Contrary to what you may have heard, acne is not caused by dirty skin, eating chocolate or drinking large amounts of sodium. Acne is caused by hyperactivity of the sebaceous glands of the skin and fat accumulation of dead skin cells and bacteria, which leads to inflammation in pores.

Oil glands are stimulated when hormones become active during puberty, so people tend to get acne in adolescence. Because the tendency to develop acne is partly genetic, if other people in your family has had (or have) acne may be more likely to develop properly.

Although there is no certain way to prevent acne, try these tips for reducing the number and severity of outbreaks:

* Wash the skin is essential (which helps remove excess surface oil and dead skin cells that clog pores), but washing too much can damage the hair or irritating the skin dry out existing acne.

* Remember to wash after exercising because sweat can clog your pores and worsen acne. If you work around greasy food or oil is sweating from heat or they have worked hard, wash your face and other areas prone to acne as soon as possible.

* If you use skin products, including lotions and makeup, look for those who are non-comedogenic or nonacnegenic, which means it does not clog pores.

* If you cannot live without your hair spray or gel, you must keep away from your face as much as possible. Many hair products contain oils that can aggravate acne.

* If you get acne on areas such as the chest or back, avoid tight clothing that may rub and cause irritation.