Hormones are fun things aren't they. Constantly messing up your mood, making you break out, and generally making being a teenager even harder than it already is.

Puberty is even more fun. Who doesn't love being sweaty and pimply for years? But it's undeniable that one of the biggest parts of becoming a teenager is dealing with puberty which is an individual and different experience for all of us.

Big tip for any twelve-year-olds reading, if you don't already, please use deodorant. Just please, no one likes smelling your body odour.

Puberty will bring along a whole host of things that you've maybe not had to deal with before. Many teenagers find that they break out in pimples all the time, and there's really no quick way to stop or get rid of these spots other than maintaining a healthy facial routine.

Personally, I prefer to not go overboard when using facial scrubs etc because it disrupts the oil balance and pH balance of your face and can dry out your skin. Stick to natural products, and remember to drink a lot of water. There are acne creams such as Benzoyl Peroxide etc. which some people like myself have used in the past, and while they can be effective they also come with a lot of side effects.

Before using an acne mediation, cream or pill, do all your research and ask yourself whether you want to take the risks of having those side effects.

Body hair may be another new addition to your body when puberty hits you. What you do with your body hair is completely up to you, and don't feel as though you should or shouldn't do something with it by pressure from other people. If you don't want to remove your body hair, just remember to trim and keep things tidy and clean to avoid areas getting too sweaty. Maybe trim certain areas with scissors every few weeks (please be careful doing this).

If you want to remove your body hair, whether that be by waxing or shaving please remember to be careful. I have enough razor cuts and nicks on my legs to say that shaving can be dangerous. Always use a barrier between the blade and your skin, whether that be shaving cream, conditioner or coconut oil (my new fave). Moisturise afterwards for silky smooth skin.

Mood swings can't really be avoided, but you have to learn to control them. Take deep breathes and rationalise everything around you. Okay I know you're mad that your friends have gone off without you, but let's not shout at them. Take a few deep breaths and explain to them calmly why you're upset.

So rule thirty-eight of surviving Teenagehood: if you take away anything from this book, please let it be the deodorant tip. Or use a deodorant replacement if you don't want to use deodorant. Yes girls, this is as much directed at you as it is directed at the boys.