By Betsy Sweeting

Adult acne:

When most of us think of acne, we think of adolescence. Although teenagers make up the largest percentage of the acne-afflicted population, acne strikes adults too. More than half of all adult women and about a quarter of adult men are acne sufferers.

Lingering problems with lasting effects:

The psychological, social and physical effects of acne do not diminish with age. Your skin loses collagen with age, so it is much harder for it to bounce back after tissue damage. As an adult with acne you are much more likely to have permanent scarring.

Did you know:

* We shed dead cells that produce oil from the moment we are born.

* Your hormone balance affects the rate at which you produce oil which causes your skin cells to change throughout your life.

* Acne happens when these natural processes are thrown off balance.

What causes acne?:

Most people are unclear or just plain wrong about why acne happens and misinformation can lead to bigger skin problems.

Educate yourself about the real causes of acne so you can fight it properly.

Myth: Acne is caused by dirt.

Reality: Skin normally sheds dead cells and also produces its own nourishing oil, but when these processes get off balance it can clog your pores and lead to blemishes.

Tip: Avoid over-washing or stripping your skin's natural oils with harsh alcohol. This just causes more imbalance and can actually make blemishes worse.

Myth: Acne is caused by certain foods you eat.

Reality: Food does not cause acne. In fact, scientists have been unable to find a substantial connection between diet and acne.

Tip: Eating healthy foods helps to nourish your skin — so don't be afraid to indulge every now and then.

Myth: Only teenagers get acne.

Reality: Anyone can get acne. Over 85 percent of all people have acne, but it can also start as late as your 20s or 30s. It is estimated that one in four adults between the ages of 25 and 44 experience acne.

Tip: Don't be afraid to seek treatment whatever your age. There is no cure for acne but there are many ways to help heal and prevent breakouts.

Myth: Sun exposure helps clear acne.

Reality: While small amounts of sun exposure may initially improve acne, continuous sun exposure often increases plugging of the pores, producing blackheads, whiteheads and small pimples.

Tip: The risk of sun exposure outweighs its minimal benefits. Always use sunscreen.

Myth: Acne is curable.

Reality: Not yet — but don't lose hope, because you can help prevent and control acne with continued daily use of products such as the Galactic Facial line by Red-Lane.

Tip: Even if your blemishes go away, your acne is not cured. It is important to be diligent about your skincare, even after your skin is clear with regular facials.