I've learned from the INO community that there are varying opinions about acne treatments - like, for instance, as one reader pointed out, do topical treatments even work???  So here's another one - we know about genetics, but how about the things you eat and do that cause acne??  I just read in Cooking Light about three popular myths, debunked!!:

Food causes it:  Why does chocolate always have to be named a usual suspect??  And how about fried foods??  (Maybe it's a conspiracy to get us to eat healthier!)  But actually, studies have found that food does contribute to acne formation, only it's not a Hershey's bar and fries that do it.  The real culprit is....(drumroll please!):

Carbohydrates are getting a lot of attention.  We know a diet high in carbs changes insulin levels, and that may affect skin oil levels too."

Okay, so it's not specifically chocolate and fries!

Sunlight worsens it: 

Sun exposure actually helps acne because it has an anti-inflammatory effect and destroys the bacteria that are part of the acne process."

So we feel and look better in the sun!  But of course, that's clearly not a recommended remedy, since we all know the dangers of prolonged exposure to UVA and B rays.  But interesting fact, though!

Cosmetic use irritates it:  Nope!  (Oh, thank god.) 

We're more aware of skin sensitivity than ever before.  Cosmetic companies are doing a spectacular job of keeping ingredients that irritate sensitive acne-prone skin out of their products."

Hey, this is fun!  Know any other acne myths that need debunking?? 

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