ANDY'S ANSWER: Using makeup is probably not helping your pimples, particularly if it is oil-based. Acne can be at its worst when you are going through puberty because your hormones generate an over-abundance of sebum. The sebum clogs the pores around the hair folicles and bacteria sets in, which can infect causing swelling and tenderness.

If you are using products or creams on your face, look for ones that won't clog your pores. The label should say that they are non-comedogenic.