What is Acne?

Acne, also called whiteheads, blackheads or pimples are the result of clogged pores in your skin. The pores will infect with bacteria and you will get acne. Most acne can be found in the face, neck, back, shoulders and chest.

Who gets Acne?

Most of the time teenagers have the most problems with acne. This is because of the hormonal changes during puberty. By the time you reach your thirties most acne will go away. You can inherit your acne problems from your parents. If your parents had severe acne, you will likely have the same problems.

What to do Against Acne?

- First of all you should not scratch or squeeze you skin, because this will make it worse and you will get more acne instead of less.

- Avoid touching your face and other affected area's, because you can easily spread acne this way. Wash you hands frequently.

- Wash your face regularly, like twice a day. This way bacteria can not build up. Don't overdo it, because you may irritate your skin by washing too much.

- Don't use makeup every day. Off course you can use it ones in a while during special occasions, but clean it good afterwards. Oil free makeup is less likely to cause acne.

- Shave carefully, to avoid opening up your acne.

- Avoid getting sunburned, because sunburn makes infections more likely.

- Some people have food allergies that can cause acne. You can have your blood tested for allergies.

- Some food is often said to cause acne, but there has not been a lot of proof of this. So if you want to be safe instead of sorry, avoid chocolate, sugar, oil, milk products and seafood.

- Drink a lot of water. At least six glasses a day.

- Reduce stress, stress lowers your immune system and can cause acne.

- Keep your bed linens clean, especially you pillow. Bacteria and dirt can get in the linens and will get on your face while you are sleeping.