It is a common tendency to associate acne with teenagers, but both adults and teenagers alike are susceptible. There is a common link here. No matter what age you are, the onset of acne is always aggravated by hormones. With teens it is with the hormones that come with puberty. With adults it is either stress hormones or menstrual cycle hormones. These hormones stimulate the oil glands of the skin to make more oil, and the glands can become overactive. When there is too much oil, the pores can get clogged, leading to acne.

No matter what you've heard, acne isn't caused because from unhygienic practices. This is an old wives tale. So don't think that getting rid of acne involves repetitive skin washing. It isn't necessarily caused by some of the foods that we eat either, like chocolate or french fries.

Acne isn't caused by one thing. Rather the onset of acne is the result of a combination of things that go on under your skin. Hormones do have a role, of course. Genetics play a part; If your parent had acne as a teen, it's likely that you will, too. Stress is said to aggravate acne, as well as dehydration and generally poor nutrition. What ever the contributing factor, acne is a fact of life that is hard to avoid.

Inadvertently some things people do make acne worse.

• Suntans tend to help blend in the acne but despite popular belief, direct sun is not good for your skin. Sun, yes, but not without the use of a sun screen.
• Picking and squeezing pimples will not make acne disappear. Fingers are bacteria zones and constant touching will make acne worse.
• Scrubbing vigorously while washing and drying irritates acne. The skin is already infected and inflamed. Just wash it two or three times a day, gently with hands and fingers, using a mild soap or a soap designed for getting rid of acne.

Measures taken to get rid of acne may be easy, but you should know that it is not always that quick. Acne is an inflammation and infection combined, and the skin needs time to heal. The healing process can take days for mild acne, or weeks up to months for severe acne like cystic acne. While it is hard to cope with acne, patience is required. It will clear up in time.

The easiest remedy to get rid of acne is at the drug store. There are a variety of brands in various forms of application. Available are lotions, creams, ointments, and wipes with strengths from mild to extra strong. Basically what is available is confined to use of one of two chemicals. Products with 'benzoyl peroxide' kill the bacteria and reduce the inflammation. 'Salicylic acid' on the other hands, drys acne out. Which ever product you use take care not to use both at the same time. Combining both of these products can cause a reaction on your skin which is just going to make the acne look worse.

If over-the-counter drug store remedies don't work, and the acne is very persistent and severe, then you should consider seeing a doctor. Acne can easily develop into cysts and/or scars. Doctors have access to stronger solutions that can be prescribed and used under supervision. These medications can pack quite a punch, so make sure the potential side effects are clearly explained.