Acne is a problem of the oil glands of the skin called sebaceous glands. Normally sebaceous glands provide oil to keep the skin smooth. During the teenage years, there is an increase in oil production and consequent increase in the number of bacteria on the skin. In some people the oil glands become plugged and inflamed causing acne.
Acne usually occurs on the face, back, shoulders and chest. It can be begin as early as 8 or 9 years of age and is usually worse in girls in their mid-teens and boys in their late teens.
While varying factors can make acne worse there is no evidence that chocolate, soft drinks or fatty foods are bad for acne. If you find certain foods make you break out, those foods should be avoided.
Acne is primarily a reaction to hormone changes and may depend on your family's history of Acne.
