Remedying the Silly Ways Women Get Acne When Applying Makeup


by: Naweko San-Joyz
Women spend thousands of dollars to create a flawless face. Yet faulty or uninformed uses of moisturizers and makeup can lead to inexplicable breakouts for women.

The two key symbols to remember when applying makeup and moisturizers are cotton and the feather. Cotton symbolizes the need to use clean applicators when applying makeup. The feather represents light application of makeup and moisturizers.

Here are the four biggest mistakes women make in their beauty regime that can lead to acne and ways to remedy them.

1.Re-using a consealer applicator

You have a zit and you want to hide it. So what do you do? Dip your consealer applicator in the bottle and apply the liquid cover directly to the inflamed zit, right. No. Reapplying consealer to your face with the applicator provided by the manufacturer does one thing only, spread more bacteria. Once you apply the consealer to your face with the applicator wand, you simply return it to the bottle where the bacteria have a whole container in which to flourish. Giving bacteria a breeding ground is what causes acne in the first place, so don't give them new real estate in which to reproduce.

Solution:

To avoid this, apply your consealer with a cotton swab and never, ever use the applicator stick provided by the consealer manufacturer. This will ensure that your consealer applications are always fresh and free of as much bacteria as possible.

2. Re-using a foundation sponge

The reasons for not re-using a foundation sponge are the same as the reason for not re-using a consearler applicator, you want to limit the spread of bacteria.

Solution:

Never use the foundation sponge provided by the manufacturer of the cosmetic. Instead, use a cotton ball to apply your foundation. This way, each of your foundation applications will be clean.

3. Applying moisturizers and makeup with a heavy hand.

Do you have the habit of piling layers of makeup onto your face? Caking on your makeup clogs your pores. Clogged pores are an ideal breeding ground for acne-causing bacteria.

Solution:

Always lightly apply your makeup and moisturizer. One easy trick for assuring that you are applying your makeup and moisturizer lightly is that you feel a tickling sensation as you apply your cosmetics. The added benefit of light facial handling is that you reduce stretching and irritating your skin, a combination that can help limit the onset of wrinkles and acne breakouts.

4. Not evenly applying cosmetics

If you notice a collection of pimples surrounding your temple or hairline, this could be because you start applying the makeup or moisturizer at the bottom of your face and work your way upward. However, if the makeup or moisturizer collects on your temples or at the hairline, the cosmetic excess may clog the pores and cause zits.

Solution:

When applying makeup or a moisturizer, spread it evenly across the entire face. Keep in mind that hair styling agents may have spread to your hairline and this increases the chances of the pores getting congested and zits arising. Also, while cleansing your face, apply a warm cloth onto your hairline area to help remove the waxy build-up that comes from hair styling agents, moisturizers and makeup.

So next time you are applying makeup or your moisturizer, call to mind the feather and cotton, your metaphor for staying "light" and "clean" with your skin.

About the Author
Health author and Stanford University graduate 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

Retin-A For Acne Scars


by: Tim Gorman
Retin-A for acne scars is one possibility for the problem. Reitn-A for acne scars helps with healing and cuts down on the formation of new pimples.

Talk to your doctor about Retin-A for acne scars and see what she recommends. Be sure to tell your doctor or dermatologist about any other medications you are taking before you consider Retin-A for acne scars.

If you decide to use Retin-A for acne scars you may see results in two weeks. After using Retin-A for acne scars for seven weeks you should achieve full results.

When you start using Retin-A for acne scars you will want to read all the directions carefully. Begin the Retin-A for acne scars regimen by washing your hands and putting a very thin layer on your face at bedtime. Don't forget to wash your hands when you are through using the Retin-A for acne scars medication.

You may think that it will be helpful to use the Retin-A for acne scars more often than advised or in larger quantities but it can actually be detrimental and can increase the side effects.

Don't worry if your acne appears to take a turn for the worse when you first use Retin-A for acne scars. It may take awhile before you notice an improvement.

There may be times when you miss a dose of Retin-A for acne scars medication. If it is not almost time to take the next dose use it as soon as you remember. Otherwise skip the missed dose of Retin-A for acne scars and continue your regular schedule.

Try Retin-A for acne scars.

About the Author
Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Clear-Skin-Solutions.com. He provides more acne clearing solutions, remedies and acne skin care products that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Shoulder and Back Acne

Acne is caused from imbalances and impurities within the body, and that's why we treat the problem an internal cleansing treatment that goes right to the source and fights acne before it even begins. Acuzine provides antioxidents that can help eliminate the free radicals that are dangerous to skin and promote infections. It also fights inflammation, to reduce redness. And it works to heal damaged skin, naturally!

Silver Bullet for Acne? - I Don't Think So!


by: Tony McGlinn
I read a report recently discussing the success of the project to sequence the genome of the bacteria that is said to cause acne, Propionibacterium acnes, and how this may lead to new ways to treat Acne.

It made me think how easily we can jump to conclusions, that may not be supported by the evidence, or by common sense. Don't get me wrong, I wholeheartedly support the research that the scientific community is doing in the field of Acne, and I am hopeful that it will lead to better treatments, or better understanding of what acne treatments are likely to work.

The article started by saying "European scientists have sequenced the complete genome of a bacterial species involved in many cases of acne, and they're already working on potential new treatments based on that achievement". That is fine but it then continued with the assumption that having found the bacteria which caused acne, and decoded it's genome, it was only a matter of time before the problem of acne was solved.

It is a huge step to go from sequencing the genome of a bacteria involved in many cases of acne, to curing acne.

If a bacteria was the cause of acne, then people who had the bacteria would have acne, and people who didn't have the bacteria would not. Also it would be possible to pass acne to someone else, by physical contact. It may be true that this bacteria is involved in many cases of acne, but, in my opinion, it is not true that it causes acne.

The successful treatment of acne requires a number of steps, and often lifestyle changes. The good news is that in most cases acne can be cured by completely natural means. For more information go to www.acneabc.com

Simple and Effective Ways to Control Acne


by: Mike
Acne control include unclogging the pores of the skin, destroying bacteria and reducing excessive oil, or, in other words, "Prevention".

As the saying goes "an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure"

With this in mind, what then are the best ways to prevent and control acne?

First of all remember the basics of healthy living- nourish your body with good food, consume 6-8 glasses of water per day and try to get enough shut eye (8-9 hours is highly recommended).

A method of controlling acne that is not widely known is to take fish oil supplements on a regular basis.

Fish oils contain EPA and DHA fatty acids as well as omega-3 and omega-6 oils.

These essential elements create prostaglandins in the human body.

Prostaglandins are chemical hormones and they serve to maintain optimum functioning in all of the body's organs and cells.

They keep androgen hormones, which cause the production of excessive oil, in check.

Using mild soap-free cleansers such as Cetaphil, Dove, Purpose or Neutrogena helps keep the skin clear of dirt and surface impurities.

Exfoliating creams and masques are also good for acne control as they work to gently peel away dead skin cells. But make sure you don't choose one that is overly abrasive.

Using an astringent or toner to rid your face of excessive oil is an effective way to control acne as is using topical solutions containing benzoyl peroxide or sulfur.

Some acne sufferers find products with benzoyl peroxide to be harsh or excessively drying to their skin.

Stress is a contributing factor in acne growth so try to keep it to a minimum.

Too much stress becomes a vicious circle in that pressure triggers the production of more oil which ultimately causes more skin problems and the acne that results tends to stress out the sufferer even more. 

Six Smoothie Recipes for Constipation and Acne Relief


by: rudy silva
I recommend drinking a morning smoothie if you have constipation or if you have skin problems like acne. Drinking a high fiber smoothie relieves and prevents constipation. It will also provide the nutrients that are necessary for having or keeping a nice clean and smooth skin.

So, here are the six smoothie recipes you can blend.

. Apple Smoothie
. Apple-Barley Smoothie
· Apricot Smoothie
· Peach-Rice Dream Smoothie
· Pineapple Smoothie
· Strawberry Smoothie

Apple Smoothie

Mix in the blender the following.

1-2 small apples cut into wedges
1 banana
1 cup 50:50 rice dream: almond milk
¼ cup or less of raisins soaked overnight
1-teaspoon honey
1-2 cubes of ice
1-teaspoon lecithin granules
2 tablespoons flax seed oil

Start by mixing the banana and the liquids. Then add slices of apples to get the consistency you like. In all of your smoothies add flax seed oil for nice smooth skin. I also add a tablespoon of flax seed straight into the blender and the blender will chop them up.

Apple-Barley Smoothie

Mix in the blender the following.

1 cup of sliced apples with peel
1/2 cup of cooked barley
1/4 cup of soaked raisins
1/4 teaspoon of vanilla flavoring
1-1 ½ cup of 50:50 rice dream: almond milk
1-teaspoon lecithin granules
2 Tablespoons flax seed oil

Make sure you use the lecithin granules in these smoothies since lecithin helps to breakdown the flax oil into tiny droplets and makes it more digestible.

Apricot Smoothie

One cup of fresh apricots or dried apricots that were soaked overnight
Juice of 1/2 a lemon
Two oz. of prune juice
One teaspoon or more of oat ban
One teaspoon of mineral whey
One tablespoon of flax seed oil
One tablespoon of lecithin granules

Add a slight amount of distilled water or ice cubes to make the consistency to your liking. This smoothie is good for constipation and acne.

Peach-Rice Dream Smoothie

Mix in the blender:

2 fresh peaches with peel
1-cup rice dream
1/2 banana
1-teaspoon sesame seeds
1-teaspoon sunflower seed
1-tablespoon lecithin granules
2 tablespoons flax seed oil
In place of rice dream you can use almond milk. I now only use almond milk to make my smoothies. Place all of the seeds straight into the blender. This smoothie has plenty of fiber. You may want to increase the amount of sesame and sunflower seeds.

Pineapple Smoothie

Mix the following in a blender.

1-2 cups of fresh pineapples
1/2 cups apple slices
1/4-cup fresh apple juice
1/2-cup almond milk (more or less as needed)
1 banana
1-tablespoon lecithin
2-tablespoons flax seeds
2 teaspoons bran (wheat, oat or rice)

You can add more lecithin if you like. Lecithin does not have a taste. This smoothie is jam packed with fiber.

Strawberry Smoothie

Mix in a blender the following ingredients.

1 banana
1-tablespoon of lecithin granules
1-teaspoon of any type of bran
1 cup or more 50:50 rice dream: almond milk
Now add strawberries one by one with the blender on until you get the consistency you like.
1-tablespoon flax seeds
1 or 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
1-teaspoon sesame seeds
1 tablespoon of flax seed oil

You can add liquid minerals or vitamins to these smoothies and give them an additional nutritional value.

Skin Care & Acne Prevention


by: Kim Standerline
Skin Care & Acne Prevention

Let's take a look at how to combat your acne.

The main strategy to use is prevention where possible and better
skin care. Here are several top issues of focus for each:

exercise,
cosmetics,
diet,
hormones,
hygiene,
medications,
shaving,
stress.

Exercise - Keeping in shape can help fight acne by fighting off
negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem
and depression. However, some safeguards need to be in place to
ward off acne that can result from your workout routines. First
watch which products you use on your body because you'll most
likely be sweating. With any sunscreen's for outdoor workout
activities and any make-up or other cosmetics, check for
"noncomedogenic" and "oil-free" on the labels to help prevent
pore clogging. And when your workout is finished, wash the
products off as soon as possible, especially if you'll be going
into a steam room or sauna where your pores will be opening up
more. You don't want these lotions and other cosmetics getting
into your pores and clogging them up, resulting in blemishes.

Watch what you put on your body with regards to clothing, sports
gear and equipment. For example, tight lycra and nylon exercise
outfits might look great in the movies and magazine models, but
if you are susceptible to acne problems, avoid these synthetic
fabrics that tend to trap in body moisture and heat resulting in
a bacteria frenzy. Instead, choose loose clothing made of cotton
or natural blends to allow more air to get to your skin. And when
you're finished with your workout, get out of clothing wet from
perspiration or water sports. Shower and change into dry, clean
clothing. And keep your sports gear and equipment clean, too.
Dirty headgear, for instance, can irritate forehead areas prone
to acne problems. So toss headbands into the washing machine
after workout sessions.

Tip: when cleaning your body after a workout, no need to scrub
with force and irritate skin. If possible, wash with medicated
soap (check for "exfoliant" on the label) or medicated wipes from
your athletic bag where showers aren't available.

Tip: When drying with a towel, even if it's during your workout
to erase sweat, always blot instead of rub. That way you avoid
grinding excess dead skin, dirt, sweat and other chemicals into
your pores and risking pore-clogging and skin irritation.

Cosmetics - To avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations similar
to acne and can contribute to acne, use products labeled
"noncomedogenic" or "oil-free." Shimmering facial colors can
contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin
irritations and clog pores. Other additives in coloring that can
cause similar reactions are coal tar derivatives, carmine and
heavy cream in blushes. More preventative measures include using
a lip gloss promoting a matte finish instead of a high gloss for
less pore-clogging; note the more the shine, the more then
comedogenic content and the more the pores can clog.

Beware eye creams can contain heavier concentrations of
moisturizers than regular creams and lotions, meaning they have
greater potential to clog pores in the surrounding facial areas.
Additionally use caution with hair styling products that contain
oils, alcohol and adhesives that should be kept away from skin
and from seeping into pores along with perspiration during
workouts; especially watch hair gels and mousses so they don't
cause clogging around your hairline. Use care when choosing
fragrance and scented cosmetics, and opt for hypo-allergenic or
"fragrance-free" versions where possible to avoid allergic
reactions and skin irritations (a sampling 3-day test behind an
ear is recommended).

Tip: Thoroughly clean your face and any other areas where
cosmetics are applied daily, especially if used when combined
with exercising or other activities that promote sweating, where
there is the opportunity for the chemicals to be absorbed or
soaked up into your pores.

Shaving - Shaving for both genders is 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. A word of
caution: for areas with infection or high inflammatory activity
(redness, sensitive, open acne, sores, etc.), do not shave. Or at
the very least, use a shaving cream for sensitive skin. For best
results with regular shaving, follow these procedures:

Steer away from shaving creams that are oily and choose one for
sensitive skin if available. Then moisten facial or other hair
with warm water, apply the shaving cream and lather well. Shave
with a sharp (not dull) blade. Note when shaving, use gentle
swipes instead of heavy pressure ones that can irritate
acne-prone areas. And go with the flow or "grain;" in other
words, adapt to downward, lateral, angular or upward swipes, for
a smoother shave with less nicks and irritating backward motions.
Experiment with different razors, both electric and disposable,
with single- double- or triple-edged (mach III) heads to see
which works best for you. And try shaving in a warm shower for
better results.

For after shaving applications, try toning to stop bacteria dead
in its tracks before it gets into your open follicles. Try
antibiotic gel or lotion, witch hazel, Dalacin T, a mild
alcohol-free toner, Benzoyl Peroxide in gel form and Salicylic
Acid in a gel.

Shaving Tip: Electric razors may not shave as close to the skin;
however, they help with the prevention of acne and other skin
breakout's and flare-ups better.

Shaving Tip: If a non-electric razor is your choice, a
single-edged blade is actually better. Why? Because double- and
triple-edged blades grab hair follicles and pull them out from
below the epidermis. And in the process, your skin "heals itself"
by closing over these holes, making it difficult for future hair
follicles to grow outward - creating inflammation in the tight
areas.

Diet - Studies show diet does not play a role in either the cause
or the treatment of acne. However, what is recommended for acne
preventative care is what is best for your body and best for your
skin, especially since your skin is the largest organ of your
body. So here are healthy vitamins, minerals and other
supplements known and recommended to prevent and help conquer
acne breakout's:

Hormones - Hormones or lack of, during later years and especially
for women, can play a role in acne flare-ups and prevention. One
recent study showed about 50 percent of women have acne, referred
to as hormonal acne, problems during the week before their
menstruation. Treatment options can include topical retinoids,
oral antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide for teen years. On into
adult years, some acne aids include oral contraceptives or
hormonal birth control pills and hormonal replacement therapy
(HRT) for women, combined with systemic or topical treatments,
prescription or over-the-counter products and medications, and
antibiotics for both sexes.

Hygiene - A healthy skin regimen should include no 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. Products with gentle
exfoliation ingredients are OK to use; i.e. not scratchy nut or
fruit shell pieces that can tear skin. And skip alcohol products
when possible; these can take off the top layer of your skin and
cause your glands to product more oil, clogging pores in the
process.

If you do spot acne-troubled areas, do NOT mess with them.
Remember these are already weeks in the making, and squeezing or
picking blemishes can force the infected area to regress back
inside, further troubling the region and possibly leave a scar.
If necessary, seek help from a dermatologist for alternative
treatments.

About the Author
Kim Standerline is a registered nurse working for a large hospital Trust in the UK. Her websites include www.nursing-hints.com, www.backpain-free.com and www.acne-and-you.com

Splash Your Acne Supplement Expenses with Food


by: Naweko San-Joyz
Twenty-one year old Lydia Garcia faces an imminent dilemma- poverty or acne. Lydia religiously uses three herbs to keep her skin clear and she's always on the prowl for supplements to augment her health. Just last week she read that the Chinese herb astragalus enhances the immune system. And now, Lydia ponders, "I think I want to take dandelion root and ginseng to ease my menstrual cramps." Yet Lydia's salary as a receptionist barely covers her fanatical consumption of supplements.

You don't have to spend a fortune on supplements when food provides all the nutrients you need to have clear skin. Herbs and supplements that provide support for clean skin typically offer the following benefits:

Boost the immune system
Enhance stress management
Cleanse the blood and liver, and
Aid in skin repair

A well-chosen diet can prove just as advantageous as supplements and herbs.

Foods that boost the immune system
-Vitamin C
Oranges, grapefruits, papaya, green peppers, tomatoes, strawberries, broccoli

-Vitamin E
Almonds, sunflowers seeds

-Zinc
Wheat germ, black-eyed peas, lean beef, crab, oysters

Foods that enhance stress management
-Vitamin B6
Legumes, whole grains, chicken, pork, bananas

Foods that cleanse the blood and liver
-Garlic, onions, turmeric, cayenne pepper, aloe vera juice, watermelon

-Bulk-producing foods
Oatmeal, apples, oranges, bran cereals

Foods that aid in skin repair
-Protein
Nonfat dairy, beans, meat, poultry, fish, nuts

-Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Sardines, herring, salmon, tuna, walnuts

-Selenium
Onion, garlic

Although herbs and dietary supplements offer a broad spectrum of benefits to the skin, it's no fun looking fabulous if you can't afford to go anywhere. So, save some cash and eat you way to clear skin.

About the Author
Health author and Stanford University graduate 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

The Best Acne Cures - What Will Clear My Skin For Good?


by: Peter Crump
Acne is a uncomfortable and embarrassing skin condition that affects over eighty percent of people from their teens to their thirties, and yet, despite its prevalence, it remains a problem without a cure. This might be extremely disheartening news for the many people who suffer from it, but while medical science cannot yet fix the problem as they can a broken leg, medical advances in recent times have led to the formulation of many efficacious products that produce all the effects of what will hopefully one day be the best acne cures. And the best acne cures vary from person to person.

Acne is caused by the overproduction of the skin of oil called sebum, and the best acne cures would offer some foolproof way to regulate this. Unfortunately, the problem is not yet well enough understood to cure acne once and for all, but there are a range of topical and oral tools that can make management of the condition as effective as a cure. Sometimes age can be acne's natural cure, but for those who prefer to take a more proactive stance there are many products that can affect results similar to a cure.

One of the most effective oral treatments yet developed for acne is a medication that can be taken at home, simulating for many the effect of the best cures. Accutane must be prescribed first by a doctor, and though it must sometimes be taken for six months before a real improvement can be seen in the skin, the long-term results have been as positive as any cure. Accutane is a strong drug that can have harsh side effects, but it has cleared the skin completely of many acne sufferers. Your doctor will usually prescribe milder medications before trying Accutane, but for many sufferers for whom nothing else has worked, it can bring all the results of an acne cure.

For those suffering with milder forms of acne, there are many other products that can act as natural acne cures. Dietary supplements, such as folic acid, echinacea and zinc can have drastic effects upon the skin, without introducing harsh and alien chemical substances into the body. A healthy diet and a good cleansing routine are also extremely important, as these are the basic tools for healthy skin, that will give your body the tools it needs to fight acne effectively.

So, what are the best acne cures? They are around, but they vary from person to person according to the severity of the acne they suffer.

The Best Acne Treatments


by: Tim Gorman
The best acne treatments may be the ones that help you avoid the acne in the first place. The best acne treatments can be prescribed by your doctor. You will have to decide the best acne treatments for you.

One of the best acne treatments has to do with keeping your skin clean. There are many products on the market that can be considered some of the best acne treatments available.

Changes in your diet can be another one of the best acne treatments. Some people insist that one of the best acne treatments is to eat a high-fiber diet. The best acne treatments involving diet also mean cutting down on junk foods, chocolate, tea, coffee, fried foods, sugar, sodas and artificial sweeteners. These dietary changes are considered by many to be some of the best acne treatments.

The best acne treatments may be the ones that involve adding supplements to your diet. Acidophilus can be taken in capsule or liquid form and is usually taken 2 or 3 times a day. The best acne treatments that involve using supplements may also include some of the following: brewer's yeast, chromium, Vitamin B6, Zinc, Vitamin C and E, Vitamin A and B-5, selenium, essential fatty acids and Vitamin B-complex.

The best acne treatments may be those suggested by your physician. Your family doctor may recommend a dermatologist who may know of the best acne treatments. There are medications that can be used to help with acne and your doctor will be able to prescribe them for you.

The best acne treatments may vary depending on the individual and the type of acne. 

The Best Acne Treatments Available


by: GSET Publishing
Acne, which affects the majority of teenagers, and a very large number of adults as well, can be treated using various different methods, with prices ranging from relatively inexpensive to incredibly expensive. However, the best acne treatments are those that treat acne from inside the body, as well as on the surface of the skin - since acne starts inside.

The name on the package really doesn't matter as much as what is inside the package. Some ingredients have proven to be quite effective for treating acne, while others don't seem to have any affect. Some ingredients are perfectly safe, while other's have risks associated with them. What you use to treat your acne is up to you - but it is important that you make informed decisions, in order to find the best acne treatments for you.

Benzoyl peroxide is one of the most effective ingredients found in a large majority of acne medications, however, there is quite a bit of controversy surrounding this chemical. Benzoyl peroxide has been linked to skin cancer, and it is on the FDA's 'unsure' list. This means that while it has been approved by the FDA for human use, the FDA cannot say that it is safe to use - but the FDA hasn't determined that it is unsafe either.

Some of the most effective treatments for a large majority of people who suffer with acne are: ProActiv, Accutane, and Retin-A. This doesn't mean that these medications work for everyone - it just means that it is effective for the majority of people who use these treatments.

ProActiv is a three step topical acne fighting system that does not require a prescription, although it does contain prescription grade Benzoyl peroxide. Accutane is an oral prescription medication. There are many side affects associated with the use of Accutane, such as chapped lips, dry skin, nosebleeds, eye irritation, joint and muscle pain, hair thinning, skin rash, intestinal problems, urinary problems, headaches, and vision problems. There are even some psychological side effects, such as depression. Accutane is not prescribed to women who are pregnant or nursing, due to serious birth defects. Retin-A has very few side effects, and is available in both prescription and over the counter forms. Retin-A is used to treat a variety of skin problems other than acne as well, including wrinkles, lines, scars, and discoloration.

If using one of these products is of interest to you, you should start with ProActiv. If ProActiv doesn't work, try Retin-A next. Avoid using Accutane if you can, and if you do decide that you want to give Accutane a try, make sure that you weigh the potential side effects carefully.

While these treatments are costly, they have proven to be the most successful. Therefore, in most cases, they are well worth the expense. People spend billions of dollars purchasing inexpensive acne treatments that simply do not work. If you look at it in terms of how much money you would spend buying products that do not work, in relation to the amount you will spend to purchase an acne treatment that works for a large majority of the population, you will find that you are better off spending the money on the products that work in the long run, bypassing those that do not work.

Keep in mind, however, that even though these are the best acne treatments available, this doesn't mean that other, less expensive treatments won't work for you. What works for you will depend on many factors, including how severe your acne is. Discuss your options with your dermatologist.

No matter which acne treatment you use, you must keep your face clean, keep your hair and hands off your face, use the treatment as directed, and give the treatment time to work. Failure to do any of these things will keep your acne treatment from working - no matter how good it is. You should also remember that what works for some people may not work for others. The best acne treatments are not always the best for everyone. What worked for your neighbor may cause your acne to become worse. Work to find the best acne treatment for you - and make sure you give it time to work!

About the Author
Acneteam.com strives to provide you with the latest information with regard to acne, the AcneTeam.com (http://www.acneteam.com/)

The Different Types Of Treatments Available For Mild Acne


by: Steve Williams
Mild Acne is quite common and persists for different
amounts of time for different people. This can be due to
varying environmental or genetic factors, or a combination
of both.

Mild acne usually consists of minor breakouts of
whiteheads, blackheads, pimples and zits. While these
breakouts don't persist for extended periods of time, they
can be painfully uncomfortable or irritating to the skin,
especially the skin on the face and forehead.
For any type of skin problem, it's best to consult with a
dermatologist for advice. She or he will be able to
identify exactly the type of acne you have, its degree of
severity, and the type medication that you might choose to
use.

However, with mild acne, it's often recommended to start
first by using a topical cream. Commonly, this can be
bought without a prescription over the counter (OTC).
Topical creams are rubbed in over the affected skin area.
Used nearly two or three times per day, along with proper
washing and rinsing, it's effective against minor cases of
acne. But, you need to be sure and give the medicine six or
eight weeks, even if the acne has subsided, before you stop
using it.

In the beginning of use, even OTC medicines may cause you
some minor burning or irritation. Most OTC skin creams of
this nature take anywhere from a week or two to get used to
(or, for the slight burning or irritation to stop).
There are many types of medicines available. As mentioned,
it's important to consult with a doctor or dermatologist
before starting your own treatment regimen, even if the
creams or medications are available OTC. In any case,
benzyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur are
commonly used to treat minor cases of acne.

Benzyl peroxide will help lower the oil production in your
facial skin glands. Resorcinol, salicylic acid and sulfur
are effective against eliminating whiteheads and blackheads
Salicylic acid also helps cut down the shedding of cells,
which prevents pores from getting overly clogged or plugged
with residue. Topical creams can come in the form of a
daily lotion or gel, oil-free creams and soaps.

Again, remember that it can take some time before you start
to see (or even feel) the benefits of such medications.
There are other alternatives as minor acne isn't as much of
a nuisance as other, more extreme cases.
In any regard, be sure to follow your plan for several
weeks, otherwise the acne may not clear up completely. And,
if the problem persists, simply work out another treatment
option with your doctor or dermatologist.

The First Step To Curing Acne


by: Naweko San-Joyz
The first step to curing acne is knowing what type of acne you have. This information gives you precious insight to what may have actually triggered the acne outset. Once you know your acne trigger, you are one step closer to removing the acne activator and living acne free.

There are numerous types of acne, which could explain why it is so cumbersome if not seemingly impossible for the acne sufferer to find a cure. Looking at the list below, you may be surprised discover that you acne is not caused by stress, but your new bottle of designer perfume.

·Adult Acne Sudden onset, or continuation of acne, during adulthood. The cause may be 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 cosmetic This form may be rare but is triggered by use of cosmetics with acne aggravating ingredients such as lanolins, isopropyl mysristate and some pigments.

Acne conglobata Severe hereditary acne that can cause scarring on the face and back.

Acne detergens Acne resulting from abrasive cleansers.

Acne excoriée (Mirror Addict Acne)- Psychosomatic disease caused by constant picking of the face and/or body.

Acne fulminans (Too Much Testosterone Acne) Acute and severe form of acne accompanied by symptoms like fever and joint pain. This acne is common among males. Traits include: abrupt onset of acne, inflammatory and ulcerated nodular acne on the chest and back, severe acne scarring, fluctuating fever, painful joints, loss of appetite or weight, and high white blood cell count. This acne is caused by use of testosterone, used legally or illegally to enhance muscle growth. Over the counter treatments or not effective. If you don't need the extra testosterone for your health, don't take it.

Acne keloidalis This acne occurs with people of African descent. It is characterized by firm papules and pustules at the nape of the neck.

Acne mallorca Acne caused by sunbathing.

Acne mechanica Acne provoked by mechanical irritation such as tight, restricting cloths or straps.

Acne medicamentosa (Drug Induced Acne) Acne brought on by medications. Common culprits include phenytoin (Dilantin), isoniazid, lithium, bromides, iodides, androgens and corticosteroids. Lithium worsens acne vulgaris and can bring on acne in persons who have never experienced acne.

Oral contraceptives containing norgestrel or norethindrone may also induce or worsen acne.

Over the counter drugs containing potassium iodide, bromide (cold remedies) and chlorine (chloral hydrate) may cause acne with very small pustules.

Acne neonatorum Infant acne triggered by hormones from the mother transferred to the newborn. This acne usually disappears without treatment.

Acne pomade Acne occurring with persons who use pomades or thick oils daily on their hair. This oil travels from the hair to the forehead where it clogs pores and creates acne lesions. Avoiding touching the face with oiled hands and limiting use of synthetic oils on the hairs usually remedies pomade acne.

Chloracne Acne created by constant exposure to hydrocarbons in motor oil and insecticides.

Imaginary acne Imagining acne when there is actually no acne.

Pitch acne Lesions created by coal tars or dandruff tar shampoos.

Premenstrual acne Acne provoked by hormonal changes prior to menstruation.

Steroid acne Inflammation of hair follicles caused by internal steroids or from topical corticosteroids on the face. Steroid induced acne appears as red papules and pustules concentrated in the area where the steroid was applied. Steroids thin the outer layer of the skin and make the hair follicles more susceptible to rupture. Lesions usually leave after steroid use ends.

Tropical acne Acne experienced by some World War II soldiers in the tropics who developed severe acne with horrible scarring.  

The natural remedy for acne


by: Kevin Sheldon
Acne can be one of the most distressing of afflictions, given that it tends to strike during the teens (although it can, of course, occur at any time of life too). As a highly visible problem, acne can cause acute embarrassment at the very time when a person is struggling to become comfortable with themselves. The symptoms are varied, and do not just consist of the familiar scarring and skin pitting. Other symptoms can include blackheads, whiteheads, pustules, inflamed and infected nodules, sacs, and cysts.

Caused by over-activity of the sebaceous glands, acne tends to show where these (oil) glands are most numerous (i.e the face, neck, chest, and back). Scarring and permanently expanded pores can result, and this is the symptom most familiar to acne sufferers.

Why does acne occur? Well, every hair follicle produces oil to lubricate the skin and hair. Over-production of this oil can lead to clogging, in which bacteria can multiply. This usually leads to inflammation, and if this sebum, plugs the pores it can lead to blackheads. Whiteheads form when sebum collects below the skin surface. According to reseach by www.freeremedies.com, the most likely time for these outbursts are between the ages of 12 and 24, when the teen hormones are running wild, and androgen production goes into overdrive. There is some evidence that overindulgence in junk foods, the taking of oral contraceptives, certain allergies and stress can also cause acne.

So how can you deal naturally with acne? First of all, cleanliness is vital, and you must always keep your skin washed and clean. Do not be tempted to apply any oils or moisturizers to the affected areas. Instead, use freshly-squeezed lemon juice 3 times a day as a natural antiseptic face wash. Grease from your hair can also exacerbate the problem, so shampoo your hair regularly. Diet also plays a role in acne, so stay off the junk (saturated fats in fried food, go carefully with dairy products, carbonated drinks, caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco). Instead, eat lots of fresh fruit and vegetables. Sleeping soundly will also help, as will regular exercise. regularly, and get adequate sleep at night.

Diet in more detail - raw vegetables can be a life saver for the acne sufferer, say specialists at www.freeremedies.com. Together with non-citrus fruits, raw vegetable juice, cooked vegetables, salads, whole grains, and a few low-fat seeds and nuts, you can construct a diet that can make it very hard for the sebaceous glands to overproduce. Stay right away from peanut butter, cheese, milk, and cream. Some sufferers have reported good results by trying 'vegetable juice' fasts of 1 to 3 days, although you should consult a doctor before considering any kind of fasting.

The second part of the natural remedy for acne is dietary supplements that have been shown to have a beneficial effect. You must ensure you get enough vitamin B6, zinc, and essential fatty acids. A general multivitamin once per day will probably be sufficient to make sure you are getting enough.

Finally, there are certain herbs which have been shown to be beneficial as a natural remedy for acne. Applied to the skin, dandelion root, echinacea, alfalfa, chaparral, and red clover are most beneficial, and are available from most health stores. Most importantly, stay positive! The problem CAN be beaten if you take care of yourself!


About the Author
Kevin writes on natural remedies for www.freeremedies.com natural remedy site a site all about health and the use of natural remedy

The problems With Acne


by: Kim Standerline
Acne is a skin condition that shows up as bumps and lumps
anywhere on the body. These bumps include blackheads, whiteheads,
pimples and cysts.

Teenagers get acne because of their raging hormonal changes that
come with puberty, and unfortunately if your parents had acne as
teenagers it's possible you will be more prone to developing acne
as well. The good news is that, for many people acne disappears
almost completely by the time they hit their twenties.

The type of acne most teenagers get is called acne vulgaris, and
it usually shows up on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back, and
chest.

The hair follicles, or pores, in human skin contains sebaceous
glands (also called oil glands). They make sebum which is an oil
that lubricates hair and skin. Most of the time, sebaceous glands
make the right amount of sebum, but as a teenagers body begins to
mature and develop, hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to
make more and more sebum, and the glands become overactive.

The pores of the skin become clogged if there is too much sebum
and too many dead skin cells and bacteria (especially a bacteria
called Propionibacterium acnes) get's trapped inside the pores
and multiply, thus causing swelling and redness - the start of
acne.

Reports show over 90 percent of all adolescents and almost 25
percent of all adults are acne sufferers. And though acne affects
about 50 percent of all adult women, acne affects males and
females worldwide, regardless of nationality.

Acne has a significant impact on a person's outlook on life, and
recent studies have detected the following as common among people
with acne:

. Social withdrawal

. Decreased self-esteem

. Reduced self-confidence

. Poor body image

. Embarrassment

. Feelings of depression

. Anger

. Preoccupation

. Frustration

. Higher rate of unemployment

The Causes Of Acne... And How To Avoid Them


by: Steve William
If you aren't a sufferer of the effects of acne, feel lucky. Acne is one of the most common skin diseases in the United States, affecting some 17 million people.

By definition, it occurs when the pores of the skin are plugged, where the natural oil, called sebum, can't reach the pore's surface.

Doctors believe that it could be the overproduction of sebum that contributes to the clogging of pores, which results in the formation of pimples and zits. All of this occurs especially around the time of puberty, adolescence and even into adulthood.

Problems with severe acne can go on for years, even into one's forties or fifties.

The sebaceous glands, which produce the sebum, connect to the hair follicle. Breakouts of pimples and/or zits on the face, upper-back and chest are most common in this are because this is where the glands are most active.

While acne isn't a deadly disease, per se, it can lead to problems later for those who've been inflicted by it. Whiteheads and blackheads can last for an extended period of time, causing irritation and inflammation.

Sufferers of acne usually become self-conscious if the pimples and zits lead to cysts that can leave deep facial scars. These scars may never truly disappear.

Now that we understand the biological factors that contribute to acne, we can focus on the environmental and genetic aspects of the disease. As far as genetics are concerned, adolescents with a family history of acne tend to also have the disease.

At some level, it's the way our genes program our glands and hormones, which in turn affects how much oil the glands produce.

Other factors can actually make acne worse. Greasy make-up, and other types of drugs, usually androgens, can cause acne to flare up. Women are more at risk as their menstrual cycle nears each month.

Wearing tight collars, hats or even bags over the shoulders can also contribute. Many times the weather can also affect acne. A hot and humid day can cause a breakout.

Also, squeezing, popping or picking at lesions (pimples, whiteheads, blackheads and zits) will not help at all. In fact, the oil and bacteria on your hands will actually clog other surrounding pores more.

So not everyone can avoid Acne, but if you know the causes, then there's a chance to prevent it.

About the Author: Steve Williams is a freelance writer, who suffered acne for many years. His research into prevention and acne cures have helped him, and other fellow sufferers. Discover useful advice and information about the causes and prevention of acne. Website contains useful articles and updated information on this nasty skin condition. http://www.acne-treatment-zap.com/

The Real Reason Your Acne Is Out of Control


by: Burgundy Shank
There are many opinions on what exactly causes acne and how to best prevent breakouts. If you look on the web, you'll find lots of conflicting information and expensive products that don't put you any closer to your goal of blemish-free skin. As an adult with previous acne problems in childhood, I can tell you what worked for me and what has worked for others that I have consulted about adult acne.

Acne is believed by many people to be caused by improper hygiene, but the main culprit is an excess of sebum, which is the natural oil that your skin produces. Why do some people produce more sebum than others? In many cases it has to do with improper diet, hormonal imbalances and over-cleansing of the skin. Once the skin begins producing too much sebum the pores become clogged, allowing them to become infected and inflamed, resulting in blackheads, whiteheads, and painful red bumps. If these symptoms are not treated properly, they can cause pain and scarring, leading to discomfort and embarrassment.

First of all, all things regarding your body stem from a well balanced diet. You can use the most expensive, most researched products on the planet and you'll be wasting your dollars if you do not pay attention to what types of foods you put into your body. Most people know that they should be drinking 8-10 glasses of water daily, avoiding sweets and refined carbohydrates, and consuming as many raw fruits and vegetables as possible. At the same time, some healthy foods can aggravate acne breakouts due to food allergies. For example, many people have skin problems when eating oranges. Different foods will affect people individually, and keeping a journal of what you ate coupled with your symptoms may be helpful in determining which foods you should avoid.

Hormone imbalances come frequently for women before their menstrual cycle, but these fluctuations can be controlled by a balanced diet as well. Certain herbal supplements may also help to level out uncontrollable hormones, such as black cohosh, dong quai, or Siberian ginseng. Soy is especially good for many women in helping with hormone balancing for both menstrual and menopausal women. I highly recommend soy in any of its forms (tofu, edamame, miso, tempeh, etc.) not just for women, but as a healthier lifestyle choice that will dramatically improve overall health and nutrition, and therefore assist with acne concerns.

For those who realize that excess sebum can cause problems with acne, their line of defense is to repeatedly wash their face with harsh, drying ingredients in order to cut down on their skin's oily appearance. Cleansers that include alcohol, along with rinsing with hot water can actually trigger your skin to produce more sebum. Excessive exfoliation opens up pores and will most certainly leave your skin to infection, which results in painful blackheads. Instead, try using a mild cleanser such as witch hazel once a day, exfoliating only once a week while avoiding the eye area. Moisturizers with mineral oil, petrolatum and lanolin should be avoided in order to prevent clogged pores, which can trap sebum and cause breakouts.

If you've already developed a problem with acne and need a solution, there are many natural ingredients that will work best with your healthy eating regimen without expensive medical treatments. A few drops of tea tree oil and lavender essential oils can be mixed into a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and applied directly to any spot where acne is present. This can be done twice daily with improvements in as little as a day. Cedarwood, chamomile and lemongrass are also essential oils that are easy to find, inexpensive, and quite effective.

About the Author
Burgundy Shank makes natural handmade skin products using Beauty Secrets from Around the World. To receive her FREE Report, "The Top 10 Ingredients to Avoid in Your Personal Skin Care Products," sign up for her newsletter at http://www.burgundysoap.com

The Sad Tales Of Adult Acne


by: Charlene J. Nuble
The tales of adult acne has ever been a silent one, only told as whispers and an unfortunate few suffered from it, some may even refuse to show themselves to the world. The manifestation of adult acne has been recognized during the Eighties, when the yuppie generation has standardized of what is to become the hip urban lifestyle free of adult acne and any other lesions.

Though adult acne is one aesthetic issue that is quite prevalent in the real world, nearly 25 percent of men, and about 50 percent of women from their twenties and even in their fifties may still experience having adult acne. The face is usually the first place for adult acne to appear, and may also form in parts of the body only their significant other knows where.

So much like the majority of teenagers with their growing pains, what sort of twisted fate that could make adults tremble with fear due to adult acne? Have they suffered enough when they were younger and forced to douse themselves with every medicated formula there is to cure adult acne?

As much as today's medical breakthroughs can offer in the 21st century, adult acne, so much like teenage acne, still has no cure though doctors and dermatologists believe its roots may be traced to hormonal imbalance. Another addition to the cause of adult acne can be found on how we actually live, mostly on diet, stress, vitamin deficiency, and evolutionary biology. No, we are not turning into monsters. All they can prescribe is that products on acne marketed for teens may also be used by adults.

Social issues fall victim to adult acne, causing anxiety and depression among friends and family alike. Who could just walk into an after-hours club when his or her face is covered in adult acne? It may be a vanity thing for those who would want to stand out to be noticed, but adult acne is one type of concern that will definitely make you stand out like a weed. Skin clinics rejoice that they make thousands of (pesos) from people to help them get rid of their adult acne. Cosmetic products like foundations, blushes and such kept flying off the shelves as women find ways to hide the scars caused by adult acne. They would say that 'judge not a book by its cover', but it would only mean that only the fortunate ones have not suffered adult acne. As we live in a generation where superficiality can be just about anything, adult acne has become a hindrance of a majority of adults who wish to look presentable.

We have yet to find the ultimate cure for adult acne, and while the answer is yet to be found, only prevention is the best cure for adult acne.

About The Author:
Charlene J. Nuble 2005. For up to date links and information about acne, please go to: http://acne.besthealthlink.net/ or for updated links and information on all health related topics, go to: http://www.besthealthlink.net/

The Search for Acne Solutions


by: GSET Publishing
Billions of dollars are spent worldwide each year in search of acne solutions. Both consumers and pharmaceutical companies alike are spending the money to find an acne solution that works. Unfortunately, for many, the search is never ending. In most cases of teenage acne, the person will outgrow the acne before they actually find a solution for curing it - but they will spend quite a bit of money looking for that cure.

What many people fail to realize is that in many cases, it takes more than medication to cure acne. It may also require some lifestyle changes, such as the foods you eat, the way you care for your skin, and what you expose your skin to. For instance, if a food allergy is causing your acne - and this is very possible - you can use medication to clear up the outbreak, but once you eat that food again, you will have another outbreak.

In addition to using acne solutions, you also have to keep your skin clean. You must wash your face at least twice a day to remove the dirt that clogs pores. If you live in an area that has a lot of air pollution, you may even need to wash your face more often. You must also keep your hair off your face. Hair contains oils that cause acne. You should keep your hands off your face as well, since your hands and fingers also contain oils that cause or aggravate acne.

Popping or squeezing acne pimples should also be avoided. Not only does this cause scarring, but it can also spread the bacterium that contributes to acne breakouts, making the current breakout worse, and even causing new breakouts in the near future.

Using makeup is another problem. Daily use of makeup is bad enough, but when makeup is used to cover up acne pimples, the pimples heal slower, because the pores become even more clogged. Try to avoid wearing makeup, but if you must wear it, choose makeup that is hypoallergenic, or for sensitive skin. Also, avoid products that contain perfumes.

When using acne solutions, make sure that you follow the directions. Overuse of the product can cause as many problems as under use of the product. Follow the directions to the letter, unless your doctor or dermatologist advises otherwise. The best acne solutions will contain both topical treatment, as well as oral treatment. Acne starts on the inside of the body, but it is prevented and healed on both the inside and outside of the body. Talk with your doctor or dermatologist to find the best acne solution for your condition. Make sure that you are aware of all of the potential side effects before deciding to use any type of treatment.

Furthermore, make sure that you are giving the acne solution you are trying time to work. That is the biggest reason for failure with acne solutions. Some treatments can take up to three months before they prove to be effective. Acne cannot be cured overnight, in most cases. Don't mix acne treatments. Don't use one product one day, then another the next day. Stick to one form of treatment, and give it time to work.

Keep in mind that those acne solutions that work for one person will probably not work for the next person. What worked for your mother, brother, or best friend may or may not work for you. We all have different skin types, and different chemical makeup's - and we all respond differently to medication and acne treatments. Work to find what works for you and your acne.

It is possible to find acne solutions that work for you. You just can't depend solely on the acne treatment to cure or prevent acne, without making other lifestyle changes, even though those lifestyle changes are very small. You must be consistent in order to be successful. The biggest change you may need to make might be in the foods that you eat. A good allergy specialist can determine what foods may be causing your acne breakouts, and eliminating those foods from your diet will go along way towards helping your acne solution work for you.
About the Author
Acneteam.com strives to provide you with the latest information with regard to acne, the best acne treatments, the "old wives' tales" and info about acne solutions (http://www.acneteam.com/acne-solutions.html).

The Truth About Acne Skin Care


by: John Lenaghan
Let's face it, you are engaged in an ongoing battle when you are afflicted with acne. While acne treatments for a mild case of acne are usually successful, moderate acne is a greater problem. Even dermatologists cannot cure a severe case of acne but can only provide an acne treatment regimen.

However, you can support your acne treatment efforts with proper acne skin care in order to reduce the recurrence of acne flare-ups and not aggravate existing acne.

Knowing What You're Doing

One of the first pieces of advice is to make sure that you understand and follow the directions for any acne remedy that you are using. If you are taking a prescription acne medicine, read the patient leaflet that accompanies the medication carefully. Typically for moderate to severe acne a dermatologist may prescribe several acne medicines, each with its own treatment protocol and directions.

In order to achieve the acne free skin that you desire, it is important to use all the acne treatments properly and in the correct order. Consider bringing a tablet of paper, a pen, and a friend or relative with you to your appointment with your dermatologist. Simply jot down some notes about the order and time of day for applying each acne medicine and what its purpose is.

Remember, just because the acne clears with the use of your acne medicines doesn't necessarily mean that you have succeeded in curing acne. Most people with moderate to severe acne must continue to use their acne medicine long-term to prevent any recurrence of their acne problem. Using the acne treatments properly should translate to clear skin and freedom from acne scars.

What About Over-the-Counter Remedies?

Besides using medications prescribed by a doctor, there are a large number of products on the market labeled as skin cleansers, facial cleansers, pore cleansers, and facial pore cleaners that can be used in curing acne.

When cleansing skin that is afflicted with acne, an important point to remember is not to scrub the skin; never scrub your face with a washcloth. It is a misconception that acne is caused by dirt clogging the pores of the skin. You don't scrub away the offending dirt; you can't scrub away the offensive acne and achieve acne free skin.

Over-washing or scrubbing skin afflicted with acne only serves to aggravate the condition. Rather use only a gentle skin cleanser, lukewarm water, and a gentle motion with your fingertips as your primary acne skin care regime. When you wash your face with your hands, be sure to first thoroughly wash your hands.

Do Natural Treatments Really Work?

Look for gentle cleansers that are sold as acne solutions. When you're evaluating skin cleansers for acne, include natural acne treatments in your search as well. For example, a soap made from Echinacea and other herbal ingredients is an effective antibiotic facial cleanser that helps fight acne and restore clear skin. Tea tree oil also has known antibiotic properties and serves as a mild anesthetic that will soothe the irritated skin.

Oily skin is implicated as a one of the causes of acne. It doesn't necessarily make sense to use a moisturizer on oily skin as a means of achieving clear skin. But many of the acne treatments, whether they are prescribed or available as over-the-counter products, have a tendency to irritate the skin while curing acne.

A moisturizer is a boost to irritated skin and keeps skin from becoming overly dry due to the acne treatments that have been applied. Look for a moisturizer with the following properties:

- oil-free
- won't clog pores (non-comodogenic)
- containing a sun-screen

Besides a great desire to just scrub away the acne, many people try to remove the acne pimples by hand as a way to get clear skin. People who are afflicted with acne should avoid touching their face except to gently wash it with mild cleanser as already discussed.

By trying to remove pimples by hand you run the risk of creating acne scars that will last for a lifetime. Instead, have patience and rely on your prescription or over-the-counter acne treatment to work. Acne remedies usually take 6 to 8 weeks before curing acne.

For male acne sufferers, the daily ritual of shaving can be a problem. One acne sufferer has recommended the Gillette Sensor Excel as a gentle and effective razor to use. Other males prefer to try an electric razor. The advice is to shave delicately to avoid nicking the skin and to shave only as often as necessary. Finding a moisturizing shave gel may be one way to enhance your acne skin care program.

Female acne sufferers have their unique problems too, in finding the right cosmetic products to use. Females who are accustomed to using a foundation product may find that the foundation is difficult to apply smoothly if the facial skin becomes irritated due to the acne treatments being applied.

You may have to abandon the use of some cosmetics during the acne treatment period. Be sure to select only oil-free cosmetics and ones that are labeled as non-comodogenic (won't clog pores) to use on your road to clear skin.

Proper acne skin care is a necessary addition to your arsenal for fighting your battle with acne and achieving clear skin once again.

About the author:
John Lenaghan offers information and advice about the best acne treatments and skin care at the Acne Squad website. Visit http://www.acnesquad.comfor more information about dealing with acne. 

THE TRUTH ABOUT YOUR ACNE PROBLEM!


by: Beth Scott
Like a good many people I have been the victim of acne vulgaris (what an appropriate name for such a vulgar disease) the medical term for pimples.

My acne problem has made me aggravated, made me cry, and made me angry. Thousands of people each year are afflicted by an acne problem, and their acne problem makes recluses out of way too many teenagers and even adults.

Your acne problem is caused when your pores get clogged and the fatty material made by the sebaceous gland accumulates, and a "bump" appears under the skin-or perhaps a whitehead or a blackhead (a comedone).

Blackheads are not caused by dirt but by the discoloring effect of air on the fatty material in the clogged pore. If this substance becomes infected a pimple results.

That is the medical explanation for pimples but what people really want to know is "How do I get RID of my acne problem!?"

As anyone can tell you the worst thing to do is to push or "pop" a pimple. Because this will not only cause your acne problem to worsen, but can result in life long scars.

No matter what you see on TV or in movies and no matter what anyone in your family or what any friend tells you, DON'T pop that pimple.

I speak from personal experience, my acne problem was so bad I couldn't stand it so I popped pimples trying to be proactive in getting rid of them.

That is the wrong method to get involved in doing something to rid yourself of your acne problem. I am still paying for doing it by the scars that remain on my face.

The right way is a simple trick I learned that lessons acne dramatically:

Steam your face at night over a warm bowl of water for 20 minutes before retiring to bed (this should be after washing your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser like Olay's or Neutragena's facial cloths)

And then massage one half a teaspoon of castor oil onto your face for about 1 minute, until your face is just lightly shiny.

This will help keep your pores open and prevent new pimples from forming (the steaming opens pores and helps get rid of old pimples).

In the morning you should wash your face again immediately after waking and steam face again for 20 more minutes.

After steaming your face in the morning splash your face with cold water and dry off.

Do this consistently every night and morning for optimal results in clearing up your acne problem.

Now that you are armed with this information put it to use tonight and watch the improvement as your acne problem fades and your skin begins to glow after just a short period of time.

About the author:
To completely get rid of your acne problem in 3 days visit Chris Gibson's amazing website where you will learn the insider's secret at
http://snipurl.com/8hoi

Treating Acne At Home


by: Tim Gorman
Home treatment for acne offers many treatment possibilities. If you decide that home treatment for acne is something you want to try you may need some information.

One home treatment for acne can involve changes in your diet. Many people find that home treatment for acne that includes dietary changes is very successful. When using this home treatment for acne you should eliminate sugar, caffeine, processed foods and foods that contain a lot of iodine.

Another home treatment for acne is one that consists of adding supplements every day. Some of these supplements include vitamins, brewer's yeast, zinc and chromium.

A home treatment for acne that has worked for some people is aloe. You can use this in gel or juice form. You can try apple cider as a cleanser as a home treatment for acne. Another home treatment for acne is cleaning your face with egg whites.

Try making an oatmeal mask as a home treatment for acne. Apply cooked and cooled oatmeal to your face and let it sit for fifteen minutes. You can use a peeled cucumber that has been liquefied in the blender as a home treatment for acne. Just apply it to the area that is affected with acne.

Witch hazel sometimes is effective as a home treatment for acne. Put a little witch hazel on a cotton ball after you have cleaned your face. As part of this home treatment for acne you should then apply a 2% salicylic acid product.

The sun is considered a good home treatment for acne by some people. The ultraviolet light kills the bacteria and dries up the oil.

Sometimes a home treatment for acne is as effective as alternate treatments.

About the Author
Timothy Gorman is a successful Webmaster and publisher of Clear-Skin-Solutions.com. He provides more acne clearing solutions, remedies and acne treatment information that you can research in your pajamas on his website.

Treating adult acne with anti-aging moisturizers


by: Paul Resnick, Niora

Softening the skin and relieving wrinkles with anti-aging moisturizers is becoming a welcome and effective method of treating acne. To date there is a large and growing number of people, especially adult women, who have benefited from new techniques that not only reduce acne but also improve aging skin.
There is connection between anti-aging and acne. In the 1970's two Dermatologists, Dr. Eugene Van Scott, and Dr. Albert Klingman begin investigating vitamin A as an alternative to benzoyl peroxide for the treatment of acne. Benzoyl peroxide is the active ingredient in most over-the-counter acne remedies. such as Proactiv, Clearasil and others. Dr Klingman eventually developed Retin A, a derivative of vitamin A, and Dr. Van Scott began working with the structurally similar Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs). Neither of these researchers attracted much attention until it was noted that women using these substances for acne were experiencing a reduction in skin wrinkling. Retin A and AHAs quickly became most widely used anti-aging skin care ingredients worldwide.

Acne and Wrinkling share the same problematic skin condition: excessive undetached dead skin tissue building up on the skin's surface. This stiffens the skin. Wrinkles result because a less flexible outer layer of skin creases the underlying growing tissue. The skin thus increasingly grows into deeper and more pronounced lines. Acne results when this dead skin tissue clogs pores and inhibits the normal passage of oils and moisture, causing whiteheads or blackheads and eventually pimples. Both AHAs and Benzoyl peroxide, however, can relieve this condition by exfoliating this dry outermost layer of the skin.
The problem is that benzoyl peroxide, while it is effective in removing oil, dries out the skin thus increasing the amount of dead skin tissue on the surface of the skin. This in turn clogs pores. For most women however, using moisturizers to relieve this dryness is not an option. The oils and waxes used in moisturizers aggravate acne because they compound pore blockage.

Several companies have worked to solve this problem and have developed moisturizers for acne prone skin. Murad and Olay have developed a number of products. At Niora, we have worked to solve this problem by creating moisturizers formulated with specially emulsified jojoba oil. Jojoba oil, while intensely moisturizing, is a fine oil with a far smaller molecular weight than sebum, or skin oil. Jojoba penetrates these heavier skin oils, unclogging pores and dissolving nascent blackheads and whiteheads. Because of Niora's emulsification process, dissolved sebum and excess oils rinse free leaving the skin soft and clean.
These lighter moisturizers can be blended with alpha hydroxy acids, which in turn exfoliate the skin and work to prevent excessive tissues from building, back up in the pores. Typically these types of exfoliating cleansers must be used daily to be effective, but they replace normal moisturizers and cleansers and fit easily into most skin care regimes.

These new skin care products thus offer the best of both worlds: an effective acne treatment that moisturizes the skin and reduces wrinkling. To date thousands of women have successfully used these new products demonstrating that the best acne treatment might well be anti-aging skin care.

For additional information about acne and contact Niora at pr@niora.com, or visit www.niora.com.
Niora is the manufacturer of the sensitive skin friendly anti-aging
acne treatment, Alpha Clear. Niora has created fine anti-aging skin care since 1989.  

Treating and Preventing Acne


by: Elizabeth McGee
Acne is a common skin condition that almost everyone
experiences at some point in their lives.

While it is most common in teens and young adults,
over 80% experience at least some mild form of acne.
Most people outgrow their acne by their 20's, however,
some people, especially women can experience outbreaks
in their 40's.

Acne typically occurs on the face but is known to
also occur on the neck, chest, shoulders or back. It
shows up in the form of pimples, generally known
as whiteheads or blackheads. Large, deep pimples are
known as cystic lesions. These are painful lesions
in the pores which can lead to scarring.

Elevated hormone levels, typically caused during puberty,
simulate sebaceous glands which produces sebum (or oil).
Sebum combines with dead skin cells forming a plug in the
skin's pores. Whiteheads and blackheads are clogged
pores. Cystic lesions on the other hand, are when bacteria
grows under the clogged pores with the mixture of sebum
and cells. This mixture can spread causing inflammation,
redness and pus.

Acne Treatments
While there is no cure for acne, there are a number of
treatments used to reduce or eliminate outbreaks and
hopefully prevent scarring.

- Benzoyl peroxide lotions often control mild acne and help
in preventing new outbreaks. If these treatments do not
work, a doctor can prescribe topical antibiotics to help
kill the bacteria.

- Moderate to severe acne can often be controlled by
combining topical benzoyl peroxide along with oral
antibiotics. The combination has an increased effectiveness
while decreasing the risk of developing bacteria that are
resistant to antibiotics.

- Acne with large painful cystic lesions might require a
prescription treatment of topical retinoid (vitamin A).

- Recently, light wave therapy which has been federally
approved, uses a narrow-band, high intensity blue light
to treat mild to moderate acne. It is primarily used for
conditions that have not responded to other treatments.

- Acne Prevention
It's difficult, at best, to prevent acne but there are several
things you can do at home to keep it from getting worse.

- Gently wash your face every day. Take care not to scrub
too hard or use scrubbing materials. Harsh scrubs can scratch
your pores making acne worse. Also do not wash too
often. Once or twice a day is generally sufficient.

-Avoid excessive sweating. Sweating can be hard to
avoid, however wash soon after participating in activities
that cause you to sweat.

- Wash your hair often if you hair is oily. Also try to keep
it off your face as much as possible.

- Avoid hair care products such as gels, mousses, cream
rinses or hair products that contain lots of oils. These can
actually make your acne worse.

- Use cosmetic products labeled noncomedogenic or oil-free.
also avoid shimmering facial colors. These can contain a flaky
mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog
your pores.

- Use Sunscreens. Always use a sunscreen.
The sun is never good for your skin.

- Natural remedies are often great places to start followed by
a good, healthy diet. Your skin is your body's largest organ.
If what you eat is good for your body, it will be good for your
skin.

If acne persists and you are plagued by painful cystic
lesions, it's best to consult your physician.

About the Author
Elizabeth is a skincare enthusiast who reviews quality fine skin care products and researches serious skin care practices. Visit Elizabeth at http://www.fine-skin-care-products.com

Treatment for Acne Scars


by: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, Ph.D, ND, DACBN
Acne can be very mild, resulting in a few lone blemishes, or it can be severe when it occurs on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back. Pustules and deeper cysts occur with very severe acne and scarring may result if the condition is not cared for properly. These scars may be visible for a lifetime. Here's what your can do to prevent these scars from forming, and treat them if they do develop.

Preventing Acne Scars
Never pick or squeeze acne blemishes. This can lead to the spread of acne and the development of acne scars. Instead, there are a number of treatment methods that can be used to care for acne and prevent the development of scars. Herbs such as chamomile, lavender, juniper, bergamot, dandelion root, Echinacea, poke root, witch hazel, and burdock root can be used to reduce toxicity, improve the skin's condition and treat acne. Vitamin supplements can also be helpful as vitamins A, C, E and B6 are vital for healthy skin. Also, avoid exposing your skin to the sun's rays. Initially, sun exposure may dry out an acne blemish, but over time, unprotected sun exposure can damage the skin and further aggravate problem acne.

Types of Acne Scars
Medical professionals have developed a acne scarring classification system that aids in the diagnosis and treatment of many acne scars. Scars may be classified as ice pick, boxcar, or rolling.

Acne Scars - Ice pick
As their name implies, ice pick acne scars are thin, sharp scars. The skin looks as though it has been sliced with an ice pick. These scars are narrow, but deep, extending into the deep dermis or subcutaneous layer.
Acne Scars - Boxcar
Unlike ice pick scars, boxcar scars do not taper to a point. Instead, they are round pits that have sharp vertical edges. Skin resurfacing techniques such as dermabrasion or laser resurfacing may be used to treat shallow boxcar scars. Deeper scars require full-thickness treatment techniques.
Acne Scars - Rolling
Rolling scars appear to have a rolling or undulating texture. They are the result of folds in the skin to the subcutaneous tissue below. Rolling scars must be treated by breaking up the fibrous bands that are causing the skin to fold or roll. Subcutaneous incision is the method most commonly used to treat this condition.

Acne Scar Treatment

Dermal Fillers
Dermal fillers such as fat, collagen, hyaluronic acid derivatives, and polytheyl-methacrylate microspheres with collagen can be injected into acne scars to raise the surface of the skin and give a smoother look. The injection of dermal fillers does not permanently correct acne scars. The results are temporary, so further injections are necessary. 


Punch Excision
Deep acne scars such as ice pick and deep boxcar scars can be treated with the punch excision method. This procedure uses a punch biopsy tool that looks similar to a round, sharp cookie-cutter. It comes in diameters ranging from 1.5 mm to 3.5 mm, and the correct size can be chosen to match the size of the scar. Local anesthesia is used to remove the scar tissue and suture the edges together. If a new scar should develop in the old one's place, it will now be easier to treat with a skin resurfacing technique.
This technique can also be performed with a skin graft, where the scarred skin is removed and that area is filled with a skin graft taken from behind the ear. Some kind of skin resurfacing technique will still likely be needed to correct any differences in the skin's color and texture. 


Punch Elevation
This method of surgically correcting acne scars uses the same punch tool that is used in the punch excision method. It is used on deep boxcar scars that have sharp edges and normal appearing bases. With the punch elevation method, the base of the scar is excised leaving the walls of the scar intact. The excised base is then sutured to the surface of the skin to fill the void. There are fewer incidences of color and texture differences with this technique and less chance of developing another visible scar. 


Subcutaneous Incision
Rolling scars can be treated with subcutaneous incision. This method is used to break up the fibrous bands that cause the skin to roll or appear undulated. Local anesthesia is inserted under the skin with a special beveled needle that remains parallel to the skin's surface. The needle is then used to gently cut the fibrous bands with a piston like motion. Bruising is likely to occur with this method, but it will usually fade in about one week. 


Laser Resurfacing
Laser resurfacing is a popular treatment used to cure many skin defects. Carbon dioxide and YAG lasers are the two most common types used for the laser resurfacing of acne scars. Using the controlled beam of a laser, the top layer of skin is burned to a precise depth. The skin then heals itself by replacing the lost skin with new skin.

For more information on acne remedies go to http://www.acne-answers.org.



About the Author
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.

Treatment of Facial Acne

Acne is caused from imbalances and impurities within the body, and that's why we treat the problem an internal cleansing treatment that goes right to the source and fights acne before it even begins. Acuzine provides antioxidents that can help eliminate the free radicals that are dangerous to skin and promote infections. It also fights inflammation, to reduce redness. And it works to heal damaged skin, naturally!

Treatment Tips for Acne Sufferers


by: Kim Standerline
Get plenty of fresh air and sunshine. Not only will your skin
appreciate the vitamin D, your body and mind will enjoy the
oxygen and stress reducer of just being outside in the fresh
air.Remember to use sun protection or tanning lotion if you're
out for any period of time.

Even "good" stress can trigger internal chemical responses that
result in acne, so plan ahead to deal with extra stress when
planning a wedding, graduation, move, new job, job transfer, new
baby, etc. Get help around the house, take time off, exercise
have fun or whatever you need to do. But be proactive.

When you control stress, you help control the stress hormone
cortisol - reducing its release as you reduce stress, reduces the
effects of acne. Activity and exercise help improve blood flow
and circulation and are natural healing aids for your skin
enabling improved waste management, via your skin pores.

Both blackheads and whiteheads are filled with trapped sebum and
bacteria. So prevention and treatment advice for how to handle them is important.

Drink plenty of water daily. A recommendation is three to four
tall glasses of mineral or filtered water. If you don't drink
enough, it can lead to dehydration, which leads to dead skin
cells not naturally falling off or sloughing properly. This
results in blocked pores which ultimately turns into acne.

Acne has nothing to do with dirt, so don't over-wash or
over-scrub your face or the rest of your body. Too much washing
and scrubbing can result in dry skin. Dry skin means your skin
creates more oil. which leads to extra dead skin cells and
blocked pores which trigger acne flare-ups.

Add more fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts to your regular diet.
Add salads, dried fruit and nut snacks, juices and other healthy
treats to your daily diet plan

Decrease your intake of caffeine, sugar and refined
carbohydrates. Some studies show caffeine can increases levels of
stress hormones inside your body, provoking or worsening acne
conditions.

Sugar and refined carbohydrates, such as that in white bread,
rice, flour, pasta, etc., can result in an insulin surge,
resulting in an excess of hormones stimulating the skin to
discharge lots of sebum.

Decrease your dietary intake of red meat and dairy products.
Since they are more difficult to digest, it's thought their
acid-forming properties are linked to our bodies's health. It's
thought when the body puts effort into the digestion of high
levels of animal protein, waste products are not completely
processed as quickly as they should be, i.e. they shed slowly,
blocking pores which causes acne.

Red meat and dairy products may contain high levels of hormones
that may generate higher levels in humans thus causing acne.

Use natural products on your skin. Avoid unnecessary chemicals in
skin/body products that may be harmful.
Use non-pore clogging or noncomedogenic products like make-ups
and tanning lotions.
Look for any combination of these terms on labels: natural
ingredients, antibacterial, antiseptic, anti fungal, anti
parasitic, antiviral and / or antimicrobial agent.

Treatments for Acne - Looking After More Than Your Skin


by: Peter Crump
Acne is a pernicious condition that is as damaging to self-confidence as it is to the skin, but the wide variety of treatments for acne available today mean that nobody need soldier on without help. It can take what seems to the sufferer to be an agonizingly long time to find the treatments for acne that work best for each individual, but persistence pays off. Try all avenues, from topical solutions to oral medications to the best natural acne treatments around, because you will eventually find the treatment that works best for you.

In this modern, consumer driven world, we have been trained to believe that we can have what we want, and we can have it now, but the old axioms still hold true. Patience really is a virtue, good things, including the best treatments for acne, come, and the best things in life really are worth fighting for. But there is little comfort to be found in what seem like empty words when you are waking daily to a painful and embarrassing condition.

The thing that fuels the search for effective treatments for acne is the damage the condition can have upon self-esteem. And while the right treatments for acne, even when finally discovered, can take some time to work, the most important treatment will be one that does not relate to your skin. Acne is an unfortunate condition, but has absolutely no impact whatsoever on your abilities or your worth as a person.

Acne sufferers have all thought that at one point or another it would be best to stay in bed until their skin clears, but the best treatment for the emotional side effects of acne is to get out into the world and enjoy life. Acne is nothing to be ashamed of, and avoiding work or social experiences only serves to reinforce your lack of confidence. You will find the right acne treatment for you, and you will enjoy clear skin again, but you will enjoy it so much more if you have retained your sense of self in the meantime.

Don't let acne ruin your life - the wide range of products available today means that you will find the best natural acne treatment, the best topical or oral treatment for acne soon. Be patient, and don't let acne mess with your self-esteem.

You will find the right treatments for acne that work for you, don't let acne ruin your life.

Use Essential Fatty Acid To Help You Eliminate Your Acne


by: rudy silva
To eliminate or clear your face of acne it will require you take a variety of health steps. The use of essential fatty acids is but one step. I have identified 10 different steps but will only discuss one step in this article - using essential fatty acids.

Getting sufficient essential fatty acids is of prime importance in clearing acne. It's these fatty acids that help to control the production of excess androgens - the hormones that surge during the teen-age times It is androgens, which causes excess sebum oil to clog your hair follicle and contribute to creating your acne.

The three fatty acids you need to get daily are:
· omega-3
· omega-6
· omega-9

When you are deficient in these essential fatty acids, you will
have,

· A weaken immune system
· Inflammatory disorders
· Poor skin
· Skin eruptions and other wounds that won't heal
· Sebum production increases (this is what happens when you have acne)
· Sebaceous glands size increases

Eating essential fatty acids are necessary to provide you the right oils that are used in the sebaceous glands. These oils can come from straight vegetable oils or from oils in specific foods such as nuts and seeds.

Here's what you need to do. Use flax seed oil (omega-3 oil) and olive oil (omega-6 oil) in your salad. These are the best oils to eat and are called polyunsaturated fatty acids.

The other oil that is even better for you is called monounsaturated fatty acid or omega-9. This oil is found in avocados and somewhat in olive oil.

Most diets people have contain an excess of omega-6 oil (olive oil), so mostly likely you need to concentrate on getting more omega-3 oil (flax seed oil) into your diet.

You can get omega-3 oil from,

· avocados
· sesame seeds
· pumpkin seeds
· walnuts
· dark leafy green vegetables (spinach, mustard greens, kale)
· wheat germ oil
· salmon
· sardines
· albacore tuna

Or, you can take one to two tablespoon of flax seed oil, omega-3 oil, each day. This will give you the amount of omega-3 oil that your body needs. You can add this oil to your morning cereal, soups, smoothies, salads and other liquid foods.

You can get omega-6 oil from,

· olive oil
· flaxseed oil
· flaxseeds
· grape seed oil
· pistachio nuts
· olives
· sunflower seeds
· chicken
· evening primrose oil
· pumpkin seeds
· pine nuts

Taking 2-3 tablespoons of omega-6 oil a day will give you the amount of this oil that you body needs.

So, to control those androgens and help your body reduce the creations of acne or pimples start using more essential fatty acids.
Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He is the author of Constipation, Acne, Hemorrhoid, and Fatty Acid ebooks. He also writes a newsletter called "natural-remedies-thatwork.com." For more information on the essential fatty acids go to: http://www.fatty-acid-remedies.for--you.info