Acne is one of the most familiar skin concerns among Filipinos—affecting teens, young adults, and even those well into adulthood. Because it’s so common, it has also become surrounded by myths passed on through family, friends, and social media. While many of these beliefs come from personal experiences, they do not always apply to everyone. In some cases, they can even make breakouts worse.
This guide walks you through the most common acne myths in the Philippines, along with practical do’s and don’ts to help you care for your skin in a safe, simple, and informed way. All tips are general and consumer-friendly—perfect for those who want clarity without medical claims or guaranteed results.
Myth 1: “Pimples come from eating oily food.”
Many Filipinos believe that eating lechon, chicharon, or fried street food directly causes acne. While food choices can influence overall wellness, oily food does not automatically cause breakouts in everyone.
The Truth:
Acne happens when pores get clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and impurities—not necessarily because you ate something fried. Some people may notice their skin reacts to certain food, while others do not. It varies from person to person.
The Do:
Observe how your skin reacts to certain meals and aim for balanced eating habits.
The Don’t:
Don’t immediately blame your favorite Filipino dishes for breakouts. Moderation and proper skin care still matter more.
Myth 2: “Toothpaste can dry up pimples.”
This is a very common home remedy in Filipino households, often passed down by parents or older siblings. But toothpaste contains ingredients meant for teeth—not skin.
The Truth:
Toothpaste may feel drying, but it can also irritate, sting, or cause redness.
The Do:
Use products specifically made for the skin, especially those labeled gentle or non-comedogenic.
The Don’t:
Don’t use household items like toothpaste, rubbing alcohol, or calamansi on acne. These can be too harsh.
Myth 3: “Washing your face many times a day prevents pimples.”
Because of the humid weather in the Philippines, many people feel the need to wash their face repeatedly to stay “fresh.”
The Truth:
Overwashing can strip your skin of natural moisture and lead to irritation, which may make breakouts look worse.
The Do:
Cleanse your face twice daily—morning and night—with a mild cleanser.
The Don’t:
Avoid scrubbing aggressively or washing more than needed. Gentle care is more effective.
Myth 4: “Sunlight helps dry out acne.”
Some Filipinos believe that spending time under the sun or skipping sunscreen helps reduce pimples.
The Truth:
Sun exposure may make skin look less oily at first, but it can also lead to dryness and darkening of marks from past breakouts. The Philippines’ strong UV rays can affect skin tone and texture if unprotected.
The Do:
Use a lightweight, non-comedogenic sunscreen daily. Gel formulas work well in hot climates.
The Don’t:
Don’t rely on sunlight as an acne remedy. Sun protection helps maintain a more even-looking complexion.
Myth 5: “Only teenagers get acne.”
Because acne often starts during puberty, many assume it disappears completely in adulthood.
The Truth:
Adults can experience acne due to factors like stress, lifestyle, and changing skin needs. Anyone—from college students to working adults—may have occasional breakouts.
The Do:
Be patient with your skin and follow a consistent routine suited to your age and skin type.
The Don’t:
Don’t feel embarrassed if you still get pimples as an adult—it’s more common than people think.
Myth 6: “Popping pimples helps them heal faster.”
This habit is widespread among Filipinos because it feels satisfying or seems to “get rid” of the problem quickly.
The Truth:
Popping pimples can irritate the skin and make the spot more noticeable. It may also cause marks to linger longer.
The Do:
Let pimples calm on their own or use gentle skin-care products.
The Don’t:
Avoid squeezing or picking at breakouts, no matter how tempting.
Myth 7: “More products mean faster results.”
With the rise of K-beauty, TikTok trends, and product hauls, many people try multiple serums, toners, or exfoliants at once.
The Truth:
Using too many products can overwhelm the skin and lead to dryness or irritation.
The Do:
Stick to a simple routine:
Cleanser → Moisturizer → Sunscreen
Add new products slowly to see what works for you.
The Don’t:
Don’t expect instant results from new skin care items. Skin needs time to adjust.
Myth 8: “Sweat causes pimples.”
Because the Philippines is hot and humid, many people think sweating itself causes acne.
The Truth:
Sweat alone is not the issue. It’s when sweat mixes with dirt, oil, or makeup that it can clog pores.
The Do:
Rinse or wipe your face gently after heavy sweating and keep hair and hats clean.
The Don’t:
Don’t stop exercising out of fear of breakouts. Movement supports overall wellness.
Practical Acne Do’s and Don’ts (Based on What’s True)
✔ Do cleanse gently twice a day.
Mild, non-comedogenic cleansers help keep skin fresh without irritation.
✔ Do moisturize—even if you have oily skin.
Lightweight, water-based moisturizers support skin balance.
✔ Do wear sunscreen daily.
It helps protect skin from UV rays and keeps dark marks from looking more noticeable.
✔ Do keep your hands and hair clean.
This helps minimize dirt and oil transfer.
✘ Don’t use harsh home remedies.
Calamansi, toothpaste, or alcohol can irritate the skin.
✘ Don’t overwash or overscrub.
Gentle routines are more effective long term.
✘ Don’t share makeup brushes or towels.
This helps keep bacteria transfer low.
✘ Don’t expect overnight changes.
Skin improves gradually with consistent care.
When Should You Ask for Help?
If breakouts become frequent, uncomfortable, or start affecting your confidence, consider talking to a dermatologist. They can help you understand your skin better and suggest approaches tailored to your needs. It’s a good option when you want clearer guidance and a routine that suits your lifestyle.
Final Thoughts
Debunking acne myths is an important step toward healthier skin habits. By understanding what truly affects acne—and what doesn’t—you can make smarter decisions about your daily routine. Whether you’re dealing with occasional pimples or regular breakouts, the key is gentle care, consistency, and staying informed. Your skin is unique, and taking the right steps today helps support a calmer, fresher-looking complexion over time.