Acne. It’s a word that can make any teenager cringe. But what exactly is acne? Why does it happen? And most importantly, how can you treat it and stay positive while dealing with it?

What is Acne?

Acne is a skin condition that occurs when your hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells. It often causes pimples, blackheads, or whiteheads, and can appear on the face, neck, chest, back, and shoulders.

What Causes Acne?

Several factors can contribute to acne, including:

• Hormones: During puberty, your body produces more hormones, which can lead to increased oil production.
• Genetics: If your parents had acne, you may be more likely to develop it too.
• Diet: eating junk food such cooldrink and chips often can cause acne, make sure that you always have a balanced diet.
• Stress: Stress can trigger hormonal changes that may worsen acne.

How to Treat Acne

While there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for acne, there are several things you can do to help manage it:

• Cleanse Gently: Wash your face with a gentle cleanser twice a day to remove excess oil and dirt.
• Avoid Harsh Products: Avoid using harsh scrubs or cleansers that can irritate your skin and make acne worse.
• Use Non-Comedogenic Products: Look for skincare and makeup products labelled “non-comedogenic,” which means they won’t clog your pores.
• Don’t Squeeze Pimples: It can lead to scarring and further inflammation.

Staying Positive with Acne

Dealing with acne can be challenging, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone. Here are some tips for staying positive:

• Focus on What You Can Control: While you can’t always control your acne, you can control how you take care of your skin and how you feel about yourself.
• Practice Self-Care: Take time to do things that make you feel good, whether it’s exercising, reading, or spending time with friends.
• Surround Yourself with Supportive People: Surround yourself with friends and family who lift you up and make you feel good about yourself.
• Seek Professional Help if Needed: If acne is affecting your mental health, don’t hesitate to seek help.

Remember, acne is temporary, and with the right care and mindset, you can manage it and maintain a positive outlook.

If you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, an  Instagram message, a  Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)