5 Acne Myths - Facts And Fictions

Myths about acne die hard. Old wives� tales about its causes continue to persist, in spite of scientific condition to the contrary. This article aims to shed light on some common myths about acne and attempts to separate fact from fiction.

Myth 1 - People who have acne are unclean and maintain poor hygiene
There is absolutely no truth to this statement. Acne is caused by a hormonal imbalance in the body. When the oil glands responsible for keeping our skin waterproof and moist, over react to produce excessive quantities of sebum, they block the associated hair follicle, causing clogged pores, which develops into acne. So hygiene has absolutely nothing to do with it. In fact unnecessary scrubbing of the skin can exacerbate the problem. Do take care of your skin though - wash your face gently and pat dry.

Myth 2 - Eating the wrong foods will lead to acne
The fact is that there is no co-relation between what you eat and acne. The chocolates, the French fries, the cheese pizza, and all those other fatty foods that have been lambasted ever so often, because of their unhealthy consequence have no affect whatsoever on your skin. However, eating a well balanced diet makes sense. So while you don�t have to be concerned as to whether your favorite treat affects your skin (at least directly), do remember that it does affect your overall health.

Myth 3 - Acne is caused by stress
The truth is that the stress that most of us experience as part of our day-to-day existence does not lead to acne. Sometimes, acne can arise as the side-effect of drugs taken to treat severe stress. Talk to your doctor to find out if your stress medication is responsible for your acne. Stress can however make an already existing acne condition worse.

Myth 4 - Acne is a merely a cosmetic disease
Well, acne does affect the way you look and yes, it is considered a threat to your physical well being. However, the fact remains that in some cases acne can lead to permanent scarring which is more than just purely cosmetic. Acne affects people psychologically. It is known to affect their perception of themselves, their self-esteem and confidence and their interaction with others. It can cause feelings of frustration, depression and social embarrassment.

Myth 5 - Acne can not be cured
With the kind of products that are available in the market today, there is no reason why anyone should have to suffer the agony caused by acne. The fact is that acne can be cleared up with the right medication and a regime specific to their needs. Consult your dermatologist if you have acne.



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How To Get Rid Of Blackheads

Blackheads are a bothersome condition that effects lots and lots of people but - it's also one that is very easily treated.

It takes time and patience but the results are worth it.

You do not need to disinfect the skin with blackheads as bacteria are not the issue here - instead focus on exfoliating the skin and more importantly the pore.

Below are a list of BHA products that have the correct pH level to actively work on the problem.

For those with very sensitive skin I've included two products from clinique that contain 0.5% BHA at a pH of 4.5 (ish) ... These will be gentler on the skin than the other options which have lower pH levels and higher 1-2% BHA.

Use a gentle cleanser that doesn't strip the skin and UNLESS you have dry or combination skin you don't need to moisturise.

BUT all skins require sunscreen and these are normally moisturising enough.

Retin-a is a product you should look into as it can regulate how the skin produces new skin cells - making them healthier, smoother and less likely to breakout.

Not everyone can tolerate Retin-a but it's worth trying.

All skins require sunscreen especially when using AHA/BHA and/or Retin-a.

Be kind to your skin.

Low pH BHA products aimed at normal/oily/dry skin types.

Proactive Solution - Clarifying Night Cream Neutrogena - oil-free acne stress control hydrating acne treatment Paula's Choice - 1%-2% beta hydroxy acid gel/lotion/liquid

Higher pH BHA products aimed at very dry/or sensitive skin types.

Clinqiue Turn Around Concentrate Clinique Mild Scruffing Lotion (no alcohol)

www.paulaschoice.co.uk www.paulaschoice.com

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How To Get Rid Of Acne In 10 Easy Natural Ways

Are you looking for acne solutions that really work? The good news is, whether you're a teenager or an adult suffering from acne, you don't have to live with it. Here you can find 10 super easy and effective ways to get rid of acne.

1. Do not pick, press or rub your pimples. These actions actually increase the sebum production and rupture the membranes below your skin. The infection and sebum will spread underneath your skin and cause more pimples. Also, you risk increasing the chances of leaving scars on your face.
 
2. Wash your face twice a day using a mild soup. It is even better if you can buy sulfur-based soap especially for acne. If your skin is too oily, use a soap with benzoyl peroxide. Do not use rough sponges, brushes, or anything similar on your face. You shouldn't, however, over-wash your face because it will actually stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum which will increase your acne.

3. Check if it is because of the food. For many people, food allergy can cause very serious acne condition. You should avoid eating too much oily and spicy food. Recent studies have shown that acne can also be caused by milk which contains hormones as well as seafood with relatively high levels of iodine. If possible, cut down on those foods.

Other foods you may consider avoiding are: sugar, dairy products, deep-fried food, meat, nut butters, etc. On the other hand, it is believed that green vegetables, vegetable fuices and foods rich in zinc can help alleviate acne condition.
 
4. Drink more water every day. "Eight glasses of water a day can keep acne away." says Jennifer Thoden, a respected acne expert. The reason is that water can carry waste material out of our body and it really helps heal and prevent acne flare-ups.

5. Do not wear makeup if possible. Makeup products can clog your pores, cause more blackheads and pimples. If you have to wear makeup, make sure it is water-based. Be sure to clean your makeup brushes regularly and cleanse your skin before you sleep.
 
6. Do not use oily products. Avoid products such as hair pomades, intense oil-based facial moisturizers, and oily cleansers.

7. Keep your face clean. Do not rest your chin on your hands or constantly touch your face. Regular shampoo your hair and keep it off your face, especially when you sleep.
 
8. Exercise moderately as it helps in blood circulation and eliminataion of toxins.
 
9. Stay stress-free. Studies have shown that stress not only worsens acne flare-up, it also worsens the overall skin condition. Talk to your friends, listen to your favorite music, or take a walk in the park. There are many things you can do to be stree free.
 
10. Get Sunshine and fresh air. Sunshine stimulates vitamin D in the body, an essential vitamin for healthy skin. Fresh air and sunshine can also reduce stress (tip #9) and increase oxygen to the skin.

Don't get burnt in the sun though. Burnt and heavily tanned skin forms a layer on the skin that doesn't exfoliate quickly enough and can lead to blocked pores.








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Best Acne Cure Program - Fast Results Home Remedy

This Program Will Work For MildI To Moderate Acne And Cystic Acne.

Steps you need to do:

1. Use a mild water based cleanser. Cetaphil is the best.

2. Use 2.5% benzoyl Peroxide (BP) and use a lot. The size of your pointer finger. Apply this to all areas that are effected with acne. Do this twice per day. BP cream is available over and under the counter in most chemists and drug stores. Please use 2.5% unless this proves ineffective. Only then should you increase to 5-10%. 90% of all people using 2.5% will find the program works and works fast. Increasing the strength does not mean it will work quicker so please use 2.5% to being with.

3. Moisturise. Your skin will before dry. VERY DRY. It might flake, peel, and become red. An SPF is your best bet as these are naturally very moisturising and will deal with the dryness.

Depending on your skin condition it might take depends on how quickly the program works. I noticed a massive change within 48 hours. How long it takes your skin to heal will depend on the severity of your condition. It will improve. And fast but you will need to make sure you're following the steps outlined above.

It is normal for the skin to become red. This was not a worry to me as anything was better than the acne i was suffering. Once your acne is under control you will be able to lessen the amount of benzoyl peroxide (BP) you're using and this will stop/reduce the redness and peeling (dry skin) that accompanies large amounts of BP cream.

NOTE: This program also works for acne on the back, neck and chest. You need to bare in mind that BP cream can bleach clothes so if you're using it on your back or chest caution is advised.

I am not the only one to come up with this idea. Here is an excellent website that follows the same procedure as the one above. I wish i had found this website when i was dealing with my acne as it would have saved me a lot of pain, heartache and money searching for products that worked. The site also sells products. I am not affiliated with this website but i can vouch for its effectiveness with the products recommend (the benzoyl peroxide cream).



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Acne During Pregnancy - What, why and how?

Acne and pregnancy interact with each other in a variety of different ways. In the majority of women, however, pregnancy has a positive, beneficial effect on the activity, severity and flare-ups of acne, because of the effect of estrogens hormones that are secreted during pregnancy.

However, in few cases, there is a flare-up of acne requiring active therapy and attention, especially if scarring is a threat. Acne may also appear for the first time during pregnancy. There are cases of mothers (especially first time mothers) having the bouts of acne only during pregnancies.

 

What causes acne flare ups in pregnancy?

During pregnancy, a woman may develop acne due to hormonal changes in her body. In fact, hormonal activity during pregnancy is usually at peak levels. This increase in androgen and progesterone levels can cause women's oil glands to work overtime.

For many women experiencing acne in pregnancy, the first trimester is worse, when progesterone hormone levels are high.

Mask of pregnancy

Because of the rapid and major hormonal changes during pregnancy, some women actually develop what is popularly known as a "mask of pregnancy." These are brownish pigmented areas around the cheek nose and eyes that collectively look like an �artificial, reddish layer of mask� over the face. In reality, however, it is nothing but the pregnancy-related flare up of acne.

Many times, the acne of pregnancy goes on away on its own

Fortunately, with time, acne problems that develop due to pregnancy will usually go away as the pregnancy progresses. Researchers believe that this is mainly because of an increased amount of estrogen level that by your second or third trimester, your skin starts to look better than it has in a long time.

 



Photo By dizznbonn


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8 Ways To Treat Your Acne

Reports show that over 90 percent of all adolescents and almost 25 percent of all adults suffer from acne at some time. Acne affects males and females worldwide, regardless of nationality.

These most effective methods to combat acne include a combination of prevention and better skincare.

Here are 8 ways you can use to prevent and treat acne:

1. Exercise
Regular exercise can help fight acne by fighting off negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem and depression. But avoid wearing tight lycra and nylon exercise outfits. These synthetic fabrics that tend to trap body moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Stick to loose clothing made of cotton or natural blends, and keep your sports gear and equipment clean.

2. Safe Cosmetics
To avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations that can contribute to acne, use products labeled "noncomedogenic" or "oil-free." Opt for "hypo-allergenic" perfumes and cosmetics to avoid allergic reactions and skin irritation. Coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes can cause reactions.

Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog pores. Use a lip gloss with a matte finish for less pore-clogging. The more the shine, the more then comedogenic content and the more your pores can clog.

3. Healthy Diet
Studies show that diet does not play a role in either the cause or the treatment of acne. However, what is best for your body is best for your skin. So make sure you get enough vitamins, minerals and supplements that have been known and recommended to prevent and help conquer acne breakouts.

These include
    * Vitamin A or Retinol (High doses are toxic)
    * Vitamin B Complex
    * Vitamin C
    * Vitamin E
    * L-Carnitine
    * Zinc

A good quality brand name multivitamin will probably have the recommended vitamins and minerals that you need to help with acne prevention. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices.

4. Hormonal Treatment
Hormones (or a lack of them) during later years - especially for women - can play a role in acne flare-ups and prevention. One recent study showed that about 50 percent of women have acne, referred to as hormonal acne, problems during the week before their menstruation.

Treatment options include topical retinoids, oral antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide for teen years. For adults oral contraceptives or hormonal birth control pills and hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) may be helpful for women, combined with systemic or topical treatments, prescription or over-the-counter products and medications.

5. Healthy Skin Regimen
Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or possible over production of oil to replace what's washed off, clogging pores in the process. Use products with gentle exfoliation ingredients and skip products that contain alcohol.

6. Acne Products
Some of the more popular products on the market that can prevent acne include:
    * Benzoyl Peroxide
    * Proactiv� Solution
    * Salicylic Acid
    * Retinoids
    * Antibiotics
    * Oral Contraceptives
    * Anti-Androgens
    * Isotretinoin (Accutane)

7. Shaving
Shaving is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne instead of leaving the remains to clog pores. And for some light acne cases already in process, shaving can help rid whiteheads and blackheads from the face. Do not shave areas taht are sore or infected. Use a shaving cream for sensitive skin.

Shave with a sharp blade. Use gentle swipes instead of heavy pressure and go with the flow or "grain." A single-edged blade is better than a twin-blade razor. Electric razors may not shave as close to the skin, but they help with the prevention of acne and other skin breakouts and flare-ups better.

8. Stress
Stress includes external and internal stressors. External Stressors are those that compromise your skin's ability to heal, like oily make-up and too much sun. Internal stressors like anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, depression and a variety of other internalized emotions, can trigger chemical reactions inside your body that can result in acne flare-ups and other skin irritations.

To combat internal stressors and prevent acne problems, get plenty of rest and sleep. Try to maintain regular hours. Keep a check list of "Things that Calm You" handy for stressful times, like reading a book, resting, listening to music, taking a walk, going out for an ice cream cone, etc.



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Acne And What Treatments Are Available - Including Home Remedies

Remedies For A Smoother Skin.
Do you have acne?
Acne maybe the scourge of adolescent years, but it can follow people into middle age and beyond.

Acne is really a catchall term for a variety of symptoms such as pimples, whiteheads, and blackheads. It's a condition where the pores of skin become clogged and the person gets inflamed and non-inflamed lesions.

So what's the cause of all the clogging?......
Heredity - at least for the most part. Acne is genetic - it tends to run in families, it is an inherited defect of your pores. If both your parents had acne, three out of four of your brothers and sisters will get it too.

Factors that can aggravate an acne outbreak are :- Stress, sun exposure, seasonal changes, and climate can all precipitate an acne attack. Certain types of makeup and taking birth control pills can also cause a breakout.

Change Your Make-up
In adult women, make-up is the major factor in acne outbreaks, especially oil based products. It's the oil that causes the problem. The oil is usually a derivative of fatty acids that are more potent than your own fatty acids. Use a non-oil-based make-up if you are prone to acne.

Read The labels.
Cosmetic products that contain lanolins, isopropyl myristate, sodium lauryl sulphate, laureth-4 and D & C red dyes should be avoided. Like oil, these ingredients are too rich for the skin.
 
Wash Properly.
Wash your make-up off thoroughly every night. Use a mild soap twice a day and make sure you rinse the soap entirely off your face. Rinse six or seven times with fresh water.
 
Use Less Make-up.
Whatever make-up you use, try to cut down on the amount you put on.

Leave Well Alone.
Don't squeeze pimples or whiteheads. A pimple is an inflammation, and you could add to the inflammation by squeezing it, which could lead to an infection. A pimple will always go away in one to four weeks if you leave them alone.
 
Know When To Squeeze.
Most pimples are best left alone, but there is one kind that you can squeeze to help get rid of it. If the pimple has a little central yellow pus head in it, then a gentle squeeze will make it pop open very nicely. Once the pus pops out, the pimple will heal more quickly.
 
Attack Blackheads.
You can also get rid of blackheads by squeezing them. A blackhead is a very blocked pore, and a gentle squeeze will help rectifty this.
 
Give Dry Skin Extra Care.
Dry skin can be sensitive to some over the counter skin treatments, so please use these treatments with care. Start with the lower strength products first, and then increase the concentration slowly.
 
Stay Out Of The Sun.
Acne medications may cause adverse reactions to the sun, so minimize you exposure until you know what the reactions going to be.
 
Use One Treatment At A Time.
Don't mix treatments, use only one at a time because they may cause an adverse reaction if mixed together.
 
Stop The Spread Of Acne.
Apply acne medication about half an inch around the affected area, to help keep the acne from spreading. Acne moves across the face from the nose to the ear, so you need to treat beyond the inflamed area. Most people make the mistake of treating only the pimples and not the outlaying areas of skin. This is wrong.
 
If you are an acne sufferer, then I trust this information will be very helpful to you. Thanks for reading my blog post. http://best-acne-removal-reviews.com/


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Best Home Remedy For Acne - Guaranteed! Quickly and Easily!

Despite acne treatments and medications having improved dramatically over the years, acne still seems to take a firm hold on many people.  If your acne has not improved within 4-6 weeks following treatment with such products, you should consult your doctor.  Current understanding of the different presentations of acne allows for individualized treatments and improved outcomes.  Also, treatment must be given constantly to all acne-prone areas, and not just to individual existing pimples.

    Severe Acne: Antibiotics given by mouth, including tetracycline, doxycycline, minocycline, and erythromycin, are reserved for the treatment of severe acne.  It's essential that teens with acne be given an appropriate treatment regimen.  However, acne scar treatment available today cannot only wipe out the infliction(in many cases), but can also deliver smooth, refreshed skin.  Even if outbreaks of acne cannot be eliminated, conventional treatment can provide relief.  Even dermatologists cannot cure a severe case of acne but can only provide an acne treatment regimen.  We have a growing impressive line of therapeutic quality natural herbal based treatments to keep your acne and oily skin healthy.  Little is known about how personality and emotional traits affect acne and its impact on quality of life and treatment.

    Objectives To evaluate the relationship between TA and acne severity, skin-related quality of life, satisfaction with treatment, and adherence to treatment.  Unfortunately, 60% of these women either do not respond to standard acne treatment or build up a tolerance to frequently used medications.  You can then build up your use gradually.7 No home treatments for acne will work immediately.  Unfortunately, about 60 percent of these women either do not respond to standard acne treatment or build up a tolerance to frequently used medications.  Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products.  For healthy skin, Americans spend billions of dollars on acne treatment and anti-aging skin care products every year.

    Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products.  And no matter what a drug ad says, acne treatments alone will not help you win the battle against acne.  CEighty percent of inflammatory acne cases clear up after four weeks of twice-weekly treatments, Leal says.  "Basically if someone with mild acne presents for treatment, your first line of defense will be a topical regimen," says Dr.  Alternative therapies continue to gain new respect in acne treatment.  Even after blemishes disappear, you usually must continue to use an effective acne treatment to keep new blemishes from forming.

   Once you've got your acne cleared up it's important to continue with the treatment that's working so it does not return.  Cryotherapy is another treatment for acne scars, using repeated freezing to gently shrink scar tissue.  Here you will find information about acne scar treatment.  An individual can either use any generic mild facial soap or a soap made especially for acne by major treatment brands.  We are particularly interested in how Alabu soap may have helped with acne treatment and other acne skin conditions.  (17) In the 1800s dermatologists used acne treatment such as sulfur in which this dried out the skin.  Although long used in treatment of acne, it is not known how sulfur acts on the skin to influence the development of acne.  Sulfur is less frequently used by itself as an acne treatment due to its unpleasant odor.  What is known as an anti-inflammatory treatment for acne is embracing a certain lifestyle.

   When choosing a treatment for your acne condition, it is important to know about acne treatment lifestyle changes.  A wide range of (lifestyle) treatments can give you control over your acne.  Objectives To collate and evaluate the evidence on the clinical efficacy of minocycline in the treatment of inflammatory acne vulgaris.  The review found that there was no reliable evidence that minocycline was better than any other acne treatment and that more research is needed.  Objective  To review the best evidence available for individualized treatment of acne.  Shaw JC: Low-dose adjunctive spironolactone in the treatment of acne in women: a retrospective analysis of 85 consecutively treated patients.





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