Acne Myths vs. Facts: Separating Fact From Fiction

Your Guide To Clearer, Healthier Skin

Acne is one of the most common skin concerns for teens and adults alike, but unfortunately, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. From old wives’ tales to advice found online, it’s easy to fall for acne myths that can actually make the problem worse.

At Face Five Acne Clinic, we believe that education is key to empowering families to help their teens clear acne safely and naturally, without turning to harsh medications. Today, we’re setting the record straight by debunking some of the most common acne myths we hear from our clients!

Acne Myth #1: Natural Products Are Always Acne-Safe

Truth: Just because something is labeled “natural” or “organic” doesn’t mean it’s safe for acne-prone skin. Ingredients like coconut oil, cocoa butter, and essential oils may sound skin-friendly, but many are highly comedogenic and can clog pores. Marketing claims can be misleading, so it’s important to look beyond the label and understand what’s truly acne-safe.

👉 What to know: Always check ingredients. Natural doesn’t mean non-comedogenic! At Face Five, we help clients read between the lines and choose products that support clear skin, not sabotage it. We also encourage you to use our Product Checker tool to make sure every product you or your teen is using is truly acne-safe.

Myth #2: You Need Strong, Drying Products To Clear Acne

Truth:
It’s a common misconception that acne needs to be “dried out” to heal, but harsh products often do more harm than good. Over-drying the skin can strip its protective barrier, leading to irritation, redness, and increased oil production. Many popular acne products also contain pore-clogging ingredients, synthetic fragrances, and harsh actives that disrupt the skin’s balance and worsen breakouts over time.

👉 Our advice: Wash your face gently twice a day with a Cleanser that is appropriate for acne-prone skin. Choosing an acne-safe skincare routine is key to maintaining healthy skin. Don’t know which skincare is right for you? Fill out a Questionnaire and find out what is right for you!

Myth #3: Chocolate And Greasy Foods Cause Acne

Truth:
While greasy foods don’t directly cause acne, diet absolutely plays a role. The most common dietary culprits we see at Face Five are dairy products, iodine, peanuts, and high-sugar, processed foods. All of which can trigger inflammation, hormonal imbalances, and excess oil production.

👉 Better choices: Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods. Minimize dairy, iodine-rich foods, peanuts, sugar, and processed products. Support your diet with high-quality Supplements that help regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and promote skin healing. At Face Five, we believe in the power of nutrition and the right supplements to support natural acne treatment and promote clear skin from within.

Myth #4: You Need Medications To Clear Acne

Truth:
There are safe, natural alternatives to birth control pills and harsh prescription medications if you want to clear your acne. At Face Five, we focus on identifying the root cause of each individual’s acne, whether it’s hormonal imbalances, inflammation, gut health, or product-related triggers.

👉 Supportive tools: Supplements like Zinc and Magnesium can help balance hormones and reduce inflammation. Combined with the right skincare and nutrition, many of our clients see amazing results without needing medications. We also help clients choose Non-Comedogenic Products to support their journey to clear skin.

Myth #5: If Nothing Has Worked, You’re Stuck with Acne

Truth:
It’s easy to feel defeated after trying countless products, prescriptions, or routines, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of options. Acne is complex, and many treatments fail because they don’t tailor to the skin type or address the root cause. Whether it’s hormones, gut health, diet, or skincare habits, there’s always a reason behind persistent breakouts, and it can be uncovered with the right approach.

👉 Key message: You’re not stuck! Acne can feel overwhelming when nothing seems to work, but that doesn’t mean your skin is beyond help. With the right guidance, customized support, and a holistic plan that addresses your unique needs, clear skin is possible, even if you’ve struggled for years.

Final Thoughts: Separating Facts from Fiction

It’s time to say goodbye to acne myths and embrace a holistic, science-backed approach to clear skin. If you’re feeling confused or overwhelmed by conflicting advice, know that you’re not alone, and help is available.

At Face Five Acne Clinic, we partner with families to guide teens and adults through a personalized Acne Solution Program, without harmful medications or one-size-fits-all products. We believe in healing the skin from the inside out, and every step we take is backed by education and care.

Ready to learn more?
👉 Visit our Website to explore our resources, including our Blog, use our Product Checker, and schedule a Free Consultation. Your clearer skin journey starts here!