There are many questions and myths surrounded around the true cause(s) of acne, so this week we also will analyse and clear up many of those uncertainties.

In our first series we learnt that acne is a disease of the oil glands in the skin and the pores through which its secretions pass to the skin's surface. We also learnt that it is during puberty endogenous hormones (mainly androgens), which are present in unusually high concentrations in the blood during adolescence give rise to an excessive production of sebum (or oil).

. So having a clear definition of what acne really is may help us to understand what it is caused by. Firstly, some TEENs feel that their diet that includes fast foods, sweets, dairy products, and other oil-based foods may have some influence on their acne breakouts. Well, so far, scientists have refuted this and have said that it is possibly just a myth. So for now, stop hating on that soda or French Fry, science says it did not give you acne.

. There have been talks about the sun aiding in the clear up of acne. Well about 60 per cent of acne sufferers have confirmed this, as they say they see an improvement when they are in the sun. However, about 20 per cent complain that their acne gets worse. Another matter is the issue of sun beds, being artificial; it is of little or no help, so it is not recommended. Sun beds are said to aid in increasing the risk of skin cancer. So it is all up to the individual and the effect that acne has on them, so far.

. There has been the ongoing question on whether or not acne is related to stress. While it is still up for debate, there has been some relation as sources say that when persons get anxious and frustrated, they may be more inclined to pick and fiddle with spots or pimples, thus making acne look worse. So maybe one should try to avoid this and look out for changes.

. The question which is widely asked is: does squeezing help get rid of acne spots? Well, this is not true. While this may be unbearable for many TEENs, the best advice is don't pick or squeeze pimples, especially if they are deep. Squeezing and picking may produce a spot that is bigger and increase the spread of acne, this only lasts longer and may result in scarring.

. Another question is whether make-up will worsen acne. There has been some evidence suggesting that make-up will worsen acne. A dermatologist may recommend moisturisers and cosmetics that are oil-free, non-comedogenic (won't cause blackheads) and non-acnegonic (won't cause acne), to prevent this. Although one may feel more comfortable camouflaging spots, cover-ups that are oil based or waxy should preferably be avoided.

. Can the environment cause acne. Well there is some truth in that, as some environments may aggravate an acne condition. A hot, humid, environment like a kitchen or laundry may make acne worse.

. How is acne affected by their menstrual cycle? Most girls suffering with acne realise that around the time approaching their menses (between two and seven days) their acne starts to flare up and may even produce very big, painful, red pimples. This is probably due to changes in hormonal levels that occur during this period of the menstrual cycle. So there might be some relationship between the two.

So after all the information provided tonight we have a clearer view of what some of the definite causes of acne are, and what some of the more personal causes are. Hopefully our readers will take what we've discussed into consideration and apply some of the tips to their everyday lives.

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