Most aghast teenagers address acne eruptions by manically scrubbing and dieting under the mistaken assumption that the problem is somehow related to poor hygiene or improper nutrition. While avoiding those cheeseburgers is definitely commendable for other health-related reasons, it is going to have no effect on the acne. As for skin hygiene – while increased cleansing is definitely called for, laying on a face wash of harsh toothpaste with a pumice stone is hardly constructive.

Another mistaken assumption is that astringents will discourage excess oil secretion. Astringents clean off superficial oils while causing the skin to contract, thereby clogging pores and causing long-term aggravation for short-term cosmetic benefits. The best course of action is using a mild cleansing agent to wash down the entire face, not just the fabled T zone or only acne-affected areas and regular shampooing of the hair. Oily hair will directly translate into facial oiliness, especially in people with chin or shoulder-length hair.

Most importantly, picking at or rubbing acne blemishes must be strictly avoided, since this can lead to permanent scarring and skin discoloration that will require measures like laser treatment to correct later on. Excessive exposure to sunlight is also a definite no-no, especially if one is using a compound like trenitoin that increases the skin’s photosensitivity. For that reason, tanning lamps must also be given a wide berth.

Females affected with acne must rigorously scan the contents of their cosmetics before using them – only those without an oily base and with the tag ‘noncomedogenic’ (non-obstructing to skin pores) on the label should be used. Finally, sports headgear such as headbands and cycling helmets as well as fashion accessories that result in constriction or irritation of facial skin must be avoided.

Acne can be treated and prevented by following these steps. It is likely that everyone will have at least one acne outbreak in their lives, but it need not be a cause for alarm.