The ocean, with its vastness and mystery, has always captivated human imagination.
Its rhythmic waves, soothing sounds, and shimmering surface hide a complex and dynamic world beneath.
One of the most fascinating aspects of our oceans is the currents that flow through them.
Acne develops through a predictable biological process involving excess sebum production, abnormal follicular keratinization, clogged pores, and inflammation. Inside the hair follicle, shed skin cells can accumulate and mix with oil, forming microcomedones that later become blackheads, whiteheads, or inflamed lesions. Because this process occurs beneath the surface of the skin, misconceptions about cleansing, oil control, and product selection can unintentionally worsen clogged pores rather than improve them.
One common myth is that acne is caused by poor hygiene and can be cleared by frequent washing. In reality, overwashing strips protective lipids from the stratum corneum and disrupts the skin barrier. This can increase transepidermal water loss and trigger irritation, which may aggravate inflammation. Harsh scrubbing with abrasive tools does not remove microcomedones deep within pores and may worsen redness or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Gentle cleansing twice daily is generally sufficient for most individuals with oily skin or acne.
Another widespread belief is that all oils and moisturizers clog pores. While certain heavy or highly occlusive products may contribute to congestion in acne-prone individuals, many modern non-comedogenic moisturizers are formulated to support barrier function without increasing breakouts. Skipping moisturizer altogether can lead to dehydration, which may impair barrier integrity and increase sensitivity to active treatments such as retinoids or exfoliating acids. A balanced approach that includes lightweight hydration often improves tolerance and long-term consistency.
There is also a misconception that drying out acne lesions is the fastest path to clear skin. Ingredients such as Benzoyl peroxide and Salicylic acid are commonly used to target bacteria and clogged pores, but excessive or overly frequent application may cause irritation. Inflamed skin can become more reactive, potentially worsening redness and prolonging healing. Similarly, combining multiple strong actives without guidance may compromise the barrier and lead to peeling that does not correlate with better results.
Another persistent myth suggests that sun exposure improves acne by drying lesions. While ultraviolet radiation may temporarily reduce inflammation, it can also thicken the outer skin layer and contribute to increased pore blockage over time. Additionally, sun damage raises the risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and long-term skin aging. Consistent use of non-comedogenic sunscreen is generally recommended, even for oily or acne-prone skin.
Dietary myths can also influence behavior. Although certain individuals may notice breakouts associated with specific foods, acne is not solely caused by consuming chocolate or greasy meals. Hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and inflammatory responses all contribute to disease severity. Restrictive or extreme dietary changes without medical guidance are unlikely to resolve clogged pores on their own.
Finally, the belief that acne should be treated only when visible breakouts appear can delay improvement. Because microcomedones form weeks before lesions surface, preventive and consistent use of evidence-based treatments such as topical retinoids may be necessary to maintain clearer pores. Sporadic treatment often allows the underlying cycle to continue.
Acne management requires patience, realistic expectations, and attention to barrier health. Misguided practices rooted in myths can disrupt the skin’s balance and worsen clogged pores. For persistent, painful, or scarring acne, consultation with a qualified dermatologist can help clarify appropriate treatment strategies and reduce the risk of long-term skin changes.
