At the first sign of acne you should be ready to spring into action. What are acne's first signs?

The symptoms to watch for are small, tender, red spots that later turn into pimples containing puss like degraded fatty acids. These first signs of ance usually disappear over a few days or weeks, depending on the severity.

Because severe acne can cause scars it's important to act quickly when you spot skin blemishes. Your first action should be:

- Avoid working in with oil, grease and other chemicals.

- Do your best to control stress or emotional tension.

- Refrain from squeezing or picking at the pimples.

Next you must get to work on an acne prevention plan:

- Wash your face regularly with a mild cleanser. Wash your skin whenever you feel perspiration. Use a light touch when washing as hard scrubbing may aggravate your acne.

- Shampoo your hair regularly and wear a style that prevents your hair from constantly touching your face.

- Shield your skin from excessive cold, heat and sunlight. Extended exposure to sunlight may burn your skin and can even lead to skin cancer.

- Avoid oily creams and foundations. They clog pores and may cause pimples. Use water-based moisturizers.

- Adopt a sensible, varied diet. Drink lots of water and exercise regularly.

Should you rush to a dermatologist at the first sign of a skin blemish? Probably not. Mild acne can be treated with over-the-counter medications. It's wise to ask your pharmacist for advice on an acne remedy. They stay up to date on the most effective treatments and can give valuable advice.

Try the pills, lotions or creams recommend by your pharmacist for six to eight weeks. It takes time to get acne under control. If you acne gets worse instead of better in that time your best bet is to visit a dermatologist.

Treating acne is like going to war. Be ready to fight back at the first sign of an acne attack.