85% of teens get acne. Acne starts when your pores get blocked by dead skin cells and oils. This causes comedones, or blackheads. Bacteria on your skin can lead to pimples or whiteheads.

What can you do?

• Wash your face with a mild soap once or twice a day. Don’t scrub too hard.
  
  
• Avoid lotions, make-up or hair products which contain oils or grease, which block your pores. Look for products which are labeled “non-comedogenic” or “oil free”. Some brands are Aveeno® and Neutrogena®.
  

Things you may have heard that are not true!!

• Foods do not cause acne (like chocolate or greasy foods)
  
  
• Dirt does not cause acne.
  
  
• Masturbation does not cause acne.
  

Treatments for Acne

• Benzoyl peroxide: This works by decreasing the number of bacteria on your skin, and also by causing mild peeling. Peeling keeps your pores from getting blocked. Apply at night after washing your face. Be sure to use a sunscreen. This may bleach towels and sheets.
  
  
• Retin A: This also works by causing peeling. It is important that your skin be completely dry before applying Retin A, or your skin may get irritated. Use a non-comedogenic sunscreen if you are on Retin A.
  
  
• Antibiotics: These may be put on your skin or taken as a pill. These lower the amount of bacteria on your skin. If you have lots of sore, red pimples, you may need to take an antibiotic for 6-8 weeks or more.
  
  
• Accutane: This is used only for people with severe acne that have deep bumps or cysts. If a woman gets pregnant while taking accutane, her baby may have birth defects.
  
  
• Birth control pills: Acne often improves in women taking birth control pills.
  

Remember, with any treatment, it takes 6-8 weeks to notice results. Be patient! If you don’t see your skin improve, call for a follow-up visit.