Acne Cures

Is Accutane an Effective Acne Treatment?

2006-11-17T02:15:00.000-05:00

Accutane, otherwise known as Isotretinoin is an orally administered medication for the treatment of acne. It is a retinoid (a derivative of Vitamin A) and is the last solution that dermatologists offer their acne patients. Released in 1982 and despite its long list of side effects Accutane is still the established last solution for acne amongst the medical community. It's side effects include:

-birth defects if taken by a pregnant woman -hairloss -irritability -mental problems -depression -suicidal thoughts -suicide

My personal experience of Accutane was mostly side effect-less. I did notice a bit of an itchy scalp at times and was occasionally irritable. I had to get a cholesterol test done every month as Accutane can raise cholesterol levels, but nothing major happened to mine. You can't drink alcohol when taking Accutane and I took it for 4 months, so this was probably the hardest part of the experience for me as I like a drink. About 2 months into the treatment my skin became dry and towards the end it resembled goose flesh. A couple of weeks after finishing the treatment my skin really started to clear up and after a month my skin was pretty much perfect.

Unfortunately this did not last, and after a month of enjoying acne free skin spots started to appear. A few weeks later my acne was back to its worst!

Although I've read you can take Accutane again I never bothered. My dermatologist never asked to see me again and I never made another appointment. I consider it a failed treatment.

My story is common amongst acne sufferers who took Accutane. The reason it is an ineffective treatment is because the results do not last and the reason underlying this is that Accutane does not tackle the root cause of acne. It just nukes it to cover up the symptoms for a while, but when the dust settles acne reappears. In this respect Accutane is very similar to antibiotic acne treatment which also just covers up the symptoms for a while by attacking bacteria on the skin, until the bacteria mutates and the antibiotic becomes useless against it.

My advice to anyone considering Accutane to cure their acne is to avoid the wasted time because you will most probably come back full circle 6 months down the line anyway. Look for a solution that tackles the root of the acne problem now as it is the only way you will stay clear permanently.

A Simple 4 Step Skin Care Guide

2006-11-17T02:14:00.000-05:00

Step 1: Decide what type of skin you have.

This is important so you know how to care for your skin and what products to use. There are 3 basic skin types: dry, oily and combination skin types.

Type 1: Dry Skin Dry skin occurs when the dermis does not secrete enough oil, or sebum. The result is tight, drawn, flaky skin and a dull complexion. In more extreme cases, dry skin lacks elasticity and can be extremely sensitive to the sun, wind, and cold temperatures.

Type 2: Oily Skin This type of skin has over-reactive oil producing glands, which makes the face shiny, especially the forehead, down the central panel of your nose and the chin (the T-zone). The pores of this skin type are enlarged making it prone to blackhead, pimple and acne. Oily skin needs special cleansing to keep the pores unclogged.

Type 3: Combination Skin People with combination skin typically have some oily skin and either normal or dry skin on different parts of their face. Normal skin has a balanced oil and water content and feels smooth and velvety, not dry or oily. Normal skin is evenly toned with tiny, generally unclogged pores. After a wash it feels smooth and comfortable. Normal skin only occasionally breaks out in spots.

Combination: Normal to Oil People with normal to oily skin generally have normal skin on their cheeks and oily skin with enlarged pores on their T zone, the area that stretches across the forehead and down the nose and chin. The T-zone needs extra attention as spots may often break out in this area.

Combination: Dry to Oily This skin type is also marked by oily skin in the T zone and dry, taut skin on the cheeks.

Step 2: Develop a good daily Skincare regime.

There are 3 steps to basic daily skincare:

* Cleansing. * Toning. * Moisturising.

Let's break down each step.

Cleansing does just that, it cleans your skin. By cleansing, you are removing any dirt, oil, bacteria and makeup.

Toning does three things: it removes anything that your cleanser didn't already take care of, it restores the pH level of your skin and it prepares your skin to receive the moisturiser.

Moisturising helps to seal in your skin's natural oils and it acts as a barrier between your skin and the environment. Even oily skin needs a moisturiser, but chose a light product. It is best to moisturize immediately after applying toner. Moisturising is something everyone of every skin type should do, including those with oil rich skin.

Besides these daily steps you should also, less frequently, exfoliate and use a facial mask.

Exfoliation allows you to remove dead skin cells sitting on the surface of your skin. The circular motion in which exfoliating should be performed also helps to stimulate your skin allowing oxygen to come to the surface. Exfoliating is a crucial step for those with either dry skin or those with dehydrated oil rich skin.

Facial masks give you an extra boost to combat any concerns you might have for your skin. Just remember not to keep your mask on for more than 15 minutes because you could actually burn your skin. All masks should not be applied on the eyes (there are eye masks specifically formulated for this delicate area) and should be washed off with a warm face cloth.

So how often should you really be doing all of this ? Cleansing, toning and moisturising should happen twice daily; morning and night. You can exfoliate and give yourself a mask every one to two weeks depending on your skincare concerns.

Here are the steps you should follow for your day to day routine:

* Cleanse. * Tone. * Moisturise.

And here are the steps to be followed on the days you choose to also exfoliate and apply a mask:

* Cleanse. * Tone. * Exfoliate. * Tone. * Mask. * Tone. * Moisturise.

This may seem like a lot to do but your every day routine shouldn't take more than 3 minutes and your weekly routine no more than 20 minutes.

Step 3. Choose appropriate skincare products for your skin type.

Your beauty specialist will be able to advise you on the best products for your skin type and skin care routine. Step 4. Lifestyle impacts on the health and appearance of your skin, here are some lifestyle tips for enhancing your skin's appearance:

1. Avoid over exposure to the sun.

Sun damage leads to hyper-pigmentation (brown spots) which can develop into serious skin disease. Excessive exposure can also exaggerate and thicken fine lines. Use an SPF 15 or higher foundation or sun cream on all exposed skin, especially on your face.

2. Don't smoke.

Easier said than done for smokers but please remember your skin is a large organ and it needs a lot of circulation. Smoking impairs circulation dramatically. That's why smokers' skin can look dull and gray

3. Get adequate rest and nutrition.

Eat right and get plenty of rest. Keep vitamins such as C and E in your diet regime.

4. Protect yourself from stress - both emotional and environmental stress.

5. Touch your face less and wash your hands more!

It's very tempting to pick, poke, squeeze, and scratch in front of the mirror. But the more you traumatize the skin, the greater your risk of scarring. Apply treatment products and let them work.

6. Keep your makeup clean.

Replace the sponges in your compact on a regular basis.

7. Exercise.

Exercise promotes capillary functioning which can decrease premature aging. It also increases oxygen to the tissues which helps skin look young.

Article Source: http://www.skinii.com

Helpful Acne Treatment Reviews

2006-11-17T02:13:00.001-05:00

Are you frustrated with your pimples? Acne is a discouraging dilemma that many people grapple with. There can be moments when you feel that your pimples will never go away. Well, I think that you should try to get rid of your acne altogether, instead of just dealing with it everyday. All you need to do is find a great acne treatment that is suitable for your skin type.

Every person has a distinctive skin type and acne condition. One of the most reliable ways of finding the most suitable treatment for your particular skin type is by reading acne treatment reviews. These reviews are useful when you are looking for the latest and most effective pimple remedies.

I found acne treatment reviews helpful when my teenage daughter became afflicted with acne. It helped me to determine which products to try, and which should be avoided. I really appreciated the genuine information that is found in them. Acne treatment reviews contains actual results given by people who have tried the acne products on themselves.

You can visit a professional if you are suffering from serious pimple conditions. A dermatologist can give you reliable information about your affliction and your skin type. This information is vital in finding the most effective pimple remedies. Maybe what you need is an oral acne treatment or a topical cream like Differin.

Differin is a popular pimple treatment product. You can hop on the Internet to read acne treatment reviews that will attest to its effectiveness. Do not be frustrated when you buy a product and discover that it doesn't work well for your acne. It just means that you need a different pimple remedy for your skin.

If you want the latest and most reliable information about pimple treatment, you should hop online and benefit from acne treatment reviews. This is the most effective way of learning about pimples and the products than can treat it. You don't have to live a miserable life because of your acne. There are acne treatment reviews that can help you eliminate all of your pimples once and for all.

How Do You Get Rid of Back Acne

2006-11-17T02:13:00.000-05:00

Back acne comes in all sizes and forms of acne, ranging from mild forms like whiteheads to serious forms of acne including cystic acne. Bacne as it is referred to in slang terms, can consist of pimples, pustules and blackheads as well. Back acne affects people ranging from age ten to age forty or older yet. Understanding the causes of back acne and available treatment options, are very important is treating and preventing the condition.

Like all of the other forms of acne, there is no one thing that causes this problem. As far as the medical community stands, back acne also happens when oil glands start functioning more rapidly around puberty. The hormone group androgens, found in both females and males, get overactive which in turn causes a reaction in the oil glands, which make extra oil. The oil glands are located just underneath the skin surface. Oil glands constantly are producing and secreting oil through the pores in the skin. When too much of the oils are produced the pores and hair follicles become clogged. The clogs obstruct the way that dead cells escape the skin, which in turn results in a mess of oil and dead cells plugging the hair follicle. This attracts bacterium, which causes the acne to be formed.

It can be found on any part of the body and does not necessarily have to be on a persons back. It can be very severe with large lesions and painful cysts. Back acne may just be something that certain people are prone to or it could be caused by other things such as tight clothing or a heavy backpack. Not having anything in contact with the back is not a logical prevention step, as we all must sit down and everyone has to wear clothing.

It is easier to treat this ailment than to try and prevent it because most people suffer from this disorder at one time or another. Skin on the back is much thicker and therefore allows for stronger topical treatments, such as ten percent Benzoyl peroxide. This strength of Benzoyl peroxide is not suitable for other skin that is typically thinner and will not be able to sustain itself under harsh treatment. You can get all the same types of acne, blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules and cysts, on your back just as you can on any other part of your body.

There are some differences in back acne and acne located elsewhere on the body however. It is not caused by genetics as other acnes can be. Some severe cases may be genetically passed on, but most likely it is just the individuals body type or personal genetic make up. Unlike other acne, food does not contribute to the dilemma and that includes foods cooked in grease, or high in fat content.

It is also known that excessive oil production and dirt build up does not have a huge impact on developing back acne. Perspiring excessively and not washing or showering immediately has been shown to not increase the chances of developing back acne. Back acne also does not seem to be affected by stress. There are some who think that facial acne is increased due to stress. However stress can cause back acne to not heal. Sometimes, stress causes people to pick and bother the pimples, which make the condition worse.

You can try over the counter medicines for moderately bad back acne. Some skin specialists or dermatologists should treat severe forms of acne on the back, such as cystic acne. Most of the simpler forms of acne might disappear with daily washing and cleansing routines but as cystic acne goes deep into the skin and can cause permanent scarring, it should be given more serious medical attention than simple pustules or blackheads on the back.

Always speak to your healthcare provider about treatment before starting a back acne treatment program never attempt to treat severe acne on your own or with an over the counter product without consulting a professional.

Curing Acne The Natural Way

2006-11-17T02:12:00.001-05:00

Most of us have suffered the embarrassment of acne at some point in our lives, and many have acne for an extended period of time. Although people around you might blame that chocolate bar you're eating, the truth is that the causes of acne are varied and complex, and although not eating chocolate might help, it probably won't get rid of your acne completely.

Basically, acne is caused when the skin produces too much sebum. This mixes together with dead skin cells and other dirt and debris, and then clogs up the hair follicles in the skin. Bacteria move in, the area becomes inflamed, and you have acne. So the solution lies in a combination of reducing sebum production, and keeping your skin clean. Topical medications and antibiotics can certainly help, but mostly they treat the symptoms and not the cause.

So it makes sense to use a more holistic, natural approach, to try and get the body's processes back to normal. One of the best ways to start is by looking at what you eat. If your diet is full of fast food, fats, sugars and other unhealthy stuff, then your body is far too busy dealing with all that garbage to worry about how much sebum it produces. Start by changing to a healthy, balanced diet, containing plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. This will help to cleanse your system, detoxify your body, and often results in a drop in sebum production.

You can also use herbs or herbal extracts to enhance your body's ability to fight acne. These include:

- Herbal cortisone - Jing Huang Gao - Olive leaf extract - Tea tree oil

Tea tree oil has a similar effect to using a product containing benzoyl peroxide, and is much kinder to the skin. Nobody knows for sure why these herbs do such a good job of reducing the incidence of acne, but certainly they are all considered to be good for cleansing the liver. So it's likely that in some way the liver is linked to our hormones, and testosterone levels certainly affect the production of sebum.

You also need to find a gentle, natural cleanser to use on your face. Keep your hair, hats and headbands away from your face or don't wear them at all, because oil and dirt collect underneath them. Also, make sure you frequently wash anything that your face rests against, like your pillowcase. Most importantly of all, don't pop or squeeze your pimples - that's almost guaranteed to make them spread.

Home Remedies for Treating Acne

2006-11-17T02:12:00.000-05:00

Prescriptions drugs to help treat acne can have some severe and unpleasant side-effects. And for some, these medications are too expensive to be a viable option. Fortunately, there are many inexpensive and effective home remedies for treating acne. Not all of these remedies will work for everyone, but as long as you're not allergic to any of the ingredients, you've got nothing to lose by giving them a shot. Complement any acne treatment with drinking lots of water and regular exercise that oxygenates and refreshes the skin.

By using things you might already have around the house, you can treat your acne in an all-natural way. Here's are some treatments that you can try, probably without having to buy anything: * Mix together ground nutmeg and milk. Apply to your face and leave on for 1 or 2 hours. * Apply a paste of honey and cinnamon powder to your pimples and leave on over night. It's recommended that you do this nightly for 2 weeks. * Grind some orange peel and add to water. Apply directly on and around your blemishes and leave on for about 20 minutes. * Apply fresh mint juice to your skin--it can help with acne as well as insect bites. * Remove blackheads with a paste made from ground radish seeds and water

One way to reduce the physical appearance of acne is to reduce swelling. You can try applying toothpaste (paste, not gel) to your blemishes and leaving it on overnight. You can also "ice down" your blemishes before going to bed.

Another way to start you acne treatment at home, if you prefer not to see a doctor, is to begin a proper, daily face-washing regime. It is possible to over wash your skin, and this will only serve to aggravate your acne. Twice a day is probably is ideal, although others suggest three times.

The first time you wash your face should be when you wake up in the morning. First, make sure your hands are thoroughly cleaned. Then wet your face with warm water and wash with a medicated soap. Washcloths can be havens for bacteria, so don't use one to scrub with. Instead, rinse your face with clear water and gently pat dry with a soft, clean towel.

Wash your face again before you go to bed. Basically, just repeat the morning cleaning ritual. If you notice dry spots, you can apply a moisturizer that's formulated for acne. Some people recommend a third mid-day wash, following the same process as the morning wash. You can give it try. It might improve your skin, but you should closely observe the effects it has to make sure it's not worsening things.

Choosing the Right Prescription Drug to Treat Your Acne

2006-11-17T02:11:00.000-05:00

Home remedies and over-the-counter creams and cleansers are two ways you can treat your acne. But if both of these methods have failed to give you the results you want, it might be time to see a doctor about getting a prescription drug. There is more than one type of prescription medication available for those suffering from acne, so you'll have different options to explore if the first thing you try doesn't work.

One category of treatments is retinoids. Retin-A is the most common prescription in this family of acne medications. It's given to you in the form of a lotion, gel, or cream. Retin-A fights acne by increasing the speed at which skin sheds cells and loosening plugged up pores. Retinoids can help fade marks left on your skin from previous outbreaks.

Next, there are topical antibiotics. Also offered creams, lotions, and gels, this prescription drug is a bacteria fighter. It's also available as an astringent.

Prescription creams applied to the skin itself aren't the only types of acne treatments. Oral antibiotics fight acne both inside and out of your body. Expect to stay on these types of medication for up to three years, and it may take several months before you'll see results.

One prescription drug for acne that you've probably already heard of is Accutane. Accutane is intended only for the most severe cases of acne. Because it's a powerful drug, it has powerful side effects. People on Accutane must get periodic blood tests. For men and women, these tests check your blood fat levels. These tests are also needed to recognize pregnancy as soon as possible. Accutane has been associated with some types of birth defects, so getting off of the medicine quickly is essential for the health of your child. In addition to the cost of the drug itself, these blood tests, and prescription birth control if you're a woman, are an extra $200 a month in expenses.

At first, all these different options might make it seem difficult to select the right acne treatment. Your dermatologist can help you choose the prescription that's going to work best for you. The proper medication will depend on whether your acne is hereditary, how severe your outbreaks are, your goals for the treatment (prevent outbreaks, reduce scarring, etc), and your preferred method of taking medication (pill vs. lotion). Also, be sure your doctor knows any skin sensitivities you have or allergic reactions you've had to medications in the past.

Women and acne

2006-11-11T22:08:00.000-05:00

Men and women are very different creatures when it comes to hormones and the entire system of psychological and physical effects deriving from it. One good example for this statement is acne. The accelerated hormonal development in boys almost always results in acne, but this is not the case for girls. Women often develop acne for the first time in their 20s or even later.

Of course, the fertility cycle and the hormonal changes it triggers throughout the body is often the cause of sporadic acne outbreaks in women, although the exact process is poorly understood at this moment. High levels of androgens are the likely cause for premenstrual acne, since it is known that androgens regulate the oil production in sebaceous glands. The more androgens around, the higher the risk of clogging pores with excess sebum.

Women have less chance of developing the kind of acne that plagues men, but they also have a harder time getting rid of it. During pregnancy, women suffering from acne must get by with topical treatments recommended by their doctor and are not allowed to use drugs. Birth control pills are a common way of treating acne, since they interfere precisely with the hormonal cycle and serve to rein in acne. However, the use of any kind of pills to treat acne should be supervised by a doctor.

One of the best methods for getting rid of acne is the ClearPores System. This amazingly effective system uses deep washes, pills and creams to cleanse your pores, kill bacteria and protect your skin against renewed attacks. It's really the perfect choice.

What is acne?

2006-11-11T22:07:00.001-05:00

With all this talk about acne, we might as well try to define the condition a bit. Acne is the commonly used name for pores clogged by sebum (also known as whiteheads and blackheads), pimples, nodules or cysts that can appear on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, back, upper arms and upper legs.

Most teenagers and a good number of adults suffer from acne for more or less extended periods of time. The condition is not confined to any age group, race, or sex. It affects hundreds of millions of people across the world. The biggest problems with acne are the unpleasant look of pimples and the scars they may leave behind.

Types of Acne

Although pimples are by far the most common form of acne and the one most people are likely to encounter or suffer from, you should known that there are other forms as well. The simplest form is acne vulgaris, which features only comedones, the simplest of lesions.

Lesions are small patches of skin affected by acne, although the term "lesion" is not restricted to the changes produced by acne in skin tissues. Acne lesions are the external form of comedones, the sebaceous follicles plugged by excess sebum.

Comedones are known as blackheads and whiteheads, depending on whether the pore is open or not. Blackheads are pores whose distended openings are blocked by a mixture of keratin and sebum that is blackened at the surface. Whiteheads are closed pores filled with the secretion of the sebaceous gland that swells underneath the tissue.

Comendones are the usual target for picking and squeezing. However, opening a follicle in the less than sterile conditions of your home is likely to result in a slight infection. An open pore is an entry point for all kinds of bacteria.

Papules - The papule is a small, solid usually inflammatory elevation of the skin that does not contain pus. Very small papules can also appear in clusters, due to the tissue's response to acne.

Who gets acne?

2006-11-11T22:07:00.000-05:00

Believe it or not, nearly everybody in the world gets pimples. When the body shifts into higher gear and puberty begins at the age of 12, hormones start taking over. It doesn't matter if you're a man or a woman. It doesn't matter where you come from and who your parents were. I have never heard of a person who had stayed blemish-free in all the years of his or her life. Whether it's food or pollution, something is bound to upset your hormonal balance sooner or later.

More than 40 percent of all teens develop cases of acne severe enough to warrant medical treatment. Most cases are usually solved without the need for fancy treatments, although more than one trip to the doctor is required. However, modern medicine has produced a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter products to help people deal with their acne without unnecessary pain.

However, not all acne cases can be treated quite that easily. Acne comes and goes on its own, between the age of twelve and twenty-three, but some people develop severe forms of acne, while others get acne for the first time as adults. This is mostly the case for men. Because of the higher level of androgens in their systems, men are far more likely than women to suffer from acne. In women, acne is associated with their fertility cycle and the hormonal changes it entails.

While most cases of acne are confined to the facial skin, most of the people suffering from this condition experience at least the occasional blackhead or pimple down the arms, on the back, the chest or even on the buttocks.

The social impact of acne is huge. The unpleasant sight of pimples makes many people run to the near drugstore or pharmacy because of the perceived influence acne has in social relations. Every year, hundreds of millions of dollars are spent every year around the world on anti-acne products by people on five continents.

Skin Care Tips for People Suffering from Acne

2006-11-11T22:06:00.000-05:00

Be Gentle

The first thing to remember is that you have to be gentle with your face. Don't wash your face with hot or cold water. Use lukewarm water and a mild cleanser twice a day and after your workout at the gym, in case you do work out. Avoid regular soap and other such products that are filled with harsh chemicals. If you are not familiar with cleansers, ask a doctor for advice.

Wash you face gently and rinse thoroughly. Pad you face dry and avoid scrubbing. Scrubbing could open a thousand invisible lesions in your skin that are the perfect breeding grounds for bacteria.

Keep Your Hands Away from Your Skin

Although it is against your instincts, you must learn to keep your hands away from pimples and other lesions. Squeezing pimples is a bad idea, unless performed under sterile conditions by a doctor.

For the Guys

If you have to shave, then be very careful about it. Run a test on yourself and see if which type of razor is better for you. I'd say that electric razors are the thing to use if you suffer from acne, but each man knows better what works in his case. Shave gently and avoid opening up existing lesions.

For the Girls

Cosmetics are one of the minor roots of acne. If you're going through an acne treatment, then choose only oil-free cosmetics or else the good effect is wasted. You should also run tests on yourself and see which cosmetics do not clog your pores. Watch out for side-effects if you use products whose labels say "designed not to clog pores".

Stay out of the Sun

Yes, a suntan would look lovely on you, but you should learn to do without for a while. The risks of sun exposure are not acceptable when you realize that the sun does not cure acne. UV rays simply dry the outer layers of your skin and cause it to peel away. However, once you are away from the sun, acne will return. Prolonged exposure will also make you a certain candidate for skin cancer.

Buying Worry-Free Acne Cleansers

2006-11-11T22:05:00.000-05:00

When you reach the age of puberty, you can't do anything to escape from different skin problems. Having a clean and clear skin is an accomplishment. That is why most of us consider maintaining a skin regimen important.

If your skin is prone to acne, your cleansing routine is far more than important, you consider it already necessary. Dermatologist has discovered a lot of amazing breakthroughs when treating different kinds of skin problems.

With the advancement of technology, acne problems can be cured without undergoing painful surgeries. However, these might be costly. That's why other people choose using gentle skin cleansers in treating this kind of skin problem so as to avoid irritation. By doing so, it would forbid further breakouts to come.

People thought acne is caused by unclean skin and it can be cured by massive cleansing. But acne is not a result of having poor hygiene and over scrubbing your face could even create more irritation on your skin.

Factors Causing Acne

1. Acne is sometimes a result of active sebaceous glands. This type of gland is connected to a hair follicle that produces sebum, it is a kind of oily substance in which if it is trapped in a hair follicle will produce blemishes.

2. Abnormal multiplication of natural occurring bacteria will clog the hair follicles and will cause acne.

3. Shedding of dead skin too quickly will cause harsh irritation and may result as well to acne. In the same way, a release of contaminated provocative substances through your skin will also cause acne.

There are many anti-acne products being manufactured nowadays. Each of which claims that they give 100% satisfaction on getting rid your acne problems. The only problem is which of these products would give the best result leaving your skin more radiant and fairer. That's why it's necessary to take into considerations the following guidelines before buying an acne cleanser.

1. Identify what type of skin you have. Having an oily skin, you should prefer using a gel-based type of product and having a dry skin, you should prefer using a cream. Others have a combination of both types. In this condition, you have to know what would be appropriate to apply in the affected area. If your acne burst in the oily part of your skin, use the gel-based or the other way around.

2. Check the sensitivity of your skin. If you have a sensitive skin, you'll need a product that has low concentration of its active ingredient. This would avoid excessive drying of the inflicted area.

3. Read the direction on how to use the product. Don't over do things. Apply only the medication on the skin wherein it is prone to acne or there is already acne present.

Tips on How to Wash Your Face before Applying Acne Cleansers

1. When you're searching for a facial cleanser, look for the product that say "oil free" and "non-acne irritating". You may also try using medications that goes with a cleanser. This kind of treatment, often times, works best.

2. Don't over wash your face. It can cause irritation. Washing your face twice a day (when you wake up and before you sleep) is at most recommended.

3. Use your hands when washing your face. Using washcloth could irritate your skin more. Scrubbing your face is not needed. Washing alone will not solve your acne problems for it didn't come from dirt.

4. Never rub dry your face. This would also irritate your skin. Consider gentle pat drying. Always remember that the more you irritate your skin, the more breakouts would come out.

5. After doing this routine, you're now ready to apply your prescribed medication on your face.

Life With Acne

2006-11-09T03:45:00.000-05:00

Acne is a skin disease that affects more than 17 million individuals in the United States alone. Three out of four teenagers suffer from some form of acne. The possibility of severe psychiatric and psychological complications affects many individuals suffering from acne, while affecting a person's quality of life in a negative manner. Psychiatric and psychological complications are not a serious problem for many of the individuals suffering from acne, but there are enough individuals with these conditions to be alert to the symptoms. This is not a disease that limits itself to the skin only.

If you are suffering from severe acne, be alert to the following symptoms. Seek medical help if you recognize any of these symptoms in your life.

Depression

Depression caused by acne affects how you feel, think, and act. There are many symptoms of depression with the most common being: > A change in appetite that results in weight loss > Sleeping a lot or not sleeping at all > Tired all of the time > Irritable > Having a feeling of worthlessness > Difficulty concentrating or making decisions > Thoughts of suicide

You may become depressed when your acne is severe, causing scars and not responding to treatment. You should share with your doctor how your acne has affected you emotionally.

Social Phobia

Acne may cause you to become so excessively self-conscious that you fear being around other people. The symptoms of social phobia are an overwhelming anxiety of fear that others are looking at you and judging you. Embarrassed or humiliated by your looks will interfere with everyday activities. Dreading and worrying about upcoming events in your life will take a toll on your health.

Social Phobia is not something that is easily controlled by you. Please share with your doctor if you have any of these symptoms.

Anxiety Disorders

Severe acne can lead to stress, which in turn leads to anxiety disorders. As with social phobia, anxiety disorders have many of the same symptoms. The important factor to remember is that it is treatable and if not treated can lead to poor performance in school, poor social skills, and you are more vulnerable to substance abuse.

As a teenager, social anxiety disorder resembles severe shyness and may not be recognized as a problem. The symptoms of social anxiety are an intense fear of social interactions, avoiding friends and conversations, looking down while speaking to someone, isolating yourself from others, excessively concerned with what others think about you.

Impaired self-image and self-esteem

Are you constantly putting yourself down? Society today is all about the perfect look. The problem with this view is that no one has the perfect look. As a teenager your body is changing rapidly with many hormonal changes affecting your entire body. Acne is a result of some of those changes. You may not be responding to treatment and have allowed yourself to think less of yourself than you should. There are so many internal and external factors in developing a healthy self-esteem.

You are in control of your self-esteem. There are many good things about yourself and you need to concentrate on those attributes instead of those areas that you are not happy with. You may need to talk with your doctor if you feel that you are unable to develop a healthy self-esteem on your own.

Social Dysfunction

Social dysfunction is the umbrella of all of the above conditions. If you are suffering from severe acne and find yourself retreating from others and suffering from the symptoms of depression, it is important that you consult your doctor immediately. Acne is not always a skin disease; it can turn into a psychiatric and psychological disease. Stop it before your quality of life is affected.

Life with acne is not always an easy life. If you are not careful it may reduce your quality of life. When your acne becomes more than you can handle emotionally, your quality of life deteriorates. Acne controls you when it all you think about.

Gaining control may not be easy for you. Seek help when your emotional life is in turmoil. If you are a teenager, your parents may not understand how you feel and may not sympathize with you. If you are an adult suffering with adult acne, you are at greater risk of suffering from these symptoms.

Your first step toward a better life with acne is getting professional help when you are suffering from any of the symptoms in this article.

Acne counter over scar treatment

2006-11-07T23:19:00.000-05:00

Preventing Acne Scares could be a somewhat complicated process especially because scarring is different in different people. Some people bear their acne scars for life while in others the skin might recuperate and the acne scars disappear. It is very difficult to predict if an individual will scar and how extensive the scaring will be. The best method of prevention is to treat the acne in its early stages of infection and maintain the treatment until the problem as been completely solved. If the inflammation can be prevented the better the change you have of avoiding deep scaring.

There are two types of Acne scars, depressed areas such as ice-pick scars, and raised thickened tissue such as keloids. The reason a person might get Acne scars is because the skin undergoes some inflammation caused by the bacteria and dead cells that are located in the sebaceous follicle. When the facial tissue endures an injury, the body tries to respond to the aggression by repairing the wound. To do this the body sends white blood cells and inflammatory molecules to fight the infection. However this natural defense may leave an ugly fibrous scar tissue. The scars may take days or even weeks to disappear. Unfortunately in some people who are more susceptible to scarring, this could leave a permanent mark.

To start an Acne Scar Treatment the first step taken should be to ensure that a person's skin is free of any active acne. There are many over-the-counter prescription acne treatments available but you should always consult a dermatologist to help you choose the right one. Many people have achieved good results by using this method: Gentle Cleansing followed by plenty of 2.5% Benzoyl Peroxide and Adequate Moisturization. Only after your skin is clear can you start an acne scar treatment.

There are currently a wide variety of treatments available for acne scars through dermatologic surgery. Because treatments may vary considerably, the one you chose should reflect what is best for you in terms of your type of skin, total costs and end results pretended. Some of the more popular treatments include:

Collagen injection. A natural substance of the body is injected under the skin to stretch and fill certain types of superficial and deep soft scars.

Autologous fat transfer. Fat is taken from your own body and prepared for injection into your skin.

Dermabrasion. With the assistance of local anesthetic a high-speed brush is used to remove surface skin and alter the contour of scars.

Microdermabrasion. Aluminum oxide crystals are passed through a vacuum tube to remove surface skin.

Laser Treatment. Specialists might use lasers of various wavelength and intensity to repair scar tissue and reduce the redness of skin around healed acne lesions.

There are many high-quality solutions for Acne Scars which offer good results for most skin problems. Please always remember that before starting any kind of treatment you should always make an appointment with your Dermatologist to discuss what he best solution is for your particular skin problem.

Acne Prevention Guide

2006-11-07T23:18:00.000-05:00

Is having acne getting you down? But if you knew there were ways to prevent it from appearing, would you take the time and do the steps, instead of looking for treatment? Personally I would do it.

But don't worry if you do already have acne. Just carry on reading this and it will help you to keep it from getting worse and making it much hard for you to get rid of it.

Firstly, I would say to you (ladies) to make sure to remove any stale make-up as this can cause acne because it blocks up your pores and then acne will develop. Gently wash your face with a clean cloth before going to bed to prevent acne from developing.

Secondly, you should improve your health by eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, which provides you with plenty of vitamins. Also drink plenty of water because it helps to moisturize your skin (you should be drinking around 8 glasses a day).

Most of all, no touching or picking your face (I know you will feel like doing this, because I've been there... but try to resist the urge), you will only make it worse. Touching or picking your face only irritates acne, which causes the infection to spread over your face (which isn't something you want).

Exercise will not only improve your general health, but it will also help flush out the bad toxins in your body. These toxins can give you acne.

Avoid tanning. (Fake tans as well). Although some sunlight is good for your skin, if you have acne, it can make it worse (because the sun will be removing moisture from your skin.

One thing that can lead to acne is when your skin produces too much sebum. You can reduce sebum production by taking Vitamin A supplements. Another supplement which works well is Zinc.

The best way to cure acne is to prevent it (or at least stop it from getting worse).

I hope you found this useful.

How to get rid of acne naturally

2006-11-06T23:01:00.000-05:00

Acne is a common skin disease affecting almost everybody. It is caused due to blockage of skin follicle ducts of sebaceous glands. This leads to inflammation and subsequent infection by a bacterium called P.Acnes. There are many home remedies for acne which have been tried for hundreds of years. Some acne herbal medications are listed below to get rid of acne at home:

The simplest home remedy for acne is drinking water. Drinking 7-8 glasses of water is beneficial for cleansing the toxins present in the blood. Water is a good medium for removing toxins. Drinking excess water has been linked with good complexion.

Drinking herbal water is a well known acne herbal medication for removing pimples. It is made by boiling a glass of water with 2 fenugreek seeds and 1 corn hair.

Applying Bengal gram flour mixed with curd is known to be beneficial for the skin diseases like acne. Green gram flour mixed with water is a good way to cleanse the skin. Gram flour is a popular acne herbal medication and also acts like a mild bleach.

Cucumber juice singly or mixed with juices of carrot, lettuce or alfa alfa is considered an excellent home remedy for acne.

Another acne herbal medication is fenugreek seed. They are used for prevention of skin infections like acne. For this a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds (methi) are boiled in a liter of water for few minutes. This water can be used for cleansing skin, as a face wash and applied overnight.

A cystic acne remedy is fresh juice of apricots which is applied on the affected area for relief and cure.

Almond oil is beneficial for dry and inflamed skin. Applying a paste of ground fenugreek leaves overnight over acne is beneficial. It also acts as a preventive acne herbal medication and keeps the skin healthy.

Acuzine a food supplement made from natural ingredients is a popular natural remedy for acne. The methods mentioned above are only for informative purpose and not for curing any disease.

Stop Trying Get Rid of Acne and Get Rid of it!

2006-11-06T23:00:00.000-05:00

After trying many products and treatments to get rid of your acne, are you still unsuccessful?
Your acne can defintely be improved. It all comes down to getting to the root of the problem.
Root Causes of Acne:
Bacteria and Clogged pores are the root causes of acne. Hormones are found to be another root cause but in few cases.
Acne Bacteria Treatment:

Most acne treatments attack bacteria that cause acne. If you are the victim of acne vulgaris, your doctor will very likely give you a course of antibiotics. It could be either an oral or a topical course.

Many of the over-the-counter acne products contain benzoyl peroxide, which forces oxygen into pores. Oxygen is deadly to acne bacteria.

Clogged Pores Treatment:

Masks and Salicylic Acid help in unclogging the pores. A scrub and deep cleansing mask should be done twice or thrice a week.
Some detective work is the key to your success in your quest for conquering acne. Besides the root causes of acne mentioned above, you should seek to eliminate any other possible causes of your acne. By doing that, you may see results or even better results.
Look to see if your house has gone too dirty. If it is, clean your house from the dirt as soon as you can because mites and dirt can worsen acne.
If still your acne persists, consult your dermatologist soonest. Your acne may be acne rosacea. Acne rosacea sufferer requires medical help.

About the Author

Brian has many years of experience in the field of skin care. He writes for various publications on a variety of topics about common skin disorders and their treatments. For more articles on acne and its causes please visit http://www.acneclearup.com

Why You Need Anti Aging Skin Care Products

2006-11-06T22:59:00.000-05:00

As people grow older they become more conscious of the way they look, which has led to the popularization of anti aging skin care products. Anti aging skin care products are the best way for people to hide their real age.

One of the best ingredients for anti aging skin care products is vitamin C, while these products are expensive they are highly effective. Vitamin C has been shown through clinical studies to penetrate the skin faster than all other products which helps start the skins collagen synthesis process. In addition, vitamin C is an excellent anti oxidant since when exposed to the air it evaporates easily. Since vitamin C evaporates so easily make skin care products often have other ingredients. There are also skin care products that contain derivatives of vitamin C, however these are less effective than skin care products that contain regular vitamin C.

Other anti aging skin care products contain B vitamin ingredients such as B5, B6 and B12. In addition, to anti aging B vitamins will help you prevent dermatitis and hair loss. B vitamins are also helpful in reducing stress and depression. Acne, eczema and psoriasis has also been helped by those who take B vitamins.

Although there is still another anti oxidant option which is vitamin E. Vitamin E is found in our blood and is a fat soluble vitamin that helps the body fight against viruses. To overturn the aging process and reverse damage to the skin liponic acid can also help.

You also have the option of anti aging skin care products that contain chemicals found in plants. Many of these chemicals are derived from fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes which have always been good for the skin. Anti aging products that contain phytochemicals are often effective and there are a variety of these chemicals in the anti aging industry. Phytochemicals also have the added benefit of helping the body prevent various cancers such as prostate, colon and breast cancers.

It is a lot of work to put up a business that produces anti aging skin care products. A company needs to do thorough research in order to develop the best possible products for their consumers. Even when a good product is found, manufacturers will often continue to research new products. This is because consumers are always looking for better products that will give them better results, this can often be challenge for the skin care company.

Although if you want good skin the best thing you can do is help it the natural way. The natural way includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, a good sleep cycle and trying not to overstress your body. By incorporating these natural ways into your life your anti aging skin care products will be more effective.

Acne- Treat Acne With Benzoyl Peroxide For Quick Results

2006-11-06T22:58:00.001-05:00

Acne treatment is becoming more complicated with new drugs coming to the market everyday. All these drugs promise immediate and sure treatment of acne. What about the good old benzoyl peroxide? Let us discuss.

Acne treatment-

How do you treat acne? To clear acne one must address the causes. Acne forms because of clogged sebaceous glands on our sin. These glands are connected with hair follicle and produce sebum. Sebum is the oiliness of the skin. When the gland produces more sebum, and dead skin cells accumulate, they block the pore of the gland. Now you have a balloon full of dead skin cells and sebum. The bacteria P.acnes infect this gland and produces pus inside the gland. This is the moderate or the sever stage of acne. As the gland expands with more sebum, pus and dead skin cells, it bursts after some days. That causes the liquid mass flows out and may form a scar is the acne forms deeper.

Acne and benzoyl peroxide-

Benzoyl peroxide is available in almost all forms of skin care- creams, gels, liquids, lotions, soap etc. Benzoyl peroxide acts in three ways. It kills the bacteria in acne. It opens closed acne pores and it removes excess oiliness from the skin. This way benzoyl peroxide treat acne by reducing excess sebum, disinfects acne by killing the bacteria and by opening the pore, it opens the gland and no accumulation takes place. Acne is cured.

Acne- how best to use benzoyl peroxide?

Patience is the first key. No acne treatment will clear acne overnight. It may take weeks before you see visible results. Apply benzoyl peroxide gel or cream twice a day after washing face. Apply all over the face even if acne is absent in some places. In the beginning some flare up may occur forming more acne but that settles over time and all the acne slowly clears.

Acne- precautions in use of benzoyl peroxide-

If you are pregnant or breast feeding, ask your doctor. If you have active eczema, you may irritate the skin further. If you are using other topical on the same place you may have a problem . Please consult your doctor in these cases. Benzoyl peroxide is a sure remedy of acne and is available in OTC. To learn more about acne treatment with topical applications click here- acne treament.

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

The Acne Codex

2006-11-06T22:58:00.000-05:00

Most of you with acne must feel as in a battle. The battle of finding effective acne medicines.

Even with the option of selecting from over-the-counter and prescribed medicines available in the market, it is still very difficult to choose an effective medicine for acne as there are hundreds and thousands of medicines available under both the medicinal categories title.
At this stage a dermatologist should be consulted with. He or she can guide you through this search and help you with investing your money in the right medicine.
Whether an acne medicine is effective or not, it can be known only when you try it and this has made the selection of acne medicines somewhat more difficult. Even in the case if the medicine is prescribed to you by a dermatologist, the only way of assuring that the medicine will be effective to your acne condition is the trying of the medicine.
For your convenience we are giving a two-step plan in the following which will help you in finding the best acne medicine for yourself and in the end of the plan you will have virtually complete acne codex that will be further helpful to you.
1. Look for the acne medicines that treat acne from inside out and they guarantee it.

Since acne is not only a simple skin condition, it is important to treat it from inside. In general, acne is related to some dysfunction of the organism – hormonal unbalances are the most common causes – and for this reason it is meaningless treating only the skin when the real problem lies on the inside. When acne occurs, it is a sign that something is going wrong.

2. Look for the side effects that are caused by acne medicines.

Take action on the above two-step plan and discover a glowing you.

Acne on the Chest

2006-11-06T22:57:00.001-05:00

It is painful enough to endure the pressure of acne on the face to find it resurface on your chest! Chest acne is a common problem among people of all age group. The lesions on your chest make it painful to keep your clothes on, making it itchy in the process! Imagine yourself in the office, desperately itching your way through, while in a meeting with your boss! Yes, chest acne now definitely sounds like a menace! However as long as you have a "101E Acne Getaway" with you, chest acne can never be a menace. This natural treatment lotion will act like your shield, improving your skin preventing it from resurging, and that too magically within a short period of time.

Chastising chest acne
One way to cure your chest acne would be to completely get rid of your figure hugging outfits, which complements yourself from your wardrobe and fill it instead with light and loose fitting ones! As terrible as this option sounds, in fact there are medical treatments for chest acne where doctors advise you to use 2% salicylic acid as a body cleanser during your shower and then to wear light breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. And this is not all. At night you have to apply Benzoyl peroxide on your blemishes gently and carefully. However this is quite a tedious process and takes almost four of your precious weeks! Sometimes for severe cases doctors even advise patients to take antibiotics, which are definitely not good for your health. These lotions take time since they work on the affected place and, curing them and then stopping the new ones from reappearing.

How to Get Serious Skin Care

2006-11-06T22:57:00.000-05:00

To maintain good skin you need to use serious skin care. This doesn’t mean that is order to have serious skin care you need to spend countless hours in the bathroom in front of a mirror. Rather serious skin care involves the careful analysis of your skin type and what specific techniques and products will help your skin look and feel great.

Knowledge is the key to serious skin care. When new and improved formulas are put out by the skin care industry you may want to consider trying these products to see if you get better results than your old products. However, before applying new products to the face you should do some skin testing first.

As your skin needs change you must change with it in order to maintain serious skin care. As we grow older our skin’s chemistry changes and as a result the products we use today will probably not give the same results in the future. Always remember to do a skin testing before you apply large amounts of new products.

Serious skin care also involves following proper instructions for application of the product. For moisturizers to be properly absorbed by the skin you should apply them with an upward stroke. Before you go to bed you should make sure you do proper removal of make up and application of skin care products. There may be harmful effects if you don’t properly remove make up before going to bed.

Protecting your skin from harmful substances is another factor in serious skin care. Allergic reactions on the skin can result from detergent. You don’t need a lot of products for serious skin care, rather you should take the time to learn which products work best and are safe for your skin along with the products that are harmful to your skin. Rather than making your skin look good, harm can result if you apply too much exfoliating products. If you want good skin results then you should avoid using too much of any product.

One of the main concern of skin care is the curing of any skin disorder. One of the most common skin disorders is acne and unwanted marks can be left on your skin if you squeeze out the pimples. A dermatologist should be consulted if you have any skin problems. In is best to get a dermatologists consent before using any products you see in advertisements and you definitely shouldn’t ignore the problem. Ignoring skin disorders may lead to permanent damage if you don’t start proper treatment.

The focus of serious skin care is more on precautionary measures rather than on curing the problem. Prevention is always the better option than curing. To prevent further damage you should start a skin care routine.

How To Get Rid Of Pimples?

2006-11-06T22:56:00.000-05:00

Pimples also called Acne are skin lesions caused by the blockage of follicle ducts of sebum glands. The blockage traps sebum and leads to an inflammation. This inflammation gets readily infected by a bacterium found naturally in the skin called P.Acnes. Pimples affect almost everyone. They occur during adolescence for most but may continue late into adulthood. There are many cures available for pimples.

Acne light treatment: In acne light treatment intense blue light or red light is used to irradiate the affected area. The irradiation generates free radicals in porphyrins of the bacteria, which kills the bacteria. If the affected area is pretreated with delta-aminolevulinic acid (ALA) the results of acne light treatment are enhanced further. This is because ALA increases the levels of porphyrins in the bacteria. Acne light treatment is considered the best acne treatment because it has a success rate of almost 75%, has no side effects and the chances of the bacteria developing resistance is remote. Acne light treatment takes about 2 to 3 months.

Antibacterial pimples treatments: The most popular pimples treatment is benzoyl peroxide treatment. Benzoyl peroxide is an anti bacterial and kills the pimples bacteria. Benzoyl peroxide is considered the best over the counter acne product.

Antibiotic pimples treatments: For severe pimples usually antibiotic pimples treatment is prescribed. However antibiotics have effectiveness for a limited period only of about 3 to 6 months.

Retinoidal pimples treatment: For extremely severe pimples like cystic pimples, the only solution available is retinoidal pimples treatment. Retinoids like tretinoin, adapaline, retinol and isotretinoin are used.

Acne adult female treatment is usually done by hormones as women respond better to hormonal acne treatment.

All pimples treatments are done in conjunction with food supplements like acuzine as they speed up the recovery. The manufacturers of acuzine claim that acuzine itself is a cure for pimples but due to FDA regulations it is sold as food supplement. It contains, vitamins, enzymes, collagens, antioxidants etc which are beneficial for the skin and are necessary for skin recovery.

Acne- Does Rubbing Alcohol Help?

2006-11-06T22:55:00.000-05:00

Recently I cam across a question about acne. Someone wanted to know if rubbing alcohol would cure acne. Such ideas about acne are widespread. It is not only rubbing alcohol, but also whites of eggs, toothpaste, tanning and other miracle cures for acne. Let us find out if rubbing alcohol will help.

Acne- why it forms?

Once you understand why acne forms, you can decide what will help. Because of hormonal changes in the body, the sebaceous glands that are always open start getting blocked. Because of this block the sebum that is produced by the glands gets accumulated inside the gland. This is the beginning of acne. If the gland were open the sebum would have gone out on the skin. We now have a gland that is everyday getting bigger with more sebum. The bacteria P.acnes loves this sebum and begins multiplying in the gland. This infects the gland. Now we have a gland that is full of sebum, dead cells and bacteria. The body sends white cells to fight the bacteria. So pus also gets inside the gland. This inflating gland that is called a pimple, bursts when it can no more hold the matter inside. You land up with acne scar.

Acne- treatment

the acne treatment is directed towards keeping the gland open, reducing sebum production, and killing the multiplying bacteria. If one can take steps to treat all these three issues the acne will get cured. Rubbing alcohol will only kill any bacteria that are present on the skin. It will not help in keeping the gland open or reducing the sebum production. It is also doubtful about how much alcohol will reach inside the acne and kill the bacteria there. It is therefore not advised to try treating acne with rubbing alcohol.

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

About the Author

DoctorGoodSkin.com is a comprehensive guide for acne and other skin conditions. You will find all the information, articles and tips on skin diseases and conditions, skin treatments and procedures, skin care, skin care products, etc. You will also find information about hair and nails diseases, treatments and prevention. You can try out some of the unique skin and health quizzes, to learn more about various skin, hair and nail conditions. Popular topics on the site include acne, dermatitis, cellulite, melasma, vitiligo, scars, stretch marks, collagen, laser resurfacing, sunscreens, etc. If you love solving quizzes, Funquizcards has many quizzes on different topics such as personality, love, dating, career etc.

The Ten Most Important Skin Care Tips

2006-11-06T22:54:00.000-05:00

It is an asset to have healthy skin. When you refer to your beautiful outer self one of the most essential aspects is your skin. The following are ten of the most important skin care tips.

1. One to two times a day you should cleanse your face with warm water. You should do additional cleansing after every heavy activity. Cleansing is important to get rid of the dirt and harmful pollutants that you are exposed to during your daily activities.

2. To maintain your skin’s elasticity and moisture balance it is very important to drink lots of water. Water is essential to radiant and healthy skin. Water also has many benefits for the rest of the body as well.

3. One of the most essential skin care steps is to figure out what your skin type is. This is the basis for finding the right skin care products for your needs. The ingredients of skin care products are based on skin type, so even if they look the same the ingredients are always different.

4. To remove dead skin cells exfoliation is important. However, never use too much exfoliating products since this will cause harm to your skin rather than helping you achieve healthy skin.

5. To achieve healthy skin an important product is moisturizer. Your skin will dry out if it isn’t properly moisturized. Scaly skin not only doesn’t look good, but it is unhealthy too. When the skin is a little wet it is the best time to apply your moisturizer since it will help lock up the water in your skin which prevents it from drying out as fast.

6. There are different ingredients in soaps that can cause irritation or harm to your face. For this reason you shouldn’t use soap on your face. No matter what your skin type is you can find a variety of facial cleansers. Experiment and find the best cleanser for your needs.

7. When you go outdoors you should use lotions that have Sun Protection Factor or SPF. Whatever the condition of the weather, you should always protect your skin from the harmful UV radiation. Even when it isn’t sunny there are ultra violet rays. Even without noticing it you can become overexposed.

8. Getting a good nights sleep is very important to having healthy skin. You should always find time to sleep even when you have a hectic schedule. Eye wrinkles can result if you don’t get your proper amount of sleep.

9. While stress can be unavoidable it is important to find time to relax. You can help alleviate stress by taking Vitamin B complex. Another good option to relieve stress is to start an exercise routine.

10. If you have a skin disorder it is important to seek professional advice. Always talk with a dermatologist before jumping into using any products.

How to Care for Dry Skin

2006-11-06T22:50:00.000-05:00

If you have dry skin you can’t disregard it. There is no way to hide the fact that with dry skin you will look older and a bit awful. Weather, over exfoliation, hormone changes and various treatments for skin diseases are all factors that can cause dry skin. Drying skin is a natural occurrence in the body. Although it is not hard to treat dry skin once you have it.

Applying moisturizers is the best cure for dry skin. Today the market is full of several moisturizer choices. You will need to do some research and find the best moisturizer for your needs. There are two categories for moisturizers.

1. The first category of moisturizers are those that contain natural skin moisture. Grocery stores and beauty shops are the easiest places to find these types of moisturizers.

2. A second category for moisturizers are the ones that take moisture from the environment and then put it into your skin. During cold weather these are the types of moisturizers you want. This category of moisturizers is typically referred to as humectants. The components of humectants include propylene glycol, urea, glycerin and hyaluronic acid.

You should use any moisturizer that is greasy or sticky. When a moisturizer doesn’t go with your sweat and sticks with your clothes instead it is more comfortable.

Moisturizer isn’t the only thing that counts. If you know how to correctly use a moisturizer you will get the best results. You should always put on a moisturizer when you skin is moist so you should do it after you shower or cleanse. You should consider water temperature when you cleanse your skin. Warm water is important to use when cleansing your skin. Your skin will become drier when you use water that is too hot or cold.

You shouldn’t use bath soaps to cleanse your skin. To prevent your skin from drying out you should use products that have the right PH level for your skin type. To eradicate your dead skin cells you should exfoliate your skin, but over exfoliating your skin will cause further damage. When you go outside whether it is sunny or not it is advisable to apply lotion that has SPF coverage. You skin will dry out if it is overexposed to the sun. Although to get your proper supply of Vitamin D you do need some exposure to sunlight. Your proper supply of Vitamin D can be gained through a very short exposure to sunlight so you shouldn’t expose yourself to sunlight too much.

You can decide whether you want your skin care products to contain natural ingredients or synthetic chemicals. Additional lipids are brought into your skin when you use natural ingredient products for your dry skin. The additional lipids will help your skin retain moisture.

Your skin care routine for dry skin isn’t very complicated. Treatment of dry skin doesn’t only rely on products, but also on the proper care of your skin. When you have dry skin you should rub too harshly especially after you bath. Rather you should dry you skin with gentle strokes. To prevent and cure you dry skin you should follow the above advice.

About the Author

Bette Daoust is the writer of dry skin care treatment. She writes articles for joy of aromatherapy and celebrities secrets and tricks.

How to Identify the Best Acne Treatment Product

2006-11-06T22:49:00.001-05:00

Majority of teenagers all around the world suffer from acne. There is a large number of adults as well who have to suffer this skin disease. With hundreds and thousands of acne treatment products in markets using various different methods to treat acne with rates ranging from comparatively inexpensive to quite expensive, it gets difficult to identify the one which can truly help you get rid of acne.

Let us help you identify the best acne treatment product among the flock.

Since acne starts inside, the best acne treatment product is the one that attacks acne inside out. So look for the acne treatment product that claims the inside out treatment. Plus an acne treatment product can work best for you if it possesses the following traits.

100% Natural? Yes.

Vanishes current acne? Yes.

Holds back new acne? Yes.

Cures mild acne? Yes.

Cures severe acne? Yes.

Difficult to use? No.

Safe? Yes.

Side effects? No.

Dries out skin? No.

Nourishes skin? Yes.

An acne treatment product with the above features can work best for you if you also follow the following necessary tips for preventing acne.

Never Pick Your Pimple:

By picking your pimple you will be paving the way for the bacteria to go further into the skin and cause more inflammation. Also, chances for mild, moderate, and severe scars are increased when you pick your pimple.

Wash Your Hair Frequently:

Is your hair long that come onto your face? If you don’t want to have your hair cut, make it a habit of regularly washing your hair instead. Your hairs that come onto your face can bring more oil onto your skin.

Regularly Wash Your Skin:

Regularly washing your skin with a mild cleanser will greatly help you in achieving an acne free face. But be sure never to rub your face hard, but softly as to avoid scratching of any existing acne that can lead to ugly looking scars.

Avoid Touching Your Face:

Our hands have bacteria and oil that can make any existing acne worse if brought closer to our faces. Virtually all people have the habit of touching their faces for different purposes. You should be determined for your win over acne.

Choose Appropriate Hair Cover Items:

You should be wearing hair cover items that don’t rub your forehead. You can get acne on your forehead by ignoring this tip. The selection of the rubbing hair cover items by someone with acne will be like denying the treatment for acne.

About the Author

Dean has many years of experience in the field of skin care. He writes for various publications on a variety of topics about common skin disorders and their treatments. For more articles on acne and its causes please visit http://www.acneless.com

Chinese Remedy for Acne

2006-11-06T22:49:00.000-05:00

In Asia, external washes, lotions, and creams are used alongside the internal prescriptions. The famous properties of pearl powder are well known and included in creams to clear the skin of blemishes and keep it young and healthy. Many of the herbs that are used internally as medicines can also be applied topically. These external lotions also clear heat, damp and fire toxin away from the skin, while healing and soothing the acne sores.

Chinese have been using herbs to treat certain ills for thousands of years. Chinese herbal remedies have much reduced risk of any harmful side effects compared to all the stuff we see in the pharmaceutical stores these days.

Chinese Treatment for Acne

Many Chinese doctors recommend the following three formulas for the acne removal:

Suggested Formula No. 1

Decoction of loquat leaf for clearing the lung with additional ingredients.

Loquat leaf 15 g
Dried rehmannia root 15 g
Scrophularia root 15 g
Mulberry bark 9 g
Scutellaria root 9 g
Coptis root 9 g
Capejasmine fruit 9 g
Red peony root 9 g
Moutan bark 9 g
Forsythia fruit 9 g
Prunella spike 9 g
White chrysanthemum flower 9 g

Suggested Formula No. 2

Two old drugs decoction of peach kernel and safflower with additional ingredients.

Tangerine peel 9 g
Pinellia tuber 9 g
Poria 9 g
Nutgrass flatsedge 9 g
Zhejiang fritillaria bulb 9 g
Orange kernel 9g
Safflower 9g
Red sage root 9 g
Chinese angelica root 9 g
Scutellaria root 9 g
Forsythia fruit 9 g
Loquat leaf 9 g
Licorice root 6 g

All the above drugs are to be decocted in water for oral administration.

Suggested Formula No. 3

Antiphlogistic decoction of five drugs with additional ingredients.

Honeysuckle flower 15 g
Dandelion flower 15 g
Chinese violet 15 g
Chrysanthemum flower 15 g
Forsythia fruit 15 g
Dried rehmannia root 15 g
Scutellaria root 9 g
Moutan bark 9 g
Tangerine seed 9 g
Loquat leaf 9 g
Platycodon root 9 g
Licorice root 6 g"

Treating Acne - When Should I Seek Medical Attention?

2006-11-06T22:47:00.000-05:00

It's a fact that acne is one of the most harmful skin disorders among both teens and adults as well. Not only does it affects people physically but acne has the potential to cause psychological effects, which can be even more devastating. We know there are many products available to treat acne. Some of these treatments include over-the-counter cleansers, creams, etc. And while many mild forms of acne can be treated by some over-the-counter products, more severe types of acne may require medical attention. So, how can you know when to seek medical attention to treat your acne?

It is important to properly care for acne and take the necessary steps to treat and prevent it, but it is also important to know when your acne requires you to see a dermatologist. The decision to seek medical attention to treat your acne takes into account several things. Among the most important factors you should consider when deciding to seek medical attention for your acne is the fact of how you feel about your acne and how it's affecting you, and the medical facts surrounding your acne condition. In the case you are the victim of a very severe form of acne such as cystic acne and none of the products you've tried to treat it have worked for you, then there's no reason why you should hesitate to see a doctor for special treatment.

Severe acne can cause real damage to your skin if you don't treat it properly before it's too late. For one thing, severe acne may leave permanent scars! And this is one of the most important reasons why you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Medical treatment may help reduce scarring. Acne scars come in different types, and appear on some people while others do not have them. In men, scars on the face and neck may make shaving difficult. Shaving can irritate scars, especially larger, more prominent ones, and can further irritate the skin.

How are acne scars treated? There are two factors taken in consideration to treat acne scars: the type of acne you have, and your skin type. Both of these factors play an important role in how your acne scars are treated. The best way to prevent acne scars is to prevent acne, so you should find what works for you and stick to it. If you have cystic acne, a more severe type of acne, there's no doubt you will have to see an acne skin care professional. Painful cysts may need to be drained by a physician. This type of acne usually requires medical attention because of its severity. It can also last for months and cause a good deal of discomfort to sufferers of this form of severe acne.

Acne can also have negative psychological effects on people. And sometimes these psychological effects are much more difficult to deal with than the actual physical scarring. For many acne sufferers, acne can cause them to become anxious or depressed, affected by what those around them think and how they are perceived. They may also fear how others see them, and feel there is no cure for their condition. This is especially true in adults because many feel their acne should have cleared up after adolescence, or shouldn't have occurred during adulthood. This is the reason why many of them often stay away from attending social events to avoid placing themselves in a situation where they might feel inferior. So, it is critical to seek medical attention in these cases. Having the help of a professional doctor will not only help treat the physical effects created by acne but he/she will also help sooth the psychological ones as well.

Seeking medical attention as early as possible can save you many unwanted surprises in the future. This is especially true for teenagers who suffer from acne. It has been proven that teens that suffer from acne early on can usually expect it to worsen as they get older. And in the worst-case scenario, their acne condition can even continue on into adulthood! Many times the consequences are so devastating that more severe types of acne can form. Again, we go back to what we've discussed earlier, by seeking medical attention, scarring can be prevented earlier on in the course of the condition.

Acne is a very serious skin disorder. So it's vital to seek medical attention. It doesn't matter if you aren't sure. Even if prescription medications aren't necessary, a doctor can help you find a treatment that works best for you, and you will be on your way to recovery, which is obviously the ultimate goal.

About the Author

Hector Morales is the owner of the Exclusive Acne Skin Care Tips Web Site. Check it out to learn more about the cause of adult acne, acne scar removal secrets, and other acne related info.

How Should People With Acne Care for Their Skin?

2006-11-06T22:46:00.000-05:00

Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones and other substances on the skin's oil glands (sebacrous glands) and hair follicles. These factors lead to plugged pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits. Acne lesions usually occur on the face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. Although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress. Severe acne can lead to permanent scarring.

How Should People With Acne Care for Their Skin?

1. Clean Skin Gently
If you have acne, you should gently wash your face with a mild cleanser, once in the morning and once in the evening, as well as after heavy exercise. Wash your face from under the jaw to the hairline and be sure to thoroughly rinse your skin.
Ask your doctor or another health professional for advice on the best type of cleanser to use.
Using strong soaps or rough scrub pads is not helpful and can actually make the problem worse. Astringents are not recommended unless the skin is very oily, and then they should be used only on oily spots.
It is also important to shampoo your hair regularly. If you have oily hair, you may want to wash it every day.

2. Avoid Frequent Handling of the Skin
Avoid rubbing and touching skin lesions. Squeezing, pinching or picking blemishes can lead to the development of scars or dark blotches.

3. Shave Carefully
Men who shave and who have acne should test both electric and safety razors to see which is more comfortable. When using a safety razor, make sure the blade is sharp and soften your beard thoroughly with soap and water before applying shaving cream. Shave gently and only when necessary to reduce the risk of nicking blemishes.

4. Avoid a Sunburn or Suntan
Many of the medicines used to treat acne can make you more prone to sunburn. A sunburn that reddens the skin or suntan that darkens the skin may make blemishes less visible and make the skin feel drier. However, these benefits are only temporary, and there are known risks of excessive sun exposure, such as more rapid skin aging and a risk of developing skin cancer.

5. Choose Cosmetics Carefully
While undergoing acne treatment, you may need to change some of the cosmetics you use. All cosmetics, such as foundation, blush, eye shadow, moisturizers, and hair-care products should be oil free. Choose products labeled noncomedogenic (meaning they don't promote the formation of closed pores). In some people, however, even these products may make acne worse.
For the first few weeks of treatment, applying foundation evenly may be difficult because the skin may be red or scaly, particularly with the use of topical tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide.

Please be reminded that the above information is for informational purposes only and it is not intended to replace any health care services you need. The information provided is strictly not meant to diagnose medical conditions, offer medical advice, or endorse specific products or services. Do not rely upon the information provided alone for medical diagnosis or treatment. Kindly consult your doctor about any personal health concerns.

Secrets of Acne Skin Care - Benzaclin

2006-11-06T22:45:00.000-05:00

Beautiful skin sounds great isn't it? Are you aware of the fact that various factors help in reducing the natural shine of the skin and lead to different skin diseases?

Acne vulgaris is a common skin problem found amongst women and adolescents. It is caused when tiny hair follicles on the face and body are clogged and turn into painful lesions on the surface of the skin and below.

There are few myths about acne that it is caused due to dirt, grime, stress, excessive use of cosmetics, poor hygiene but it is not true. Factors such as hormones, extra oil production in the body, bacteria or inflammation or uneven skin shedding.

One of the effective skin treatments for acne is benzaclin gel that contains clindamycin phosphate and benzoyl peroxide. It is usually applied over the acne prone skin surface whereby it helps in reducing the growth of acne causing bacteria.

There could be certain short-term side effects of this drug such as redness of skin, dry skin, itching or peeling of skin. However, if these prevail for a long term, then it becomes necessary to visit the physician.

There is some other variety of treatment depending upon the type of acne such as whiteheads or blackheads. Creams such as renova, retin-a also work but it should be remembered that while starting the therapy, some of the skin types may face skin irritation or sunburn.

Some of the medications kill the bacteria on the skin and the pores and gradually by time, they decrease the acne breakouts and inflammation. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed along with topical treatment depending upon the factor that how severe the acne is.

Accutane is also a treatment for severe types of acne. However, in case you undergo any type of treatment it is important to be patient as it takes time to recover from severe acne vulgaris.

For more information, log on to http://www.benzer11.com/benzaclin.html

Water - An Acne Cure?

2006-11-06T22:44:00.000-05:00

As you may already know, there are many acne treatment products available. Some of these treatments include over-the-counter cleansers, creams, and medicated pads. Other acne products involve prescribed medications provided by a dermatologist. However, the increasing popularity of natural remedies has also become prevalent in treating many common conditions, and acne is no exception.

Surprisingly, water is considered as one of the best natural remedies for treating acne. Water? Yes! Water... and for good reasons! Water is used to hydrate the body, which, of course, hydrates the skin as well. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, must be properly hydrated to work correctly and serve its purpose. This is accomplished in two ways: by washing the face, which hydrates the surface of the skin, and by drinking water, which hydrates the entire body, from the inside out. This, of course, includes the skin. Drinking plenty of water will keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. Healthy skin cells promote a healthy body. Now you've got one more good reason why you should drink lots of water ;-)

Doctors tell us we should drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Although this might sound like an overused cliché, and "six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day" seems like a lot of water to drink in one day, think of what it can do for your body. In addition to improving skin tone and texture, it can stimulate cell growth and will help all your organs work correctly. It also helps filter out unwanted substances that can be harmful to your skin.

Water is also a crucial component deep within your skin. It provides the basis for a soft, smooth, and healthy complexion and will help you look more youthful. Though very little water is stored in the outer layers of your skin, this moisture is important and is constantly removed by outside elements such as sun and wind.

Sun and wind can dry your skin, removing moisture and irritating its surface. When this occurs, pre-existing acne can become even more irritated, which in turn prolongs the problem. While irritation won't directly cause more acne to form, it can worsen the problem. It is important to keep proper moisture in the skin.

You've probably heard that oily skin does not need moisture. This is one of the most common myths. Just because skin is oily, it doesn't mean it is moisturized. By cleansing the skin, you are wiping away excess oil, and my moisturizing it, you are helping it remain smooth and decreasing your chances for irritation.

As the best natural remedy for treating acne, water helps to properly hydrate the skin. This not only promotes and stimulates cell growth, but also helps the other organs of the bodywork together. If properly hydrated, the skin will not wrinkle or sag as easily, and will appear youthful for a longer period of time. Even though water is not the only natural remedy that you can use for treating your skin, it is the most important. Without it, the skin could not do its job in keeping the rest of the body in the best possible condition. So, don't forget about the many benefits that water provides for your skin, especially if you suffer of any type of acne. Try to give your skin a little bit more help - a little bit more water.

Herbal Acne Cures

2006-11-06T22:30:00.000-05:00

Wouldn’t it be nice to have a magic pill that squelches the burden of acne altogether? Well, there isn’t any that I am aware of. However, there are a number of acne formulas. For example, what do you know about acne herbal remedies?

Have you ever given acne herbal remedies a shot? Maybe something different from that Clearasil in your medicine cabinet would do you good. After all, how well is that topical cream from the drugstore even working? Does it actually heal and get rid of a nasty pimple in no time at all? Or, does it merely mask the problem and eventually dry out your face? That is always a common dilemma with basic acne problems.

Unlike many of the acne herbal remedies, the drugstore creams, gels, and face washes can be harsh for your delicate face. They remove most of the dirt and oil from your face and leave it dry and tight. This can lead to more breakouts, if the pores close and still have bacteria, oil, and dirt deep down.

Acne herbal remedies are gentler on your skin and face.

Are you in the market for some quality acne herbal remedies? Maybe this is the route you should be choosing. Think about it for a moment. How many drugstore acne treatments that don’t work have you already gone through, and found little to no results, probably quite a few?

Finding an acne herbal remedy for your outbreaks of pimples isn’t that hard to do. The trick is getting one that works for your specific type of acne outbreaks and is natural. Don’t get discouraged about it, you can have clear and healthy skin, it will just take a little experimentation and patience.

There are several types of treatments for blemishes and using them isn’t all that hard. One treatment for blackheads is a wash of lime and milk. All you have to do is bring the milk to a gentle boil, and then add the juice from one lime. Then wash your face with this combination after it cools down enough so it does not burn your face.

Another acne herbal remedy is to use an astringent for a deep cleaning of your pores. At your local grocery store buy a leafy mango. Boil it in some water, and then rub it, after it cools, on your face. If your case of pimples isn’t too severe you can just leave the mango to soak overnight. It’s an acne natural cure that will clean your pores thoroughly.

Something that you probably eat everyday in some form is good for your skin as well. A raw potato is an ideal acne remedy, especially for whiteheads. The vitamin C gives your skin a healthy glow, and its alkaline gets rid of the bacteria on your face. The potato has an acid in it too that scrubs away dead or dying skin cells on your face, which works as an acne natural cure.

Finally, remember that acne herbal remedies might leave your skin a little parched for moisture at times during treatments. A good way to re-hydrate your skin after using an acne herbal remedy is to use Almond Oil or Jojoba oil.

If you’ve tried every over the counter medication for it and it’s just not working, than you might want to use an acne herbal remedy. You can find a treatment solution in an herbal remedy, but take your time, and find out what works for you.