Is it s a myth or does toothpaste cure acne?

August 19, 2019 By Australian Skin Clinics

Pimples “pop up” at the worst times… before a date, a big meeting or that special occasion. We’ve been
told time and time again that popping them is not the solution, but what about those other ‘fixes’ such
as a dab of toothpaste or ice? We dish the dirt on the acne-solving myths and provide some advice on
how to help stop those pimples (no popping required).

Myth: Toothpaste cures acne

Toothpaste dries out pimples, erasing them overnight, right? Wrong! Toothpaste contains a menthol
ingredient (the one which gives our breath that minty taste after brushing) that can cause inflammation
or itching and irritation when applied to the skin. While it kind of delivers on its promise by drying out
the pimple, it can leave your skin dry, itchy and even flaky! Not ideal.

Myth: Sweating clears pores

Some sources suggest that sweating is great way to get rid of acne because it naturally clears pores of
dirt, dead skin cells and excess oils. This can be true, however, if they are left sitting on the skin instead
of being washed off, the pores remain just as clogged as they were before and often cause breakouts.
Ensure when you finish your work out your first priority is hopping in that shower and washing off that
grime.

Myth: Ice, ice baby

While ice is a great treatment for some conditions, acne isn’t one of them. It might make your pimple
look less swollen or red but the results are short-lived and it won’t treat the crux of the problem or clear
the skin. Icing your pimples or face for an extended period of time can lead to more skin woes such as
redness, dilated blood vessels and even rosacea.

Myth: Soak up the sun

It’s a common misconception that soaking up some rays will help dry out pimple spots and clear them.
The sun can actually damage and weaken skin cells, making them more susceptible to bacteria making
its way into the pores.

So, what can you do?

Does Toothpaste Cure Acne

Swap the toothpaste for spot serum

Applying a specially-formulated spot serum before bed can visibly improve the appearance of pimples as
well as sooth any discomfort they might cause. Our go to is Balense Spot Control Serum.

Don’t skip the shower post-workout

Skipping that post-workout shower can seem like a great time save, but it isn’t good for your skin.
Showering and washing your face daily will not only refresh your skin, but also limit the chance for dirt
and oil to build up in your pores. This will reduce breakouts and keep your skin looking fresh and
healthy.

Change your sheets and PJ’s regularly

A lot of bacteria from our skin can build up on our sheets and pillow cases… even in our PJs! Every night
while we sleep our bodies shed oil and dead skin cells and bacteria continues to grow even after we get
out of bed. When we hit the sack the next night, we’re lying in this bacteria and exposing our skin to
built up oil and dirt. Washing your sheets and PJs regularly will help keep this nasty bacteria away!

Exfoliate, baby

It’s one thing to simply wash with warm water and soap, but by regularly and gently exfoliating your skin
at home will wash away stubborn oils and dead skin cells. This allows the soap to reach within the pores
and clean them out more easily. Add to this routine a monthly microdermabrasion and your skin will be
spotless in no time!