madeline Anderson

PA-C

Maddie is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Lowcountry native. She obtained her undergraduate degree from Clemson University and then went on to earn a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from the Medical University of South Carolina, graduating with highest honors. While in PA school, Maddie served as a Student Representative for the SC Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. After graduation, she completed a six-month advanced dermatology internship here at Sheperd Integrative Dermatology. She also completed the Diplomate Fellowship with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants. Maddie has a heart for medical missions and is passionate about patient education. Her free time is shared with her family, her friends, and her two fur babies!

AnnaKathryn Keiper

DNP, FNP-C

AnnaKathryn completed her Doctorate degree at the Medical University of South Carolina and has seven years of experience in dermatology. She has completed additional training in medical dermatology, cosmetic dermatology, and functional medicine. She provides skin cancer screenings, surgical removal of skin cancers, treatment of precancerous lesions, extractions of cysts, and the treatment of acne. In the cosmetic domain, she provides laser, filler, and neurotoxin treatments. Certified through the Institute of Functional Medicine, AnnaKathryn has a special focus on wellness, including weight loss and diet consulting. She uses her expertise in this field to create an individualized program to help each of her patients achieve optimal wellness supporting them in maintaining vibrancy and vitality throughout their lifespan.

Allyson Harrell Garrison

PA-C

Ally is a board-certified Physician Assistant and a Diplomate of the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants, their highest rating. She is a graduate of Clemson University and earned her Master’s degree in Physicians Assistant studies at the University of South Alabama; additionally, she completed a dermatology fellowship at Charlotte Dermatology in North Carolina. For more than ten years, her focus on both medical and surgical dermatology has included identifying and treating skin cancers as well as managing biologic medications for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Ally has a strong love of surgical dermatology and she performs surgeries every day in the clinic, including excisions of cysts and skin cancers. She also loves the challenge of a difficult case! On the cosmetic side, Ally is a skilled injector of both Botox and Dysport. She sees compassion and empathy as vital qualities that she brings to all her patient interactions. She is mindful that skin cancer screenings can be frightening or overwhelming; her warm, calm manner and her focus on patient education throughout each appointment make her an outstanding clinician.

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