If you scrub with an abrasive soap or pick at your skin or rub it too much, the walls of the pores
may break and cause more pimples. Squeezing or popping blackheads and whiteheads usually
causes more problems, including scars. Too much washing (more than 2 or 3 times a day) can
make your skin dry and cause the oil glands to work harder.
Foods like chocolate, sweets, colas, and fried foods do not make acne worse. But if a certain food
does seem to make acne worse, try eliminating it for a few weeks and see if that helps.
Some types of makeup may block pores; a water-based, oil-free makeup is best.
Moisturizers containing oil may also make acne worse. Avoid oil-based moisturizers and cocoa
butter. Also, do not use Noxzema®, Pond's Cold Cream®, or other greasy makeup removers.