Most aghast teenagers address acne eruptions by manically scrubbing and dieting under the mistaken assumption that the problem is somehow related to poor hygiene or improper nutrition. While avoiding those cheeseburgers is definitely commendable for other health-related reasons, it is going to have no effect on the acne. As for skin hygiene – while increased cleansing is definitely called for, laying on a face wash of harsh toothpaste with a pumice stone is hardly constructive.

Another mistaken assumption is that astringents will discourage excess oil secretion. Astringents clean off superficial oils while causing the skin to contract, thereby clogging pores and causing long-term aggravation for short-term cosmetic benefits. The best course of action is using a mild cleansing agent to wash down the entire face, not just the fabled T zone or only acne-affected areas and regular shampooing of the hair. Oily hair will directly translate into facial oiliness, especially in people with chin or shoulder-length hair.