Let's face it, most teenagers develop acne blemishes at some point and it could be seen as a normal part of growing up. The hormones in our bodies at this time stimulate excess oil and skin cell production which can block pores. These blocked pores are great places for bacteria to thrive, and inflammation and spots are the result.

However, there are a few things that we can do to keep those acne blemishes under control. The following tips will ensure minimum blemishes for most people suffering from mild forms of acne, although those with more severe acne should always consult a dermatologist for specific treatment.

It is a common myth that acne is caused by poor diet, which is not true. Eating fatty foods and chocolate, while they may not be healthy in other ways, will not cause acne. On rare occasions an allergy to certain foods may make your acne worse, so if you notice a pattern between what you eat and outbreaks of acne, you should avoid those foods. You should also make sure you drink plenty of water each day to cleanse your skin from the inside.

Some people associate having acne with being unclean, another myth that we need to discuss. Washing your face twice a day with a mild soap and warm water can help to remove the oil and skin cells that cause acne blemishes. However, using strong alcohol based cleansers, or scrubbing your face to hard or too often can irritate your skin and actually make your acne worse.

Oil from your hands can contribute to the blocked pores that cause acne, so you need to be careful not to touch your face too much. Now you are aware of this you will be surprised how often you do touch your face during the day, and how many of your spots are concentrated in the areas you typically touch. You want to keep your hair off your face as well because this can also transfer oil.

Be careful about the skin products you use on your face. If you are prone to acne and want to use specific products to prevent it, you can buy over the counter treatments containing low concentrations of benzoyl peroxide. This is an effective way to dry out any blemishes and unblock pores so the acne doesn't form in the first place.

If you use moisturizers or face creams make sure they are water based and not oil based. The type of products you should use is described as non-comedogenic. You should avoid heavy foundation make-up, particularly oil based varieties. If you have blemishes it may be tempting to heap on the foundation to cover them up, but you can buy products designed to give good coverage without making your acne worse.

If you use make-up applicators or brushes, you need to wash them regularly in hot soapy water to ensure bacteria don't build up on them and transfer to your face. This also applies to face cloths or anything else you use to wash your face. If they contain oil and bacteria they will be doing more harm than good.

Many people believe that exposure to the sun clears up their acne blemishes. Although the sun may temporarily dry out existing blemishes, it will stimulate extra oil production causing worse acne in the long run. Exposing your skin to the sun also increases your risk of getting ski cancer so can never be recommended.

The final and most important thing to remember when you are trying to control your acne blemishes is not to squeeze them! It is very tempting, but it will push the bacteria deeper into the skin and will make the blemish worse and longer lasting.