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Not necessarily. The severity of acne doesn’t seem to run in families. Since most teens get some acne, the chances are that you will have some. But like most acne, it won’t be “really bad.” But, any acne can seem bad when it pops up right before a special event.
Acne is caused by the extra oil that is produced during puberty when the hormone levels increase. The oil can block the ducts of the oil glands causing a blackhead (comedone). The oil turns black because it is exposed to the air, not because it is dirty. Normal skin bacteria (germs) can get into the oil glands and cause inflammation or pimples (pustules).
For most, acne can be managed with daily, gentle washing with a mild soap, avoiding oily face and hair preparations, and certain make-ups. Medications containing benzolyl peroxide can be found in the drug store and help to reduce the inflammation. They need to be used every day to be effective and it takes several weeks to notice improvement. If this doesn’t help, then your doctor can prescribe several different medications that will surely help. Even the kind of “really bad” acne that causes cysts (big bumps) and scars can be treated with new medications. If you have acne, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to your parents or your doctor.
Do you have a question?  As a reminder, this information should not be relied on as medical advice and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Please read our full  .
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