Masks are designed to pull oil and impurities out of the skin, and some products, if used improperly, can lead to excessive dryness and irritation of the skin. My opinion is that frequent washing with a gentle soap is as effective as anything — and much less expensive.

The key is to find a balance and avoid excessive dryness. Too much sun exposure and ultraviolet rays damage the skin and create a bigger issue than oily skin. Bottom line, if you have a problem in this area, see a certified cosmetologist, someone who is not simply trying to sell you his or her product. It’s possible to have healthy skin through proper care and hygiene, and you may need some help to learn the principles of good skin hygiene.

I am 14 and active in many sports in school. I’m not overweight, but I still can’t get rid of my baby fat. Am I just a late bloomer?
Welcome to the club. At least 25 percent of the questions I get from girls your age deal with weight and body proportion issues. As you go through puberty, you’ll probably notice a growth spurt, but you may also notice what appears to be disproportionate widening of the hips and thighs. This isn’t “baby fat” but a positive sign that you’re changing into a young woman.

Proper exercise and diet are critical during this time. Unfortunately, many young girls are doing neither! It sounds to me like you’re exercising regularly, so the problem may be your diet. The high carb, junk food diet of most teens today is a major health issue. The good news is you can do something about it. Develop good habits now, and they’ll follow you throughout your life.

I feel stressed most of the time. I wish I could relax, but I have so much on my mind. How can I relax without taking pills?
Stress is epidemic in our society, even in girls your age. Experts say stress may be as much a risk factor as smoking, being overweight and inactivity are for a variety of diseases. Chronic stress lowers your body’s defenses. Researchers even tell us that stress can shorten lives, so learning to deal with stress at an early age is important!

Here are a few helpful tips: First, develop a habit of exercising regularly. Make it a priority! People who exercise regularly have lower levels of stress hormones. Additionally, exercise is calming and will help you sleep better. Second, get social support. Human beings were not put on this earth to be alone. We really can help one another. Next, practice relaxation through hobbies, music, meditation on Scripture and quiet times. Also, learn to take charge of what you can control and quit trying to fix those things in your life you can’t change! Sometimes writing things down is helpful, and talking it out with a Christian friend or counselor is also a good option. Of course, going to the Ultimate Source of strength in prayer is the secret weapon Christians can use to deal with stress and anxiety. Even science is beginning to recognize the power of prayer and faith.