Some people believe poor hygiene causes acne or worsens this condition. This is a myth.
Hygiene:
• There is no reliable evidence that acne is caused or triggered by a lack of cleanliness.
• Washing the skin too often (more than twice a day) and harsh scrubbing or exfoliating – habits that are common among acne sufferers – strip the skin of its natural protective barrier and PH balance, causing redness and over-sensitivity. Acne spots may worsen and the skin can become more difficult to treat in this weakened condition.
Picking:
Picking and squeezing acne spots is common and may be related to obsessive compulsive tendencies.
Picking should be avoided in order to reduce injury and the risk of scarring.
• Squeezing spots also extends the time acne is present.