Acne is a common skin condition that can affect people of all ages however, it is most common in teenagers. There are many factors that cause this embarrassing and uncomfortable condition. Many medical experts agree that the amount of hormonal changes that young teenagers go through is one of the biggest causes of acne. Many of these hormonal changes happen during puberty when teenagers bodies start to develop.

Acne occurs when the skin pores become blocked and infected. The skin pores are blocked when the sebaceous glands that lie underneath the skin produce and over abundance of substances called sebum and keratin. As these two substances build up and harden they increase the risk of becoming infected. As pressure builds up around the skins pores the area becomes inflamed and the red sores appear on the surface of the skin.

As well as hormonal changes in the body the diet you eat can also increase your risk of getting acne. For example, a diet that is high in saturated fats and processed foods will certainly not help in clearing up the skin pores. Also, if you eat a diet that is insufficient in certain essential vitamins then this can also make the condition of acne worse. A lack in vitamins such as vitamin A can reduce your body's ability to fight off infections.

However by changing your diet you can help to clear up acne. A healthy diet that is rich in nutrients, essential vitamins and minerals will increase your capacity to reduce the affects of the hormonal changes in your body. A healthy diet will also help you fight off skin infections more effectively.

The key vitamins that help clear up your acne are the vitamin A and the B complex vitamins, vitamin C and E. In terms of minerals, zinc and niacin have good skin cleansing qualities. For helping to increase the healing process use vitamin E.

While eating a healthy balanced diet that includes the essential nutrients you should also acquire good cleaning habits. You will increase your risk of infection if you do not wash your hands and face on a regular basis.

In your diet eat plenty of fresh organic fruit and vegetables. Drink plenty of water each day as this will help to cleanse and detoxify the skin. Introduce foods that are high in sulphur as they can help the condition. These include foods such as eggs, onions and garlic. A teenager's diet is notorious for being high in junk food and sugar. If you suffer from acne it is better to drastically reduce your intake or cut these foods out completely.

If you have any food allergies or suffer from a medical condition then consult your doctor first before you change your diet.