What is a common misconception about acne and its treatments?

A common misconception about acne is that it's solely caused by poor hygiene. This belief oversimplifies the complexity of acne's etiology, which involves a combination of factors such as hormonal fluctuations, genetics, and skin biology, rather than just cleanliness. While maintaining proper hygiene is important for overall skin health, it is not the primary cause of acne. This misconception can lead to ineffective treatment approaches, where individuals may over-focus on cleansing routines and neglect other contributing factors.

In reality, acne can affect people of all ages and is particularly influenced by changes in hormone levels, which can occur during puberty, menstruation, or other times of hormonal shift. This comprehensive understanding enables more effective treatment strategies that address the underlying causes rather than just surface-level hygiene issues.