Acne Causes and Treatment

Sunday, 30 August 2009

Acne is one of the most common skin problems affecting people worldwide. A big misconception is that acne affects only teenagers
but many are surprised to learn that adults also suffer from this same inconvenience. Among the many causes are clogged pores resulting from makeup
everyday air particles and often a simple case of hormonal changes. While acne is a part of life for many individuals
it can be effectively treated.

One of the best natural remedies for acne is to wash your face at least twice on a daily basis. Early in the morning and late at night are both good times to cleanse the face. A moisturizing soap will be the most gentle for your skin whereas others with a harsh ingredient may strip the skin of it’s natural moisture and may even cause itching and/or redness.

Many people choose to use retail acne treatment products
which can be effective if used properly. It is very important
however
that consumers read and understand the instructions and/or warning labels found in the packaging. All acne treatment creams
pads or face wash products should be kept away from the eyes and are for external use only. This is not only true of retail products
but prescribed medications as well.

For a recurring or severe case of acne
many sufferers turn to a dermatologist for a more aggressive treatment. In most cases
a prescribed routine and medication can help to treat acne. In most cases
a follow-up visit will be scheduled so that the doctor may monitor the patient’s progress and determine whether additional steps should be taken to treat the problem.

It is very important to avoid aggravating
or disrupting
any and all acne blemishes. Otherwise
the sufferer will face a possible bacterial infection from dirt and/or germs that may reside underneath the fingernail. Many believe that just because their fingernails appear clean
there is nothing to worry about. That’s simply not true. There are many germs and bacteria
which are not visible to the naked eye
that reside underneath the fingernail. This is why an acne sufferer should avoid any direct contact between their hand and the blemish area(s).

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as
or used in place of
medical advice or professional recommendations for acne diagnosis and/or treatment. If necessary
acne sufferers should consult a dermatologist or qualified physician for acne treatment.
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Acne Care Skin Treatment

Saturday, 22 August 2009

There are many possible causes for acne. People of all ages
lifestyles
and backgrounds can develop it
and the causes can be different for each. The first step to understanding what is causing your acne is knowing your skin type and how to care for it. If you have oily skin
you wouldn't want to use a facial cleanser containing oil because your body is already producing a good amount of it. Likewise
if your skin is dry
you wouldn't want to necessarily use a product that is oil free. Perhaps
one of the most common myths is that oily skin does not need to be moisturized. Oil is not moisture
and skin needs moisture. Determining the cause and caring for your type of acne
as well as properly caring for your skin is crucial in curing acne.

This article covers some of the possible causes of acne and how to help determine what might be causing yours.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body. Like all other organs
proper care must be given to ensure it works correctly.

Topical treatments are those used on the surface of the skin. By helping to keep pores open
eliminating excess dirt and oil
and getting rid of unwanted bacteria
these may do the trick. There are other medications that can be taken orally to help eliminate excess oils by keeping the body from producing it
along with various other medical remedies that help treat acne. Before you can treat it
however
you need to understand what is causing it.

Hormones can play a major part in causing acne. In adolescence
the changes the body goes through can cause constant breakouts
while in adult years
bodily changes
such as premenstrual and pre menopausal episodes
can cause breakouts to continue. While any hormonal excess can promote acne
the mail hormones are most notorious for doing so.

The body can then produce more oil
which can block pores and cause breakouts. Using products that help eliminate or control oil may be helpful in curing acne with this cause.

Stress can also be a contributing factor to the presence of acne. When you are stressed
the body releases certain hormones and chemicals which can produce toxicities that cause acne. Try to eliminate stress by staying away from stressful situations.

It is also believe that some foods
such as chocolate and sugar can cause acne. While this is commonly disputed and often thought to be a myth
it is unclear whether these foods are unable to actually cause acne. Ask a physician if you want to know more about this as a possible cause.

Because there are many types of acne
there can be many causes. Environment can influence acne
as well as lifestyle. The products you use can also effect your acne. If you are not using the proper products to counteract acne
you may see an increase in breakouts. As mentioned above
if your skin is oily
you don't want to use products containing excess oil
as this would add to the oil on your skin and could clog pores and cause further breakouts. It is also important to keep the skin properly hydrated and moisturized. Learn how to care for your particular skin type and try to eliminate the factors that are causing your acne. This will help you have healthier skin.
Read More “Acne Care Skin Treatment”

Acne Care for Adults

For many adults
what was thought of as a teenage affliction has continued well into their twenties and thirties. For other adults suffering from acne
the outbreaks did not start until they reached their twenties.

The causes of adult acne vary and can be any one or a combination of the following conditions.

Stress

Until recently
stress related acne was a myth. Researchers are now beginning to understand the correlation between stress and acne. For adult acne sufferers
stress is considered to be the leading cause to post-pubescent breakouts.

When we are exposed to stressful situations
the brain triggers the central nervous system
which in turn sends signals to the rest of the body as part of a primitive fight or flight response. Part of this response is hormonal release from our adrenal glands and fatty secretions from the sebaceous glands
which lay beneath the skin.

Both hormonal imbalance and fatty secretions
which can clog pores
are known contributors to acne outbreaks.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances as a cause of adult acne primarily affect women. Imbalances that occur during a woman’s menstrual cycle or as a result of pregnancy can lead to acne outbreaks.

There are adult males who report that they have monthly acne episodes. While men obviously do not menstruate
it is believed that men may have hormonal cycles similar to women.

Coffee Consumption Adults tend to ingest more coffee than do teens. The caffeine in coffee and tea promotes the production of cortisol
which is also known as the stress hormone. As noted
hormone imbalances are known contributors to adult acne.

Smoking

The chemicals introduced into the body by cigarette smoking limit blood circulation to skin cells
inhibiting the skin’s ability to heal and regenerate. The toxins released in cigarette smoke can clog pores and promote bacterial growth in pores
all of which contributes to adult acne.

Heredity

Recent research has shown that people are more likely to suffer from adult acne if they have a family history of adult acne sufferers.

Environmental Job conditions that expose the skin to high levels of pollutants
irritants
or humidity can lead to an increase in adult acne.

Cosmetics

• Poorly formulated cosmetics that are heavy or greasy can clog skin pores
trapping bacteria
dirt
and oils resulting in adult acne breakouts. Covering acne with makeup can make the condition worse.
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Acne- Can You Stop Acne Formation

Acne- How It Troubles Most Of Us?

Acne troubles most of us. Either when we are teenagers or when we grow up. Those who have acne on face are shy of meeting friends and those have acne on the back are shy of removing their shirt in public. Teenagers ask if acne will spoil their relationships. Acne has been taken as a way of life. We have all come to believe that cane cannot be prevented. it can be only treated once you get it. Can acne formation be stopped?

Acne- How It Forms?

Acne is associated with our sebaceous glands with hair. When the gland produces more sebum
and dead skin cells accumulate
they block the pore of the gland. This increases the pressure in the gland and forms acne. If we want to stop acne
we have to address these two main issues along with getting rid of excess P.acnes bacteria that produces inflammation.

Acne- How To Stop Its Formation?

Suppose I am prone to acne. I can surely try all the measures to control the oil. i can consult my doctor about drugs that will bring my hormones in order and not activate sebum production. I will ask my doctor about how to make my skin shed the dead skin cells regularly so that they don't block the pores. I will try methods such microdermabrasion and AHA treatments to remove the dead skin layer. I will find out which antibacterial will take care of the P.acnes and don't allow it to grow. The issue is that most of us never ask our doctor in detail about the prevention but are happy to clear whatever acne we get.

Please talk to your doctor in detail about you can address these three issues and prevent acne. Don't allow it to form. Take help of science and make every effort to stop it forming.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.
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Acne Can Ruin Confidence

Thursday, 20 August 2009

This article will explain not just the physical aspects of acne but also the physiological aspects. Acne doesn't just ruin your skin
the effects from the acne can ruin your life. If you let it!

Why do we need confidence?

Confidence is very important
it helps us get through life easier. If we have a lot of confidence we find it easier to do tasks such as finding work
friends
loved ones. It is a known fact that people that have a great deal of confidence do actually do better In life. They find it easier to talk to people which allows them to get what they really want.

Having acne can completely ruin someone's confidence within themselves
If you doubt the way you look
you will mentally think about the way you look while you are talking to somebody. This may not be obvious to you but the person that you are talking to can sense that you do lack confidence and self esteem.

One of the most important aspects for our life is to find someone to love and have a family
even if you didn't want a family and simply wanted a lot of love you would still need to attract someone. The way someone acts has 60% impact on actually finding a partner
the person doesn't have to be good looking the thing that attracts people to other people is confidence.

Why Clear the acne?

Simple! If you had acne you would be less confident than if you had a clear skin. Image walking into a pub
club or anywhere were a lot of people are that you find attractive. You would walk in and feel that you stand out because of your acne and they do not find you attractive.

Now image that you have used a great product that removes the acne and clears the skin
simply image walking into the exact same place
the light shining of your clear skin. People still looking
but looking at how beautiful you look. Now just thinking of this you can see that you confidence can increase by just improving your skin.

There is no "Great" product!

WHAT!! There is a great product! I should know I have used it myself
I was once like you are now
I lacked confidence
I couldn't talk to anyone. The acne on my face simply stopped me from being able to talk and be the real me. I spent hundreds and hundreds looking for a product that would really do what I need
I asked doctor after doctor until I finally searched on the internet and found ClearPores.

ClearPores is a acne product which is very unlike any other
this is what attracted me to the product. It is a 3 part system
the first part is a face wash (which makes sense
your not going to have clear skin without washing it) The second part was a protection cream to help protect it from bacteria within the air. The final part is a herbal supplement which kills the bacteria within the skin. This was it! The product I was looking for
I asked doctors about what acne is they told me but one thing they said that really stood out was the fact that Acne appears under the skin 2 weeks before it appears on the surface. 2 weeks!!

This is when I remembered the clearpores product
it has that herbal supplement which helps kill bacteria before it surfaces. I brought the product
used it and now I have more confidence than I ever thought i would have.

Acne ruins 70% of life's
don't be apart of that 70%!
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Acne- Can I Treat My Acne By Removing Surface Oils

Most of us believe that when we get acne
we must be having oily skin. How can dry skin have acne? We believe that acne and oily skin are inseparable. These ideas are wrong. Removing surface oils and trying to dry the skin to make acne disappear will not work. Unless your skin is oily
no drying will help. With oily skin also
one can only keep the skin dry
but can not treat acne by drying the skin. It may hurt you more. You can treat your acne in other easy ways. Here is how?

Acne and Benzoyl peroxide-

If you have only blackheads or whiteheads
there is nothing better than Benzoyl Peroxide. If that is not suitable for you try salicylic Acid formulations. These are OTC products and if you have patience
they will get rid of your acne. Don't squeeze out your acne. That will enlarge your pores and may scar. Let it dry with the formulations slowly and after some time some discoloration may remain that will go away.

Acne and retinoids-

For severe acne
get antibiotics and retinol creams. The antibiotic will stop the bacteria P.acnes from spreading and retinol will dry the skin and remove the block that is causing sebum to accumulate in your pores and causing acne.

Acne and AHAs-

AHA formulations loosen the dead skin cells and remove them. If you regularly use AHA formulations
your acne may never get a chance to form. Acne forms only if the gland is blocked. AHA opens the gland and may work as a good preventive. Please consult your doctor about the above options.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.
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Acne at this Age But I m no longer a teenager.

Contrary to some myths about acne
pimples are not for only teens going through puberty and hormonal upheaval.

In spite of the fact that they may the highest percentage of the population that may have to cope with unsightly pimples
acne can affect just about anyone and speaking from personal experience
if left untreated or un-prevented
acne can be just as debilitating physically and emotionally on adults as it is for teens.

Actually
adult acne may even be more devastating since there’s no excuse such
as “it’s just puberty
you will outgrow it….” I guess all the people who tried to console me as a teen
who sadly had to deal with acne till I was about 22
were wrong. They meant well
but were still wrong.

Now
adult acne plagues 25% of adult males and up to 50% of adult females
though it is often not recognized. Consequently
how to effectively control this predicament is obviously necessary.

Although
conventional treatments of acne for adults and teens are what a good deal of the population turns to
based on my experiences and dare I say common sense
what worked for me was and is a natural acne remedy.

Since treatment and control for adult acne does not differ drastically from that for teens
with drug-free healing
these simple steps could be used by anyone coping with acne problems.

1. First and foremost
I care not what some sites and product endorsers say about how diet doesn’t affect acne; you have got to make a change in your eating habits
plain and simple. You are what you eat. If you want to have clearer skin and the added bonus of improved health
of course eating right will be essential. That said: Fruits and vegetables friends. Shop more in the produce aisle and steer clear of the snack stands at the cash register. It’s worth the sacrifice and this forms the basis of an internal acne treatment right there from its root cause.

2. For external acne-care
you could learn such simple tips as facial massaging and exercises. However
(now I’m speaking from what I went through and believe me I had acne BAD…) simply washing your face with nothing but clean hands and plain cool water may perhaps be the most efficient way to clean the pores. Combined with the facial massaging and occasional steaming of the face
this will be very sufficient to clean the skin.

3. Change your pillowcases daily and make sure you have a towel exclusively for your face or you could employ the use of paper towels.

4. If you use greasy hair-products
shampoo the hair before retiring or at least use a clean do-rag to hinder the introduction of oily substances to the pillowcase and inevitably your face while asleep.

5. On that subject
try to also sleep on the right side. Besides checking against contaminations getting on the face
this is great for the heart and lungs and allows for a better and restful sleep (which co-incidentally helps with controlling acne.)

6. For males
when shaving
shave in the direction of the hair-growth (mostly downwards) and for an after-shave procedure
look into face massaging and occasional facial steaming as well.

7. For females-Avoiding the use of elaborate and inadvisable makeup regimens is advised. Besides
the clearer your skin becomes
you will see less of a need to have to spend time using make-up. It’s safe to say most guys like you ladies- you know…natural.

8. Deal with stressful situations amicably. This is another topic into itself but briefly these work: Proper diet (factor #1)
proper thinking habits and exercise. For stress
allow me to mention Yoga-don’t have the space to explain why
but friends
with its sun-exercises and its derivative
Hindu push-ups
Yoga is awesome for stress-relief.

Adult Acne can be frustrating and embarrassing
but with the steps above
take it from a guy who went through it and doesn’t anymore
you definitely will be on the path towards clearer skin.

So empower yourself with the use of these tips to be free from adult acne starting today.

In Friendship



Foras Aje
Read More “Acne at this Age But I m no longer a teenager.”

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Acne at my age

When the 30s hit
you worked to raise little Johnnie or Suzie to be a model kid. Now that your hitting the fabulous 40s
you should be coasting through life
right. Well
why are you suddenly dealing with the cosmetic double whammy of acne and wrinkles? Even your insurance company figures that you should have gotten rid of acne by the age of 25.

The number people over 30 needing acne treatments has climbed to the extent that a report published in Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology recommends raising the age for insurance coverage of the acne drug tretinoin to at least 40. The authors of the report
Drs. Steven Feldman and Alan Fleischer
add that many insurance companies refuse to pay for tretinoin prescriptions for patients older than 25.

Cosmetic Catch 22 Even if your insurance company leaves you to fend for yourself
you still have options for freeing yourself from acne and wrinkles. At first
coping with acne and wrinkles may seem like a cosmetic catch 22. Do you dry your skin with acne cleansers containing benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid
and worsen your wrinkles? Or
do you smear on the moisturizer to smooth the wrinkles
but cope with the zits brought on by the extra oil or sensitivity to a new product?

There’s a smarter way to handle acne and wrinkles.

1. Interpret the acne

2. Allow your skin to improve as you use self-awareness to remove zits.

Interpret the acne

While dealing with acne and wrinkles
target the acne first because acne is an autoimmune disease. Having an autoimmune disease means that your thoughts
emotions
and/or environment are affecting you in an adverse way and require immediate attention. Thus
acne may reveal that you need to relax more
change your eating habits
reframe your interpersonal dialogue
stop dating that jerk from the office and/or make another beneficial alteration to your lifestyle.

Zits arrive on your face to report on some unpleasant activities within your body and life. Once you get feedback from these zits
you can take action to send the zits away while augmenting your health in the process.

Acne is usually an indication various hidden or overlooked health problems. Here’s a sample of the questions you should ask yourself when dealing with acne so that you can unravel the mystery behind your zits. Are you:

Regular?

About 70% of your immune system is located in your intestines. If this area is blocked with waste
your immuno-defenses are down. So
instead of waste leaving your body via the rectum
it chooses to leave through the skin. Waste leaving the skin can cause an infection that presents itself as acne.

Tense?

Tension likewise reduces the vigor of the immune system. Take a few deep breaths throughout the day to calm your body. Take a long walk in the fresh air to wind down.

Eating nutritionally?

Cases of acne have been improved with consuming foods containing zinc
essential fatty acids
vitamin A and a host of other nutrients. All of these vital nutrients are available in leafy green vegetables
fruits and olive oil.

Worried about unresolved issues?

Not resolving personal issues creates conflict and tension in the body. Again
these issues most be addressed to avoid undue stress within the body.

Exercising daily?

Exercise reduces stress and gives you an opportunity to subconsciously contemplate challenges that you may be facing. Physical activity also keeps your muscles and intestines toned
which keeps encourages regularity.

Changing pillowcase frequently?

Using a dirty pillowcase aggravates an acne condition. Your face naturally secretes oils during the night. These oils are sticky. So if you pillowcase if dirty
you are allowing your face to collect extra waste during the night
which could further clog your pores.

Moving or changing your job/career?

New demands or feelings of lose can sometimes accompany change. Transfer these emotions into something constructive by writing in a journal or envisioning how these changes are going to benefit you. Find comfort in these changes and opportunities for new beginnings.

Experiencing excessive facial hair growth and erratic periods?

Conditions such as acne
excessive facial hair
and erratic periods could indicate an androgen disorder or other underlying hormonal imbalances. Your doctor can provide you with a series of endocrine tests to ascertain your hormone levels and what corrective actions you should take. Ricardo Azziz
M.D
who serves as Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Director of the Center for Androgen-Related Disorders at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
estimates that 80 percent of women with excessive androgen levels suffer from an endocrine disorder called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Dr. Azziz adds that women with PCOS often have insulin resistance and are at increased risk for developing Type II diabetes
hypertension and heart disease.

Once the acne is under control you can move on to the wrinkles. Another reason for treating the zits first is because if you alter your lifestyle in such as way as to free yourself from acne
and you doing this in a healthy and patient fashion
you will actually lessen the number of wrinkles you have.

Health is wholeness and beauty is a reflection of robust health. You’ll never buy robust health in a jar. It is a mind
body
spirit and environmental support system that garners full-bodied health. Lets look at want you actually need from a “beauty cream”.

Face Cream Education There are five basic ingredients in any given anti-aging or anti-wrinkling cream.

1. The oil or moisturizer

2. The preservatives to keep the cream from spoiling.

3. A scent or flavor

4. A color

5. The active ingredient.

Only one of these components is essential
the oil. The preservative is only needed to keep the cream useful. Your face does not need preservation because the skin is alive. Since some people have allergies to scents and colors in cosmetics
the body says that these two ingredients are not necessary. The active ingredient is usually the latest cosmetic drug or multivitamin that is supposed to lift or dramatically reverse your age by 5-20 years.

Researchers S. Jay Olshansky
Leonard Hayflick and Bruce A. Carnes bluntly comment on the antics of cosmetic companies in their report No Truth to the Fountain of Youth
published in the June 2002 edition of Scientific American. The authors warn everyone aiming to reverse the signs of times on their face that
“… anyone purporting to offer an anti-aging product today is either mistaken or lying”.

I bet you are thinking
“Won’t that oil make acne worse?” The answer is not if you are using the right oil. Some essential oils such as bergamont
lavender
lemon
neroli
sandalwood
tea tree and ylang ylang have cleansing and antibacterial properties which help combat acne infections. Other essential oil like geranium
clary sage and orange regulate the production of oil on the face. When mixed with a carrier oil such as jojoba or camellia
these essential oils are ideal moisturizers.

Nothing that you put on your face will truly change your appearance. Creams are useful
but they are only one instrument in an orchestra of anti-aging concerts. Health starts on the inside. If you want to improve your beauty start with how you treat yourself and feed yourself. I mean not only what foods you eat but what thoughts you eat.

You may eat thoughts of the sort
“I can’t…”
“I had a stressful day”
“I’m tired of…”
“I can’t wait until…”
“I’m getting old”
“My body isn’t as healthy as it used to be”. The menu is endless. If you want to look young and healthy
you have to think young and healthy thoughts. Here’s steps to jumpstart your quest:

Start by changing your thinking. Develop your own youth model
i.e. with steps you’ll take to maintain your vitality and stick to it.

Enjoy nutritious foods. A study in the Journal of American College of Nutrition found that eating a variety of fruits and vegetables and using olive oil every day could help keep wrinkles away. The researchers found that people who ate a diet rich in green leafy vegetables
beans
olive oil
nuts and multigrain breads
while avoiding butter
red meat and sugary goodies
were less predisposed to wrinkling. Researchers believe that antioxidant vitamins
such as A
C and E
which are found in fruits and vegetables
may help protect the skin from environmental damage.

Use a gentle cleanser each day.

Steam your face everyday for 5-15 minutes
especially if your have acne. The steam removes waxy build-up on the skin while it stimulates circulation. This combo of benefits cleans to pores to reduce the possibility of acne while firming up the skin and facial muscles.

Exfoliate your skin daily.

Moisturize your face in the morning and evening with natural oils. In addition to the acne fighting oils listed above
you can mix essential oils such as frankinsense
myrrh
neroli and rose to help encourage the growth of new skin cells. You can create a moisturizer by diluting 1-3 of your favorite essential oils in a carrier oil such as jojoba or camellia oil in a ration of 1 part essential oil to 3 parts carrier oil.

Massage your face daily when you apply your facial oil.

Lie down on an incline bench for 5-20 minutes each day to let the blood flow to your head.

Wear a sunhat in the sun.

Give yourself a light skin peel once a month.

Finally
forty can still be fabulous and your beauty-plan a lot less enigmatic. Just remember the basics
interpret the messages of your zits
and educate yourself about wrinkle creams- you don’t need them.
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Acne As A Teen Disease

Acne is one of the major problems teenagers face
it is something that
in some conditions
may have a devastating effect on their social life
self esteem and mental health. The acne condition can range from mild to severe
and in some cases is very difficult to treat and decrease. In addition to acne being a skin condition that is
to say the least
unpleasant
it also have social and emotional effect. This effect carries with it a multitude of psychological issues that change teens lives in different ways.

When thinking back I remember my acne problem and very clearly remember that my friends and peers were not much of a help to me at those times. Society seems to react to this skin condition in the worst possible way
when the spirit of the teenager is at its most delicate phase. This is a prime reason to why many teens try and avoid social events
situation where they might be in danger of embracement over a skin condition on which they seemingly have no control.

One big problem is that some people do not understand the acne problem for the mere reason that they never suffered from it
obviously this creates a terrible situation where the teen is not only ridiculed for the acne he suffers from
he gets this from others that very clearly do not have the problem. In more recent years
however
the problems faced by those who suffer from acne are being more widely addressed
and the social and psychological effects being studied more closely.

Some will say that the problem is our society and the norms it sets
the definition of beauty or of health in certain ages and in certain cultures. In a society where so much importance is placed on appearance and complying to the "norm"
higher standards have been set concerning what people do and don't accept. In the defining phase of his life
the teenager is extremely exposed to these social agreements and this creates problems with the understanding of the limits to improvement and the shame that follows lack of improvement. For teens this very important and sometimes even seem crucial. Many teenagers slowly get used to what other teenagers say about them and within a short period of time become very critical of their appearance and social possibilities
it is of course ridicules that a young man will judge himself for having a skin condition but this actually happens and even more
some teens begin to develop inner hate towards themselves – because of this social pressure.

The best solution for explaining and combating acne and its social implications
it is recommended that a parent or a guide of some sort will explain to the teen that acne is caused by many different things
many factors contribute to the development of acne. In teens it is believed that hormones are the primary reason
hormones cause the body to produce excess oil
which in turn clogs pores and causes pimples. This kind of situation can be solved by regular acne treatment. The parent should also explain that eating certain foods and the way you clean your face also has little to do with the development of acne
reassuring the teen at this point is very important as he is very likely to be bombarded with exaggerated acne urban tales that create a feeling like everything the teen is doing is the cause of the acne
as if it was a curse he couldn’t shake.
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Acne and Vitamin Supplements

Since the majority of the worlds population suffer from acne at some point in their lives
there is no surprise that such efforts are invested in finding out how to it. While there have been some definitive answers on whether acne is hormonally induced (yes)
and what can be done to prevent it (prescription drugs
certain herbal remedies
etc)
there are still many unknown factors that cause acne.

However
of all the many acne questions that science is yet to find answers to
the most controversial is whether or not diet has an effect on acne.

Historically
diet was thought to be linked to acne. Doctors and housewives alike believed that a high fat content in ones diet would cause an oilier complexion
and this in turn would create acne breakouts.

However
as time went on
science found no directly link between a diet high in lipids (fat)
and acne. Since acne is caused by a bacterial growth in sebum trapped in clogged pores
there is no such thing as “extra oil secretion”. So
for at least the last 15 years
western medicine has claimed there is no connection between diet and acne.

However
a study conducted in 1997 has rekindled the flame in the “diet causes acne” argument
and this time
with a bit more heat.

This study
conducted by Dr. Lit Hung Leung
states that Acne breakouts are because the body cannot create enough of Coenzyme A to break down the fatty acids that create sebum. The reason is
Coenzyme A is probably the single most needed enzyme in the body. This Coenzyme-A is what synthesizes sex hormones
and what breaks down fatty acids.

The only part of Coenzyme-A that the body does not produce itself is vitamin B5. So
if there is a shortage of B5
there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A. And if there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A
the body will use it to synthesize sex hormones
not break down fatty acids.

So
you can see where this is going…more fatty acids
more sebum production
more acne.

Now
the interesting thing is that Dr. Lit Hung Leung substantiated this claim by testing it on 100 people. The group took 10 grams or more per day of pantothenic acid ( B5 )
and used a B5 topical cream of 20% by weight. After 2-3
sebum production was reduced
and many people with acne noticed a reduction. For those with more extreme acne
a higher dosage of B5 was used (approx. 15-20 grams per day)
and treatment was prolonged to see an effect
sometimes up to 6 months.

So
while one study does not definitively prove whether B5 can prevent or reduce acne
it may well be worth considering
particularly for those who want a natural or herbal cure for acne
and do not want to use chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide
or other prescription acne treatments.

As with any medical treatment
it is best to consult a doctor before trying a B5 regimine.
Read More “Acne and Vitamin Supplements”

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Acne And The Changes In Girls During Puberty

During puberty
girls go through many changes some physical and some psychological. These changes include fat distribution
menstruation
body composition
body and facial hair growth
growth spurts
skin changes and body odor. During puberty the body physically changes as the fat tissue increases in the breasts
hips
and thighs
producing the typical female shape. With all these changes in girls during puberty
what effect does acne have on girls during this difficult and emotional time?

Acne can increase the physical and emotional stress that girls experience during puberty. The severity and likelihood of acne is one of the many changes in girls during puberty due to the increased oil secretions in the skin. Mood swings
increased irritability and feelings of low self esteem can also be experienced by girls during puberty. Even girls who have been self confident can suffer from low self esteem when puberty starts.

These changes in girls during puberty can be more severe if she also suffers from acne. There are steps you can take to help lessen the problems of acne
which may help girls during this difficult time.

Practical Acne Treatments For Girls…

Proper skin care is the first step in dealing with acne. There are many skin care products on the market that may help with acne. Gently washing the face twice a day is the first place to start. Be sure to select a cleanser that contains salicylic acid
benzoyl peroxide or sulfur
as they kill the bacteria that cause acne. Gentle cleansing is important so don't wash too often or scrub the face with harsh cleansers.

It is also important to use non-comedogenic products when trying to control acne. Non-comedogenic products are less likely to cause acne
blackheads or block the pores of the skin. There are many non-comedogenic products available
such as makeup
moisturizers
lip stick
and even acne medicated makeup.

It is a good idea to visit a dermatologist if acne can not be controlled with over-the-counter medications as he can prescribe the best solution.

Acne in addition to all the changes in girls during puberty can take a physical and mental toll. There are many acne treatments available today so one should not despair. The onset of acne during puberty represents another challenge for young women to overcome.
Read More “Acne And The Changes In Girls During Puberty”

Acne and Teenaged Psychology

When you look good you feel good is a fact without a doubt. No matter how people look at you & perceive your image
but all the grooming stuff you do is to look good. Everyone wants to portray him or herself as if no one was handsome or smarter ever. Especially people in showbiz and media in general are more conscious about their looks which builds up the self-regard in them is important than life.

Similarly
for teenagers looks are even more important than the person inside. This twisted sense of self-image can backfire and lead to some truly horrible results. More and more teens are suffering from depression. Young girls seeking perfection can become anorexic or bulimic. Some kids even isolate themselves and are extremely uncomfortable in social situations. So when acne strikes
how are teens equipped to deal with the prospect of looking “abnormal” or “ugly”? Teenagers can be cruel to each other
and to themselves.

The American Academy of Dermatology has reported that a staggering 95% of American teenagers will suffer acne breakouts at some point during adolescence. Some kids can hide milder cases with makeup or flesh-colored over-the-counter treatments. Some even use their hair or clothing – longer styles
hats
etc. However
sufferers of severe acne must stand exposed
with all their imperfections
for the world to see.

Since acne occurs so frequently in adolescence
blemished skin makes teens fear how their peers view them. Self-esteem and self-worth can be affected when kids are afraid of being judged by their contemporaries. Teens put up with so many anatomical changes that can make them feel “dirty.” It is particularly vulnerable time when kids worry about being accepted
and about the way
they look. Unfortunately
some parents can trivialize the teen’s fears.

Attitudes like “I went through it…you’ll go through it” and it will go away. However
when that first serious breakout happens…acne typically gets worse before it gets better…the teen may rationally agree that it is probably a passing phase. However
while it is “going away
” the teenager remains afraid of being judged by his peers
and serious self-esteem issues can result. These unsettling feelings about self-image can sabotage a young person already confused by this gateway to adulthood. This is a time in a teen’s life when he/she should get out and be involved in peer activities – but fear of being “different” is strong. Parental support can be vital at a time like this. Even when teen’s appear to “not need” your help
playing a gentle supportive role can help a budding adult’s transition.
Read More “Acne and Teenaged Psychology”

Acne and Solutions

Acne

Acne is a common inflammatory skin disease that mainly affects the face
neck
chest and upper back. It is caused by an interaction between Hormones
bacteria and sebum produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. Symptoms show as comedones (pimples)
pustiles (lessions filled with pus) and occasionally Cysts. Acne is traditionally thought to developat Puberty but many women have acne throughtout life or it may develop in adulthood. It can develop premenstrually or may be associated with the talking or stoping of Oral Contraceptive Pills. This is possible caused by changing hormone levels.

Treatment for acne depends on severity. Mild cases may be eased by washing the face with a gental toilet soap or by drying agents such as benzoyl peroxide. Severe acne may need oral treatment with antibiotics such as tetracycline or hormone therapy such as dianette
which also act as a contraceptive.

Acne is the term for plugged pores
pimples
and even deeper lumps that occur on the face
neck
chest
back
shoulders and even the upper arms. No one factor causes acne. As physicians understand it
acne happens when oil (sebaceous) glands come to life around puberty
when these glands are stimulated by male hormones that are produced in the adrenal glands of both boys and girls.
Welcome to Acne Treatment Care.com

We have compiled and consolidated latest information on Acne
acne causes
acne treatment
acne symptoms with lots of home remedies for acne cure.
Some Important Facts about acne

* Anything that stimulates the growth of skin cells
such as scrubbing
can block ducts. You should simply wash the affected area with mild
un medicated soap once or twice a day
and dry gently.
* Hot
humid weather causes skin cells to swell and thus increases the chance of blocked ducts. This is why face-steaming treatments are useless or even harmful.
* Acne is definitely stress-related
so you are more likely to have a flare-up when you are under physical or emotional strain.
* Some women notice an outbreak before periods
probably due to female hormones being converted in the body to male hormones.
* You must avoid picking or squeezing
which may force more sebum into deep skin layers and increase inflammation. Fingers may also intro-duce infection.
* Fresh air and a little exposure to the sun may help some acne
but too much sun causes skin inflammation
which worsens it. Sun should be totally avoided during some treatments: your doctor
pharmacist or instructions with the medication will warn you about this.
* Disguising an unsightly spot with a water-based cover cream will not aggravate the condition and is good for your morale.
* Oily applications to affected skin usually worsen things.

Very severe acne can be treated using a derivation of VITAMIN A
called tretimoin or Retin-A. This cream is applied each night and takes about 3 weeks to be effective. An oral version called Roaccutane is very good against severe acne but carries serious risks of foetal abnormality during PREGNANCY. This drug is carefully monitored for any side-effects in the patient but can be of considereable benefit
and the effects of treatment can last for a long time.

Acne Treatment Care

All acne can be improved
and sometimes it can be completely cleared up. Mild to moderate acne is usually remedied by over the counter pharmaceutical products that help to prevent
blockage of sebaceous ducts. The manufacturer's instructions should be followed carefully. For more marked and persistent acne see your doctor
who may prescribe medication. Severe acne may need to be assessed by a dermatologist. You will not see the benefit of any treatment for about 6 weeks
so persevere and be patient. If there is no improvement after consistent use for 2 months
see your doctor again.

Kerwin Chang writes for http://www.acnestuff.net where you can find out more about acne and other skin care topics.
Read More “Acne and Solutions”

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Acne And Skin Changes In Pregnancy

All thanks to hormones your complexion may act up to during pregnancy. If you have had clear skin all along
pimples
acne
etc seems like unwanted guests. On the other hand
acne
pimples
etc prior to your pregnancy
your skin might just clear up. Irrespective of the situation
you can start by keeping your skin clean and moisturized. And if pimples
acne
start to appear
do not pick
squeeze
scratch or pop them. You make things worse for your skin by risking scars. Speak with your doctor if acne becomes worse.

Acne prevention pointers

- Wash your face twice a day with mild cleanser. Exfoliate but do not scrub your skin.
- Exercise to reduces stress
increases blood circulation and oxygen penetration to your skin
- Do not squeeze
pop
scratch or pick at your pimples
as this can make the infection spread.
- Drink adequate amount of water each day to help detoxify the body from the inside out.
- Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables and drink loads of water to maintain healthy skin. Avoid sugar and refined carbohydrates
- Avoid oil based cosmetics and clean your cosmetic brushes in warm soapy water.
- Avoid exposing your skin to too much sunlight
heat or cold.
- Avoid wearing tight-fitting clothing as it can trap sweat against the skin.

Acne Remedies

- Apply lavender or tea tree oil on the acne affected area. These essential oils are natural antibiotics destroying a broad range of microorganisms and reduce redness
itchiness and stinging. Try a steam facial of boiling water mixed with couple of drops of tea tree oil. When you are finished
splash your face with cold water
to help close the pores again.
- Cut fresh garlic clove in half and put it on the affected area.
- Put a tsp of lemon juice and ground cinnamon on the acne.
- Apply vinegar to the face with a cotton ball and let it sit for ten minutes and then rinse with cold water.
- Lemon or any citric fruit are good natural exfoliates. Squeeze a lemon or citrus fruit into a bowl and soak a cotton ball in the juice. Apply the lemon juice to the face and then leave for 10 minutes before rinsing with cool water.
- Beat one egg white and apply it on the face for 15 minutes and then rinse with cold water. Egg white with large amount of proteins and fatty acids replenishes the skin and tightens the pores.
- If you see a pimple starting to break out on your face
rub an ice cube on the affected area.
Read More “Acne And Skin Changes In Pregnancy”

Acne And oily Skin

Acne is a real cosmetic problem. Many of the acne patients sometimes feel that they would never get rid of acne. With latest treatments
if you have patience
you can treat your acne successfully. But what if you also have oily skin?

Oily Skin- What is it?

Our skin has sebaceous glands. These glands produce sebum. This sebum keeps our skin well moisturized and protects skin from microbial infections. The sebum is mainly made of lipids and dead skin cells. The skin constantly produces the sebum. If you don't wash your hair for few days you will find that your hair is oily. That is sebum. What if your body produces more than required sebum? You get oily skin.

Oily Skin- Why some people get it?

Why some people have it? As we saw
the sebum makes the skin oily. Some of us have overactive sebaceous glands. That is mainly because of hormones that trigger excess sebum production. That is the reason many women get more oily skin during their menstrual periods. Apart from regular care of the oily skin
talk to your doctor about any method to control the androgens that trigger sebum production.

Acne and oily skin-

Oily skin is the right environment for the P.acnes bacteria to flourish. With more oil in the glands and on the skin
these bacteria infect many glands and produce acne. If you have oily skin
please manage it properly
otherwise your chances of getting acne are high.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.
Read More “Acne And oily Skin”

Acne and Makeup - A How-To Guide

Right...so your new acne medication promises fast results in 10 days
but you've got to face the world today. What can we do to tie over the proceeding period before the acne goes down?

Well all you need is to learn a few creative acne makeup concealing tips to help you look your very best at school
work or play.

But remember -- Makeup conceals acne
it doesn't cure it!

But you already knew that
right? Using makeup to conceal acne isn't difficult
but there are some basic rules that you should always follow.

Your basic acne makeup toolkit

Your three acne hiding weapons will be a concealer
a foundation and a finishing powder. Stay away from the dollar store and use only brand names that you can trust.

Choose only oil-free makeup products that match your skin tone. Oil-free is the key to success here so read the labels carefully. You don't want to aggravate your existing acne problem by layering a fresh coat of oil on skin that already has too much to begin with. Choose a hypoallergenic brand while you're at it.

If this is the first time that you are using a new brand
test the makeup applying small dabs to a spot under your jaw to see how your skin reacts. If you are going to have a problem you'll know within an hour or so after applying it. Nothing's worse than adding more blotches to an already colorful face.

Before you begin

Wash your face with your normal face cleansing product and pat dry. Apply your acne medication per the instructions and let it dry throughly.

Start with the concealer

Apply the concealer in a light dabbing motion directly to any dark blotches or red areas that the acne has produced on your skin. Blend the concealer in using a disposable facial sponge. Use the concealer sparingly. You can always apply more if you need it but you don't want to layer it on too thickly. It will look terrible when it dries.

Next
apply the foundation

Apply the foundation sparingly as well and use a light dabbing motion here too. Blend the foundation with your sponge and reapply to any areas that need it.

And now for the final touch

Apply a light layer of the oil-free powder using a large makeup brush. This will take care of any shine that the acne concealer and foundation left behind and it will give you an even and finished look.

Throw away the disposable sponges when you are through so you don't transfer yesterday's skin oil to tomorrow's clean face!

Before you go to bed

Wash your face throughly to remove all makeup before you go to bed
but preferably as soon as you can after you return home. You want your skin to breath and your acne to get as much fresh air as possible.
Read More “Acne and Makeup - A How-To Guide”

Acne and its treatment

Monday, 17 August 2009

Acne is a menace. However
it’s not something that cannot be tackled. There are loads of acne skin care products around. We can classify acne skin care products into 3 broad categories –

1. Preventive or general acne skin care products
2. Over-the-counter
specialised acne skin care products
3. On-prescription acne skin care products.

The general acne skin care products are the ones that are used as acne-prevention measure. These include cleansers
make-up removers and similar products that help prevent acne. In the real sense
these acne skin care products are just those that should anyway be part of your daily routine. However
some of these are more oriented to act like an acne skin care product. These acne skin care products act against the causes of acne e.g. limiting the production of sebum/oil and preventing clogging of skin pores. Basically
these acne skin care products prevent the oil from getting trapped in pores and hence hamper the growth of bacteria that lead to acne. The general acne skin care products also include exfoliation products like skin peels. These work towards removing dead skin cells
hence reducing the possibility of pore-clogging and bacteria development.

Then there are specialised acne skin care products that are available over-the-counter i.e. without the need of a prescription. These include products like vanishing creams which extract the extra oil from the skin. Most of these acne skin care products are based on benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid
both of which are the enemies of bacteria (and hence acne). You should start with a product that has lower concentration of benzoyl peroxide (e.g. 5%) and see how your skin responds to it. Alpha-hydroxy-acid based moisturizers are also popular as acne skin care products. You might have to try a few
before you zero-in on the acne skin care product that is effective for you. If nothing seems to work
you should contact a dermatologist.

On-prescription acne skin care products are the ones that are prescribed by a dermatologist. This can include ointments that can be applied on the affected area or oral antibiotics or just any topical treatment. Dermatologist could also suggest a minor surgical procedure to remove the contents of pustules. However
never try to squeeze or do this by yourself
it can lead to permanent damage of your skin. Your doctor could also prescribe a hormone-based treatment (since hormonal changes are also known to cause acne). Such acne skin care products are known to be very effective in some cases.
So
with all those acne skin care products
tackling acne is not that difficult.

Learn how to cure acne
pimples naturally - with many home remedies
.
Read More “Acne and its treatment”

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Acne and Diet - Insulin Insulin Resistance and Hormones

Sunday, 16 August 2009

Diet
though not a direct cause of acne
does have an indirect effect on acne. That is why so many 'acne cures' recommend dietary changes in conjunction with whatever else they are advocating.

Because diet has an indirect effect on acne
individuals will get variable results when changing what they eat. This is because we all metabolize foods differently. Some people may be more sensitive to certain foods
and so those foods will have a greater impact on their acne than others that don't have those metabolic issues.

For example
skin with a tendency for acne has been shown to be insulin resistant. Insulin is a hormone that regulates carbohydrate metabolism
as well as playing a role in protein metabolism and fat metabolism. Insulin regulates the way our cells use the available energy in the bloodstream - so insulin makes the liver and fat cells (adipose tissue) take in some of the glucose in the bloodstream and stores it as fat.

People with insulin resistance don't respond to the normal amounts of insulin released in the body. Because the regulation of blood glucose levels (which insulin ultimately is responsible for) is so important
the pancreas starts producing more insulin when the liver and fat cells don't respond. Blood glucose levels can build up if the body still doesn't respond.

High levels of insulin can cause high blood pressure
fluid retention
and can lead to type 2 diabetes.

Thus
for those with insulin resistance
poor quality carbohydrates such as white bread
sugar
and sugary foods
may be a problem. These types of carbohydrates are digested quickly and enter the blood stream rapidly. Normally
insulin would trigger the body removing those excess blood sugars into cells. But with insulin resistance
they hang around longer in the blood
as well as causing the body to have high levels of insulin in the blood.

This is important for acne sufferers
particularly women
in that excess insulin can cause higher levels of male hormones. These androgen hormones have long been implicated in acne. They increase the oil production of the sebaceous glands
which leads to clogged pores and provides a breeding ground for the acne bacteria.

In another study
researchers implicate the high levels of refined carbohydrates (such as bread and cereals) in teenage acne. Following a similar rationale
they suggest that high levels of blood sugars increase the levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1)
which leads to excess production of male hormones. These male hormones then trigger acne outbreaks.

And as well as that
insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) encourages certain skin cells (keratinocytes) to increase. Keratinocytes are also implicated in acne.

References:
foodnavigator.com/news/ng.asp?id=45658
Read More “Acne and Diet - Insulin Insulin Resistance and Hormones”

Acne and Alternative Acne Treatments

Acne is very common and medically classified as a skin disease. They are caused by excessive secretion of oily substance called the sebum by sebaceous glands. Although sebum is very good in maintaining skin and hair texture
excess secretion of the same gets stuck in hair follicles and leads to formation of acne lesions. Due to the oily nature of sebum and its exposure to dust and dirt causes bacterial growth and results in what is commonly known as the pimple.

Pimples are not the only outcome of such bacterial formations. Cysts
whiteheads
blackheads are also quite common depending on exposure and skin types. Occurring mainly in the age group of 10 to 40 years
these conditions need to be cared for with various acne treatments available.

Various kinds of acne and various skin types need different treatments. Keeping this in view
there are some fast acne treatments while there are some that take some time to help one get rid of acne. Although acne treatments are available across drug store and on the internet
it is important to know one's skin type and the kind of acne that they have been afflicted with before deciding on a cure. In case you cannot assess your skin type
it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist and follow his prescription instead of medicating yourself.

Herbal treatments for acne are much sought after now a days
since traditional acne treatments have become very expensive and so have dermatologists. Herbal or alternative acne treatments have become more and more popular due to lack of considerable side effects that most acne treatments seem to have.

Not only the lack of side effects
but also additional benefits like vitamin and botanical nourishments such as DMAE (anti-oxidant)
anti-ageing compounds
vitamins and other supplements in alternative acne treatment make skin pristine
add tone and improve texture.

Pharmaceutical cures for acne treatments have also evolved since and have stopped making the "magic pill" that fell out of vogue. Although many a company has made the magic pills in the past
their expensive touch and side effects have left them in the cold. Taking a cue form alternative treatment methods that comprise of herbal acne treatment
pharmaceutical medication for acne treatment have evolved to integrate the goodness of the additives in herbal medicines and have become more affordable and grown in variety to suit various skin and acne types.

Alternative acne treatments also include no medication. Yes
no medication. Acne can also be cured over a longer period of time through sheer self discipline of eating nutritious
anti-oxidant diet
reducing stress levels
drinking more water
proper hygiene and through regular exercise.

Diet recommended for people plagued with acne would consist of fruits and vegetables
no-oily and non-fatty food taken with a lot of fluids. This will help in removing toxins from your system and produce healthy sebum. This kind of diet is also good for overall health and contributes to proper digestion and detoxification.

Reducing stress levels would result in reducing pressure thus controlling the secretion of sebum and. This can be achieved through meditation or even getting proper sleep of at least eight hours a day. Drinking more water helps in keeping your body hydrated
since dry skin also causes acne and inflammation. This increases kidney function and removes toxins via the urinary route.

Exercise helps reduce toxin levels due to sweating and opens up pores on your skin. It also regulates the water levels in your body. Exercise also contributed to reduction of stress and contributes to overall health.

Hygiene for acne treatment would include regular washing of the affected areas. Always wash with plain water
several times a day. Although
washing with water removes only surface dirt
this would prevent further development of acne. Never use harsh or oily soaps. Try to use a normal soap that would help retain the pH balance of your skin.

Added to this
further alternative remedies for acne are available
which could be classified as grandmother's cure. These remedies are local to regions and countries and have been developed with many years of experience. They are known to work because they have been made to the cure acne in specific environmental and pollution specifications of the said region.

However
despite all these remedies and perspectives of looking at acne treatments
it is strongly advised to take the opinion of a qualified dermatologist before embarking upon any acne treatments.
Read More “Acne and Alternative Acne Treatments”

Acne and Adult Acne Rosacea what is wrong with me

When my friend Sid was small he used to get pimples. His brothers used to get acne pimples as well but they were lucky because their acne used to disappear quickly. He was the unlucky one because he used to get a new one almost every other day. Everyone told him that once he will reach the age of 25 they will go away
and they did but unfortunately he contracted with rosacea
i.e. adult acne.

He used to get patchy-redness and sudden flushing all the time
sometimes he had a pimple or two but his skin used to remain oily all the time. He used to wash his face every couple of hours with medicated soap but his face used to get oily very quickly.


The problem was that he didn’t even realize that he had rosacea for the first few years until his skin specialist diagnosed him with rosacea. He became self-conscious and used to avoid gatherings. He tried many different treatments and medicines antibiotics
Retin-A you name it he tried it including herbal treatments. Even used gram flour and orange peel
which his grandma prepared and forced him to used but nothing worked for him.

First I had Acne and now adult acne
what is the problem with me? The question he used to ask himself and to everyone else almost everyday for which the answer we still don't know.

He tried different creams and changed his skin specialist again and
again to find the right one. But unfortunately nothing and no one could help him. This is because what causes rosacea is still unknown. It is still a mystery even for some doctors that which rosacea treatment is actually right for someone who has rosacea. It’s not that treatments do not work with rosacea
some treatments work well
but which one is the right one is a million dollar question.

Until one day when his mum's ever increasing criticism became unbearable he stopped using soap
drinking more water and he started washing his face only with warm water. In his own words the first 3 weeks were terrible for him. He could not go out
he could not face anyone. I think it was just his imagination that he looked awful but after that his face accepted water and the oiliness of his face started to decline. It took about 2 months before his face started to remain dry and he got rid of oiliness.

The flushing was still the big problem for him. Even though he promised himself that he will not used any new treatment but a sudden flare-up still made him look around for treatments. Then he discovered Jojoba Oil
which was a turning point and a true-life saver for him
that’s what he says about the oil. It took about a week before his face actually accepted the oil. The best thing was the application of Jojoba oil was simple
just warm water a drop of pure jojoba oil every morning and evening and his face redness started to decline. Nowadays he doesn't get sudden flare-ups.

I hope that some people who are suffering from acne rosacea
if increase the use of water and use jojoba oil instead of experimenting on new medicated soaps and creams then they might help them with their rosacea problem.
Read More “Acne and Adult Acne Rosacea what is wrong with me”

Acne Alternative Treatments

Saturday, 15 August 2009

There is no clear account of the number of people suffering from acne. But the sale of medicines for acne is on the increase and this suggests that there is an increase in the number of people having acne. Acne is caused mainly due to the clogging of the oil generated by the skin. This clogging is initiated by a particular type of bacteria. Most treatments and ointments available for acne concentrate more on removing the scars. This means that the bacteria responsible for acne still remain there. This has led to people looking for alternative acne treatment. Most of the alternative acne treatment mainly tries to eliminate the bacteria responsible for acne.

One of the greatest advantages with the alternative acne treatments is that they are devoid of side effects. There are several herbal combinations that have proven track record of curing acne. Once such herbal combination is the paste made of basil leafs and sandalwood. Another popular alternative acne treatment is the application of the paste made of strawberry leaves. There are several other herbal combinations available in the market that can effectively cure acne.

The main reason for the cause of acne is the deficiency of essential vitamins needed for the skin. Deficiency in Vitamin A
Vitamin E and Pantothenic Acid can lead to acne. Taking large amount of vegetables
fruits and vitamin supplements can cure acne. There are several cures of acne in naturopathy. Herbs
skin cleansers and vitamin supplements are the main treatments for acne in naturopathy. Another advantage of alternative acne treatment is that they are less costly.

Acne light treatment is another new alternative acne treatment. In this method ultraviolet rays are used to clear the acne. Alternative acne treatment requires cent percent dedication from the patient. Unlike other form of treatments
some of the alternative acne treatment requires strict following of the regiment. It is wise to take professional opinion before opting for any of the alternative acne treatment.
Read More “Acne Alternative Treatments”

Acne Advice For People Wanting Blemish Free Skin

Acne is a disorder of the skin that affects adults as well as teens. It occurs when follicles
or pores
become blocked. Oils
naturally present in skin
are unable to drain and become blocked inside the follicles. Before long bacteria begins to grow.

Skin blemishes referred to as blackheads and whiteheads then begin to appear. When the oil and bacteria that is trapped remain below the skin
the blemish is referred to as a whitehead. A blackhead occurs when the oil and bacteria are partially exposed. The color of the blemish turns black due to pigmentation within the skin. Blackheads usually last far longer than whiteheads due to the fact that it takes longer to drain.

It is believed that hormones
diet
stress and vitamin deficiency may play a role in the development of acne. While acne includes both whiteheads and blackheads
there are a variety of types of acne that range in severity.

Acne Vulgaris is the most common form of acne and includes everything from whiteheads and blackheads to cysts. Acne Vulgaris may be either mild or moderate as well as severe. The mild and moderate forms of Acne Vulgaris include common pimples with inflammation apparent below the surface of the skin as well as blackheads. Small red bumps that have no ‘head’ may also be present and are known as papules.

Acne Vulgaris in its most severe form includes lesions that are known as nodules and cysts. These are normally much larger than mild or moderate acne and may be more painful. Nodules are usually small and hard
below the skin and do not contain pus while cysts do. Scars can appear if Acne Vulgaris is not treated correctly.

A gentle cleanser and a benzoyl peroxide cream can be effective in treating mild to moderate forms of Acne Vulgaris. Avoid overwashing; gently cleansing the face in the morning and at night should be sufficient. Taking care not to touch your face during the day and using oil free cosmetics may also help. Extreme caution should be used in trying to ‘pop’ pimples
as this can result in scarring. Papules (small red bumps with no head) should never be popped or squeezed.

Acne Rosacea can easily be confused with Acne Vulgaris and often appears to be quite similar. Most people who suffer from Acne Rosacea are adults over the age of 30. A red rash along with bumps and pimples signal the presence of Acne Rosacea
which normally appears on cheeks
nose
forehead and chin. Blackheads are normally not present with Acne Rosacea. This type of acne can be quite serious because when it is left untreated it can actually cause excessive tissue to begin growing.

There are three types of extremely severe acne; all of which can be disfiguring. Acne Conglobata usually appears in men instead of women. It is commonly found on the trunk and limbs of the body instead of the face. Individuals normally develop this form of acne at some point between the ages of 18 and 30. It can remain active for several years and can be extremely difficult to treat. Dermatologists normally use Accutane as a treatment.

Young men sometimes experience what is known as Acne Fulminans. Typical acne may be accompanied by fever and aching joints with the onset of Acne Fulminans. Oral steroids as well as Accutane may be used to treat this form of acne.

Women between the ages of 20 and 40 may experience what is known as Pyoderma Faciale. This type of acne is generally confined to the face. Unlike other forms of acne
this form does not last for years; instead its presence is normally restricted to a year or less. It can
however; be very painful as well as disfiguring.

An excellent source for quality articles on acne treatments is http://www.acne.lifestyle-health-news.com

Severe and extremely severe acne should be treated by a dermatologist.
Read More “Acne Advice For People Wanting Blemish Free Skin”

Acne Adult Care Tips

Acne affects almost everybody at least for some part of their life. It is common during adolescence though it affects many into late adulthood. It causes much disturbance and may sometimes cause depression and low self esteem. The individual affected by acne usually frequently washes the affected area
tries different soaps and other home remedies which rather than reducing acne may worsen it. Following are few tips to be followed for control of acne.

Consult your dermatologist in case you are affected with acne. Do not wait for acne to aggravate. Many over the counter drugs are available for treating mild to moderate acne like benozyl peroxide acne lotion
salicylic acid acne lotion
triclosan acne lotion
chlorhexidine gluconate acne lotion etc. Benzoyl peroxide is considered to be the best over the counter product. However it may be noted that self medication can be potentially dangerous and it is prudent to consult a doctor before medication.

Do not wash the affected area too frequently as it depletes skin oil. The blockage which is the cause of acne is too deep inside to be removed by washing. Luke warm water is better suited for washing the skin. Hot water is to be avoided.

Changing soap frequently is a sure way to aggravate acne. Using a mild moisturizer and acne cleanser goes a long way in controlling acne.

There are no magic cures for acne. The usual time taken for acne to subsidize after acne treatment is begun is between 4 weeks to 6 weeks. Results are noticeable only after 2 weeks. It is essential to complete the medicine course and be patient for the results. It is prudent to continue applying acne lotion after acne has subsidized for a week at least.

Taking food supplements like acuzine is beneficial for the skin as well as body. Its ingredients include anti-oxidants
Vitamins E &C
hydrolyzed collagen
ALA
DMAE
Aloe vera
Bioperine etc. The effect of these ingredients is to strengthen the skin.
Read More “Acne Adult Care Tips”

Acne Accuracies

Acne is the eruption of lesions on various parts of your body. You could have acne on your face
on your chest
on your back
on your neck
on your shoulders
and even on the upper part of your arms. These acne lesions might appear as blackheads
whiteheads
nodules or cysts. Most people get acne in their teen years. Some get it in their forties. Acne isn't going to threaten your life
of course
but it could seriously interfere with it
especially if it disfigures you for the rest of your life. Acne doesn't have to be severe to cause disfigurement.

The onset of puberty brings hormonal changes to our bodies and these changes can cause acne. Oil glands
called sebaceous glands because they secrete sebum (oil) are now working more than they were during your childhood before puberty. Androgens
male hormones
are the primary culprit for this abundant secretion. Girls and women have androgens
though they don't have as many as boys and men.

A hair follicle starts the acne ball rolling. This sebaceous follicle
inside the sebaceous gland
is where acne happens. Puberty gets skin lining cells shedding more than in childhood but when they stick together as they sometimes do the extra oil results in a clogged pore. The oil builds up in this pore but can't get out. The follicle swells up and you have a lesion.

P.acne
a bacterium present in your skin starts to multiply to excess because of the clogging in the follicle. Your skin is now irritated and probably inflamed. Should the follicle burst at this point the skin around the follicle is going to react too. You are now going to have nodules
blackheads and/or pimples elsewhere on your skin. You now have acne lesions.

There are myths about acne that have been around for a long time that give you false information about acne. Let's dispel those myths right now. One of the more common of the false ideas you could have about acne is that if your hygiene is poor you're going to get acne. While you may very well get acne that poor hygiene is not the cause. Believing that could make your acne ever so much worse as you harshly scrub your poor face into irritation. Of course you don't want excess oil and dirt from the day's ventures sitting on your face
but when you wash it away be gentle. Only wash your face twice each day
and do so gently. Drying should be patting gently instead of vigorously. If you still have acne try something at the pharmacy that says it treats acne or see a dermatologist.

Stress doesn't affect or cause acne. This is a myth and it's not true. The stress you encounter throughout the day isn't going to bring on acne. Even were you to have stress beyond normal levels and take medication prescribed by your doctor that level of stress still isn't going to cause acne. The medication might
however
and if it does
tell your physician.

Let's also dispel the myth that the food that you consume affects your acne. Nothing could be further from the truth. Yes
do get a healthy balanced diet but don't think it's going to clear up your acne or prevent it from occurring. It won't.

Don't listen to those people who pooh pooh your acne complaints with comments about it only being cosmetic. As a teen especially
there is no "only" to cosmetic flaws. It's a self-esteem issue
and it could be that permanently if that acne gets bad enough and exists long enough to scar you forever.
Read More “Acne Accuracies”

Acne - Your Hormones May Be The Culprit

Friday, 14 August 2009

Copyright 2006 Tony Buel

Acne can often be considered the worst thing to happen to a teenager. Where in the world does it come from and how do you get rid it once you have it? They are a source of endless embarrassment and inconvenience! And while everyone has suffered from them to some extent
no one likes them. Major culprits in causing acne can be simple hormones.

Specifically
the male hormone 'testosterone' can cause acne. During puberty the teenagers' body is changing. During this time
most teenagers produce abnormal levels of the male hormone testosterone. Most people outgrow this condition by their early twenties
but with some people it lasts longer.

Women also produce additional hormones during the menstrual cycle
and for many women this can lead to more problems with acne. If this occurs
visiting with a doctor or other medical professional can provide a cure or remedy.

There is also a medical theory that stress contributes to acne because it causes an increased output of hormones from the adrenal glands. Additionally
hyperactive sebaceous glands are secondary to other hormone sources
menstrual cycle
stress and testosterone.

Some people's bodies also over produce something called sebum
which is a contributing factor to acne. While this is not the only cause
it certainly contributes. Add to this the accumulation of bacteria in the pores of the skin
dead skin cells accumulation
and irritation caused by scratching or rubbing.

Acne can also be caused
or made much worse by the use of anabolic steroids
used by some athletes. Also some medications contain halogens
including iodides
chlorides
and bromides. These medications can contribute to acne
as can lithium
barbiturates and androgens. Chlorine exposure can also cause a type of acne known as chloracne
which is especially severe and can be long lasting.

With the knowledge that hormones play a major role in causing acne
many of the misconceptions about acne can be addresses and discounted. One of these is diet. For many years people thought that fried foods and chocolate caused acne. There are a couple of reasons for this. People associated fried foods with oily skin
and assumed that consuming oil or grease had to make the skin greasy and more prone to acne. This is not the case. Also
teenagers are food-consuming machines. In fact
many dieticians have said that the fact that teenagers consumer so much food is the main reason their diets usually include nutritious foods - the fact that they eat everything. However
pizza
hamburgers
French fries
chocolate shakes
candy bars
and other foods that are often favorites of teenagers
have been erroneously blamed for acne for years.

While eating good
nutritious foods and making sure that you include vegetables
fruits
lean meats and whole grains in your diet will certainly improve your health
and therefore might improve acne
there is no direct link of diet and acne. French fries are not to blame
and neither are pizza or candy bars. There is just no real connection.

Also
bad personal hygiene has been blamed for acne and caused many teenagers embarrassment. No matter how clean they kept their faces they still had zits. In addition
excessive cleaning can actually make acne worse. If the skin is damaged by rough washing
or becomes dried out
then chances are acne will be worse. Also many over the counter products sold to make acne better can actually clog pores and make acne worse as well.

There are many good treatments available for acne. Of course
seeing your doctor is best. Many good prescription drugs are available. Many of these drugs can control the output of testosterone
and some can help women with menstrual cycle difficulties. If that is not an option
visit a pharmacy and consult with the pharmacist on over the counter remedies that are beneficial. Also moderate washing
good nutrition
protection of the skin when out in the sun
and time seem to be the best cures. Be encouraged that with the passage of time
everyone recovers from acne
the bane of the teenager's existence!
Read More “Acne - Your Hormones May Be The Culprit”

Acne You Can Fight Acne with Masks

You can fight acne not only with gel or special soaps
but also with natural masks. Masks made of products you easily may find in your kitchen and you easily can make
too. These ones are granted to work. These products have great qualities that are inherent in the most ordinary things that can make you beautiful
cleansing your skin and brightening your complexion.

The mask made of eggs is one of the most common and it is a good method for toning the skin
according to some experts. They say that eggs help tightening your skin
giving you a firmer face
less wrinkled and less prone to sagging.

To make an egg mask is something quite simple and fast that you can not even imagine. First
beat one egg white until it is stiff. After that you just smooth it over your entire face. Then
remove the mask
but after 20 minutes.

You can adjust the mask to your skin type. If your have oily skin
add lemon juice to the egg white (only one drop). And if you have dry skin
put a bit of honey to the egg white. Experts explain that the skin on the inside of the shell can actually work as an acne treatment. Just place the skin over the breakout and leave on for 30 minute or even overnight to help reduce the appearance of the acne.

It is recommended to apply facial masks once a week for best results. Remember rinsing your face first with warm water and then rinsing with cold (to close the pores) after you finish removing the mask.
Read More “Acne You Can Fight Acne with Masks”

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Acne What It Is And How To Fight It

Thursday, 13 August 2009

Acne is basically a blockage in the pore which causes bacteria to be trapped and form either a whitehead or a blackhead. While there are many myths that point to diet as a cause of acne
these are unfounded. Junk foods and chocolate are not associated with acne. The reason people get acne is because of overactive oil glands or blockage of pores. Acne is a condition that afflicts both children and adults. It is
however
more prevalent in teenagers when hormones are at their most active. Heredity also plays a large part in who gets acne and how severe it may be. Those who are genetically inclined to acne will often get more severe cases than people who are simply going through a stress induced or hormone induced acne phase. They also may have a more difficult time clearing up blemishes. The blemish that occurs on the skin can be unsightly and embarrassing so prevention and treatment should be the focus.

The best form of treatment for acne is prevention as it is with any affliction. You should try to keep your hands away from your face because dirt and oils can contaminate pores. Proper health is also important. This means proper diet
exercise and sleep to reduce stress. Keeping your face clean using mild soap is also a good preventative. If you have an outbreak
there are home remedies
over the counter medications and prescription medications that can help. There are several topical creams and soaps that are used in the treatment of acne. These can be found in pharmacies and in the cosmetics department of grocery stores. Benzoyl peroxide creams
vitamin A and zinc are all used to help treat acne. For more severe cases a prescription oral antibiotic may be prescribed along with a topical cream that is stronger than the over the counter medications.
Read More “Acne What It Is And How To Fight It”

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Acne - What Causes Acne

Though acne may not be a serious problem
it can sometimes lead to psychological and mental stress. Many people lose their self esteem because of this problem.

So what causes acne? Acne is caused by hormonal disorder. Excessive secretion of the skin oil glands combine with naturally occurring dead skin cells and block the hair follicles. This oil secretion beneath the blocked pore provides a perfect environment for the skin bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to multiply
and thus the skin inflames producing the visible lesion.

Acne commonly occurs in adolescents and young adults. Almost 85 percent of people between the ages of 11 and 30 have acne outbreaks at some point. Acne tends to go away by the time you reach your thirties
but for some people it may even go up to their forties and fifties.

Causes of Acne:

Several other factors that cause Acne are:

• Hormonal changes during menstrual cycles and puberty.
• Stress
as it causes an increase in output of hormones from the adrenal glands.
• Hyperactive sebaceous glands
secondary to the three hormone sources above.
• Build-up of dead skin cells.
• Bacteria in the pores.
• Skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation.
• Use of anabolic steroids.
• Medicines that contain halogens (iodides
chlorides
bromides)
lithium
barbiturates
or androgens.
• Sudden exposure to high levels of chlorine compounds
particularly chlorinated dioxins.

Adult acne:

25% of adult men and 50% of adult women get affected by adult acne at some time in their adult lives. It can cause depression and social anxiety the same way it can in a teenager. Adult acne is more common than people may think. The causes of adult acne are unknown; however it is believed to occur because of these reasons:

• Recurrence of acne that cleared up after adolescence
• Flare-up of acne after a period of relative quiet
especially during pregnancy

It is best to consult a dermatologist for the proper treatment. You would have to use Clear Skin Regimen using benzoyl peroxide. Treatment for adult acne is the same as treatment for teen acne.

Body acne:

Body acne is a common problem which occurs mostly on the chest
back and buttocks. Like facial acne
stress and hormones are the cause. Other factors like perspiration and wearing tight fitting clothing also causes body acne. Tight-fitting clothing traps perspiration against the skin and mixes with surface oils
thus clogging the pores and causing blemishes.

Treatments:

The treatment is aimed at healing the existing lesions
stopping new lesions from forming
and preventing scarring. The dermatologist would prescribe several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines depending on the extent of the problem. Some of the medicines would be topical to apply on the skin and others may be oral.

Some of the common OTC topical medicines are:

• Benzoyl peroxide – This helps to destroy acne and also reduces oil production.
• Resorcinol – This helps in breaking down blackheads and whiteheads.
• Salicylic acid – This helps in breaking down blackheads and whiteheads. It also cuts down the shedding of cells lining the hair follicles.
• Sulfur - This helps in breaking down blackheads and whiteheads.

The prescription topical medicines include:

• Antibiotics - They help slow or stop the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation.
• Vitamin A derivatives – They help in unplugging the existing comedones
thus allowing other topical medicines to enter the follicles.
• Others - Benzoyl peroxide
sodium sulfacetamide/sulfur or Azelaic acid help to reduce oil production or help stop or slow the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Following these treatments would cure your acne
and the psychological stress and embarrassment caused by this disease will also go away.
Read More “Acne - What Causes Acne”

Acne There are a lot of treatments to fight acne

Wednesday, 12 August 2009

Acne is the most widespread skin disorder in the world
according to statistics. Experts spend a lot of time doing research to determine how acne forms and how it is eliminated. Different treatments
medicines
and products have been produced to help control and eliminate this skin disorder.

There exit about 7 different treatments that are used in prevention and elimination of acne. There are also much different products that use these treatments in one way or another.

Some of these acne treatments that help to reduce or eliminate acne problems are: Accutane
antibiotics
Benzoyl Peroxide
herbal remedies
Retin-A and Salicylic Acid
among others.

Accutane (Isotetinoin) is a powerful drug that is normally prescribed for severe acne in cases where other treatments have failed to work. It is normally taken for a 4-6-month period.

Antibiotics were designed to fight bacteria. These are used to control acne mainly from the inside. Some topical antibiotics (clindamycin) are applied directly to the skin. Other antibiotics (tetracycline) are in pill form.

Benzoyl Peroxide is an anti-bacterial agent that has been used to control acne for many years. It has been proven to work very well in the elimination and prevention of acne.

Herbal Remedies are a relative newcomer to mainstream acne fighting. It is thought that certain herbs are effective in regulating oil levels and other bodily functions that are part of acne.

Retin-A (tretinoin) is a combination of retinoic acid and vitamin A acid. It was designed to treat acne
sun damage
and wrinkles. It unplugs follicles and turnovers over dead skin cells.

Salicylic acid helps to slow down the shedding of cells inside the follicle and it is available in many treatments purchasable without a doctor's prescription.
Read More “Acne There are a lot of treatments to fight acne”

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Acne The battle of facing acne

Acne is a problem for everyone. First
because it is difficult to accept it; and second
because you have to figth against this skin disorder and social beauty parameters too. However
everything goes worst when a young girl or boy suffers acne
since classmates are cuel and do not watch themselves.

Something similar happened to Chelsea Fahey a girl who had always been celebrated for her looks
since she was a child model and won more than 10 beauty pageant titles
eventually going on win the Miss Teen America 2004 crown.

Her nigthmare began in seventh grade
when she fought an embarrassing battle against severe acne. “I would hide my face with my hair
and I would look down so I wouldn't see people's reactions and I wouldn't have to deal with the pain of seeing people wincing”
remembers Chelsea
who is now 18.

Acne affects personality and emotions of people. Although it is a common problem
it devastates even who are stronger. According to the Academy of Dermatology
almost every teen aged 12 to 17 will suffer from some form of acne
but 40 per cent of those will develop severe acne. They will not get pimples; they will get cysts that can cause scarring and emotional devastation.

“I didn't make very many friends
not wanting to date anyone. I didn't want anyone to touch my face
not looking in mirrors. It was really sad”
tells Chelsea.

She even covered all the mirrors in her house
so she could not see herself. Chelsea tried everything in treatment and medication
such as pills
creams
different face washes
medicated makeup
but nothing seemed to work.

Chelsea refused to talk about the problem
even to her mother. She thought that if she talked about it
she was admitting that she had a problem. And she didn't want to have any more problems than any normal teenager has.

Under Chelsea's mother point of view
she seemed to be fighting a losing battle and retreated further into herself
but the first and main thing Chelsea got to do
it was to admit that she had a problem.
Read More “Acne The battle of facing acne”

Acne The Bane Of High School

If you had acne problems
I feel sorry for you. I mean there is nothing worse than the social rejection suffered by those with less than average complexions. The especially sad part is that there was nothing that they could do to prevent it. And on top of that some people suffer from the indirect consequences of acne that can go with a person for the rest of his life.

Now because the problem is so important in so many ways it is easy to see why there has been so much effort put into learning about the problem and trying to solve it. There are a ton of different ways offered to cure acne and some are a lot more worthwhile than others. These cures range from spreading disgusting mixtures of organically produced potions to ultrasonic technology that "zaps" the gland that is producing the offending inflammation.

That is what acne is by the way
inflammation that starts deep down in the dermal layer
that attracts all sorts of different immune competent cells to make the pain
redness
swelling
and pus that you find with acnes. It would be great if we new what turned the "switch" on to this inflammation-- but the fact is that we do not. We know that several factors bring it on
a major one being puberty and all of the changes especially the hormonal ones that start circulating through the body. Another major focus is the dirt and oil that get on your face during the day and that you grind in on your pillow at night that is clogging the pores and producing the crops of zits. Another think is the foods that we eat namely foods high in oils
sugars
and chocolate.

The trouble with all of these ideas is that as much as you work to change these factors the chances are that you will not get rid of the painful and unsightly red pus filled pimples. You can wash until the take off the first layer of skin but you won't get rid of them all. You can also stop eating anything good
trying to avoid the foods that supposedly cause acne but if you have any success it will only be partial.

So obviously we haven't found what is at the root of the problem but that doesn't mean the effort isn't there. So my recommendation at this point is to get a doctor that will take the time to get to understand who you are and what methods would be most effective for your particular strain of acne. They have access to the best training and information and they are in the best spot to start working with your individual case and hopefully make your life a lot better.
Read More “Acne The Bane Of High School”

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Acne - Some Alternative Therapies

Zits
pimples
blemishes
breakouts-whatever you call it
acne can be a challenging condition that can be difficult to treat. Acne is very common
with an estimated 80% of all people worldwide expected to suffer from some sort of acne in their lifetime. For those who suffer from the occasional zit
acne is a transient annoyance that is not of much concern most of the time. For others
acne is a daily obsession that can make a serious impact on a person's self-esteem and overall psychological health.

Most people who suffer from acne resort to harsh chemicals and conventional antibiotic therapies to heal their blemishes. Fortunately
more options are available now than ever before. If you are considering seeking out alternative therapies
here is a quick run-down of the latest methods for treating acne.

Blue light therapy: Blue light therapy is aimed at acne patients who have had little success with other treatments. Blue light therapy focuses on eradicating the bacteria that causes most forms of acne
propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes). P. Acnes creates the small molecules known as porphyrins that in turn help produce the bacterium that causes most types of acne inflammation. Blue light therapy works by zeroing in on the porphyrins. Porphyrins that are exposed to the blue light are able to produce free radicals that destroy the P. acnes bacteria.

Blue light therapy is rapidly becoming a popular treatment for acne because it is non-invasive and drug-free way to help heal blemishes. Many topical medications contain strong ingredients that damage sensitive skin
resulting in peeling
redness
and increased sun sensitivity. Blue light therapy is widely regarded as an easy and drug-free alternative to most acne medications. Some individuals have expressed concern over the safety of blue light therapy. In the past
light therapy options have not been considered 100% safe. Past light therapy treatments consisted of ultraviolet light that was harmful to the skin. Fortunately
modern blue light therapy has been FDA approved and is free of UV light.

So how does blue light therapy work? Generally
blue light therapy is administered in gradual increments. A common schedule of treatment might consist of eight sessions given over a period of four weeks. Blue light therapy sessions are short
usually lasting about 15 minutes. Visit a skin specialist or dermatologist to receive more information
or to receive a treatment of blue light therapy.

Another form of light therapy that is used to treat acne is known as pulsed light and heat energy (LHE) therapy. LHE therapy uses both light and heat to eradicate the root causes of acne. Like blue light therapy
LHE therapy uses light to destroy acne-causing bacteria. LHE therapy also uses heat to reduce the production of sebum and to help shrink sebaceous glands. LHE therapy is an attractive option for many acne sufferers because it promises fast results. Usually
improvement in the symptoms of acne can be seen in as early as 30 days. LHE therapy is also becoming popular because it is a fast treatment
with most sessions done in just over 10 minutes. The FDA has approved LHE therapy for the treatment of mild to moderate acne.

While different kinds of light therapies may seem attractive
they can also be expensive
and may not be covered by most health insurances. If you are looking for a therapy that is milder and less expensive
consider many the many herbal therapies that available. Many herbs have been signaled as potentially therapeutic. Some acne sufferers swear by certain herbal supplements
including black currant seed oil and evening primrose oil. Both herbs are recommended to acne sufferers. Try taking three 500-milligram capsules each day to control your acne. It may be helpful to create an herbal diary of sorts
where you can track the herbs you are taking and their efficacy.

Beside herbs
certain vitamins and minerals are also highly recommended for acne sufferers. Vitamin A is perhaps the most important vitamin for the production and maintenance of a healthy complexion. Vitamin A helps control the amount of sebum produced by your skin
and it is also a key vitamin in the production of keratin. Vitamin A is very potent
and must only be taking in controlled doses. Consult your doctor about the appropriate amount of Vitamin A for your situation. Other important 'skin' vitamins are Vitamin B-6 and Vitamin E. An important mineral for the maintenance of a healthy complexion is Zinc. Approximately 30-50 mg of Zinc daily is recommended for acne sufferers.
Read More “Acne - Some Alternative Therapies”

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