Creat Your Own Effective Acne Cure

Creat Your Own Effective Acne Cure

by: Naweko San-Joyz

Since 1982 Accutane has been a reliable, if not controversial, drug for treating severe acne. Now with FDA representative David J. Graham’s statement that Accutane should be taken off the market, and pharmaceutical manufacturer La Roche’s defense of Accutane’s safety in a Florida courtroom, access to Accutane faces mounting restrictions. Author of Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne, Naweko San-Joyz, understands the concerns facing acne sufferer’s who desire Accutane-like results. San-Joyz conducted research to inexpensively mimic the effects of Accutane. “ Accutane provokes five acne-fighting actions that anyone can replicate using nutrition and self-care”, explains San-Joyz. Reduce excess oil secretion: Accutane is a derivative of vitamin A and reduces the secretion of oil by the oil glands. Foods that supply the body with Vitamin A and beta-carotene (which is converted to vitamin A by the body) include: Liver, oily fish, whole eggs, carrots, sweet potatoes, and broccoli. Encourage extreme shedding of the skin: Using a peel is the easiest method to promote shedding of the skin. Exfoliation releases the build-up of dead skin cells, oils and bacteria trapped in the pores, which could lead to the formation of blemishes. Extreme peels Peels come in varying degrees, from mild to harsh. The trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peel is an extreme peel that can cost from $100 to $1000 depending on the degree of the treatment. It is only performed in a doctor’s office. The TCA is not a save all however. The peel can make the skin sensitive to the sun cause hyper-pigmentation. Home use peels: Several over-the-counter peels contain papaya enzymes or glycolic acid. These peels lightly exfoliate the skin and are safe for weekly use. Reduce the spread of bacterial infection: Using an astringent such as witch hazel or apple cider vinegar to disinfect the skin significantly reduces the presence of bacteria on the face. This reduction limits skin inflammation and the likelihood of a pimple developing. Enhance Fat Metabolism: Free fatty acids can irritate the skin and provoke acne eruptions. Reducing intake of foods containing hydrolyzed fats will improve fat metabolism. However, do consume essential fatty acids such as Omega-3 and Omega-6, which are found in foods such as salmon and olive oil. These essential fats aid the gastrointestinal tract eliminate pro-inflammatory substances, which reduces the possibility of experiencing acne lesions. Reduce inflammation: A strong immune system serves as a buffer against inflammation. Stress reducing activities such as exercising, eating a well-balanced diet and sleeping well boosts the immune system. A diet supplemented with B-Complex, zinc and vitamins C and E likewise enhances the effectiveness of the immune system. Like Accutane, these five steps will not work overnight. Accutane works via creating a bodily environment that is not conducive to acne. By adhering to the nutritional and aesthetic steps above, anyone can attain clear skin while simultaneously augmenting their health.  For more acne self-care tips visit www.Noixia.com or read Acne Messages at www.Amazon.com(ISBN: 0974912204).

Controlling Acne

Controlling Acne

by: Lori Stryker

Acne...it affects a majority of teenagers and many adults well into middle age. It is dreaded and despaired over by many who suffer from this common skin condition. Clearing acne begins by understanding what acne really is and what triggers it. Then we will consider how it can be controlled by lifestyle choices, skin care choices and wise use of make-up. Who suffers from it? Teenagers struggle with acne, but so do many adults. Acne breakouts can result from fluctuating hormone levels at various stages of life, such as puberty, pregnancy or menopause. Outwardly, acne can reveal internal signs, such as poor elimination or buildup of toxins, a lack of exercise or high stress levels. Both men and women contend with acne, and as good health and beauty are intertwined, the causes of acne can reveal the solutions to managing and reducing skin breakouts. What is it? Acne occurs when the oil glands produce excess sebum, the skin's own oil, which accumulates with dead skin cells to form a plug which results in a clogged skin pore. Bacteria trapped inside the pore feed of the sebum mixture, multiplying and producing agents which irritate the walls of the pore. As the immune system works to attack the bacteria, pus is formed leading to an inflamed pimple, blackhead or whitehead. Picking or squeezing a pimple can cause the pore to rupture, releasing the bacteria into the surrounding area, and can cause more pimples, cysts or scars. For many, certain areas of the skin have overactive sebaceous, or oil glands which produce excess sebum. These areas are typically the forehead, nose, cheeks and/or chin. Comedones, or blackheads, are not caused by dirt, but rather by sebum which has clogged a pore, oxidized and discoloured by melanin. What triggers it? Often a spotty complexion denotes a diet high in sugar or saturated fats found in fried foods, refined or processed foods. Conversely, a diet low in fat may lack essential fatty acids, and can also affect the appearance of the skin. Breakouts can reveal toxin buildup, resulting from constipation, kidney or lymphatic problems. Other triggers include a polluted, dry environment, and seasonal climate changes. Genetics also determines whether a person will be predisposed to acne breakouts. In general, acne is caused by a combination of four main factors: - Genetics - Skin Care - Lifestyle - Emotional State We cannot change our genetics, but we can change the other three factors to help reduce the likelihood of acne breakouts. How can acne be controlled? Skin needs to be cleansed, fed and nurtured. Externally, the skin benefits from a simple regimen: - Cleansing with a mild, slightly acidic and all natural soap. Other kinds of soaps can cause redness, soreness, irritation or tightness because of the harsh chemicals, colorants detergents and fragrances they are made with. Avoid any products which contain ingredients which may irritate or dry out the skin. Most often culpable ingredients are petroleum derived, synthetic or animal based. - Tone with an alcohol-free, all natural toner, since alcohol is drying to the skin and will cause the oil glands to produce more sebum. Toner also helps reduce the bacterial population on the skin, decreasing the number of bacteria which will migrate into the pores. - Moisturize with a petroleum free cream. Petroleum is comedogenic and can clog pores unnecessarily. Creams which contain natural waxes such as beeswax do not have a comedogenic effect on the pores. At night, massage a facial oil into the skin as this helps increase circulation to the surface of the skin and suppresses the oil glands from producing excess oil. - Once per week, use a gentle exfoliant to remove dead skin cells which accumulate at the surface of the pores and lead to blackheads. A mud mask used once every couple of weeks also helps draw out sebum in the pores as the clays present in the mask are highly absorbent. Internally, the skin is fed and cleansed by a diet rich in fresh fruits, whole grains and vegetables. These foods provide more water, nutrients and fibre into the diet and can make a remarkable difference in the appearance of the skin. Relaxation, adequate sleep, exercise and stress reduction also play an important role in keeping the skin clear and healthy as they assist the body to repair and detoxify itself. Seasonal or climate changes, such as winter and humid summers in addition to dry, polluted environments also contribute to acne breakouts by drying out or irritating the skin. As the skin is exposed to dry temperatures moisture is lost through the skin, triggering the oil glands to produce more sebum. Keeping the skin clean and moisturized is essential to preventing the pores from becoming clogged with excess sebum. In humid conditions, the skin loses moisture through sweat and evaporation, triggering the same process which can lead to breakouts. Moisturizing and regular cleansing in dry, humid or polluted conditions can reduce the onset of acne. Makeup can also trigger breakouts. If they contain comedogenic ingredients, such as those derived from petroleum, they may contribute to acne despite a clean and healthy skin regimen or lifestyle. Choose all natural makeup which is in harmony with the rest of your skin care regimen and less likely to contribute to breakouts. Acne treatments which contain salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide worsen acne, as these are skin irritants and very drying. Tea tree essential oil is a natural alternative, and works by sterilizing the infected area upon contact without damaging the surrounding skin cells. It can also prevent microbial growth in that area for hours. Other treatments for acne include hydrocortisone which thins the skin over time, or antibiotics which can contribute to microbial resistance in the long term. Hormone treatments work by decreasing testosterone levels in the body, since this is the hormone responsible for sebum production. There are natural alternatives to aid in controlling acne, such as tea tree, lemon and juniper berry essential oils. These are effective and much safer to use for treating acne. Acne can be a source of frustration for many. Much can be done, however to minimize the occurrence of breakouts thereby reducing the impact of acne on our lives. Making healthy adjustments to our diet, lifestyle and skin care product choices can lead to clearer, more radiant and healthy skin, free at last from acne. References: - Erikson, K, (2002). Drop Dead Gorgeous - Marsden, K, (1993). Super Skin - Purvis, D, (1989). The Business of Beauty - The Organic Makeup Company can be located at http://www.organicmakeupcompany.com About the Author Lori Stryker has been researching and developing all natural skin care and make-up for the purpose of offering men and women safe natural cosmetics for everyday use. She brings to her research a specialist in human biology from the University of Toronto, coupled with a professional home economics degree and an education degree from the University of British Columbia, fusing chemical and biological knowledge with food family and textile sciences.

Conquering Your Acne - A Few Helpful Tips

Conquering Your Acne - A Few Helpful Tips

by: Alan Cabito

Acne is the all-encompassing term that refers to blemishes, blackheads, whiteheads and lumps on the skin. While it’s mostly associated with teenagers it is not necessarily restricted to any one age group. People of any age can suffer from acne. While it’s true that acne is not a life-threatening ailment, it can be uncomfortable and can leave nasty acne scars. There has been a lot of debate on the cause of acne. One of the most recently discussed causes is milk. That’s right, the same milk that is good for our bones, teeth and hair is now apparently causing acne. Is There a Cure for Acne? It’s very difficult to find a definitive answer to this question. There are many miracle creams and facial wipes that claim to be the answer on how to get rid of acne but many are simply soap. A cursory glance down cosmetics and personal health aisles at supermarkets will undoubtedly furnish you with many acne brands and acne treatments, all of which are aimed at the teenagers. Most Acne treatments take time to work. Roughly six to eight weeks is the usual time for acne to clear, and cosmetics that claim to be an overnight cure are advertised to catch the attention of sufferers who don’t want to wait that long. Once acne has cleared up, it is important to continue with the treatment to prevent its return. Probably the most effective cure for acne is to consult a dermatologist, although this may only be necessary with the most severe cases. You should bear in mind that just because one treatment has worked on your friends or family, it doesn’t mean it will work on you. Teenagers and Acne. While it is true that almost anyone can suffer from acne, it is also true that nearly every teenager between the age of 12 and 18 suffers with acne. Nearly 40% need treatment from a physician. As with many illnesses or ailments, early treatment is essential. Leaving it too late can cause severe acne scars that may last for many years of a person’s life. It is important to know what type of acne you have. The following information gives you insight as to what may have actually triggered your acne. Once you know your acne trigger, you are a step closer to removing the acne activator and living acne free. Adult Acne Sudden onset, or continuation of acne, during adulthood may be caused by hormone imbalances, stress, pollution or medications. Studies have shown a direct link between hormone imbalances and the onset of acne in women ages 30 to 40 years old. Acne fulminans (too much testosterone acne) is an abrupt onset of acne which is seen in males. This type of acne causes acne on the chest and back, severe acne scarring, fluctuating fever, painful joints, loss of appetite or weight, and a high white blood cell count. This acne is caused by the use of testosterone legally or illegally to enhance muscle growth. Over the counter treatments for this type of acne are not effective. Acne keloidalis nuchae. This form of acne occurs with people of African descent. It is characterized by firm papules and pustules at the nape of the neck. Acne medicamentosa (drug induced acne). This is acne which is caused by medications. Common culprits include phenytoin (Dilantin), isoniazid, lithium, bromides, iodides, androgens and corticosteroids. Lithium worsens acne vulgaris and can cause acne in persons who have never experienced acne before. Ways to Conquer Acne The most effective methods to combat acne include a combination of prevention and better skincare. 1. Exercise Regular exercise can help fight acne by fighting off negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem and depression. Avoid wearing tight lycra and nylon exercise outfits. These types of fabrics 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 Avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations that can contribute to acne, try perfumes and cosmetics that are "hypo-allergenic" and comodogenic or “oil free”. Coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes can cause reactions. Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can also cause skin irritations and clogged pores. Try a lip gloss with a matte finish for less pore-clogging. The more the shine, the more comedogenic content which causes pores to clog. 3. Healthy Diet What is best for your body is best for your skin. A good quality 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 including plenty of fruits and vegetables daily will help you maintain optimal health. 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. Studies show that about 50 percent of women have acne, which is referred to as hormonal acne, during the week before their menstruation. Treatment options include topical retinoids, oral antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide for teen years. 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 and can contribute to an over production of oil to replace what's washed off, clogging pores in the process. Use products with gentle exfoliation ingredients and avoid products that contain alcohol. 6. Shaving Shaving is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne. Shaving can also help to get rid of whiteheads and blackheads. Do not shave areas that are sore or infected. Use a shaving cream for sensitive skin. Use a sharp blade. Gentle swipes instead of heavy pressure are better and also 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 may be a better choice for the prevention of acne and other skin breakouts. 7. 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.  About the Author Alan is a freelance writer. For further information, go to: www.a1-acne-remedies.net

Clear your Acne and have Perfect Skin - Naturally!

Clear your Acne and have Perfect Skin - Naturally!

by: Ryan Bauer

Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products. The truth is, most of these products are full of chemicals that can actually slow down the healing of acne, and irritate your skin, causing farther breakouts. When an acne product has 20 ingredients listed on it, it can be hard to know if one of those ingredients is actually stopping you from having success. It can be even harder when you can't pronounce the ingredient, much less know what it is and how it is going to affect your skin. Most mainstream acne treatments are not only much more expensive than common household items, but they also don't always work as well either. With that in mind, I will list some basic household items that can work wonders on clearing up your skin. Baking soda – A very cheap cooking ingredient that most people have in their homes already, baking soda can be used as a great scrub. The purpose of a scrub is to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin that can eventually clog pores and lead to acne spots. To start off, you'll want to mix a small amount of baking soda with some water for form a paste. Baking soda is very effective as a scrub, so you want to be sure to be extra careful when applying it to your face. Gently massage the paste into your skin for ten to fifteen seconds. Then rinse the baking soda off, and pat your face dry with a clean towel. Apple Cider Vinegar – Though most people that use vinegar to treat acne use the apple cider form of vinegar, you can also use plain old regular vinegar. Regardless of which type you use, vinegar can be very helpful with it comes to clearing up acne. It can kill off acne causing bacteria, balance your skin's pH, and absorb extra oil on your skin. Starting with clean, dry skin, apply diluted vinegar (eight parts water to one part vinegar) directly to your skin with a cotton ball, and leave it on. If you want, you can also use a stronger vinegar solution (say, 2 or 3 parts water to 1 part vinegar), and apply it directly to problem areas, rinsing it off after ten minutes. Lemon or lime juice can also be substituted for vinegar. Both of these juices are rich in citric acid, and can exfoliate your skin very well, halting the growth of acne spots, as well as fading previous, non-active acne quicker. Egg Whites – Rich in protein, egg whites can be used as a mask to heal and rebuild your skin. It can also help to absorb excess oil from your skin. To start off, crack an egg, removing the yolk so that just the egg whites are left behind. Beat these egg whites, and apply them directly to your face. Let it sit for fifteen minutes, and then rinse the egg off. Oatmeal – As odd as it may seem, oatmeal can absorb unwanted oil and draw out impurities which reside deep in your skin. Cook some plain oatmeal like you would for consumption. Let it cool off, and rub it over your clean skin. Let it sit for a while, like you would a mask, and then rinse off. If you do this on a regular basis, you should begin to start noticing results soon. Tea Tree Oil – TTO is a commonly used all-natural household antiseptic, which you can pick up at most drugstores or supermarkets. You can apply TTO directly to acne spots to kill bacteria, or, if you strongly dilute it with another oil (such as jojoba oil), over your entire face. Tea tree gel can be easier to apply than the oil, and many are made for applying over large areas of skin, so they aren't quite as strong as straight TTO and do not need to be diluted. Pantothenic Acid (Also known as Vit. B5) – Pantothenic acid can be taken in large quantities for the benefit of acne reduction. B5 works by helping your body to metabolize fats which would otherwise be later turned into sebum (oil) and excreted through the skin. Small amounts of B5 won't help though, and it has to be taken several times a day. To help with acne, you will need to take 2.5 grams of pantothenic acid (the powder form is much easier to take), 4 times per day, for a total of 10 grams per day. Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera has been used for many years in kitchens for topical application to burns. Another benefit of aloe is that it can prevent scaring, fade marks and help heal acne spots. You now have an idea of some basic household items you can use on your skin, that work better than many OTC acne products, and are much cheaper to use. Since we have only really covered basic acne treatments, you can always take this to another level and take all natural, internal acne treatments. This sums up our basic list of natural alternatives for chemical based acne treatment products. You can take this a step farther by attacking your acne from the inside out. Acne has been shown numerous times to be very closely affected by the digestive system, so keeping your entire digestive system working as smooth as possible can help reduce acne. I will help give you a basic idea of some all natural products you can take to help clear up acne. Cucumber, lemon and carrot juice, brewer's yeast, and active charcoal pills are all capable of helping the digestive system function normally. Since the digestive system is closely related with the health of the skin, they should help reduce acne breakouts. Flax seed can also be wonderful for helping your skin heal faster. About the Author Ryan Bauer is a former acne sufferer who writes health articles and runs his acne treatment website, Acne Elimination.

Celebrities Who Suffer From Acne… Do They Really Exist?

Celebrities Who Suffer From Acne… Do They Really Exist?

by: Elaine Clay

Is there any such thing as a celebrity who suffers from acne? At first, it seems not… but that’s only a myth - there really are celebrities out there who suffer from acne! Many people envy those who have achieved celebrity status. They are viewed as rich and powerful… glamorous and sometimes even a little super-human. When you see them on television, in movies or in the glossy magazines the men always look ruggedly handsome and the women look stunningly beautiful. Seldom are we given the chance to see these celebrities, in the comfort and privacy of their own homes, as they wake up in the mornings. No doubt the envious population would change their options somewhat knowing that almost no one is particularly glamorous at that time of day. Cosmetics, technology and advanced photo editing methods can easily make people look younger, thinner and magically cover up flaws such as freckles, scars and acne. This is just what the producers of Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire have had to do. All three adolescent stars - Daniel Radcliffe who plays Harry Potter, 15. Rupert Grint who plays Ron Weasley, 17 and Emma Watson 15, who plays Hermione Granger - have broken out with acne forcing the film makers of Harry Potter And The Goblet Of Fire to use special effects to hide their skin imperfections. Celebrities deal with the same problems the rest of us do, acne being one of them. Britney Spears, Judith Light, Stephanie Seymour and Elle Macpherson have all publicly discussed how they have suffered from and corrected their acne problem. By doing so, they have not only helped themselves, but millions of other acne sufferers around the world - they are positive proof that acne treatments work. Your acne problem won’t be gone overnight, it will take time. But as you begin to see an improvement in your condition it’s quite possible that you will begin to feel like a celebrity, too! ======================================= Acne Information :: Elaine Clay is the owner of Acne Treatments Online.com - get information, tips and articles to help you find proven and effective acne solutions that treat your condition safely and naturally - Please feel free to use this article - provided it is published in it’s entirety, with my resource box and a “live” clickable link to: http://www.acne-treatments-online.com/acne-information.htm

Causes and effects of acne – understand your acne treatment

Causes and effects of acne – understand your acne treatment by: MR There are several acne care treatment methods that work well and are not very time consuming or expensive. Such techniques would be the treatment with alpha hydroxy acid or several forms of chemical peels that can do wonders for zit treatments. These methods of getting rid of acne are proven and effective and many cases of patients suffering from aggravated pimple irritation found these to be the perfect acne treatment. In the following article we will look closely at the above-mentioned acne care treatment methods and help you decide which technique will work best for your pimple problems. Acne Care Treatment The causes of acne are tied to the changes that happen when a child passes from infancy to puberty. Many persons still believe that acne is caused by dirty skin. The truth is, instead, is that to only wash the skin does not make acne disappear, nor does it prevent it. Adult acne treatment methods works just like those addressed to other age groups. To wash the skin, however, helps to remove the excess of sebum and the dead cells of the skin, and adults should be aware of this as well. Many persons use every type of product, including alcoholic detergents and exfoliant creams, often irritating the skin more than clearing it! Adult acne treatment approaches should also consider the social and psychological effects of adult acne. To wash the face two times a day, in a delicate way with water and a delicate detergent, is the best choice. However, acne is caused from a complex array of biological factors that cannot be eliminated just by washing. For this reason, it is necessary to begin a serious adult acne treatment focused on the problem of acne. Adult acne treatment – myths and facts In some cases, acne also persists in the adult age. This type of acne, generally, hits the skin of the face, but also the one of the body, and men are more exposed then women. Adult acne treatment for women takes into account the fact that the appearance of this type of acne is parallel to the menstrual cycle. In other cases, the acne is introduced randomly in the adult age: this type of acne plagues men and women alike. Acne is not caused by food, but some food items do have the potential to irritate the skin. To follow a tight diet will not recover your skin. While some think that their problem of acne is aggravated from the foods they consume (like the chocolate, drinks, fat oysters and foods), there are no scientific tests that demonstrate this being true. However it is not a mistake to avoid the fatter foods, but a focused and well-applied adult acne treatment is also necessary in order to get rid of this annoying condition. There are several ways to eliminate zits in adulthood. The most successful acne treatment methods may include acne blemish laser treatment, acne rosacea treatment, laser acne treatment. Consult with your dermatologist in order to determine which adult acne removal treatment will work best for you. Treatment – Alpha hydroxy acid Also known in the medical community as ascorbic acid, this technique mainly focuses on improving the levels of oil in the skin. It actually reduces the oil amount produced by the skin, thus diminishing the chances of acne eruptions. Alpha hydroxy acid also reduces the number of dead cells in the skin so your face looks healthier and with less irritation. This particular acne care treatment is effective when used in the early or mid stages of the problem, but it also used in severe acne treatment. The acid is found in several acne treatment drugs and ointments Chemical peels acne treatment In most cases, chemical peel treatments are used to remove lines under the eyes and around the mouth, as well as, sun-damaged skin, mild scarring, age spots and other skin problems. Acne treatments may include this method in which the dermatologist applies a certain chemical substance to the skin. The targeted spot blisters and can be peeled off. This method of acne care treatment is effective mostly for removing scars, especially in the facial area. The treatment is accompanies by some heat and stinging sensation, a fact that most patients found acceptable given the efficiency of the acne treatment. Acne care treatment final remarks There are several other methods for curing acne, such as home remedies or laser treatment. In order to select the best treatment for your pimple and zits you should consult with your doctor or dermatologist. For more information please visit: Acne Blemish Laser Treatment - http://www.acnexpert.com/blemishlaser.htm About the Author Body Acne Treatment - http://www.acnexpert.com/bodyacne.htm Proactive Acne Treatment - http://www.acnexpert.com/proactive.htm All acne information - http://www.acnexpert.com/index.htm

Busting Acne Myths Requires Individualized Treatment and More

Busting Acne Myths Requires Individualized Treatment and More

by: Naweko San-Joyz

If you have acne, you know the deal- everybody has a cream or suggestion to help you get clear skin. But how do you separate myth, medicine and folklore to find an acne treatment that works for you? That’s what researcher Parker Magin set out to do in a study entitled, A systematic review of the evidence for ‘myths and misconceptions’ in acne management. Magin and co-researchers from the University of Newcastle, New South Wales, conclude that clinicians cannot be “didactic” when making acne treatment recommendations that are based on diet, hygiene and sunlight exposure. According to Magin, acne treatments should be individualized. Meanwhile, the Academy of Dermatology has published a press release touting, The Stubborn Truth About Acne: Myths and Misconceptions. Though this article discusses a recent Stanford University survey that examined acne myths held among young adults, it offers no solid advice for securing an acne antidote. Moreover, its meaning is paradoxical. For example, the article headlines Alexa Boer Kimball, M.D. who is an assistant professor of dermatology at Harvard University. Dr. Kimballs sums up the survey on acne by saying “that substantial differences still exist between popular belief and scientific support, yet this does not change the way patients attempt to care for their acne.” Dr. Kimballs’s comments at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology casts a discrediting shadow over her groundbreaking research that aimed to separate acne fact from fiction. Just two years ago in 2003, Dr. Kimball was apart of a Stanford University study investigating the effect of stress on acne. Then, Dr. Kimball concluded that, “increased acne severity was significantly associated with increased stress levels… while self-assessed change in diet quality was the only other significant association.” The results of this study suggested that the link between acne, and diet and stress are no longer hypothetical but warrant further examination. Another investigation aiming to demystify acne came for Dr. Loren Cordain. Cordain and his associates explored the link between diet and acne in a study called Acne Vulgaris: A Disease of Western Civilization. Cordain noted that Kitavan Islanders of Papua New Guinea and the Aché hunter-gatherers of Paraguay had no active cases of acne. This prompted the question, “So why does acne vulgaris affect 79% to 95% of the adolescent population in westernized societies?” Cordain found that genes alone do not cause the disparity of acne incidences between non-westernized and modernized societies. Other factors must enter the equation. Acne can arise from hormonal shifts, stress upheavals and a host of other causes. Your best defense against acne is observing yourself and noting what conditions, foods and emotions aggravate your acne situation. From there, you can use self-care to reduce acne flare-ups. About the Author Health author and Noixia campaigner Naweko San-Joyz lovingly writes from her home in San Diego. Her works include “Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne” (ISBN: 0974912204) and the upcoming work “Skinny Fat Chicks, Why we’re still not getting this dieting thing” (ISBN: 0974912212) for release in June of 2005. For useful acne self-help articles visit http://www.Noixia.com.

Adult Acne

Adult Acne

Acne is bad enough when it strikes with puberty. But when it continues or strikes again in adulthood, it can be a real nuisance. Acne is a skin condition that usually begins around the time of puberty. More than eighty percent of teenagers and preteens will develop acne to some extent. But it can affect people of every age, gender, and race. It affects both males and females, but boys are more likely to have severe acne and to have acne that continues into adult acne.



The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. Acne is an age old problem that has likely been plaguing people of all ages for centuries.



What Causes Adult Acne?



Visit http://acne-solution-treatments.info/ for more information.


Acne is an inflammation of the skin that can form in adulthood just as easily as it forms in pubescence. Acne is caused by a number of factors. Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a common cause of acne, as is the use of certain medications and steroids. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Acne occurs most often to teens and preteens because these androgens are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. But these sex hormones are secreted into adulthood as well and can continue to cause problems with acne. Poor dietary habits and lack of exercise also contribute to adult acne.



Androgens are male sex hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these oil glands become overactive and the exit from the gland is blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.



How Do I Treat Adult Acne?


Over ninety percent of acne patients, both teens and adults, respond to treatment, although the treatment may need to be continued for months or even years. Here are a few of the most common herbal, homeopathic, and traditional methods that can be used to treat adult acne.

Author: Keith Londrie
Adult Acne

Nlite Laser Treatment On Acne Scar Removal

Nlite Laser Treatment On Acne Scar Removal

Who wants to have a gruesome scar on their skin? I don't! and I bet you also don't want your pretty skin be marked for life because of that acne. Having an acne is such a great humiliation to many people, what more if eventually it turned out to be a scar? That's much more mortifying I guess!



Scars that are obtained from having an acne can be on your skin for life. Acne scar removal is the only way to bring back the lost glow in your skin. But how? Are there products for acne scar removal? Or maybe other ways that can help remove those scars?



Technology now is much more advance than before. Most of the technology advancements are used in medical practices. Almost everything can be solved by technology, even Acne Scar removal. And now with these advancements, one medical breakthrough was presented to the people in the year 2003.

 The Nlite Laser treatment.
This is an acne scar removal treatment that involves the use of energy to tone down acne. This treatment is said to be free from pain. This therapy may not be appropriate to all patients but many can still gain advantage from this.
 The process of this treatment was depicted by some patients to have a yellow laser light pulsate unto the skin of the affected area with high intensity rates. This acne scar removal treatment is very rapid, lasting only for about half an hour. This acne scar removal treatment works by killing the bacteria deep inside the skin as the laser energy infiltrate through the layers of the skin.

 Most of the patients that went through this acne removal treatment has observed expanded enhancement within three to six months. Basically, this is how Nlite laser treatment works. Almost 50% acne was diminished in the patients of this acne scar removal treatment.

 This is because it really kills the bacteria that once was present in your skin. These bacteria are those who are to be blamed for the infections you had that led to the development of blemishes in your skin.


This acne scar removal, the Nlite Laser treatment, is surely a great help for those who are very troubled by their acne scars. Although the cost of this treatment is not yet definite, expect that this acne scar removal will be very costly. But if you have the money to spend on this kind of treatment, then why not try it! There has not been any reports for any harsh side effect of this acne scar removal.

 If you are the kind of person who will go through anything just to have that flawless skin that you've been wanting to, this may be the answer to that dream. But if you are doubtful of this treatment and is a little afraid in undergoing medical processes, there are still acne scar removal products that are available for whatever type of acne problem you are having.

Acne scar removal treatments may be very expensive but this will be a lot of help to you especially in recovering the self-confidence that once was lost because of the scars you have in your face. Just make sure that the acne scar removal products that you will try is safe and will do no harm in your body. And for your safety, Think twice and be wise before going through any sensitive treatments or using any kind of skin products!

Author: Kirsten Hawkins
Nlite Laser Treatment On Acne Scar Removal

Acne: A Skin Condition Common Among Teenagers

Acne: A Skin Condition Common Among Teenagers


Acne is a skin condition that many individuals have. Despite the fact that individuals of all ages can develop this common skin condition, there is one group of individuals who are more likely to develop it. That group is teenagers. Teenagers are more at risk for acne, especially when they begin to hit puberty. For that reason, there is a good chance that you may be the parent of a teenager who has an acne problem, whether that problem is large or small.

If you haven't already noticed, times have changed. Unfortunately, this has led to appearance concerns among many teenagers. Although you might not necessarily think that acne is a big deal, it may be to your child. That is why it is extremely important that you talk to your child about their acne, especially if they have a severe case of it. Acne may go away on its own, but it might not. If your child constantly has problems with acne, it may be a good idea to schedule a visit with a healthcare professional.

When seeking treatment for your child's acne problem, you will likely find that you have a number of different professional options. Most primary care physicians, also commonly referred to as family physicians, should be able to treat acne. This treatment will often include an over-the-counter medication or a prescription medication. The type of action taken will likely depend on how severe your child's acne problem is. In addition to their primary care physician, you may also want to take your child to see a dermatologist. A dermatologist is a medical professional who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin conditions.

Aside from being prescribed medications or given another treatment plan, you and your teenager will likely learn more about acne. Your healthcare provider, whether it is your primary care physician or a dermatologist, should provide you with information on acne. This information should not only include how to treat it, but how to manage acne outbreaks, as well as how to prevent them. Although this important information should automatically be explained to you, it might not be. When it comes to treating acne, it is important to learn more about it; therefore, if it is not automatically explained, you need to ask.


Regardless of which type of medical professional you are speaking with, a primary care physician or a dermatologist, you will likely learn, as mentioned above, that acne is not uncommon in teenagers. It fact, it has been stated that over half of all teenagers will develop a problem with acne, at one time or another. You may also learn that acne not only includes zits, but it also includes blackheads and whiteheads. You should also learn how and why acne develops. It is even possible that your healthcare physician may have also determined an exact cause for your child's acne problem, such as unclean skin, clogged pores, or greasy health and beauty products.

As you can easily see, you and your child can learn a lot by meeting with a healthcare worker. Despite the fact that you are advised to seek professional assistance, it may not be possible. Whether you are without insurance or you cannot afford a doctor's visit, your child does not have to suffer from acne. There are a number of over-the-counter medications that may be able to help reduce or completely eliminate the number of blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples that your teenager has. While prescription medications may work more effectively and quicker, over-the-counter medications are great alternatives. These relatively low-cost medications can be purchased from most department stores, drug stores, or grocery stores. The amount of time it takes for your child's acne to clear up, if it even clears up at all, will all depend on what type of product you are using.

Since acne is relatively easy to treat, at least from your standpoint, you are advised to take action. Whether your teenager complains about their acne or if you think a problem may be in the process of developing, you are advised to get them the help that they need. Whether that help comes from a medical professional or an over-the-counter medication, your teenager will likely be please that action was initiated.


Author: Morgan Ulrich

Acne: A Skin Condition Common Among Teenagers

Acne Scars: Discover the Best Way to Remove Your Acne Marks in 5 Simple Steps

Acne Scars: Discover the Best Way to Remove Your Acne Marks in 5 Simple Steps

You enjoy a world of customization. You can customize your hair color, manicure type, vehicle, health care plan and most certainly, your acne scar removal regime. But before you take one step in customizing anything- you plan. When it comes to getting rid of acne marks, you can plan to delete traces of your former acne affliction in five time and money saving steps.

Step 1: Define your acne scarring situation
Measuring improvements require that you first assess your scarring situation. To find your ideal acne scar correcting product, you need to clearly define the type(s) of cicatrices you wish to reduce.

Types of acne scarring include:
Hyperpigmented spots- round, flat, darkened spots that remain after an acne lesion heals. In some instances, darkened acne spots can fade on their on in 2-12 months.

Pock marks, ice-pick scars- these scars are indentations in the skin that result from loss of skin and fat tissue that occurred during the formation and healing of inflamed acne pustules or cysts.

Rolling acne scarring- stretched pores and the roughened skin texture that results from extended periods of moderate to severe acne.

sentence 7 Hypertrophic scars- circular, raised scar tissue that results from excess collagen growth during the acne lesion healing process. This is generally the least common form of acne scarring.

Step 2: Decide what changes you would like to see in your skin

If you have acne scarring, you most likely want your skin to look as if you never had acne. That's understandable. To make this scar disappearing act happen, you first need to precisely determine what changes you want to see with your scarring. For example, you may want to fade dark spots, and smooth away indented pock marks and ice-pick scars.

Step 3: Determine your budget and time commitment to improving your skin

You have numerous cosmetic and medicinal options for correcting acne scars. However, before dipping into  your wallet, you want to ensure that One: You devised a budget to fully fund your scar removal method and Two: You have the time it will require to successfully benefit from your chosen scar removal methods.

To illustrate, lets say that you wanted to soften a hypertrophic acne scar. Your scar removal budget is $500US and time commitment is two months. With these figures, you could witness improvements in your raised scar by receiving two-20 minute- flashlamp-pumped pulsed dye laser (PDL) treatments within two months.

Conversely, if your scar removal budget was $50 and you had about 2-5 months to see improvements in this hypertrophic scar, you could use a $19 silicon or polyurethane patch. You usually need to wear these patches daily for 12 hours and each patch costs roughly a dollar. This brings the costs for your silicon patch based hypertrophic scar removal to about $60-$150US for two to five months of daily treatment.

Step 4: Match the acne scar removal treatment to your specific scar type

Not all scar removal treatments perform the same job. For instance, the silicon patch may fabulously flatten hypertrophic tissue, but could aggravate rolling acne scars. Similarly, while a deep chemical peel can reduce the depth of pock mocks, the same peel may have no effect on raised scarring. Here's a basic guideline for matching acne scars with the ideal acne scar removal treatment.

Hyperpigmented spots- chemical peels, skin lighteners, intense pulsed light treatments

Pock marks, ice-pick scars- dermabrasion treatments, deep chemical peels, advanced laser treatments administered by a trained professional.

Rolling acne scarring- chemical peels, skin tightening laser treatments

Hypertrophic scars- laser treatments, silicon patches, scar creams

Step 5: Consistent product usage

Once you've done steps one through four, all you need to do now is use the acne scar removal products and/or treatments consistently and as directed until your see optimal changes in your skin.

While having a "plan" for changing your skin may seem awkward, chances are this simple guideline will help remove doubts about freeing yourself of acne scars while saving yourself precious time and money. Also, a report in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology reported that having a regime while performing popular acne scar removal treatments like alpha hydroxy peels enhanced patient compliance and peel results. Why not treat yourself to an acne scar reducing plan.

Sources:
Manuskiatti, W; Rungsima W & R Fitzpatrick. Effect of Pulse Width of a 595-nm Flashlamp-Pumped Pulsed Dye Laser on the Treatment Response of Keloidal and Hypertrophic Sternotomy Scars. Dermatologic Surgery; February 2007, vol 33, no 2, pp 152-161.
Meyer-Ingold, W & V Achterberg. Scar Reduction by Adhesive Patches: Efficacy and Potential Mode of Action. Wound Repair and Regeneration; April 2004, vol 12, no 2, pp A19.
Tung, R; W Bergfeld, A Vidimos & B Remzi. Alpha-Hydroxy Acid-Based Cosmetic Procedures: Guidelines For Patient Management. American Journal of Clinical Dermatology; March 2000, vol 1, no 2, pp. 81-88.

Author: Naweko Nicole Dial

Acne Scars: Discover the Best Way to Remove Your Acne Marks in 5 Simple Steps