True or false: You suffered through pimples as a teenager, so your child will have to go through the same rite of passage. False, says Linda Stein Gold, MD, division head of dermatology at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit much more is known today about what causes acne, how to treat it and how to keep it under control Dr Stein gold and parenting expert Michele Borba, EDD, offer these do’s and don’ts for discussing acne with your teen.

• Do learn all you can about acne so you can help her Download the free guide Talking Acne with Your Teen at mychildsacne.com.
   
• Don’t tell your teen not to eat chocolate. there is no evidence that what people eat influences the development of skin blemishes.
   
• Do learn to speak her language. If text messaging is the best way to reach her, text away to remind her about a dermatologist appointment Don’t assume more washing helps. Acne isn’t caused by dirt or skin oils.