Acne
Myth: Chocolate causes acne.
Fact: Almost everyone has acne at some time.
Acne is the scourge of the teenager-it is embarrassing, frustrating and at times, painful. Chocolate and greasy foods are high in fat and should not be eaten in excess, but they do not cause acne. Acne is caused when your skin produces an oil called sebum. This results in plugging of oil glands (blackheads) and infection (pimples). This is a natural response to the increased levels of hormones you are experiencing during puberty. If other members of your family had acne as teenagers, there is a greater tendency that you will as well.
Some girls will experience an increase in skin breakouts around their periods due to changes in hormone levels. Males also break out due to testosterone release, which may also be cyclical in nature. Stress in both sexes will cause outbreaks of acne. The week after "test time" can be a bummer.
For mild acne, washing with soap and water with a washcloth, followed by application of over the counter benzoyl peroxide (5-10% lotion or gel), will provide good control by providing adequate cleansing and helping to keep your oil glands open. Avoid harsh scrubbing and oil based cosmetics. Avoid dirty caps and headbands.
For moderate to severe acne, numerous prescription medications are available. Please ask your doctor if you would like help-there is much we can do to help control acne.
