Why Breakout Myths Persist

Breakouts are one of the most widely discussed skincare concerns, with advice for reducing breakouts circulating social media feeds and online forums, or traveling by word of mouth. However, many popular blemish tips are rooted in myths and misconceptions about what causes them.

Breakouts are one of the most talked-about skincare concerns, with countless tips circulating across social media, online forums, and through word of mouth. But not all of that advice is grounded in science. Many common beliefs about what causes blemishes are simply myths.

By understanding the science behind breakouts and how to manage them, you can separate fact from fiction and build a daily routine that truly supports clearer-looking skin.

Many breakout myths stem from lack of understanding about why breakouts form in the first place. This can lead to less targeted routines that don’t address the root causes of this skin concern.

Myth #1: Blemishes are caused by dirty skin

Fact: Dirt doesn’t cause breakouts

Breakouts typically occur when pores become clogged, often from a buildup of excess oil and dead skin cells. These blockages can result in blemishes. Several other factors may also contribute to congestion:

Excess Oil Production

When overactive sebaceous glands produce more oil than necessary, the excess oil can clog pores and lead to the formation of breakouts. The composition of sebum in blemish-prone skin can also be different, containing molecules that are more likely to clog pores.

Dead Skin Cell Accumulation

Dead skin cells can build up within the pore lining. These dead skin cells can block pores, leading to breakouts.

Internal Factors

Internal shifts can lead to an increase in oil production and breakouts. Many people report experiencing a greater number of breakouts during teen years, at certain times of their menstrual cycle, during pregnancy and menopause, or in response to stress.

Harsh Skincare Products

Using harsh cleansers or exfoliants too frequently can strip the skin, leading to irritation and a damaged skin barrier. Blemish-prone skin is already more prone to skin barrier disruption, so it’s best to avoid practices that may exacerbate the issue.

Myth #2: Blackheads are caused by trapped dirt

Fact: Blackheads are caused by oxidation

Contrary to popular belief, blackheads aren’t specs of dirt trapped under the skin. Blackheads form when open pores become blocked by dirt, oil, and dead skin cells. Because the debris inside the pore is exposed to air, it oxidizes, turns dark, and creates black spots on the skin.

Blackheads are common on the nose, but can occur anywhere on the body. An effective way to target blackheads is with products that break down dead skin cells to help clear out clogged pores. Squeezing blackheads may damage your skin and lead to other concerns.

Myth #3: Squeezing breakouts helps them heal faster

Fact: Squeezing or picking can worsen breakouts

Popping breakouts can often result in damage to the skin that leads to a stress response, potentially worsening them and prolonging recovery. Squeezing or picking may lead to:

Larger breakouts

Squeezing may provide temporary relief, but in some cases it can cause extra ‘stress’ that can make breakouts worse.

Uneven skin tone and scarring

Picking at breakouts can damage the skin, leading to post-blemish marks, uneven texture, or permanent, indented scars.

Allowing breakouts to clear on their own while using targeted products is the best way to minimise unwanted side effects like those listed above.

Myth #4: Sebaceous filaments are blackheads

Fact: Sebaceous filaments help support your skin

Sebaceous filaments are naturally occurring structures in your pores, which transport oil to the skin’s surface. They are not the result of clogged pores, like blackheads. Sebaceous filaments are necessary for skin function and cannot be permanently removed.

Everyone has sebaceous filaments and they are not always noticeable. However, they may become visibly grey, white, or yellow when your skin produces excess oil. This is why they’re often mistaken for blackheads.

It can be tempting to squeeze these tiny tubes out of your pores, but this may cause damage to your skin and only offer temporary effects. Instead, you can reduce the appearance of sebaceous filaments with products that dissolve surface buildup and help reduce excess oil.

By addressing common causes of breakouts, like excess oil and pore congestion, you can reduce the appearance of existing blemishes and help prevent others from occurring.

Well-known ingredients for blemish-prone skin, like salicylic acid and sulfur, can be applied as spot treatments. You can also address breakouts more broadly with targeted serums.

When building a regimen to target breakouts, we recommend formulations with the following ingredients:

Sulfur

Sulfur works to soothe the look of redness and reduce the appearance of breakouts. It can also decongest pores and reduce excess oil, helping dry up breakouts and visibly reducing their appearance.

Sulfur 10% Powder-to-Cream Concentrate is a targeted solution designed to work quickly, visibly reducing the appearance of breakouts in as little as 1 hour. Its powder-to-cream format allows for precise application, making it easy to adjust the amount of product used based on the size of the breakout.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid is a beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that exfoliates the skin, helping remove dead skin cells that contribute to congestion. Unlike water-soluble acids that primarily work on the skin's surface, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, meaning it can penetrate the pores to help visibly reduce breakouts.

Salicylic Acid 2% Solution is a water-based serum that provides gentle yet effective exfoliation. It helps unclog pores, improve the appearance of redness, and smooth skin texture.

Salicylic Acid 0.5% Body Serum is specifically formulated for body breakouts. Its targeted nozzle applicator allows for precise application on areas prone to congestion, such as the chest, back, and shoulders.

Salicylic Acid 2% Masque helps target congestion by exfoliating dead skin cells, and absorbing excess oil and facial impurities that can clog pores. This clarifying mask leaves skin feeling clean and refreshed.

Niacinamide

Niacinamide (vitamin B3) effectively targets excess oil that can contribute to congestion and breakouts.

Niacinamide 10% + Zinc 1% is a high-strength serum designed for blemish-prone skin. It targets excess oil and uneven skin texture while supporting the skin barrier. With consistent use, it can help you achieve smoother looking, more radiant skin.

Because blemish myths are so persistent, popular tips for targeting breakouts can leave you feeling frustrated. By understanding why breakouts form, recognizing the difference between common concerns, and knowing which ingredients work, you can manage your blemish-prone skin more effectively.

Start a consistent regimen with effective ingredients from The Ordinary today.