Acne control is all about education and effective products.
Acne control can happen when individuals strive to find the best possible skin care regimen as well as the best skin care products to use. From there, there are several ways in which individuals can find a way to control their acne successfully including through using products such as natural acne treatments and laser treatments. But, before you get that far, there are several acne treatments that you can do now to begin getting acne control for your body.
Natural Acne Treatments
The first thing to do is to use natural acne treatments. These will include a wide range of vitamins and minerals for your skin. You�ll find a good assortment of natural skin care products to help you right on the web. You should supplement any of these natural products with a good, well balanced diet and exercise. Because the actual acne on your face is infections of the skin, giving your body what it needs to fight them off is essential to actually getting rid of them.
Control Acne With A Good Skin Regimen
One of the most beneficial things that you can do when it comes to acne skin care is to use a good, solid cleansing regimen for your face. This will include antibacterial products and exfoliating products that will work to improve your face and your body�s look. These will help to kill off the bacteria that are causing your acne as well as get rid of the dead skin cells that the bacteria are feeding off of. Together, this can completely wipe your face and body clean of acne. Something to consider is Proactiv Acne Control which is an acne skin care line that has shown to be very good at acne control.
Finding the acne control for your needs is not easy. You may find that the best thing to do is to seek out alternative treatments such as laser treatments and chemical peels. Yet, for many, it can be more beneficial to work with a natural product for their skin care. If you visit your dermatologist, he too may have a different approach and one that may include acne medication. Many of these things can be effective at controlling acne.
Sunday, November 30, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, November 28, 2008
Acne Nutrition Tips
Acne Nutrition Tips - Studies show that diet does not play a role in either the cause or the treatment of acne. However, what is recommended for acne preventative care is this: what is best for your body is best for your skin, especially since your skin is the largest organ of your body. So here are healthy vitamins, minerals and other supplements that have been known and recommended to prevent and help conquer acne breakouts:
Acne Nutrition 1: Vitamin A or Retinol is found not only in some cosmetic creams but also in liver, fish oils and dairy products. Produced by plants, this vitamin is also known as called Beta-carotene, and is found in yellowish-orange fruits and vegetable; yams, cantaloupe, carrots apricots, and in green vegetables like spinach, kale and parsley. Beware that high doses of Vitamin A are toxic.
Acne Nutrition 2: Vitamin B Complex. These vitamins are found in leafy vegetables, fish, milk, eggs and whole grains and have many functions. For example, although B-2 can irritate acne, it can help alleviate stress. B-1, B-6 and B-12 are also known for proving stress relief. And B-3, in avocados, eggs, peanuts, lean meat and liver, reportedly reduces cholesterol level, has an anti-inflammatory effect on skin and improves your metabolism and circulation, improving acne in some studies.
Acne Nutrition 3: Vitamin C - A form of this vitamin, the C ester has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has helped penetrate skin and prevent the return of acne. It is being tested for repairing damage to scar tissue from teen years.
Acne Nutrition 4: Vitamin E, in almonds, broccoli, peanuts, sunflower seeds, wheat germ and vegetable oils, has been said to help with scar tissue healing, but this is considered a myth by many healthcare professionals. Instead, researchers are considering that a form called tocotrienol (often referred to as high potency E or HPE) may carry antioxidant properties that may be able to aid the skin when ingested.
Acne Nutrition 5: L-Carnitine- this supplement is reported to help repair skin damage from acne for young and old.
Acne Nutrition 6: Zinc (found in eggs, mushrooms, nuts and whole grains) and selenium (a trace mineral in most soils and absorbed my a variety of vegetables) are known to improve the overall health of the body, including the skin.
In summary, a good quality brand name multivitamin will probably have the recommended vitamins and minerals that you need to help with acne prevention. Combine this with drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices. For example, if you have had ill effects from eating a certain food before, be leery of it and make healthier food choices for yourself.
Acne Nutrition 1: Vitamin A or Retinol is found not only in some cosmetic creams but also in liver, fish oils and dairy products. Produced by plants, this vitamin is also known as called Beta-carotene, and is found in yellowish-orange fruits and vegetable; yams, cantaloupe, carrots apricots, and in green vegetables like spinach, kale and parsley. Beware that high doses of Vitamin A are toxic.
Acne Nutrition 2: Vitamin B Complex. These vitamins are found in leafy vegetables, fish, milk, eggs and whole grains and have many functions. For example, although B-2 can irritate acne, it can help alleviate stress. B-1, B-6 and B-12 are also known for proving stress relief. And B-3, in avocados, eggs, peanuts, lean meat and liver, reportedly reduces cholesterol level, has an anti-inflammatory effect on skin and improves your metabolism and circulation, improving acne in some studies.
Acne Nutrition 3: Vitamin C - A form of this vitamin, the C ester has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has helped penetrate skin and prevent the return of acne. It is being tested for repairing damage to scar tissue from teen years.
Acne Nutrition 4: Vitamin E, in almonds, broccoli, peanuts, sunflower seeds, wheat germ and vegetable oils, has been said to help with scar tissue healing, but this is considered a myth by many healthcare professionals. Instead, researchers are considering that a form called tocotrienol (often referred to as high potency E or HPE) may carry antioxidant properties that may be able to aid the skin when ingested.
Acne Nutrition 5: L-Carnitine- this supplement is reported to help repair skin damage from acne for young and old.
Acne Nutrition 6: Zinc (found in eggs, mushrooms, nuts and whole grains) and selenium (a trace mineral in most soils and absorbed my a variety of vegetables) are known to improve the overall health of the body, including the skin.
In summary, a good quality brand name multivitamin will probably have the recommended vitamins and minerals that you need to help with acne prevention. Combine this with drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices. For example, if you have had ill effects from eating a certain food before, be leery of it and make healthier food choices for yourself.
Acne - Remove Milia That Look Like Whiteheads But They Are Not Acne
All of us want good-looking skin. Acne is the biggest obstacle in our effort. There are other skin problems that look like acne but are not acne. Milia is one of them. Milia are white spots on the face that can form at any age. Milia look like white pearls and most of us confuse them with whiteheads of acne. They are not whiteheads. So the treatment is different. Common acne treatment will not help remove milia but create more skin problems. Find out the difference between milia and whiteheads for a good-looking face.
Acne- what are whiteheads: whiteheads form when the dead skin cells, white blood cells, bacteria P.Acnes and sebum block the opening of the sebaceous glands. The gland has a closed mouth and this comedone is called acne. This acne troubles us because if it gets further infected, it can create scarring and spoil the facial skin forever.
Mila- milia is the accumulation of dead skin cells that is not able to get out of the skin. Milia has no infection like whiteheads and no bacteria or pus. Milia has no sebum in its formation. Our skin sheds dead skin cells everyday. Sometimes, when these cells cannot be shed out from the skin, they accumulate and form miila. When you extract a milia from the skin, you will only see white mass. They are dead skin cells.
Milia treatment- the only way to remove milia is to get them extracted from skin. Don't extract milia yourself if they are located on your eyelids. The best way to prevent milia is to get the top skin layer exfoliated regularly. Get microdermabrasion done regularly. AHAs are also good for removing the top dead skin cells regularly. Vitamin A derivative creams are also good to peel off the top skin layer. Consult your doctor about prevention and removal.
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.
Acne- what are whiteheads: whiteheads form when the dead skin cells, white blood cells, bacteria P.Acnes and sebum block the opening of the sebaceous glands. The gland has a closed mouth and this comedone is called acne. This acne troubles us because if it gets further infected, it can create scarring and spoil the facial skin forever.
Mila- milia is the accumulation of dead skin cells that is not able to get out of the skin. Milia has no infection like whiteheads and no bacteria or pus. Milia has no sebum in its formation. Our skin sheds dead skin cells everyday. Sometimes, when these cells cannot be shed out from the skin, they accumulate and form miila. When you extract a milia from the skin, you will only see white mass. They are dead skin cells.
Milia treatment- the only way to remove milia is to get them extracted from skin. Don't extract milia yourself if they are located on your eyelids. The best way to prevent milia is to get the top skin layer exfoliated regularly. Get microdermabrasion done regularly. AHAs are also good for removing the top dead skin cells regularly. Vitamin A derivative creams are also good to peel off the top skin layer. Consult your doctor about prevention and removal.
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.
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.
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.
Tips For Halting Acne
Acne - now there's a four letter word. During my teen years I was the Prince of acne and for good reason. I was the face of acne, pun intended. I had it all, blackheads, whiteheads, you name it it was there. And If the scorn of my peers (especially the girls) was one thing, the impossibility of getting rid of the hideous acne I had was quite another thing altogether.
The myths and fairy tales surrounding acne didn't help either. My family members firmly believed that acne was a result of poor (or more specifically, junk) diet. Yes, I will admit that I, like any other team, enjoy my fair share of junk food, but I wasn�t too sure that eating out was the cause of my acne. I mean, a lot of my buddies ate out with me, and what�s more, ate the same junk food even more frequently than I did, but they had little or no acne. Something had to be wrong with conventional wisdom right? I had seen the myth being shattered right before my eyes. And I'm sure you've heard the one about chocolate causing pimples. And since I loved chocolate in all of its glorious forms, I would have found giving it up, even at the risk of remaining acne king, an unimaginable cruelty. But having done my homework and checking news and medical reports on the subject, I soon found to my great relief that chocolate consumption had nothing absolutely nothing to do with acne.
My friends and classmates weren't a lot of help either. Most of them, hinted with delightful sarcasm, that my acne advertisement face was a result of my inordinately frequent happen of masturbating. Hell, for a while there even I thought it was true. But then I quickly realized that this was yet another myth. Well I'm starting to learn actually, if by no other means than by the process of elimination. For if my acne was linked to my masturbation, was I to conclude that my male friends who had no acne at all did not masturbate? I would have sooner believe that they were from another planet! So, that was another acne myth dispelled.
Another myth that I did believe, and which made perfect sense and even sounded scientific at that time, was the accumulation of dirt on my face that blocked my pores. But if that was a case then why didn't my arms and legs, which more regularly came into contact with dirt, have acne all over them? In any case, I spent several days, weeks and months meticulously scrubbing my face with a variety of soaps and anti acne lotions in a bid to get rid of my acne, to no avail. Finally, I gave in to a fatalistic attitude and reasoned that the more I stressed myself out thinking about my acne, the worse the problem would become. It was at that point that I gave up bothering about my acne filled face. And guess what? A few short years later, as I slowly climbed out of my adolescence, the acne magically disappeared on its own! Although there are still a few tell tale scars of my acne prince days, for the most part you would never know they were there!
The myths and fairy tales surrounding acne didn't help either. My family members firmly believed that acne was a result of poor (or more specifically, junk) diet. Yes, I will admit that I, like any other team, enjoy my fair share of junk food, but I wasn�t too sure that eating out was the cause of my acne. I mean, a lot of my buddies ate out with me, and what�s more, ate the same junk food even more frequently than I did, but they had little or no acne. Something had to be wrong with conventional wisdom right? I had seen the myth being shattered right before my eyes. And I'm sure you've heard the one about chocolate causing pimples. And since I loved chocolate in all of its glorious forms, I would have found giving it up, even at the risk of remaining acne king, an unimaginable cruelty. But having done my homework and checking news and medical reports on the subject, I soon found to my great relief that chocolate consumption had nothing absolutely nothing to do with acne.
My friends and classmates weren't a lot of help either. Most of them, hinted with delightful sarcasm, that my acne advertisement face was a result of my inordinately frequent happen of masturbating. Hell, for a while there even I thought it was true. But then I quickly realized that this was yet another myth. Well I'm starting to learn actually, if by no other means than by the process of elimination. For if my acne was linked to my masturbation, was I to conclude that my male friends who had no acne at all did not masturbate? I would have sooner believe that they were from another planet! So, that was another acne myth dispelled.
Another myth that I did believe, and which made perfect sense and even sounded scientific at that time, was the accumulation of dirt on my face that blocked my pores. But if that was a case then why didn't my arms and legs, which more regularly came into contact with dirt, have acne all over them? In any case, I spent several days, weeks and months meticulously scrubbing my face with a variety of soaps and anti acne lotions in a bid to get rid of my acne, to no avail. Finally, I gave in to a fatalistic attitude and reasoned that the more I stressed myself out thinking about my acne, the worse the problem would become. It was at that point that I gave up bothering about my acne filled face. And guess what? A few short years later, as I slowly climbed out of my adolescence, the acne magically disappeared on its own! Although there are still a few tell tale scars of my acne prince days, for the most part you would never know they were there!
Treatment on Acne
It's important to know that there is no true cure for acne. If untreated, it can last for many years, although acne usually clears up as you get older. The following treatments, however, generally can keep acne under control.
1. Use topical benzoyl peroxide lotion or gel
Benzoyl peroxide helps kill skin bacteria, unplug the oil ducts and heal acne pimples. It is the most effective acne treatment you can get without a doctor's prescription. Many brands are available in different levels of strength (2.5 percent, 5 percent or 10 percent). Read the labels or ask your pediatrician or pharmacist about it.
* Start slowly with a 2.5 percent or 5 percent lotion or gel once a day. After a week, increase use to twice a day (morning and night) if your skin isn't too red or isn't peeling.
* Apply a thin film to the entire area where pimples may occur. Don't just dab it on current blemishes. Avoid the delicate skin around the eyes, mouth and corner of the nose.
* If your acne isn't better after four to six weeks, you may increase to a 10 percent strength lotion or gel. Start with one application each day and increase to two daily applications if your skin tolerates it.
2. If you don't see results, consult your pediatrician
Your doctor can prescribe stronger treatments, if needed, and will teach you how to use them properly. Three kinds of medications may be recommended:
* TRETINOIN (RETIN-A) CREAM OR GEL helps unplug oil ducts but must be used exactly as directed. Be aware that exposure to the sun (or tanning parlors) can cause increased redness in some people who are using the medication.
* TOPICAL ANTIBIOTIC SOLUTIONS may be used in addition to other medications for a type of acne called pustular acne.
* ORAL ANTIBIOTIC PILLS may be used in addition to creams, lotions or gels if your acne doesn't respond to topical treatments alone.
3. What about the "miracle drug" Accutane?
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a very strong chemical taken in pill form. It is used only for severe cystic acne that hasn't responded to any other treatment. Accutane must NEVER be taken just before or during pregnancy. There is a danger of severe or even fatal deformities to unborn babies whose mothers have taken Accutane while pregnant or who become pregnant soon after taking Accutane. You should never have unprotected sexual intercourse while taking Accutane. Patients who take Accutane must be carefully supervised by a doctor knowledgeable about its usage, such as a pediatric dermatologist or other expert on treating acne. Your pediatrician may require a negative pregnancy test and a signed consent form before prescribing Accutane to females.
If you are experiencing acne problems, remember that your pediatrician can help you. And as you begin treatment, keep these helpful tips in mind:
* Be patient. It takes three to six weeks to see any improvement. Give each treatment enough time to work.
* Be faithful. Follow your program every day. Don't stop and start each time your skin changes. Remember, sometimes your skin may appear to worsen early in the program before you begin to see improvement.
* Follow directions. Not using the treatment as directed is the most common reason the treatment fails.
* Don't use medication prescribed for someone else. This holds true for all medications, especially Accutane. Doctors prescribe medication specifically for particular patients. What's good for a friend may be harmful for you. Never take Accutane that's prescribed for another person.
* Don't overdo it. Too much scrubbing makes skin worse. Too much benzoyl peroxide or Retin-A cream makes your face red and scaly. Too much oral antibiotic may cause side effects.
1. Use topical benzoyl peroxide lotion or gel
Benzoyl peroxide helps kill skin bacteria, unplug the oil ducts and heal acne pimples. It is the most effective acne treatment you can get without a doctor's prescription. Many brands are available in different levels of strength (2.5 percent, 5 percent or 10 percent). Read the labels or ask your pediatrician or pharmacist about it.
* Start slowly with a 2.5 percent or 5 percent lotion or gel once a day. After a week, increase use to twice a day (morning and night) if your skin isn't too red or isn't peeling.
* Apply a thin film to the entire area where pimples may occur. Don't just dab it on current blemishes. Avoid the delicate skin around the eyes, mouth and corner of the nose.
* If your acne isn't better after four to six weeks, you may increase to a 10 percent strength lotion or gel. Start with one application each day and increase to two daily applications if your skin tolerates it.
2. If you don't see results, consult your pediatrician
Your doctor can prescribe stronger treatments, if needed, and will teach you how to use them properly. Three kinds of medications may be recommended:
* TRETINOIN (RETIN-A) CREAM OR GEL helps unplug oil ducts but must be used exactly as directed. Be aware that exposure to the sun (or tanning parlors) can cause increased redness in some people who are using the medication.
* TOPICAL ANTIBIOTIC SOLUTIONS may be used in addition to other medications for a type of acne called pustular acne.
* ORAL ANTIBIOTIC PILLS may be used in addition to creams, lotions or gels if your acne doesn't respond to topical treatments alone.
3. What about the "miracle drug" Accutane?
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a very strong chemical taken in pill form. It is used only for severe cystic acne that hasn't responded to any other treatment. Accutane must NEVER be taken just before or during pregnancy. There is a danger of severe or even fatal deformities to unborn babies whose mothers have taken Accutane while pregnant or who become pregnant soon after taking Accutane. You should never have unprotected sexual intercourse while taking Accutane. Patients who take Accutane must be carefully supervised by a doctor knowledgeable about its usage, such as a pediatric dermatologist or other expert on treating acne. Your pediatrician may require a negative pregnancy test and a signed consent form before prescribing Accutane to females.
If you are experiencing acne problems, remember that your pediatrician can help you. And as you begin treatment, keep these helpful tips in mind:
* Be patient. It takes three to six weeks to see any improvement. Give each treatment enough time to work.
* Be faithful. Follow your program every day. Don't stop and start each time your skin changes. Remember, sometimes your skin may appear to worsen early in the program before you begin to see improvement.
* Follow directions. Not using the treatment as directed is the most common reason the treatment fails.
* Don't use medication prescribed for someone else. This holds true for all medications, especially Accutane. Doctors prescribe medication specifically for particular patients. What's good for a friend may be harmful for you. Never take Accutane that's prescribed for another person.
* Don't overdo it. Too much scrubbing makes skin worse. Too much benzoyl peroxide or Retin-A cream makes your face red and scaly. Too much oral antibiotic may cause side effects.
Getting To Know Acne
Acne
This factsheet is for people who have acne.
Acne is a skin condition that causes spots. Most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25.1 However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. There are many treatments available to help deal with the condition.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that typically causes one or more of the following:
* blackheads (comedones)
* whiteheads
* red or yellow spots
* greasy skin
* scars
Acne typically affects the skin of the face, back, neck, chest and arms and the severity of the condition can vary.
Acne affects people of all skin colours. The processes that cause acne are exactly the same in people with black or brown skin but the impact is altered by the skin pigmentation.
Acne is very common and affects about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 at some time.
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Acne
This factsheet is for people who have acne.
Acne is a skin condition that causes spots. Most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25.1 However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. There are many treatments available to help deal with the condition.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that typically causes one or more of the following:
* blackheads (comedones) 2,3
* whiteheads2,3
* red or yellow spots2,3
* greasy skin2,3
* scars2,3
Acne typically affects the skin of the face, back, neck, chest and arms and the severity of the condition can vary.1,4
Acne affects people of all skin colours. The processes that cause acne are exactly the same in people with black or brown skin but the impact is altered by the skin pigmentation.
Acne is very common and affects about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 at some time.4
The skin
The surface of the skin has lots of small sebaceous glands just below the surface. These glands make an oily substance called sebum that keeps the skin smooth and supple.
Tiny pores (holes in the skin) allow the sebum to come to the skin surface. Hairs also grow through these pores.
IIllustration showing the structure of skin
Illustration showing the structure of skin
What causes acne?
Acne is caused by the overactivity of the sebaceous glands that secrete oily substances onto the skin.
The sebaceous glands of people with acne are especially sensitive to normal blood levels of a hormone called testosterone, found naturally in both men and women.
Testosterone in people prone to acne triggers the sebaceous glands to produce an excess of sebum. At the same time, the dead skin cells lining the openings of the hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) are not shed properly and clog up the follicles.
These two effects combined cause a build-up of oil in the hair follicles. This causes blackheads and whiteheads to form.
For some people, their acne does not progress beyond this stage.
However in other people, the build-up of oil in the hair follicles creates an ideal environment for a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes to grow.
These bacteria normally live harmlessly on your skin but when this ideal environment is created, they grow. They feed off the sebum and produce substances that cause a response from your body's immune system. This inflames the skin and creates the redness associated with spots.
In more severe 'inflammatory acne', cysts develop beneath the skin's surface. These acne cysts can rupture, spreading the infection into nearby skin tissue. This can result in scarring.
What makes acne worse?
There are a number of things that can make your acne worse. These include the following:
* picking and squeezing the spots may cause further inflammation and scarring1
* stress can make acne worse in some people, although it is not clear why1,
* in women, outbreaks may be affected by the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle1,
* excessive production of male hormones such as testosterone from conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome may be another cause.5 For more information, please see the separate BUPA factsheet Polycystic ovary syndrome
* some contraceptive pills may make acne worse. This is due to the type of progestogen hormone in some pills whereas some other types of contraceptive pills can improve acne - see Treatments section below. Your GP will advise you which contraceptive pill to take
* some medicines can make acne worse. For example, some medicines taken for epilepsy, and steroid creams and ointments that are used for eczema. Do not stop a prescribed medicine if you suspect it is making your acne worse, but tell your GP. An alternative may be an option
* steroids can cause acne as a side-effect
Treatment
Acne may cause you considerable emotional distress but there is a range of treatment options to help you tackle the problem. No treatment will completely 'cure' your acne. The aims of treatment are to prevent new spots forming, to improve those already present, and to prevent scarring.3
Home treatment
It is important to keep spot-prone areas clean, so wash the affected area twice a day with an unperfumed cleanser.1,6 The skin needs a certain amount of oil to maintain its natural condition, so avoid aggressive washing with strong soaps.
There are a number of over-the-counter remedies available from pharmacies to treat mild acne. These usually contain antibacterial agents such as benzoyl peroxide (eg Oxy and Clearasil Max).
As well as its antibacterial effects, benzoyl peroxide can dry out the skin and encourage it to shed the surface layer of dead skin. Together, these effects make it harder for pores to become blocked and for infection to develop.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause redness and peeling, especially to start with. This tends to settle down if you reduce the number of times you use it. You can then build up your use gradually.
No home treatments for acne will work immediately. It can take weeks, if not months, for significant effects to be noticeable. If home treatments have not worked after two months, or you have severe acne, you should visit your GP.
Prescription medicines
Your GP may start your treatment by prescribing a preparation containing benzoyl peroxide. If this does not work, or if you have more severe acne, there are a range of other treatment options that you can either rub onto your skin (topical) or take in tablet form (oral).
Topical treatments
There are several topical treatments you may be prescribed including those listed below:
* azelaic acid (Skinoren) is an alternative to benzoyl peroxide and may not make your skin as sore as benzoyl peroxide
* topical retinoids (eg Adapalene) are medicines based on vitamin A, which are rubbed into the skin once or twice a day.7 They work by encouraging the outer layer of skin to flake off
* a topical antibiotic lotion applied to the skin can be used to control the P. acnes bacteria (eg Dalacin T). Treatment needs to continue for at least six months. Preparations that combine an antibiotic with other acne medication are available (eg Benzamycin which combines an antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide)
Oral treatments
There are several oral treatments you may be prescribed including those listed below:
* oral antibiotics (tablets), such as tetracycline, can be prescribed for inflammatory acne. They should be taken daily for around three months, although it might take four to six months for the benefits to be seen.7 The success of this treatment can be limited because the strains of bacteria are often resistant to the common antibiotics. Antibiotics do not prevent pores from becoming blocked so treatment to prevent blackheads, such as benzoyl peroxide, is often also prescribed at the same time
* some types of oral contraceptive tablets help women who have acne. A combination of the usual pill hormone called ethinylestradiol with cyproterone acetate (eg Dianette) suppresses male hormone activity so is often used in women with acne
* isotretinoin (eg Roaccutane) is a medicine known as an oral retinoid, which also exists in a topical form (see above). Isotretinoin works by drying up oily secretions. It tends to be prescribed to people with severe forms of acne that have proved resistant to other treatments. There a number of serious side-effects of this drug, such as liver disorders and depresssion. You should not take isotretinoin if you are pregnant, as it is very dangerous to an unborn baby. For safety reasons, isotretinoin is only prescribed under the supervision of dermatology specialists.
This factsheet is for people who have acne.
Acne is a skin condition that causes spots. Most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25.1 However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. There are many treatments available to help deal with the condition.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that typically causes one or more of the following:
* blackheads (comedones)
* whiteheads
* red or yellow spots
* greasy skin
* scars
Acne typically affects the skin of the face, back, neck, chest and arms and the severity of the condition can vary.
Acne affects people of all skin colours. The processes that cause acne are exactly the same in people with black or brown skin but the impact is altered by the skin pigmentation.
Acne is very common and affects about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 at some time.
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Acne
This factsheet is for people who have acne.
Acne is a skin condition that causes spots. Most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25.1 However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. There are many treatments available to help deal with the condition.
What is acne?
Acne is a skin condition that typically causes one or more of the following:
* blackheads (comedones) 2,3
* whiteheads2,3
* red or yellow spots2,3
* greasy skin2,3
* scars2,3
Acne typically affects the skin of the face, back, neck, chest and arms and the severity of the condition can vary.1,4
Acne affects people of all skin colours. The processes that cause acne are exactly the same in people with black or brown skin but the impact is altered by the skin pigmentation.
Acne is very common and affects about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 at some time.4
The skin
The surface of the skin has lots of small sebaceous glands just below the surface. These glands make an oily substance called sebum that keeps the skin smooth and supple.
Tiny pores (holes in the skin) allow the sebum to come to the skin surface. Hairs also grow through these pores.
IIllustration showing the structure of skin
Illustration showing the structure of skin
What causes acne?
Acne is caused by the overactivity of the sebaceous glands that secrete oily substances onto the skin.
The sebaceous glands of people with acne are especially sensitive to normal blood levels of a hormone called testosterone, found naturally in both men and women.
Testosterone in people prone to acne triggers the sebaceous glands to produce an excess of sebum. At the same time, the dead skin cells lining the openings of the hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) are not shed properly and clog up the follicles.
These two effects combined cause a build-up of oil in the hair follicles. This causes blackheads and whiteheads to form.
For some people, their acne does not progress beyond this stage.
However in other people, the build-up of oil in the hair follicles creates an ideal environment for a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes to grow.
These bacteria normally live harmlessly on your skin but when this ideal environment is created, they grow. They feed off the sebum and produce substances that cause a response from your body's immune system. This inflames the skin and creates the redness associated with spots.
In more severe 'inflammatory acne', cysts develop beneath the skin's surface. These acne cysts can rupture, spreading the infection into nearby skin tissue. This can result in scarring.
What makes acne worse?
There are a number of things that can make your acne worse. These include the following:
* picking and squeezing the spots may cause further inflammation and scarring1
* stress can make acne worse in some people, although it is not clear why1,
* in women, outbreaks may be affected by the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle1,
* excessive production of male hormones such as testosterone from conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome may be another cause.5 For more information, please see the separate BUPA factsheet Polycystic ovary syndrome
* some contraceptive pills may make acne worse. This is due to the type of progestogen hormone in some pills whereas some other types of contraceptive pills can improve acne - see Treatments section below. Your GP will advise you which contraceptive pill to take
* some medicines can make acne worse. For example, some medicines taken for epilepsy, and steroid creams and ointments that are used for eczema. Do not stop a prescribed medicine if you suspect it is making your acne worse, but tell your GP. An alternative may be an option
* steroids can cause acne as a side-effect
Treatment
Acne may cause you considerable emotional distress but there is a range of treatment options to help you tackle the problem. No treatment will completely 'cure' your acne. The aims of treatment are to prevent new spots forming, to improve those already present, and to prevent scarring.3
Home treatment
It is important to keep spot-prone areas clean, so wash the affected area twice a day with an unperfumed cleanser.1,6 The skin needs a certain amount of oil to maintain its natural condition, so avoid aggressive washing with strong soaps.
There are a number of over-the-counter remedies available from pharmacies to treat mild acne. These usually contain antibacterial agents such as benzoyl peroxide (eg Oxy and Clearasil Max).
As well as its antibacterial effects, benzoyl peroxide can dry out the skin and encourage it to shed the surface layer of dead skin. Together, these effects make it harder for pores to become blocked and for infection to develop.
Benzoyl peroxide can cause redness and peeling, especially to start with. This tends to settle down if you reduce the number of times you use it. You can then build up your use gradually.
No home treatments for acne will work immediately. It can take weeks, if not months, for significant effects to be noticeable. If home treatments have not worked after two months, or you have severe acne, you should visit your GP.
Prescription medicines
Your GP may start your treatment by prescribing a preparation containing benzoyl peroxide. If this does not work, or if you have more severe acne, there are a range of other treatment options that you can either rub onto your skin (topical) or take in tablet form (oral).
Topical treatments
There are several topical treatments you may be prescribed including those listed below:
* azelaic acid (Skinoren) is an alternative to benzoyl peroxide and may not make your skin as sore as benzoyl peroxide
* topical retinoids (eg Adapalene) are medicines based on vitamin A, which are rubbed into the skin once or twice a day.7 They work by encouraging the outer layer of skin to flake off
* a topical antibiotic lotion applied to the skin can be used to control the P. acnes bacteria (eg Dalacin T). Treatment needs to continue for at least six months. Preparations that combine an antibiotic with other acne medication are available (eg Benzamycin which combines an antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide)
Oral treatments
There are several oral treatments you may be prescribed including those listed below:
* oral antibiotics (tablets), such as tetracycline, can be prescribed for inflammatory acne. They should be taken daily for around three months, although it might take four to six months for the benefits to be seen.7 The success of this treatment can be limited because the strains of bacteria are often resistant to the common antibiotics. Antibiotics do not prevent pores from becoming blocked so treatment to prevent blackheads, such as benzoyl peroxide, is often also prescribed at the same time
* some types of oral contraceptive tablets help women who have acne. A combination of the usual pill hormone called ethinylestradiol with cyproterone acetate (eg Dianette) suppresses male hormone activity so is often used in women with acne
* isotretinoin (eg Roaccutane) is a medicine known as an oral retinoid, which also exists in a topical form (see above). Isotretinoin works by drying up oily secretions. It tends to be prescribed to people with severe forms of acne that have proved resistant to other treatments. There a number of serious side-effects of this drug, such as liver disorders and depresssion. You should not take isotretinoin if you are pregnant, as it is very dangerous to an unborn baby. For safety reasons, isotretinoin is only prescribed under the supervision of dermatology specialists.
Homemade Acne Treatments - How To Do It The Right Way?
Experts say acne facial treatments should begin with the diet and hygienic habits. Then there are over-the-counter drugs available, which have improved over the years and can bring about immediate results in most cases. But these things are successful in �most cases� and not in all cases. For such exemptions � people who have experienced allergic reactions to medicines or for those the diet adjustments do not work � it is advisable to try out homemade acne treatments. Such acne facial treatments are effective and cheap and one does not need the advice of a doctor to try it out.
One of the effective homemade acne facial treatments is cleansing the facial skin regularly using cotton dipped in alcohol. The alcohol not only cleanses the pores, but it also kills the bacteria causing infection. But take care not to over do it as excessive use of alcohol can cause skin irritation or cause the skin to peel off.
For somebody having a heavily oily skin, using oatmeal mask can bring about substantive results. This acne facial treatment makes use of a paste of oatmeal and water, which the person has to apply to his/her face twice a day. Keep the paste there on the face for 15-20 minutes and as the oatmeal paste dries up, it starts absorbing the excess oil from the skin. After removing the mask, rinse well with cold water.
Another successful homemade acne facial treatment is the facial mask made using honey and apples. In this technique, grated apple is mixed with four teaspoon full of honey and the resulting paste is applied on the face for 10 minutes. After removing the mask, rinse the face with warm water. Repeat the procedure twice or thrice a week.
Tomatoes also work wonders for oily skin. Apply mashed and drained tomato on the facial skin for 10 min and rinse well with warm water. For better results, this acne facial treatment must be done everyday at least once.
Caution � If you have pimples on your face, abstain from pricking it with your finger nails. Such an act could aggravate the conditions further. If any one treatment acne is not working, try out another; but touching and picking at the inflammations will help neither the person nor the medical condition.
One of the effective homemade acne facial treatments is cleansing the facial skin regularly using cotton dipped in alcohol. The alcohol not only cleanses the pores, but it also kills the bacteria causing infection. But take care not to over do it as excessive use of alcohol can cause skin irritation or cause the skin to peel off.
For somebody having a heavily oily skin, using oatmeal mask can bring about substantive results. This acne facial treatment makes use of a paste of oatmeal and water, which the person has to apply to his/her face twice a day. Keep the paste there on the face for 15-20 minutes and as the oatmeal paste dries up, it starts absorbing the excess oil from the skin. After removing the mask, rinse well with cold water.
Another successful homemade acne facial treatment is the facial mask made using honey and apples. In this technique, grated apple is mixed with four teaspoon full of honey and the resulting paste is applied on the face for 10 minutes. After removing the mask, rinse the face with warm water. Repeat the procedure twice or thrice a week.
Tomatoes also work wonders for oily skin. Apply mashed and drained tomato on the facial skin for 10 min and rinse well with warm water. For better results, this acne facial treatment must be done everyday at least once.
Caution � If you have pimples on your face, abstain from pricking it with your finger nails. Such an act could aggravate the conditions further. If any one treatment acne is not working, try out another; but touching and picking at the inflammations will help neither the person nor the medical condition.
The Daily Battle Against Adult Acne
The prevalence of acne and pimples is generally thought to be problems of the teenage and prepubescent strata of the population, but it is not unusual to see minor cases of adult acne.
And this is normally the situation faced by many adults who scaled through their teenage period without any visible sign of acne that plagued their mates, only to discover to discover that they have been afflicted by adult acne at a stage in they assumed they are free from acne foe ever.
For these set of people, the embarrassment and confusion that results from this is better left unsaid, and the recurring question they keep asking themselves is isn't acne supposed to be an adolescent problem.
Established facts however points otherwise, adult acne is more common than what people imagined. Statistics show that nearly 40% of acne medications in America are bought and used by a class we thought are free from the condition- adults.
There are several reasons why acne occurs, and the most common one many associated as the primary reason- poor hygiene- is nothing but a myth. The main causative agent for almost all acne, and that includes adult acne is as a result of hormonal imbalances or blockages of pores on the skin.
Though an additional reason why adult acne occurs may be due to the oil of the sebaceous glands, or faulty closing of the hair ducts on the body, especially the face.
The good news however is that almost all cases of acne can be treated. This should serve as a soothing balm to most adults, who embarrassed by the onset of adult acne, use any medication they can lay their hands on at the local drug store.
This has been proved in several cases to worse the situation, because most of the medications were produced solely to combat acne in young people. Thus they may not have the ability to act on adult acne.
While there might be no significant difference in form and appearance between adult acne and the regular one, if you are afflicted with adult acne, a smart move will be to consult a dermatologist.
This skin physician will be able to explain what caused the adult acne in the first place. Once the diagnosis has been made, the physician can then suggest a prescription drug that can eliminate the condition permanently. But in reality, any adult that is afflicted by adult acne need not be embarrassed by the problem.
As stated earlier, the prevalence of adult acne is more common than imagined, so the best option still remain going to a dermatologist to eliminate the condition instead of resorting to self medication and spending a fortune in the process, nor forgetting the anxiety and fear that are sure to happen when you discover the onset signs of acne.
And this is normally the situation faced by many adults who scaled through their teenage period without any visible sign of acne that plagued their mates, only to discover to discover that they have been afflicted by adult acne at a stage in they assumed they are free from acne foe ever.
For these set of people, the embarrassment and confusion that results from this is better left unsaid, and the recurring question they keep asking themselves is isn't acne supposed to be an adolescent problem.
Established facts however points otherwise, adult acne is more common than what people imagined. Statistics show that nearly 40% of acne medications in America are bought and used by a class we thought are free from the condition- adults.
There are several reasons why acne occurs, and the most common one many associated as the primary reason- poor hygiene- is nothing but a myth. The main causative agent for almost all acne, and that includes adult acne is as a result of hormonal imbalances or blockages of pores on the skin.
Though an additional reason why adult acne occurs may be due to the oil of the sebaceous glands, or faulty closing of the hair ducts on the body, especially the face.
The good news however is that almost all cases of acne can be treated. This should serve as a soothing balm to most adults, who embarrassed by the onset of adult acne, use any medication they can lay their hands on at the local drug store.
This has been proved in several cases to worse the situation, because most of the medications were produced solely to combat acne in young people. Thus they may not have the ability to act on adult acne.
While there might be no significant difference in form and appearance between adult acne and the regular one, if you are afflicted with adult acne, a smart move will be to consult a dermatologist.
This skin physician will be able to explain what caused the adult acne in the first place. Once the diagnosis has been made, the physician can then suggest a prescription drug that can eliminate the condition permanently. But in reality, any adult that is afflicted by adult acne need not be embarrassed by the problem.
As stated earlier, the prevalence of adult acne is more common than imagined, so the best option still remain going to a dermatologist to eliminate the condition instead of resorting to self medication and spending a fortune in the process, nor forgetting the anxiety and fear that are sure to happen when you discover the onset signs of acne.
Effective Acne Treatment Options
Acne is the most prevalent skin disorder that usually afflicts first the adolescent population. With 70% of the adolescents affected with this skin disease, it is considered one of the most menacing disease especially during this transitional period of an adolescent's life since, though it may not be that fatal, it could cause some serious emotional trouble to a person ridiculed because of his or her not so clear complexion.
The medical community to help resolve this skin dilemma presents various acne medications and therapeutic methods. Formulation of various medications and solutions are being studied cautiously to finally come up with the most effective acne treatment. But the question is, which among these medications is or are really effective acne treatments?
Here's a rundown of the various acne treatments that claim to be successful in dealing with the troubles of acne according to the type or severity of acne:
Mild or juvenile acne. This type of acne, also known as teenage spots, may be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) topical medicines available in drugstores. They are considered to be easiest to treat. Some prescription topical medicines are also effective acne treatments. They include antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene and tretinoin. These acne treatments help stunt the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation. Depending on the skin type of the person, a doctor will prescribe the appropriate effective acne treatment. For instance, if one is with an oily skin, creams and lotions will not be advised since they are oil-based medications. Gels and solutions will suit more the oily skin since they are usually alcohol-based and tend to dry the skin. These medications are often subject to testing first before one could really consider them as effective acne treatments for their skin problem. As a case-by-case basis, side effects from topical medicines may surface. These side effects may include rashes, stinging, redness, burning, scaling and discoloration.
Moderate to severe acne. Those with oily skin and used to have mild acne (often in their late teens or early twenties) may worsen into a moderate condition of acne. Moderate severity is often characterized with the presence of more whiteheads and redness on the affected spots due to the vessels rupture. Severe acne is when acne has already reached the entire face, back and neck of the person. Usually severe acne conditions translate to bigger spots. This kind of acne is often treated with oral antibiotics. Oral means taking them by mouth. These effective acne treatments work by curbing the reproduction of bacteria and reducing inflammation. With dealing with moderate to severe acne conditions, a combination of prescription topical medications and oral acne medications may be combined. Some topical medications like sulphur drug preparations are considered extremely effective acne treatments. Sulphur has a peeling effect on the skin, thus loosens it and dislodges the blackheads from the pores. Sulphur, as an effective acne treatment, has no known major side effects. But still, it is always advised to test any medication before applying or taking them. Samples of effective acne treatments in the form of oral antibiotics are tetracycline, minocycline, isotretinoin, doxicycline and erythromycin. Most of these effective acne treatments taken orally are hazardous to a pregnant woman's and her child's health. Only erythromycin is reported to be safe to use for those who are either expecting a baby or breastfeeding.
The medical community to help resolve this skin dilemma presents various acne medications and therapeutic methods. Formulation of various medications and solutions are being studied cautiously to finally come up with the most effective acne treatment. But the question is, which among these medications is or are really effective acne treatments?
Here's a rundown of the various acne treatments that claim to be successful in dealing with the troubles of acne according to the type or severity of acne:
Mild or juvenile acne. This type of acne, also known as teenage spots, may be treated with over-the-counter (OTC) topical medicines available in drugstores. They are considered to be easiest to treat. Some prescription topical medicines are also effective acne treatments. They include antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene and tretinoin. These acne treatments help stunt the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation. Depending on the skin type of the person, a doctor will prescribe the appropriate effective acne treatment. For instance, if one is with an oily skin, creams and lotions will not be advised since they are oil-based medications. Gels and solutions will suit more the oily skin since they are usually alcohol-based and tend to dry the skin. These medications are often subject to testing first before one could really consider them as effective acne treatments for their skin problem. As a case-by-case basis, side effects from topical medicines may surface. These side effects may include rashes, stinging, redness, burning, scaling and discoloration.
Moderate to severe acne. Those with oily skin and used to have mild acne (often in their late teens or early twenties) may worsen into a moderate condition of acne. Moderate severity is often characterized with the presence of more whiteheads and redness on the affected spots due to the vessels rupture. Severe acne is when acne has already reached the entire face, back and neck of the person. Usually severe acne conditions translate to bigger spots. This kind of acne is often treated with oral antibiotics. Oral means taking them by mouth. These effective acne treatments work by curbing the reproduction of bacteria and reducing inflammation. With dealing with moderate to severe acne conditions, a combination of prescription topical medications and oral acne medications may be combined. Some topical medications like sulphur drug preparations are considered extremely effective acne treatments. Sulphur has a peeling effect on the skin, thus loosens it and dislodges the blackheads from the pores. Sulphur, as an effective acne treatment, has no known major side effects. But still, it is always advised to test any medication before applying or taking them. Samples of effective acne treatments in the form of oral antibiotics are tetracycline, minocycline, isotretinoin, doxicycline and erythromycin. Most of these effective acne treatments taken orally are hazardous to a pregnant woman's and her child's health. Only erythromycin is reported to be safe to use for those who are either expecting a baby or breastfeeding.
Acne Treatment and Products
Things are much more complicated with adult acne. Treatment Acne Cure acne with an all natural acne treatment that eliminates redness, pimples, blackheads whiteheads, acne scar, adult acne and much more. People who are suffering with mild to severe adult acne can be treated with tropical or oral medicines. The main aim of any best adult acne treatment should include prevention of scarring and clearance of acne. For severe form of adult acne systemic therapy is mainly used. Remember not every popular adult acne products work well for everyone. The exact reasons for adult acne is unknown but is believed to relate to the changes or imbalance in an individuals body hormones. Causes of adult acne: Although the causes of adult acne are unknown, it is thought that adult acne may sometimes have hormonal roots. Skin problems not only effect those in their teens, adult acne is also a very common occurrence, in today's society.
Popping a pimple or any physical acne treatment generally should not be attempted by anyone but a qualified dermatologist. See what others have to say about specific acne treatment products before you buy them. This is a major factor to consider when searching for acne treatment products. There are infinite acne treatment products on the market today. If you jump online, you will notice a great variety of acne treatment products with numerous reviews to boot. Learn about some of the most popular acne treatment product and what makes it effective. Treatment Acne Cure acne with an all natural acne treatment that eliminates redness, pimples, blackheads whiteheads, acne scar, adult acne and much more. Acne is the most common skin affliction in the world, yet quality acne treatment is still a mystery to many sufferers. The main aim of any best adult acne treatment should include prevention of scarring and clearance of acne. Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products.
See what others have to say about specific acne treatment products before you buy them. This is a major factor to consider when searching for acne treatment products. There are infinite acne treatment products on the market today. If you jump online, you will notice a great variety of acne treatment products with numerous reviews to boot. Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products.
Experts suggest that you never use standard bath soap.Next on you list of cystic acne treatments is a face moisturizer. Ex-acne sufferer reveals what natural acne cures work, what acne treatments to avoid, and more surprising acne information. I have been through all sorts of acne treatments, including Accutane multiple times, and Proactiv was very effective for me! It is the most effective and easy-to-use product that I have encountered in my search for acne treatments.
For some the cheapest acne products do the job, for others it is the most expensive. To get the best out of any over the counter acne products you need to use them consistently and correctly. Remember not every popular adult acne products work well for everyone.
Popping a pimple or any physical acne treatment generally should not be attempted by anyone but a qualified dermatologist. See what others have to say about specific acne treatment products before you buy them. This is a major factor to consider when searching for acne treatment products. There are infinite acne treatment products on the market today. If you jump online, you will notice a great variety of acne treatment products with numerous reviews to boot. Learn about some of the most popular acne treatment product and what makes it effective. Treatment Acne Cure acne with an all natural acne treatment that eliminates redness, pimples, blackheads whiteheads, acne scar, adult acne and much more. Acne is the most common skin affliction in the world, yet quality acne treatment is still a mystery to many sufferers. The main aim of any best adult acne treatment should include prevention of scarring and clearance of acne. Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products.
See what others have to say about specific acne treatment products before you buy them. This is a major factor to consider when searching for acne treatment products. There are infinite acne treatment products on the market today. If you jump online, you will notice a great variety of acne treatment products with numerous reviews to boot. Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products.
Experts suggest that you never use standard bath soap.Next on you list of cystic acne treatments is a face moisturizer. Ex-acne sufferer reveals what natural acne cures work, what acne treatments to avoid, and more surprising acne information. I have been through all sorts of acne treatments, including Accutane multiple times, and Proactiv was very effective for me! It is the most effective and easy-to-use product that I have encountered in my search for acne treatments.
For some the cheapest acne products do the job, for others it is the most expensive. To get the best out of any over the counter acne products you need to use them consistently and correctly. Remember not every popular adult acne products work well for everyone.
Best Acne Treatments Start With Understanding Your Current Lifestyle
If you happen to be searching for the best acne treatments, before you choose your treatment I would suggest that you take a little memory trip back to your teen years, and assess how your skin used to be back then.
For individuals still in their teens, I would recommend that you check and see what is going on in your life right now, and see what may be different or has changed prior to you having your problem skin!
I know most of you may think that it�s all part of nature, or it�s part of your family genetics, and you would like to find that miracle cure! However, the true problem may exist because of your lifestyle choices, and until you fully understand why you�re currently experiencing severe blemish breakouts, or increased blackheads in your pores, you can then follow the cycle of your consistent outbreaks that cause you to feel helpless in your battle.
It�s a fact that our society is placing more pressures on students, and many working individuals. Schools are placing more study loads on the student, and the business industry is downsizing, causing more hours to be placed on the employees! What this does to your body and your mind is that it places an incredible load of stress on you, as well as the affects, which can easily change your daily lifestyle.
You may be asking, how does this all come into play with my acne condition, and how do I connect these facts to my acne treatment?
There are many studies out today indicating that �stress� and the way you take care of your body, and the products you may be using are a contributing factor to your pimples and blackheads. If you can look back when you had good skin and see what you may have been doing differently, you could hopefully make some lifestyle changes for the better. With these changes, you could possibly see positive results, and avoid having to take acne medications prescribed by your dermatologist.
There are many elements that can be contributing to your skin blemishes, and the ingredients in the select treatment product you�re using can also be the cause of your skin irritation, which is causing your reoccurring pimple breakouts. So let�s look at some topics that have come up in some studies, and see if we can clarify some of the elements that may be affecting your current lifestyle.
Facial Medications, Caffeine, Stress, And The Sun! What Do They Have In Common, And How Does It Affect Your Blemish Situation?
I�m not a doctor, and I don�t have any professional skin care background, but what I do have is a common sense approach to issues. When I read about certain acne products, and also the food and drink we consume on a daily basis, plus the type of life we live makes sense to me when we mix it all together and try and link it to our skin condition.
First we should talk about coffee, pop and alcohol, and see what the connection is to skin problems. In my opinion, the way I interpret coffee, pop and alcohol is that they contribute several elements to your body that assist in major changes to your skin.
Caffeine and sugar in coffee and pop, plus alcohols are partial diuretics that assist in drawing more water out of your body than bringing water back in, plus they�re a stimulant and can prevent you from getting the recommended amount of sleep that your body needs, which ranges from at least 7 to 8 hours per night. What this all means is that by consuming these products daily, they could be changing the entire dynamics of your body, and affecting you dramatically without you even realizing the changes.
What happens is this: your body may become over stimulated with all these items going through your system, and either consumed separately or in combination, your skin may seriously become affected by these products. Depending on your body�s tolerance level, your reactions could be reflected by the daily consumption.
Let�s look at the connection of the cleansers, creams, and acne cosmetics you�re currently using, and see why some may not work to prevent your acne breakouts or increased blackheads. When taking a common sense approach to the ingredients, avoid any product that will shrink your pores! Now this information may contradict products that say they reduce pore size, and make them look less visible.
What that means I don�t know. But when you think about it for a moment, if you have a product that shrinks your pores, that�s going to increase the chance that you will have more oil trapped in your skin. The more of the skin�s oil that is potentially blocking your pores, the higher chance you�re going to form blackheads and whiteheads, plus the trapped oil will be tasty food for bacteria that feeds off the oil and dead skin, eventually turning it into a nasty blemish. Think about that, and if it makes sense to you, then avoid products that have any astringent agents in them.
The sun is one that I have been very confused about for a long time, but again when it was explained to me, it made total sense, and now I really understand the benefits and the damages it can cause. The sun actually can help you in your battle on acne; however, the time you spend in the sun can make the big difference. I found out that the sun actually aids in killing bacteria on your skin, but you should limit your time to approximately 15 minutes per day, because when you spend long periods of time in the sun, it will eventually dry and reduce the pores in your skin. Now like above, what happens when the pores shrink? Absolutely, trapped oil and the formation of zits!
Stress, in my opinion, is the biggest contributor to your body�s lifestyle changes, and believe it or not, it seems to tie in with everything above, because stress is caused by many elements from the types of food you consume, to the everyday lifestyle you lead with your work and play.
Again, I�m not a doctor, but even with my own body I notice that if I don�t get enough sleep, or I worry about a project that has to be completed, and the everyday choices I make in cleaning my skin all is in some way a contributor to stress, and the changes in my body. So when you sit back and see if you can adjust anything in the way you live your life for the better, you may be on the right track to not only a healthier lifestyle, but also clearer, blemish free skin!
For individuals still in their teens, I would recommend that you check and see what is going on in your life right now, and see what may be different or has changed prior to you having your problem skin!
I know most of you may think that it�s all part of nature, or it�s part of your family genetics, and you would like to find that miracle cure! However, the true problem may exist because of your lifestyle choices, and until you fully understand why you�re currently experiencing severe blemish breakouts, or increased blackheads in your pores, you can then follow the cycle of your consistent outbreaks that cause you to feel helpless in your battle.
It�s a fact that our society is placing more pressures on students, and many working individuals. Schools are placing more study loads on the student, and the business industry is downsizing, causing more hours to be placed on the employees! What this does to your body and your mind is that it places an incredible load of stress on you, as well as the affects, which can easily change your daily lifestyle.
You may be asking, how does this all come into play with my acne condition, and how do I connect these facts to my acne treatment?
There are many studies out today indicating that �stress� and the way you take care of your body, and the products you may be using are a contributing factor to your pimples and blackheads. If you can look back when you had good skin and see what you may have been doing differently, you could hopefully make some lifestyle changes for the better. With these changes, you could possibly see positive results, and avoid having to take acne medications prescribed by your dermatologist.
There are many elements that can be contributing to your skin blemishes, and the ingredients in the select treatment product you�re using can also be the cause of your skin irritation, which is causing your reoccurring pimple breakouts. So let�s look at some topics that have come up in some studies, and see if we can clarify some of the elements that may be affecting your current lifestyle.
Facial Medications, Caffeine, Stress, And The Sun! What Do They Have In Common, And How Does It Affect Your Blemish Situation?
I�m not a doctor, and I don�t have any professional skin care background, but what I do have is a common sense approach to issues. When I read about certain acne products, and also the food and drink we consume on a daily basis, plus the type of life we live makes sense to me when we mix it all together and try and link it to our skin condition.
First we should talk about coffee, pop and alcohol, and see what the connection is to skin problems. In my opinion, the way I interpret coffee, pop and alcohol is that they contribute several elements to your body that assist in major changes to your skin.
Caffeine and sugar in coffee and pop, plus alcohols are partial diuretics that assist in drawing more water out of your body than bringing water back in, plus they�re a stimulant and can prevent you from getting the recommended amount of sleep that your body needs, which ranges from at least 7 to 8 hours per night. What this all means is that by consuming these products daily, they could be changing the entire dynamics of your body, and affecting you dramatically without you even realizing the changes.
What happens is this: your body may become over stimulated with all these items going through your system, and either consumed separately or in combination, your skin may seriously become affected by these products. Depending on your body�s tolerance level, your reactions could be reflected by the daily consumption.
Let�s look at the connection of the cleansers, creams, and acne cosmetics you�re currently using, and see why some may not work to prevent your acne breakouts or increased blackheads. When taking a common sense approach to the ingredients, avoid any product that will shrink your pores! Now this information may contradict products that say they reduce pore size, and make them look less visible.
What that means I don�t know. But when you think about it for a moment, if you have a product that shrinks your pores, that�s going to increase the chance that you will have more oil trapped in your skin. The more of the skin�s oil that is potentially blocking your pores, the higher chance you�re going to form blackheads and whiteheads, plus the trapped oil will be tasty food for bacteria that feeds off the oil and dead skin, eventually turning it into a nasty blemish. Think about that, and if it makes sense to you, then avoid products that have any astringent agents in them.
The sun is one that I have been very confused about for a long time, but again when it was explained to me, it made total sense, and now I really understand the benefits and the damages it can cause. The sun actually can help you in your battle on acne; however, the time you spend in the sun can make the big difference. I found out that the sun actually aids in killing bacteria on your skin, but you should limit your time to approximately 15 minutes per day, because when you spend long periods of time in the sun, it will eventually dry and reduce the pores in your skin. Now like above, what happens when the pores shrink? Absolutely, trapped oil and the formation of zits!
Stress, in my opinion, is the biggest contributor to your body�s lifestyle changes, and believe it or not, it seems to tie in with everything above, because stress is caused by many elements from the types of food you consume, to the everyday lifestyle you lead with your work and play.
Again, I�m not a doctor, but even with my own body I notice that if I don�t get enough sleep, or I worry about a project that has to be completed, and the everyday choices I make in cleaning my skin all is in some way a contributor to stress, and the changes in my body. So when you sit back and see if you can adjust anything in the way you live your life for the better, you may be on the right track to not only a healthier lifestyle, but also clearer, blemish free skin!
Acne Medication - Research of Side Affects
Acne is an extremely common skin affliction affecting around 85% of teenagers and young adults as well as a significant proportion of adults.
With a plethora of acne information available, it may also be difficult to establish what is the right treatment and/or medication. In a previous article I suggested that as all of us are individuals, it is likely so to will the treatment for each person�s acne.
Let�s delve a bit further into treatments and medication. In the case of mild or even slightly worse acne, a good preventative and treatment regime if rigorously followed is often found to control the affliction.
However there are obviously sufferers with severe acne where over the counter or non prescription treatments have not had the desired impact. Whilst I would suggest in this instance finding a reputable dermatologist you will likely find that an acne treatment regime still has a place in assisting the overall treatment.
It would be extremely advisable for those prescribed medications for the more severe acne affliction to carefully research the medication prior to commencing. The clear example of this is the medication for �recalcitrant modular acne� being Isotretinoin (marketed as Accutane, Amnesteem, Claravis & Sotret). The US Food and Drug Administration provides significant information in relation to this particular drug however in short it is known to cause birth defects and is being examined in relation to reports of suicide or suicidal thoughts associated with the use of the drug.
A Risk Management program called iPLEDGE in relation to this drug is in place with information and updates available.
The program is ensuring adequate controls are in place in relation to the use of this drug and the important message is �Do not purchase this drug over the internet�.
There are a range of prescribed medications available with those applied to the skin for more mild to moderate cases and oral medications for more severe.
Some of these include:
� Oral antibiotics
� Oral contraceptives
� Azelaic Acid
� Benzoyl peroxide
� Clindamycin
� Erythromycin
� Sodium sulfacetamide
� Tazarotene
� Tretinoin
� Adapalene
The message is still however to do the appropriate research as information on some drugs may change significantly over time.
Summary
Whilst medications are vital in the treatment of a significant number of conditions aside from acne, it is always wise to research the medication to allow a balanced approach or weighing up the benefits prior to commencing.
This is obviously extremely clear in the case of the drug Isotretinoin for severe acne.
With a plethora of acne information available, it may also be difficult to establish what is the right treatment and/or medication. In a previous article I suggested that as all of us are individuals, it is likely so to will the treatment for each person�s acne.
Let�s delve a bit further into treatments and medication. In the case of mild or even slightly worse acne, a good preventative and treatment regime if rigorously followed is often found to control the affliction.
However there are obviously sufferers with severe acne where over the counter or non prescription treatments have not had the desired impact. Whilst I would suggest in this instance finding a reputable dermatologist you will likely find that an acne treatment regime still has a place in assisting the overall treatment.
It would be extremely advisable for those prescribed medications for the more severe acne affliction to carefully research the medication prior to commencing. The clear example of this is the medication for �recalcitrant modular acne� being Isotretinoin (marketed as Accutane, Amnesteem, Claravis & Sotret). The US Food and Drug Administration provides significant information in relation to this particular drug however in short it is known to cause birth defects and is being examined in relation to reports of suicide or suicidal thoughts associated with the use of the drug.
A Risk Management program called iPLEDGE in relation to this drug is in place with information and updates available.
The program is ensuring adequate controls are in place in relation to the use of this drug and the important message is �Do not purchase this drug over the internet�.
There are a range of prescribed medications available with those applied to the skin for more mild to moderate cases and oral medications for more severe.
Some of these include:
� Oral antibiotics
� Oral contraceptives
� Azelaic Acid
� Benzoyl peroxide
� Clindamycin
� Erythromycin
� Sodium sulfacetamide
� Tazarotene
� Tretinoin
� Adapalene
The message is still however to do the appropriate research as information on some drugs may change significantly over time.
Summary
Whilst medications are vital in the treatment of a significant number of conditions aside from acne, it is always wise to research the medication to allow a balanced approach or weighing up the benefits prior to commencing.
This is obviously extremely clear in the case of the drug Isotretinoin for severe acne.
Acne Scars - A Nightmare For Many
Acne is a very common skin disorder which has become problem for all ages. The teen years can be tough and sometimes even after passing those adolescent years acne may not leave you alone. After passing through that testing phase of acne you have to clear another milestone of the scars left behind due to acne. Acne may leave you at some point or other but the scars become very visible and your face is the one which gets most affected.
There are different types of acne scars which causes severe damage to your skin
Ice-pick scars are mainly seen on the cheek and are mostly small and can be shallow or deep. These can sometimes be hard or soft to touch. The soft scars can be worked upon by stretching and the same cannot be done to the hard ice-pick scars.
Depressed fibrotic scars in comparison to ice-pick scars are very large which has sharp edges and steep sides. The metamorphosis of ice-pick scars leads to depressed fibrotic scars with the passage of time.
Soft scars as the name suggest is soft to touch and like a mountain erupts from the skin. They are small, circular and very linear in shape.
Atrophic macules are small but when it happens to surfaces the face it becomes very big. Over a period of time they may turn blue and dry out to be less conspicuous.
Follicular macular atrophy is usually seen on the chest or back of a person. These look similar to whiteheads which can be seen slightly raised above the surface.
Home treatments to remove scars are
*Use of sandalwood paste on the scars can help in getting the scars fade away
*Sandalwood paste mixed with black gram paste also helps
*Rubbing ice cubes helps in tightening your skin and making it young
*Sandalwood paste mixed with rose water kept overnight on your scar also helps, if it does not make your skin dry
*Acne pores can be tightened by applying cucumber juice
*Rubbing sliced tomato on your skin helps in closing the open pores and saves you from oily skin
*The other treatment may include skin surgery, skin grafting and laser treatment too
There are different types of acne scars which causes severe damage to your skin
Ice-pick scars are mainly seen on the cheek and are mostly small and can be shallow or deep. These can sometimes be hard or soft to touch. The soft scars can be worked upon by stretching and the same cannot be done to the hard ice-pick scars.
Depressed fibrotic scars in comparison to ice-pick scars are very large which has sharp edges and steep sides. The metamorphosis of ice-pick scars leads to depressed fibrotic scars with the passage of time.
Soft scars as the name suggest is soft to touch and like a mountain erupts from the skin. They are small, circular and very linear in shape.
Atrophic macules are small but when it happens to surfaces the face it becomes very big. Over a period of time they may turn blue and dry out to be less conspicuous.
Follicular macular atrophy is usually seen on the chest or back of a person. These look similar to whiteheads which can be seen slightly raised above the surface.
Home treatments to remove scars are
*Use of sandalwood paste on the scars can help in getting the scars fade away
*Sandalwood paste mixed with black gram paste also helps
*Rubbing ice cubes helps in tightening your skin and making it young
*Sandalwood paste mixed with rose water kept overnight on your scar also helps, if it does not make your skin dry
*Acne pores can be tightened by applying cucumber juice
*Rubbing sliced tomato on your skin helps in closing the open pores and saves you from oily skin
*The other treatment may include skin surgery, skin grafting and laser treatment too
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.
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.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
Why I Swore off Acne Medications
There are over 50 million people in America alone who suffer from acne and sadly this permits for exploitation from the many marketers and impostors out to make a fast buck at the expense of the vulnerable and desperate.
Now, I was once in the category of the frantic and susceptible, in my desperate attempts to get rid of my acne-both as a teenager and a young adult- but not anymore.
After adopting the use of drug-free methods of curing my acne such as a drastic change in my diet, facial massaging and other basic hygienic steps such as changing my pillow-cases daily, having a towel that was exclusively for my face etc, I have since swore off the use of acne medications as I am of the firm belief that most don�t work and may actually aggravate an already debilitating situation.
Now friends, I tried it all (well everything except plastic surgery) Proactive, Clearasil, Neutrogena, Benzoyl peroxide medications�you name it, I tried it and from my experience, nothing worked.
One product would probably just dry my skin out that I�d literally have to rotate my jaw just to get elasticity back in my face; while the other would so irritate my skin, I�d have to be so careful not to even touch it.
Moreover, thinking about the time I spent and wasted using these products actually makes me laugh.
For one I had to use a cleanser, then the mask (10-15 minutes for this one folks) and afterwards a toner and �concealer�? Now, keep in mind, I�m a guy and no, I�m not in show-business.
Let�s take a look at some other popular products like Adapalene gel (Differin), Clindamycin phosphate (Cleocin T), Azelic acid (Azelex), Tretinoin.
Friends, most people-like I did -develop side effects from using prescription topical acne remedy medications. These include stinging, burning, redness, peeling, scaling, or discoloration of the skin. Hey, aren�t we trying to get a smoother skin here�?!
In addition, when I was prescribed tetracycline and minocycline, both on different occasions by a dermatologist for oral medication, I had to deal with upset stomach, dizziness and lightheadedness which usually kicked in within minutes after use.
Moreover, I was told I�d have to take oral antibiotics for as long as 4 to 6 months for an effective acne treatment! 4-6 months�?! Now I don�t know about you, but that is an awfully long time to wait for an acne remedy to work, especially when a natural inexpensive alternative for the treatment of acne could give you the same results in less than 7 to 10 days when done properly.
Thankfully my acne has since gone and though I mentioned I wasn�t in show business above, maybe I�d give it a shot eh? That�s how improved my skin condition is and how much more confident I feel and this is from a guy who loathed and cringed to have his picture taken or to even step out from his room.
We all differ, so if you�ve had success from acne medications, by all means feel free to use them, however, if like the majority you have had no success with the wide range of so called acne remedies then why not try alternative methods of clearing up your skin. It worked for me and chances are it can work for you.
Here�s to a clearer skin naturally.
Now, I was once in the category of the frantic and susceptible, in my desperate attempts to get rid of my acne-both as a teenager and a young adult- but not anymore.
After adopting the use of drug-free methods of curing my acne such as a drastic change in my diet, facial massaging and other basic hygienic steps such as changing my pillow-cases daily, having a towel that was exclusively for my face etc, I have since swore off the use of acne medications as I am of the firm belief that most don�t work and may actually aggravate an already debilitating situation.
Now friends, I tried it all (well everything except plastic surgery) Proactive, Clearasil, Neutrogena, Benzoyl peroxide medications�you name it, I tried it and from my experience, nothing worked.
One product would probably just dry my skin out that I�d literally have to rotate my jaw just to get elasticity back in my face; while the other would so irritate my skin, I�d have to be so careful not to even touch it.
Moreover, thinking about the time I spent and wasted using these products actually makes me laugh.
For one I had to use a cleanser, then the mask (10-15 minutes for this one folks) and afterwards a toner and �concealer�? Now, keep in mind, I�m a guy and no, I�m not in show-business.
Let�s take a look at some other popular products like Adapalene gel (Differin), Clindamycin phosphate (Cleocin T), Azelic acid (Azelex), Tretinoin.
Friends, most people-like I did -develop side effects from using prescription topical acne remedy medications. These include stinging, burning, redness, peeling, scaling, or discoloration of the skin. Hey, aren�t we trying to get a smoother skin here�?!
In addition, when I was prescribed tetracycline and minocycline, both on different occasions by a dermatologist for oral medication, I had to deal with upset stomach, dizziness and lightheadedness which usually kicked in within minutes after use.
Moreover, I was told I�d have to take oral antibiotics for as long as 4 to 6 months for an effective acne treatment! 4-6 months�?! Now I don�t know about you, but that is an awfully long time to wait for an acne remedy to work, especially when a natural inexpensive alternative for the treatment of acne could give you the same results in less than 7 to 10 days when done properly.
Thankfully my acne has since gone and though I mentioned I wasn�t in show business above, maybe I�d give it a shot eh? That�s how improved my skin condition is and how much more confident I feel and this is from a guy who loathed and cringed to have his picture taken or to even step out from his room.
We all differ, so if you�ve had success from acne medications, by all means feel free to use them, however, if like the majority you have had no success with the wide range of so called acne remedies then why not try alternative methods of clearing up your skin. It worked for me and chances are it can work for you.
Here�s to a clearer skin naturally.
Where To Find Reliable Treatment For Acne
In the 21st century there is an ever growing number of products that are advertised as being effective treatments for acne. With so many different products on the market it can become downright confusing trying to figure out which treatment regimen will best meet your needs and will best assist you in resolving an acne condition. Unfortunately, the market is now flush with an abundance of products that make dramatic promises about their abilities to treat acne -- products that in reality are of no effect whatsoever. The acne product market is filled with operators that are much like the snake oil salesmen of days gone by.
By taking the time to serious examine what is available on the market in the way of effective acne treatment products, you will be able to select a product and regimen that is not only effective but that is best suited to your particular needs.
If you have what might be categorized as a more severe acne condition or if you have an acne condition that has been slow to clear up, you need to give very serious consideration to seeking professional assistance. Through professional assistance -- usually from a licensed dermatologist -- you will be able to benefit from a treatment regimen that likely will be able to resolve your problem. While a dermatologist may recommend products such as the ZENMED? Derma Cleanse? System, a treating professional will have other suggestions for you as well. A well trained dermatologist will be able to assist you in developing a comprehensive acne treatment program suitable to the state of your condition.
The Internet and World Wide Web has become a significant resource for products and services related to the care and treatment of an acne condition. (Of course, as mentioned above, you need to take care that you access only reliable and reputable sites on the Net that market proven products such as the ZENMED? Derma Cleanse? System.)
There are a number of specific benefits to utilizing the Internet as your resource for the care and treatment of acne condition. As has been referenced already, the Net is flush with sites that you can make the purchase of different acne treatment products. In addition to being able to purchase products on the Internet, you can also utilize the World Wide Web as a source of valuable information about the cause, care and treatment of acne. There are now a plethora of sites that provide detailed and authoritative information about different types of health related issues, including the cause, care and treatment of acne.
Finally, there are now actually different support groups and information exchanges designed for people that are afflicted with acne. These sites allow people -- particularly men and women afflicted with adult onset acne -- with the ability to share treatment ideas and to commiserate general about their conditions. Through bulletin boards and online forums, these types of resources have proven to be very helpful to people afflicted with acne. One should not overlook the valuable services and information that can be provided to you about an acne condition from a local pharmacist. The typical pharmacy in the brick and mortar world is a decent resource for information and treatments for acne. Of course, this will be your primary resource if your dermatologist ends up suggesting a prescription medication for the care and treatment of your acne condition.
Overall, your local real world pharmacist will allow you the chance to explore both prescription and over the counter treatment options. The union of a dermatologist and a pharmacist can be your best frontline resource if you have hard to treat or severe acne. As you seek out the most reliable treatment for your acne condition, be open to trying products that you have not utilized before -- provided that you do so responsibly. For example, if you have not utilized a product such as the ZENMED? Derma Cleanse? System, you will want to take a look at this product in your quest for the perfect treatment regimen for your acne condition.
By experimenting responsibly with different proven treatment regimens you will have a better chance of finding a care plan that is most effective for your particular condition and needs.
In the 21st century there is now a wide selection of different types of acne care and treatment products and services on the market. By taking the time to explore the possibilities, you will be in the best possible position to land on the perfect treatment regimen that will work to ensure that you are able to resolve a current acne condition and prevent a future flare up.
By taking the time to serious examine what is available on the market in the way of effective acne treatment products, you will be able to select a product and regimen that is not only effective but that is best suited to your particular needs.
If you have what might be categorized as a more severe acne condition or if you have an acne condition that has been slow to clear up, you need to give very serious consideration to seeking professional assistance. Through professional assistance -- usually from a licensed dermatologist -- you will be able to benefit from a treatment regimen that likely will be able to resolve your problem. While a dermatologist may recommend products such as the ZENMED? Derma Cleanse? System, a treating professional will have other suggestions for you as well. A well trained dermatologist will be able to assist you in developing a comprehensive acne treatment program suitable to the state of your condition.
The Internet and World Wide Web has become a significant resource for products and services related to the care and treatment of an acne condition. (Of course, as mentioned above, you need to take care that you access only reliable and reputable sites on the Net that market proven products such as the ZENMED? Derma Cleanse? System.)
There are a number of specific benefits to utilizing the Internet as your resource for the care and treatment of acne condition. As has been referenced already, the Net is flush with sites that you can make the purchase of different acne treatment products. In addition to being able to purchase products on the Internet, you can also utilize the World Wide Web as a source of valuable information about the cause, care and treatment of acne. There are now a plethora of sites that provide detailed and authoritative information about different types of health related issues, including the cause, care and treatment of acne.
Finally, there are now actually different support groups and information exchanges designed for people that are afflicted with acne. These sites allow people -- particularly men and women afflicted with adult onset acne -- with the ability to share treatment ideas and to commiserate general about their conditions. Through bulletin boards and online forums, these types of resources have proven to be very helpful to people afflicted with acne. One should not overlook the valuable services and information that can be provided to you about an acne condition from a local pharmacist. The typical pharmacy in the brick and mortar world is a decent resource for information and treatments for acne. Of course, this will be your primary resource if your dermatologist ends up suggesting a prescription medication for the care and treatment of your acne condition.
Overall, your local real world pharmacist will allow you the chance to explore both prescription and over the counter treatment options. The union of a dermatologist and a pharmacist can be your best frontline resource if you have hard to treat or severe acne. As you seek out the most reliable treatment for your acne condition, be open to trying products that you have not utilized before -- provided that you do so responsibly. For example, if you have not utilized a product such as the ZENMED? Derma Cleanse? System, you will want to take a look at this product in your quest for the perfect treatment regimen for your acne condition.
By experimenting responsibly with different proven treatment regimens you will have a better chance of finding a care plan that is most effective for your particular condition and needs.
In the 21st century there is now a wide selection of different types of acne care and treatment products and services on the market. By taking the time to explore the possibilities, you will be in the best possible position to land on the perfect treatment regimen that will work to ensure that you are able to resolve a current acne condition and prevent a future flare up.
What is acne? Symptoms and causes
Acne vulgaris is an inflammatory disease of the skin, caused by changes in the pilosebaceous units (skin structures consisting of a hair follicle and its associated sebaceous gland). Acne lesions are commonly referred to as pimples, spots or zits.
The condition is common in puberty, especially among Western societies most likely due to a higher genetic predisposition. It is considered an abnormal response to normal levels of the male hormone testosterone. The response for most people diminishes over time and acne thus tends to disappear, or at least decrease, after one reaches their early twenties. There is, however, no way to predict how long it will take for it to disappear entirely, and some individuals will continue to suffer from acne decades later, into their thirties and forties and even beyond. Acne affects a large percentage of humans at some stage in life.
Symptoms
The most common form of acne is known as "acne vulgaris", meaning "common acne." Excessive secretion of oils from the sebaceous glands combines with naturally occurring dead skin cells to block the hair follicles. There also appeares to be in some instances a faulty keritinization process in the skin leading to abnormal shedding of skin lining the pores. Oil secretions build up beneath the blocked pore, providing a perfect environment for the skin bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to multiply uncontrolled. In response, the skin inflames, producing the visible lesion. The face, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms are especially affected.
The typical acne lesions are: comedones, papules, pustules, nodules and inflammatory cysts. These are the more inflamed form of pus-filled or reddish bumps, even boil-like tender swellings. Non-inflamed 'sebaceous cysts', more properly called epidermoid cysts, occur either in association with acne or alone but are not a constant feature. After resolution of acne lesions, prominent unsightly scars may remain.
Aside from scarring, its main effects are psychological, such as reduced self-esteem and depression. Acne usually appears during adolescence, when people already tend to be most socially insecure.
Causes of acne
Exactly why some people get acne and some do not is not fully known. It is known to be partly hereditary. Several factors are known to be linked to acne:
Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty
Stress, through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands.
Hyperactive sebaceous glands, secondary to the three hormone sources above.
Accumulation of dead skin cells.
Bacteria in the pores, to which the body becomes 'allergic'.
Skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation.
Use of anabolic steroids.
Any medication containing halogens (iodides, chlorides, bromides), lithium, barbiturates, or androgens.
Exposure to high levels of chlorine compounds, particularly chlorinated dioxins, can cause severe, long-lasting acne, known as Chloracne.
Traditionally, attention has focused mostly on hormone-driven over-production of sebum as the main contributing factor of acne. More recently, more attention has been given to narrowing of the follicle channel as a second main contributing factor. Abnormal shedding of the cells lining the follicle, abnormal cell binding ("hyperkeratinization") within the follicle, and water retention in the skin (swelling the skin and so pressing the follicles shut) have all been put forward as important mechanisms. Several hormones have been linked to acne: the male hormones testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), as well as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I). In addition, acne-prone skin has been shown to be insulin resistant.
Development of acne vulgaris in latter years is uncommon, although this is the age group for Rosacea which may have similar appearances. True acne vulgaris in older adults may be a feature of an underlying condition such as pregnancy and disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome or the rare Cushing's syndrome.
Misconceptions about causes
There are many misconceptions and rumors about what does and does not cause the condition:
Diet. One flawed study purported that chocolate, french fries, potato chips and sugar, among others, affect acne.A recent review of scientific literature cannot affirm either way.The consensus among health professionals is that acne sufferers should experiment with their diets, and refrain from consuming such fare if they find such food affects the severity of their acne.A recent study, based on a survey of 47,335 women, did find a positive epidemiological association between milk consumption and acne, particularly skimmed.The researchers hypothesize that the association may be caused by hormones (such as bovine IGF-I) present in cow milk; but this has not been definitively shown. Seafood, on the other hand, may contain relatively high levels of iodine, but probably not enough to cause an acne outbreak. Still, people who are prone to acne may want to avoid excessive consumption of foods high in iodine. It has also been suggested that there is a link between a diet high in refined sugars and acne. According to this hypothesis, the startling absence of acne in non-westernized societies could be explained by the low glycemic index of these tribes' diets.Further research is necessary to establish whether a reduced consumption of high-glycemic foods (such as soft drinks, sweets, white bread) can significantly alleviate acne, though consumption of high-glycemic foods should in any case be kept to a minimum, for general health reasons.
Deficient personal hygiene. Acne is not caused by dirt. This misconception probably comes from the fact that acne involves skin infections. In fact, the blockages that cause acne occur deep within the narrow follicle channel, where it is impossible to wash them away. These plugs are formed by the cells and sebum created there by the body. The bacteria involved are the same bacteria that are always present on the skin. Regular cleansing of the skin can reduce, but not prevent, acne for a particular individual and very little variation among individuals is due to hygiene. Anything beyond very gentle cleansing can actually worsen existing lesions and even encourage new ones by damaging or overdrying skin.
Sex. Common myths state that either celibacy or masturbation cause acne and, conversely, that sexual intercourse can cure it. There is absolutely no scientific evidence suggesting that any of these are factual. It is true, though, that anger and stress affect hormone levels and thus bodily oil production. Whether or not any increases in oil production due to stress are enough to cause acne is currently being researched.
The condition is common in puberty, especially among Western societies most likely due to a higher genetic predisposition. It is considered an abnormal response to normal levels of the male hormone testosterone. The response for most people diminishes over time and acne thus tends to disappear, or at least decrease, after one reaches their early twenties. There is, however, no way to predict how long it will take for it to disappear entirely, and some individuals will continue to suffer from acne decades later, into their thirties and forties and even beyond. Acne affects a large percentage of humans at some stage in life.
Symptoms
The most common form of acne is known as "acne vulgaris", meaning "common acne." Excessive secretion of oils from the sebaceous glands combines with naturally occurring dead skin cells to block the hair follicles. There also appeares to be in some instances a faulty keritinization process in the skin leading to abnormal shedding of skin lining the pores. Oil secretions build up beneath the blocked pore, providing a perfect environment for the skin bacteria Propionibacterium acnes to multiply uncontrolled. In response, the skin inflames, producing the visible lesion. The face, chest, back, shoulders and upper arms are especially affected.
The typical acne lesions are: comedones, papules, pustules, nodules and inflammatory cysts. These are the more inflamed form of pus-filled or reddish bumps, even boil-like tender swellings. Non-inflamed 'sebaceous cysts', more properly called epidermoid cysts, occur either in association with acne or alone but are not a constant feature. After resolution of acne lesions, prominent unsightly scars may remain.
Aside from scarring, its main effects are psychological, such as reduced self-esteem and depression. Acne usually appears during adolescence, when people already tend to be most socially insecure.
Causes of acne
Exactly why some people get acne and some do not is not fully known. It is known to be partly hereditary. Several factors are known to be linked to acne:
Hormonal activity, such as menstrual cycles and puberty
Stress, through increased output of hormones from the adrenal (stress) glands.
Hyperactive sebaceous glands, secondary to the three hormone sources above.
Accumulation of dead skin cells.
Bacteria in the pores, to which the body becomes 'allergic'.
Skin irritation or scratching of any sort will activate inflammation.
Use of anabolic steroids.
Any medication containing halogens (iodides, chlorides, bromides), lithium, barbiturates, or androgens.
Exposure to high levels of chlorine compounds, particularly chlorinated dioxins, can cause severe, long-lasting acne, known as Chloracne.
Traditionally, attention has focused mostly on hormone-driven over-production of sebum as the main contributing factor of acne. More recently, more attention has been given to narrowing of the follicle channel as a second main contributing factor. Abnormal shedding of the cells lining the follicle, abnormal cell binding ("hyperkeratinization") within the follicle, and water retention in the skin (swelling the skin and so pressing the follicles shut) have all been put forward as important mechanisms. Several hormones have been linked to acne: the male hormones testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), as well as insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-I). In addition, acne-prone skin has been shown to be insulin resistant.
Development of acne vulgaris in latter years is uncommon, although this is the age group for Rosacea which may have similar appearances. True acne vulgaris in older adults may be a feature of an underlying condition such as pregnancy and disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome or the rare Cushing's syndrome.
Misconceptions about causes
There are many misconceptions and rumors about what does and does not cause the condition:
Diet. One flawed study purported that chocolate, french fries, potato chips and sugar, among others, affect acne.A recent review of scientific literature cannot affirm either way.The consensus among health professionals is that acne sufferers should experiment with their diets, and refrain from consuming such fare if they find such food affects the severity of their acne.A recent study, based on a survey of 47,335 women, did find a positive epidemiological association between milk consumption and acne, particularly skimmed.The researchers hypothesize that the association may be caused by hormones (such as bovine IGF-I) present in cow milk; but this has not been definitively shown. Seafood, on the other hand, may contain relatively high levels of iodine, but probably not enough to cause an acne outbreak. Still, people who are prone to acne may want to avoid excessive consumption of foods high in iodine. It has also been suggested that there is a link between a diet high in refined sugars and acne. According to this hypothesis, the startling absence of acne in non-westernized societies could be explained by the low glycemic index of these tribes' diets.Further research is necessary to establish whether a reduced consumption of high-glycemic foods (such as soft drinks, sweets, white bread) can significantly alleviate acne, though consumption of high-glycemic foods should in any case be kept to a minimum, for general health reasons.
Deficient personal hygiene. Acne is not caused by dirt. This misconception probably comes from the fact that acne involves skin infections. In fact, the blockages that cause acne occur deep within the narrow follicle channel, where it is impossible to wash them away. These plugs are formed by the cells and sebum created there by the body. The bacteria involved are the same bacteria that are always present on the skin. Regular cleansing of the skin can reduce, but not prevent, acne for a particular individual and very little variation among individuals is due to hygiene. Anything beyond very gentle cleansing can actually worsen existing lesions and even encourage new ones by damaging or overdrying skin.
Sex. Common myths state that either celibacy or masturbation cause acne and, conversely, that sexual intercourse can cure it. There is absolutely no scientific evidence suggesting that any of these are factual. It is true, though, that anger and stress affect hormone levels and thus bodily oil production. Whether or not any increases in oil production due to stress are enough to cause acne is currently being researched.
Healthy Lifestyles Can Fight Acne
If you're seriously interested in knowing about acne, you need to think beyond the basics. This informative article takes a closer look at things you need to know about acne.
This information is simple. Make certain you don't let important acne information slip by you.
I am sure that every one of you is familiar with acne. Almost all of us got this skin disorder, right? Well, technically known as acne vulgaris, this skin disorder affects millions of people from different walks of life, annually. Studies have found out that most of the adolescents are the usual target of this disease, although infants and adults are also affected. It is even found out that about 80 percent of the teenagers develop acne, particularly for women.
What is acne?
According to certain studies, acne varies from quite mild to tremendously severe. It typically forms when the lining of the skin duct as well as the sebaceous glands start to work overtime. With the onset of acne, the lining of the duct actually shed cells which are then transported away to the shell of the skin by the sebum. Once the duct is blocked, it is when the sebum and cells start to amass, forming a plug known as comedo.
Once the plug stays below the plane of the skin, whiteheads or "closed comedo" occurs. If the plug boosts and pops out of the skin duct, it is called "open comedo" or blackhead since the top is dark. As you may know, this is not absolutely dirt, thus it will not wash away.
There are a lot of factors that contribute to the formation of acne, but in terms of its real cause, no one is actually certain as to what exactly causes acne to develop or why it starts in adolescence. However, factor like hereditary top the list. It has long been deemed as the most important factor that plays a large role in the acne's development. As what most people believe, if a member of your family had acne, there is a great possibility that you will have acne too.
Although acne is very prevalent among teenagers, acne should not control your life. There are a lot of ways to fight acne, and one of those is maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Experts have said that when treating a person for acne, the only way to obtain results from effective treatments is through various healthy lifestyle changes. When I say "healthy lifestyle changes", it includes the way you eat, sleep, work, play, etc. As much as possible, you should try to focus on all areas that need changing. This is very important in order for a sustained effort to be completed. If your goal is to treat your bothering acne, then try to treat your whole self as many ways as possible.
Overcoming Stress
One of the most common dilemmas that face people is stress. Stress that is not normal. So what happens when the body gets too stressed out? Experts have found out that in this case, the adrenal cortex converts adrenal androgens to the hormone testosterone in both men and women, which in turn results in overactive sebaceous glands. As found out, the ovaries of women are capable of producing 25 percent of the testosterone, while 75 percent of the hormone comes from the adrenal androgens.
When the body of both male and female is stressed, more adrenal androgen is released, causing a double amount of testosterone. It is this doubling effect that causes the T zone of the face to be oily, while other areas are still dry from dehydration. Also note that adult acne is sometimes the by-product of stress and dehydration. And, water and estrogen are the factors that calm the body's stress alarm system.
Now you can be a confident expert on acne. OK, maybe not an expert. But you should have something to bring to the table next time you join a discussion on acne.
This information is simple. Make certain you don't let important acne information slip by you.
I am sure that every one of you is familiar with acne. Almost all of us got this skin disorder, right? Well, technically known as acne vulgaris, this skin disorder affects millions of people from different walks of life, annually. Studies have found out that most of the adolescents are the usual target of this disease, although infants and adults are also affected. It is even found out that about 80 percent of the teenagers develop acne, particularly for women.
What is acne?
According to certain studies, acne varies from quite mild to tremendously severe. It typically forms when the lining of the skin duct as well as the sebaceous glands start to work overtime. With the onset of acne, the lining of the duct actually shed cells which are then transported away to the shell of the skin by the sebum. Once the duct is blocked, it is when the sebum and cells start to amass, forming a plug known as comedo.
Once the plug stays below the plane of the skin, whiteheads or "closed comedo" occurs. If the plug boosts and pops out of the skin duct, it is called "open comedo" or blackhead since the top is dark. As you may know, this is not absolutely dirt, thus it will not wash away.
There are a lot of factors that contribute to the formation of acne, but in terms of its real cause, no one is actually certain as to what exactly causes acne to develop or why it starts in adolescence. However, factor like hereditary top the list. It has long been deemed as the most important factor that plays a large role in the acne's development. As what most people believe, if a member of your family had acne, there is a great possibility that you will have acne too.
Although acne is very prevalent among teenagers, acne should not control your life. There are a lot of ways to fight acne, and one of those is maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Healthy Lifestyle Changes
Experts have said that when treating a person for acne, the only way to obtain results from effective treatments is through various healthy lifestyle changes. When I say "healthy lifestyle changes", it includes the way you eat, sleep, work, play, etc. As much as possible, you should try to focus on all areas that need changing. This is very important in order for a sustained effort to be completed. If your goal is to treat your bothering acne, then try to treat your whole self as many ways as possible.
Overcoming Stress
One of the most common dilemmas that face people is stress. Stress that is not normal. So what happens when the body gets too stressed out? Experts have found out that in this case, the adrenal cortex converts adrenal androgens to the hormone testosterone in both men and women, which in turn results in overactive sebaceous glands. As found out, the ovaries of women are capable of producing 25 percent of the testosterone, while 75 percent of the hormone comes from the adrenal androgens.
When the body of both male and female is stressed, more adrenal androgen is released, causing a double amount of testosterone. It is this doubling effect that causes the T zone of the face to be oily, while other areas are still dry from dehydration. Also note that adult acne is sometimes the by-product of stress and dehydration. And, water and estrogen are the factors that calm the body's stress alarm system.
Now you can be a confident expert on acne. OK, maybe not an expert. But you should have something to bring to the table next time you join a discussion on acne.
How To Prevent Acne
Many young people as well as older adults suffer from Acne. There is really no �cure� for acne and one can only take measures to help prevent acne. Acne is a condition of clogged pores caused by overactive oil glands. This usually occurs in puberty and can continue into adulthood in some cases. There are some measures you can take to prevent acne or at least keep its severity to a minimum:
? Make sure that you keep your skin clean. Wash regularly. Washing regularly helps to get rid of the excess oil on your skin plus bacteria and dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause outbreaks.
? Get the proper amount of rest. Your body restores and refreshes skin cells while you are resting. Teenagers are notorious for not getting enough rest but it is essential in helping to prevent acne.
? Don�t squeeze or pick at pimples because this has the risk of producing a more severe infection.
? After you exercise take a shower so that the sweat does not contribute to clogging your pores and producing another acne outbreak. This is a very important consideration because many people have a shower many hours after they have finished their exercise, by which time some of the damage will have already been done. The best advice is to exercise at a place where there are shower facilities.
? Wear clean white t-shirts to help keep acne off your back. The white t-shirts tend to absorb the excess oils in your skin and will help to prevent acne on your back at least.
? Take off any makeup before going to bed. Again, the key here is to keep your pores clear of oil and bacteria and help prevent acne outbreaks.
? Don�t use oil-based sunscreen or skin lotions if you have a tendency for acne outbreaks. These will only contribute to the problem.
? After washing, you can also use a cleaning solution on your skin containing what is known as Salicylic Acid. Only use a 2% solution. This can be found in some acne cleaning pad products.
The most important key to preventing acne outbreaks is to keep your pores clear. Clogged pores are the main cause of acne.
? Make sure that you keep your skin clean. Wash regularly. Washing regularly helps to get rid of the excess oil on your skin plus bacteria and dead skin cells that can clog pores and cause outbreaks.
? Get the proper amount of rest. Your body restores and refreshes skin cells while you are resting. Teenagers are notorious for not getting enough rest but it is essential in helping to prevent acne.
? Don�t squeeze or pick at pimples because this has the risk of producing a more severe infection.
? After you exercise take a shower so that the sweat does not contribute to clogging your pores and producing another acne outbreak. This is a very important consideration because many people have a shower many hours after they have finished their exercise, by which time some of the damage will have already been done. The best advice is to exercise at a place where there are shower facilities.
? Wear clean white t-shirts to help keep acne off your back. The white t-shirts tend to absorb the excess oils in your skin and will help to prevent acne on your back at least.
? Take off any makeup before going to bed. Again, the key here is to keep your pores clear of oil and bacteria and help prevent acne outbreaks.
? Don�t use oil-based sunscreen or skin lotions if you have a tendency for acne outbreaks. These will only contribute to the problem.
? After washing, you can also use a cleaning solution on your skin containing what is known as Salicylic Acid. Only use a 2% solution. This can be found in some acne cleaning pad products.
The most important key to preventing acne outbreaks is to keep your pores clear. Clogged pores are the main cause of acne.
Water As A Natural Acne Remedy - Could It Be Possible!
As you may already know, there are many acne treatment products available. Some of these treatments include over-the-counter cleansers, creams, and medicated pads. Other acne products involve prescribed medications provided by a dermatologist. However, the increasing popularity of natural remedies has also become prevalent in treating many common conditions, and acne is no exception.
Surprisingly, water is considered as one of the best natural remedies for treating acne. Water? Yes! Water... and for good reasons! Water is used to hydrate the body, which, of course, hydrates the skin as well. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, must be properly hydrated to work correctly and serve its purpose. This is accomplished in two ways: by washing the face, which hydrates the surface of the skin, and by drinking water, which hydrates the entire body, from the inside out. This, of course, includes the skin. Drinking plenty of water will keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. Healthy skin cells promote a healthy body. Now you've got one more good reason why you should drink lots of water ;-)
Doctors tell us we should drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Although this might sound like an overused clich?, and "six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day" seems like a lot of water to drink in one day, think of what it can do for your body. In addition to improving skin tone and texture, it can stimulate cell growth and will help all your organs work correctly. It also helps filter out unwanted substances that can be harmful to your skin.
Water is also a crucial component deep within your skin. It provides the basis for a soft, smooth, and healthy complexion and will help you look more youthful. Though very little water is stored in the outer layers of your skin, this moisture is important and is constantly removed by outside elements such as sun and wind.
Sun and wind can dry your skin, removing moisture and irritating its surface. When this occurs, pre-existing acne can become even more irritated, which in turn prolongs the problem. While irritation won't directly cause more acne to form, it can worsen the problem. It is important to keep proper moisture in the skin.
You've probably heard that oily skin does not need moisture. This is one of the most common myths. Just because skin is oily, it doesn't mean it is moisturized. By cleansing the skin, you are wiping away excess oil, and my moisturizing it, you are helping it remain smooth and decreasing your chances for irritation.
As the best natural remedy for treating acne, water helps to properly hydrate the skin. This not only promotes and stimulates cell growth, but also helps the other organs of the bodywork together. If properly hydrated, the skin will not wrinkle or sag as easily, and will appear youthful for a longer period of time. Even though water is not the only natural remedy that you can use for treating your skin, it is the most important. Without it, the skin could not do its job in keeping the rest of the body in the best possible condition. So, don't forget about the many benefits that water provides for your skin, especially if you suffer of any type of acne. Try to give your skin a little bit more help - a little bit more water.
Surprisingly, water is considered as one of the best natural remedies for treating acne. Water? Yes! Water... and for good reasons! Water is used to hydrate the body, which, of course, hydrates the skin as well. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, must be properly hydrated to work correctly and serve its purpose. This is accomplished in two ways: by washing the face, which hydrates the surface of the skin, and by drinking water, which hydrates the entire body, from the inside out. This, of course, includes the skin. Drinking plenty of water will keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. Healthy skin cells promote a healthy body. Now you've got one more good reason why you should drink lots of water ;-)
Doctors tell us we should drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Although this might sound like an overused clich?, and "six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day" seems like a lot of water to drink in one day, think of what it can do for your body. In addition to improving skin tone and texture, it can stimulate cell growth and will help all your organs work correctly. It also helps filter out unwanted substances that can be harmful to your skin.
Water is also a crucial component deep within your skin. It provides the basis for a soft, smooth, and healthy complexion and will help you look more youthful. Though very little water is stored in the outer layers of your skin, this moisture is important and is constantly removed by outside elements such as sun and wind.
Sun and wind can dry your skin, removing moisture and irritating its surface. When this occurs, pre-existing acne can become even more irritated, which in turn prolongs the problem. While irritation won't directly cause more acne to form, it can worsen the problem. It is important to keep proper moisture in the skin.
You've probably heard that oily skin does not need moisture. This is one of the most common myths. Just because skin is oily, it doesn't mean it is moisturized. By cleansing the skin, you are wiping away excess oil, and my moisturizing it, you are helping it remain smooth and decreasing your chances for irritation.
As the best natural remedy for treating acne, water helps to properly hydrate the skin. This not only promotes and stimulates cell growth, but also helps the other organs of the bodywork together. If properly hydrated, the skin will not wrinkle or sag as easily, and will appear youthful for a longer period of time. Even though water is not the only natural remedy that you can use for treating your skin, it is the most important. Without it, the skin could not do its job in keeping the rest of the body in the best possible condition. So, don't forget about the many benefits that water provides for your skin, especially if you suffer of any type of acne. Try to give your skin a little bit more help - a little bit more water.
Acne Treatments: The Cheap Option Or The Potent Stuff?
If you scour the shelves of a pharmacy or drug store, you'll most likely find numerous brands of over-the-counter treatment for acne more than you can count with your fingers. among other skin infections,There are likely to be ingredients common to said treatments for skin infections, though none are exactly the same. If the problem is something that your typical medication can handle, it is probably best you consult a skin care professional.
In most cases, these readily available measures achieve the simple goal of alleviating your acne problem without causing any discomfort. Of course, given individual reactions to the chemicals in the skin treatments, that may not always be the case. Prescription medication, which is typically more potent, may also cause the same unwanted side-effects as those that come from over-the-counter products.
Various factors influence the effectiveness of an over-the-counter or prescription acne treatment product. You might be inclined to wonder which of the two would be the best acne medication, with minimal possible side effects. Well, the answer to this is that all medications can potentially cause side effects. Every person's skin will react differently to different drugs or medications.
Let's take a look at this whole thing objectively, shall we? Or at least, with as much objectivity a single person can have. Hopefully, if we do that we can find the best acne medication, or at least something close to it. In theory, there may be no such thing as a �best� medication, as individual skin chemistry can easily get in the way.
First off, over-the-counter medication for your average range of skin infections, let alone acne, is nowhere near as potent as your typical prescription treatment. This may stem from either the differences in the basic chemical composition or how concentrated the key ingredients of the treatments are. A prescription acne treatment may clear up the problem faster, but the potency of the chemicals can cause side effects more readily than the over-the-counter variants. That means that your life can get back to normal a lot faster, seeing as how you've got one less thing to worry about.
However, despite being �less effective� (and that's something that's just this side of being arguable), over-the-counter stuff is significantly cheaper. Unless you've somehow gotten a case of monumentally bad acne, you should go and try an over-the-counter treatment first. They may not be as potent, but they very often can do the job on their own. If they're not helping, you shouldn't hesitate to seek professional help. Medical insurance may or many not entirely cover your costs, as this sort of thing is something that varies depending on the details of your coverage.
The lower potency of the drugs can also be a boon rather than a bane, for some people. You see, every once in a while, the combination of skin, acne, and other factors is going to produce a person with very sensitive skin. The kind of skin that turns red and swells to the size of a grapefruit at the slightest touch of benzoyl peroxide, or something similar. However, lower chemical potency means that you're also less likely to run into a nasty side effect.
There's also the matter of convenience to be considered here. An over-the-counter product is obviously easier to get your hands on. Go to a drug store, find medication for acne that you like or think would work, and pay for it at the counter. Simple, clean, and there's not a whole lot of time involved. In contrast, if you need to get one that's prescription-required, that involves the time to set up the appointment, the consultation, and all that other good stuff.
There's also the matter of an individual's skin. Your skin is unique and how it might react to something is different from how someone else's skin might react. Your skin may be tougher than most, or it can be easier to scar than most. Medications are set to a specific formula when they're made.
Finally, you may want to keep in mind not to mix and match your treatments. Drug interaction is a leading cause of side effects, aside from poor interaction with the patient's skin. Skin infections like acne can be made worse if you mix two treatments together, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. The warning about drug interaction holds true even when you mix together over-the-counter medication and prescription ones, even if the two have ingredients in common.
In most cases, these readily available measures achieve the simple goal of alleviating your acne problem without causing any discomfort. Of course, given individual reactions to the chemicals in the skin treatments, that may not always be the case. Prescription medication, which is typically more potent, may also cause the same unwanted side-effects as those that come from over-the-counter products.
Various factors influence the effectiveness of an over-the-counter or prescription acne treatment product. You might be inclined to wonder which of the two would be the best acne medication, with minimal possible side effects. Well, the answer to this is that all medications can potentially cause side effects. Every person's skin will react differently to different drugs or medications.
Let's take a look at this whole thing objectively, shall we? Or at least, with as much objectivity a single person can have. Hopefully, if we do that we can find the best acne medication, or at least something close to it. In theory, there may be no such thing as a �best� medication, as individual skin chemistry can easily get in the way.
First off, over-the-counter medication for your average range of skin infections, let alone acne, is nowhere near as potent as your typical prescription treatment. This may stem from either the differences in the basic chemical composition or how concentrated the key ingredients of the treatments are. A prescription acne treatment may clear up the problem faster, but the potency of the chemicals can cause side effects more readily than the over-the-counter variants. That means that your life can get back to normal a lot faster, seeing as how you've got one less thing to worry about.
However, despite being �less effective� (and that's something that's just this side of being arguable), over-the-counter stuff is significantly cheaper. Unless you've somehow gotten a case of monumentally bad acne, you should go and try an over-the-counter treatment first. They may not be as potent, but they very often can do the job on their own. If they're not helping, you shouldn't hesitate to seek professional help. Medical insurance may or many not entirely cover your costs, as this sort of thing is something that varies depending on the details of your coverage.
The lower potency of the drugs can also be a boon rather than a bane, for some people. You see, every once in a while, the combination of skin, acne, and other factors is going to produce a person with very sensitive skin. The kind of skin that turns red and swells to the size of a grapefruit at the slightest touch of benzoyl peroxide, or something similar. However, lower chemical potency means that you're also less likely to run into a nasty side effect.
There's also the matter of convenience to be considered here. An over-the-counter product is obviously easier to get your hands on. Go to a drug store, find medication for acne that you like or think would work, and pay for it at the counter. Simple, clean, and there's not a whole lot of time involved. In contrast, if you need to get one that's prescription-required, that involves the time to set up the appointment, the consultation, and all that other good stuff.
There's also the matter of an individual's skin. Your skin is unique and how it might react to something is different from how someone else's skin might react. Your skin may be tougher than most, or it can be easier to scar than most. Medications are set to a specific formula when they're made.
Finally, you may want to keep in mind not to mix and match your treatments. Drug interaction is a leading cause of side effects, aside from poor interaction with the patient's skin. Skin infections like acne can be made worse if you mix two treatments together, such as benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid. The warning about drug interaction holds true even when you mix together over-the-counter medication and prescription ones, even if the two have ingredients in common.
Acne Imposters
Some are simply unpleasant tagalongs, like dandruff; some may actually be mistaken for acne, but require a different course of treatment. Of course, only your dermatologist can make a conclusive diagnosis. But learning a little about these conditions may help you formulate questions for your doctor.
Acne cosmetica. As its name suggests, this mild and relatively common form of acne is caused by cosmetics. Since it's triggered by topical products, it can strike anyone � even people who are not physiologically prone to acne. It typically consists of small, itchy or rashy pink bumps on the cheeks, chin and forehead, developing gradually over the course of a few weeks or months. It may persist indefinitely, but usually does not cause scarring. How can you avoid it? When shopping for make-up and skin products, look for products that are "non-comedogenic." These products are less likely to cause irritation or clogging of the pores.
Dandruff (or Seborrheic Dermatitis). For reasons we don't know, dandruff often accompanies acne, especially in adolescents. The causes are similar. For dandruff sufferers, the natural process of scalp-cell renewal is accelerated when fighting off P. ovale, a normal fungus found on every human head. This causes dead cells to slough more quickly, creating the symptoms we know as dandruff � flaking, scaling and itching of the scalp. In some cases, dandruff involves tiny pimples on the scalp. Climate, heredity, diet, hormones and stress can also impact dandruff. Most cases can be managed with non-prescription shampoos containing zinc, coal tar or salicylic acid. Stronger shampoos can be prescribed by your doctor if the problem continues. Dandruff isn't caused by overwashing of the hair, so it's okay to shampoo every day. In contrast, scratching or picking the scalp can worsen the condition.
Dermatitis (or Eczema) is characterized by a rapidly spreading red rash which may be itchy, blistered and swollen. Atopic dermatitis is related to asthma and hay fever-type allergies, and is often seen in early childhood. Contact dermatitis is usually caused by contact with irritants (detergents or harsh chemicals) or allergens (substance to which the patient is allergic, like rubber, preservatives or a particular fragrance). Individuals with chronic dermatitis will have a longstanding history of irritation in the affected area or areas. The eyelids, neck and hands are most commonly affected in adults. The skin in these areas may be darker than surrounding skin, and thickened from persistent scratching. This form is thought to be hereditary, but may be influenced by environmental factors as well. Dermatitis may come and go throughout a person's life.
Enlarged pores. Before the onset of puberty, most people have relatively small pores and smooth skin. Pores tend to become larger in adolescence as sebum production increases. Then, as we continue to age, sun damage decreases the skin's elasticity, making pores appear larger. As an adult, the size of your pores is determined by genetics; some people retain the small pores of their youth, while others develop larger pores. Individuals with larger pores may complain of small grayish blackheads on the nose and cheeks. Contrary to popular belief, these "blackheads" are nothing more than normal sebum doing its job: lining the pore. Since the sebum is meant to be there, squeezing is an exercise in futility � the oil comes back the next day, and frequent handling over time may actually damage the pore, causing it to enlarge permanently.
Epidermal Cysts. Unlike cystic acne, which occurs within the confines of an infected follicle, an epidermal cyst is a sac-like growth in the deeper layers of the skin. The cyst sac is filled with a soft, whitish material that may remain indefinitely. Small cysts (less than 5mm in diameter) don't usually need treatment; they can be a nuisance, but are generally harmless. Larger cysts have a higher probability of becoming infected; this is very painful and can lead to scarring. Epidermal cysts are often permanent; even if the material is extracted, the sac remains and the cyst may return. In these cases the entire cyst sac must be excised to prevent recurrence. While cysts are typically benign, it's wise to consult a physician about suspicious lumps and bumps.
Favre-Racouchet Syndrome. Because this condition is caused by severe, progressive sun damage over the course of many years, Favre-Racouchet Syndrome is most prevalent among men and women over 50. Patients are afflicted by large coalescent comedones (blackheads) around the eyes and on the upper cheeks. Unlike acne blackheads, Favre comedones do not regress if left untreated; they must be surgically extracted or treated with topical retinoids.
Keratosis Pilaris. Common among teenagers, keratosis pilaris is characterized by patches of tiny, red, kernel-hard bumps on the backs of the arms, shoulders, buttocks and the front of the thighs. Occasionally it occurs on the cheeks as well, with numerous bumps in the affected areas. Unlike acne, keratosis pilaris is usually painless and feels spiny to the touch. It tends to be more severe during the winter months when humidity is lower, and is more prevalent in arid climates.
Milia. These tiny, white bumps are found mostly in the area around the eyes. Cystic in nature, they are hard to the touch and deep in the skin. Milia may last for weeks or even months; if they are particularly troublesome to you, consult your dermatologist for professional, safe removal.
Peri-Oral Dermatitis. Primarily affecting women in their 20s and 30s, this condition is characterized by patches of itchy or tender red spots around the mouth. The skin bordering the lips may appear pale and dry, while the chin, upper lips and cheeks become red, dry and flaky. It can also affect the skin around the nose.
Pseudofolliculitis barbae. Pseudofolliculitis barbae is just a fancy name for the acne-like breakouts commonly called "shaving bumps." As hairs begin to grow back after shaving, waxing or plucking, they get trapped inside the follicle and cause irritation and swelling. Not everyone gets shaving bumps; people with curly hair are more susceptible, but anyone can take steps to prevent them. If you can, use an electric razor. If you prefer blade shaving, use a new, single-edge blade every time you shave. Prep the area with warm water and use a rich shaving cream. Always shave with the grain, not against it. Then, after you're done, apply a mild toner or antibacterial gel. Get more information on shaving.
Rosacea. Frequently mistaken for acne, rosacea is a skin condition most commonly found in adults between 30 and 60 years of age. Unlike acne vulgaris, rosacea does not involve comedones, and appears only in areas that are likely to flush when we're embarrassed, excited or hot � primarily the face, neck and chest. The skin is bumpy, red and oily in appearance, and may also involve papules and pustules. Rosacea begins as an episodic inflammation, or a temporary annoyance. Left untreated, however, it can become a chronic condition, causing facial scarring. If you think you may have rosacea, it's best to contact a dermatologist right away.
Acne cosmetica. As its name suggests, this mild and relatively common form of acne is caused by cosmetics. Since it's triggered by topical products, it can strike anyone � even people who are not physiologically prone to acne. It typically consists of small, itchy or rashy pink bumps on the cheeks, chin and forehead, developing gradually over the course of a few weeks or months. It may persist indefinitely, but usually does not cause scarring. How can you avoid it? When shopping for make-up and skin products, look for products that are "non-comedogenic." These products are less likely to cause irritation or clogging of the pores.
Dandruff (or Seborrheic Dermatitis). For reasons we don't know, dandruff often accompanies acne, especially in adolescents. The causes are similar. For dandruff sufferers, the natural process of scalp-cell renewal is accelerated when fighting off P. ovale, a normal fungus found on every human head. This causes dead cells to slough more quickly, creating the symptoms we know as dandruff � flaking, scaling and itching of the scalp. In some cases, dandruff involves tiny pimples on the scalp. Climate, heredity, diet, hormones and stress can also impact dandruff. Most cases can be managed with non-prescription shampoos containing zinc, coal tar or salicylic acid. Stronger shampoos can be prescribed by your doctor if the problem continues. Dandruff isn't caused by overwashing of the hair, so it's okay to shampoo every day. In contrast, scratching or picking the scalp can worsen the condition.
Dermatitis (or Eczema) is characterized by a rapidly spreading red rash which may be itchy, blistered and swollen. Atopic dermatitis is related to asthma and hay fever-type allergies, and is often seen in early childhood. Contact dermatitis is usually caused by contact with irritants (detergents or harsh chemicals) or allergens (substance to which the patient is allergic, like rubber, preservatives or a particular fragrance). Individuals with chronic dermatitis will have a longstanding history of irritation in the affected area or areas. The eyelids, neck and hands are most commonly affected in adults. The skin in these areas may be darker than surrounding skin, and thickened from persistent scratching. This form is thought to be hereditary, but may be influenced by environmental factors as well. Dermatitis may come and go throughout a person's life.
Enlarged pores. Before the onset of puberty, most people have relatively small pores and smooth skin. Pores tend to become larger in adolescence as sebum production increases. Then, as we continue to age, sun damage decreases the skin's elasticity, making pores appear larger. As an adult, the size of your pores is determined by genetics; some people retain the small pores of their youth, while others develop larger pores. Individuals with larger pores may complain of small grayish blackheads on the nose and cheeks. Contrary to popular belief, these "blackheads" are nothing more than normal sebum doing its job: lining the pore. Since the sebum is meant to be there, squeezing is an exercise in futility � the oil comes back the next day, and frequent handling over time may actually damage the pore, causing it to enlarge permanently.
Epidermal Cysts. Unlike cystic acne, which occurs within the confines of an infected follicle, an epidermal cyst is a sac-like growth in the deeper layers of the skin. The cyst sac is filled with a soft, whitish material that may remain indefinitely. Small cysts (less than 5mm in diameter) don't usually need treatment; they can be a nuisance, but are generally harmless. Larger cysts have a higher probability of becoming infected; this is very painful and can lead to scarring. Epidermal cysts are often permanent; even if the material is extracted, the sac remains and the cyst may return. In these cases the entire cyst sac must be excised to prevent recurrence. While cysts are typically benign, it's wise to consult a physician about suspicious lumps and bumps.
Favre-Racouchet Syndrome. Because this condition is caused by severe, progressive sun damage over the course of many years, Favre-Racouchet Syndrome is most prevalent among men and women over 50. Patients are afflicted by large coalescent comedones (blackheads) around the eyes and on the upper cheeks. Unlike acne blackheads, Favre comedones do not regress if left untreated; they must be surgically extracted or treated with topical retinoids.
Keratosis Pilaris. Common among teenagers, keratosis pilaris is characterized by patches of tiny, red, kernel-hard bumps on the backs of the arms, shoulders, buttocks and the front of the thighs. Occasionally it occurs on the cheeks as well, with numerous bumps in the affected areas. Unlike acne, keratosis pilaris is usually painless and feels spiny to the touch. It tends to be more severe during the winter months when humidity is lower, and is more prevalent in arid climates.
Milia. These tiny, white bumps are found mostly in the area around the eyes. Cystic in nature, they are hard to the touch and deep in the skin. Milia may last for weeks or even months; if they are particularly troublesome to you, consult your dermatologist for professional, safe removal.
Peri-Oral Dermatitis. Primarily affecting women in their 20s and 30s, this condition is characterized by patches of itchy or tender red spots around the mouth. The skin bordering the lips may appear pale and dry, while the chin, upper lips and cheeks become red, dry and flaky. It can also affect the skin around the nose.
Pseudofolliculitis barbae. Pseudofolliculitis barbae is just a fancy name for the acne-like breakouts commonly called "shaving bumps." As hairs begin to grow back after shaving, waxing or plucking, they get trapped inside the follicle and cause irritation and swelling. Not everyone gets shaving bumps; people with curly hair are more susceptible, but anyone can take steps to prevent them. If you can, use an electric razor. If you prefer blade shaving, use a new, single-edge blade every time you shave. Prep the area with warm water and use a rich shaving cream. Always shave with the grain, not against it. Then, after you're done, apply a mild toner or antibacterial gel. Get more information on shaving.
Rosacea. Frequently mistaken for acne, rosacea is a skin condition most commonly found in adults between 30 and 60 years of age. Unlike acne vulgaris, rosacea does not involve comedones, and appears only in areas that are likely to flush when we're embarrassed, excited or hot � primarily the face, neck and chest. The skin is bumpy, red and oily in appearance, and may also involve papules and pustules. Rosacea begins as an episodic inflammation, or a temporary annoyance. Left untreated, however, it can become a chronic condition, causing facial scarring. If you think you may have rosacea, it's best to contact a dermatologist right away.
Acne at its Worst - Uncommon Forms Which Can Disfigure
Severe acne can cause physical as well as emotional scars. Although most people stress out over the occasional zit, acne can deliver serious blows to an individual's sense of confidence and self-perception. Acne can cause a person to experience consistently blemished skin that may include pimples, papules, abscesses, cysts, blackheads, whiteheads, and other painful inflammations of the skin. Moreover, acne can be a whole body problem. While most people are seriously afflicted primarily in the facial area, many people also experience considerable blemishing across their back, chest, neck, and other areas of the body.
While most people experience the brunt of acne during the difficult adolescent years, imagine the agony of living with acne well into your middle years. With the stress of modern day living and increased exposure to environmental pollutants, adult acne is becoming a fact of life for many adults. Although most people will only have to deal with transient acne, some will experience far worse. Here is a quick run-down of the most serious forms of acne.
Acne Conglobata (AC) This is a very uncommon form of acne that can produce significant disfiguration. Acne conglobata is characterized by the development of burrows in the skin, along with papules, abscesses, keloidal and atrophic facial scars. Individuals with AC often develop blemishes that appear in clusters of two or three. Cysts are often present that are filled with pus. Nodules may also be present, especially in the area of the back and chest.
Who is more susceptible to acne conglobata? In general, males are more likely to experience AC. Onset of AC usually occurs at a young age, between the ages of 18 and 30. Although no one knows the exact cause of AC, some believe it is caused by a mutation in the XXY karyotype chromosomes. A person with AC may experience extensive scarring and subsequent disfigurement. Because the effects of AC can often be dramatic, individuals afflicted with the skin disorder may be at greater risk of suffering from self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, and they may feel stigmatized.
Acne Fulminans (AF): Acne fulminans, sometimes referred to as acne maligna, was originally thought to be acne conglobata (AC).
The major characteristics of acne fulminans include sudden onset of ulcerating acne, which may be accompanied by fever and symptoms of polyarthritis. Usually, AF does not respond well to conventional acne treatment, such as antibacterial therapy. The most successful treatments appear to be debridement used in conjunction with steroid therapy.
What causes AF? It appears that acne fulminans is caused by a weakened immune system and increased levels of testosterone and certain anabolic steroids. These high levels of hormones cause an increase in the production and excretion of sebum and the acne-inducing bacteria known as propionibacterium acnes (P acnes). Some skin professionals believe that isotretinoin may also precipitate an eruption of AF.
How can you tell the difference between acne conglobata and acne fulminans? Although the physical symptoms may at first appear identical, AF is usually characterized by the presence of more physical pain. Patients with AF may describe feelings of bone or facial pain, migraines, and fever. Acne conglobata and acne fulminans also differ in the way they are treated. While AC may be treated with conventional anti-acne oral and topical agents, AF typically does not respond well to such treatments. AF responds better to steroid treatments.
Gram-Negative Folliculitis: Gram-negative folliculitis refers to an infection of gram-negative rods that usually occurs after an extended period of antibiotic therapy. Scientists use the word "gram" to describe the blue stain that is used in laboratories. This is often used to locate microscopic organisms. The bacteria that cause gram-negative folliculitis does not stain blue, thus the term 'gram-negative.' The most common forms of bacteria that are believed to cause gram-negative folliculitis include E. coli, serratia marcesoens, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and bacteria's from the proteus and klebsiella species.
How does gram-negative folliculitis differ from regular acne vulgaris? Most cases of gram-negative folliculitis produce less papules and comedones than acne vulgaris. Treatment of gram-negative folliculitis is fortunately much easier to treat than other severe types of acne. In most cases, conventional antibiotic therapy will help clear up gram-negative folliculitis. Isotretinoin may also help clear up this condition.
While most people experience the brunt of acne during the difficult adolescent years, imagine the agony of living with acne well into your middle years. With the stress of modern day living and increased exposure to environmental pollutants, adult acne is becoming a fact of life for many adults. Although most people will only have to deal with transient acne, some will experience far worse. Here is a quick run-down of the most serious forms of acne.
Acne Conglobata (AC) This is a very uncommon form of acne that can produce significant disfiguration. Acne conglobata is characterized by the development of burrows in the skin, along with papules, abscesses, keloidal and atrophic facial scars. Individuals with AC often develop blemishes that appear in clusters of two or three. Cysts are often present that are filled with pus. Nodules may also be present, especially in the area of the back and chest.
Who is more susceptible to acne conglobata? In general, males are more likely to experience AC. Onset of AC usually occurs at a young age, between the ages of 18 and 30. Although no one knows the exact cause of AC, some believe it is caused by a mutation in the XXY karyotype chromosomes. A person with AC may experience extensive scarring and subsequent disfigurement. Because the effects of AC can often be dramatic, individuals afflicted with the skin disorder may be at greater risk of suffering from self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, and they may feel stigmatized.
Acne Fulminans (AF): Acne fulminans, sometimes referred to as acne maligna, was originally thought to be acne conglobata (AC).
The major characteristics of acne fulminans include sudden onset of ulcerating acne, which may be accompanied by fever and symptoms of polyarthritis. Usually, AF does not respond well to conventional acne treatment, such as antibacterial therapy. The most successful treatments appear to be debridement used in conjunction with steroid therapy.
What causes AF? It appears that acne fulminans is caused by a weakened immune system and increased levels of testosterone and certain anabolic steroids. These high levels of hormones cause an increase in the production and excretion of sebum and the acne-inducing bacteria known as propionibacterium acnes (P acnes). Some skin professionals believe that isotretinoin may also precipitate an eruption of AF.
How can you tell the difference between acne conglobata and acne fulminans? Although the physical symptoms may at first appear identical, AF is usually characterized by the presence of more physical pain. Patients with AF may describe feelings of bone or facial pain, migraines, and fever. Acne conglobata and acne fulminans also differ in the way they are treated. While AC may be treated with conventional anti-acne oral and topical agents, AF typically does not respond well to such treatments. AF responds better to steroid treatments.
Gram-Negative Folliculitis: Gram-negative folliculitis refers to an infection of gram-negative rods that usually occurs after an extended period of antibiotic therapy. Scientists use the word "gram" to describe the blue stain that is used in laboratories. This is often used to locate microscopic organisms. The bacteria that cause gram-negative folliculitis does not stain blue, thus the term 'gram-negative.' The most common forms of bacteria that are believed to cause gram-negative folliculitis include E. coli, serratia marcesoens, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and bacteria's from the proteus and klebsiella species.
How does gram-negative folliculitis differ from regular acne vulgaris? Most cases of gram-negative folliculitis produce less papules and comedones than acne vulgaris. Treatment of gram-negative folliculitis is fortunately much easier to treat than other severe types of acne. In most cases, conventional antibiotic therapy will help clear up gram-negative folliculitis. Isotretinoin may also help clear up this condition.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
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.
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.
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