Acne Treatment & Medicine Blog

What is the best acne prevention?

2006-06-16T07:36:00.000-07:00

Here are a collection of tips, advice and other information on acne prevention

1. Put toothpaste on your pimple before you go to bed, should help reduce swelling overnight. Make sure it is the paste not the gel. One of the most popular acne home remedies.

2. Wash your face twice a day in warm salty water. This should leave your face oil free without aggravating the acne.

3. Apply a paste of fresh methi (fenugreek) leaves over the face every night for 10-15 minutes and washed with warm water. This will prevent acne, pimples, blackheads, and wrinkles.

4. Place strawberry leaves on the acne, the alkalinity helps to reduce the swelling.

5. Extract juice of one lemon and mix with equal quantity of rose water. Apply this mixture on the face and let it stay for about half an hour. Wash the face with fresh water. About 15 days application helps cure acne, pimples and reduces blemishes and scars.

6. Another method is to massage the face with the skin of lemon before washing with lukewarm water.

7. Apply fresh mint juice over the face every night for the treatment of acne, pimples, insect stings, eczema, scabies, & other skin infections.

8. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. At least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables should be included in your diet. All acne home remedies should include a healthy diet.

9. A couple of garlic cloves, crushed and dabbed on the face 1-2 times a day. One of the smellier acne home remedies!

10. Home face wash for acne: Mix together 1 or 2mls each of the following: witch hazel, tea-tree and sweet fennel essential oils, adding essential oil of geranium for women and essential oil of rosewood for men. Mix with 300mls of water. Shake before use, as the oils will float on top of the water during storage. Dab affected areas with cotton wool two or three times a day. The oils will clean and unclog giving antibiotic-like protection to the skin.

11. Apply fresh lemon juice on the affected area overnight. Wash off with warm water next morning.

12. Use 2-3 tsp. dried basil leaves to 1 cup boiling water. Steep 10-20 minutes. Cool, and apply with cotton ball.

13. Grind orange peel with some water to a paste and apply on affected parts. One of the best acne home remedies.

14. Clean face with cotton wool dipped in rose water 2-3 times a day.

15. Mix 1 teaspoon lemon juice in 1 teaspoon finely ground cinnamon powder and apply on affected areas frequently.

16. Nettle Tea is another solution, this tea has a herb that has some curing power and really helps work wonders on skin problems. Drink four cups a day to get the full benefit of one of the most powerful acne home remedies. Get nettle products here.

17. Aloe Vera juice applied twice a day can greatly speed up the healing of acne lesions. You can buy Aloe Vera at vitacost.com

18. Another lotion that uses bee propolis extract may also be effective. Mix eight ounces of water and 11 drops of bee propolis extract. One of the acne home remedies which has been proven effective with many people.

19. Some herbal acne home remedies...
Burdock leaf tea.
Lavender essential oil (mix 1:10 with water)
Tincture of calendula flowers.
Tea tree essential oil (mix 1:10 with water)
Liquefy cabbage leaves with witch hazel, strain and add two drops of lemon oil. Use as a lotion.

20. Ice down the acne before bed, by morning it should be noticeably less swollen. Works best on larger pimples that have not yet formed a head.

21. Take vitamin B5 and zinc supplements daily to strengthen the skin's resistance to acne.

22. Mix mint juice with turmeric powder and apply on affected area. Leave for 15-30 minutes and wash off with lukewarm water.

23. Mix some vinegar and salt in a bowl. Pour a little bit in your hand and rub it on the pimples. Soak a face towel in it and dab it on the bumps. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes and rinse it off.

24. Blend cucumber and make a paste. Apply this as a mask on your face and leave it for 1/2 hour and then rinse. This refreshes your skin and prevents acne.

25. Mix corn flour with egg white and apply on your face. Let is dry completely for 1/2 hour. Dip your hands in warm water and massage your face and wash off. This when repeated regularly gives you a smooth skin.

26. Mix sandalwood paste with rosewater and apply on the face. Rinse off after 30 minutes.

27. Essential oil face mask for acne: Use a mask base powder, such as fuller's earth or kaolin powder. Use distilled or filtered water to make a paste. Mix 1 heaped teaspoon of base powder to 3 drops of essential oil. Add approximately 2 tablespoons of the water in, to make a fluid yet balanced paste. Essential oils to add in the mask either separately or try smaller amounts together; cypress oil 1 drop, lemon oil 2 drops, sage oil 1 drop.

28. Mix the paste of tender neem leaves with turmeric and apply of affected area. An eastern approach to acne home remedies.

29. Grind some nutmeg with milk and apply on affected area. Pimples disappear like magic without leaving a mark.

30. Make a mixture of lime juice and rose water. Apply on face and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water.

31. Make a paste by mixing 3 tablespoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder. Apply this paste on the pimples before sleeping and wash it next morning with warm water. Repeat for two weeks, pimples will disappear forever.

32. Rub fresh garlic on and around pimples. Pimples will disappear without a mark with regular applications.

33. Mix 1 tsps groundnut oil with 1 tspn fresh lime juice to prevent formation of blackheads and pimples .

34. Ground drumstick pods and leaves and mix mixed with fresh lime juice, and apply on pimples. This is also good for blackheads and dark spots.

35. First wash face and then dab acne with cotton balls soaked in vinegar.

36. Mix groundnut oil with an equal amtount of fresh lime juice and apply on face. leave for 10-15 minutes and wash. It may be applied daily to prevent formation of blackheads, acne and pimples.

37. Apply juice of raw papaya (including the skin and seed) on swelling acne, pimples.

38. Apply fresh lime juice mixed to a glass of boiled milk as a face wash for acne, pimples, blackheads, and cracked skin.

39. Apply ripe Tomatoes pulp on acne, pimples and kept upto 1 hour, then wash.

40. Make a paste of roasted & powdered pomgranate skin with fresh lime juice and apply over acne, boils, pimple, blackheads and whiteheads.

41. Apply grated potatoes as poultice to treat skin blemishes, wrinkles, boils, pimples, blackheads, whiteheads , etc.

42. Make a paste of ground radish seeds with water and apply on face to remove blackheads.

43. Apply a paste of ground seasame seeds with water as poultice for inflammation of the skin due to allergies, skin rashes, and pimples.

44. Large pores on facial skin can be treated with paste of sandalwood powder with masoor dal.

45. Use an oatmeal or almond mask throughly to cleanse your face. Mix either oatmeal or almond powder with enough rose water to make a soft paste that spreads easily on the skin. Rub it on your skin with your fingertips, paying special attention the problem areas. Leave to dry for about 15 minutes and then rinse off with cold water. This is very good in getting rid of blackheads.

46. A solution made out of one and a half cups of hot water and half a tablespoon of boric powder is an ideal remedy for blackheads, Saturate a face napkin in this hot solution and press on to the skin, repeat twice. Extract blackheads carefully with a blackhead remover and sterilized cottonwool. Pat on an astrigent.

47. Honey is a great remedy for skin blemishes and acne because the honey kills bacteria.
These are some effective home remedies for the treatment of acne and blackheads.

Oxygen Facial Helps Combat Active Acne

2006-06-07T20:13:00.000-07:00

The Skin Center Medical Spa offers Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Facial to Treat Active Acne

Pittsburgh, PA (PRWEB) May 26, 2006 -- Oxygen is a vital nutrient for healthy, youthful skin, without it our skin is not able to produce new skin cells, generate collagen or properly heal from wounds. In fact, the use of oxygen to speed the healing process of surgical wounds and topical burns has been used in the hospital setting for years. Today, the same principle used for oxygen therapy, which is the rapid delivery of pure oxygen gas to the skin, in hospitals is being applied to the treatment of active acne with the Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Acne Treatment Facial.

Pure oxygen provides tremendous healing benefits to the skin, especially to complexions suffering from active acne. “Active acne is believed to be caused in part to bacteria found under the surface of the skin,” said Debra Thomas, R.N. and Clinical Administrator for The Skin Center Medical Spa. “The Echo2 Plus ™ Oxygen Acne Treatment Facial is effective for active acne because pure oxygen has proven to be a potent anti-bacterial agent.” In addition to the delivery of pure oxygen to the skin, the Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Acne Treatment Facial combines proven acne-fighting ingredients like salicylic acid and lactic acid to cleanse pores and remove impurities associated with acne outbreaks.

Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Acne Treatment system utilizes a four-step process designed to cleanse, nourish and revitalize every skin cell through its revolutionary use of pure oxygen. First, the skin is gently exfoliated to remove dead skin cells. A cleansing solution is then applied to tone and condition the skin. Once the skin is cleansed, a unique process known as Osmotic Hydration is performed. This process requires that an intense topical vitamin mask be massaged into the skin, drawing moisture to the skin cells just beneath the outer layer of skin, or epidermis. Once the hydration process is complete pure oxygen gas, along with vitamins A, C and E and 87 other minerals, enzymes and amino acids are propelled deep into the lower or dermal layer of skin through a soothing vapor mist.

Following treatment, the skin appears softer, more supple and revitalized. For optimal results, it is recommended that a series of Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Acne Treatments be performed in conjunction with the use of the OXYCEUTICALS™ Oxygen Acne Treatment advanced home care kit.

The Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Treatment is not limited to people experiencing active acne. Oxygen therapy is beneficial to all skin types and is gentle enough to be combined with other facial rejuvenation treatments such as chemical peels, microdermabrasion and facial surgeries.

In addition to non-invasive medical treatments, The Skin Center Medical Spa specializes in a number of surgical procedures including upper and lower eyelids, nose contouring, chin augmentation, hair restoration, breast augmentation, liposuction, abdominal tucks and the QuickLift™.

For more information about the The Echo2 Plus™ Oxygen Treatment or additional services provided by The Skin Center Medical Spa with locations in Pennsylvania and Ohio, contact 1(800) 429-1151 or visit http://www.theskincentermd.com.

Acnope, a New Advancement in the Fight Against Acne

2006-03-28T15:37:00.000-08:00

All new 100% Natural safe and Effective Cream to Cure Acne, Pimples and Black Heads has hit the market, with a huge responce.

Brisbane, Australia, March 27, 2006 --(PR.COM)-- Genbucks is very pleased to announce the revolutionary new product they have to offer. Not only in the fight against acne but as an anti wrinkle cream product.

Acnope cream is an anti acne, anti wrinkle cream that helps dry acne and fight germs. Acnope strengthen the skin and makes it less susceptible to mild acne and wrinkle. It promotes healthier looking skin while preventing the aging process. Acnope is a natural and safe acne solution rich with herbal / ayurvedic properties.

Acnope Cream is a combination of selected natural ingredients effective in the treatment of acne and pimples. Acnope starts its action immediately on application and visible benefits of Acnope in resolving acne and pimples is evident within a week of application. Acnope clears the blemishes of acne and pimples and makes the skin naturally attractive and good looking.

It is one of the important medicinal plants. Almost every part of this plant has some medicinal value. The chief constituent of Berberis aristata is barberine, a bitter alkaloid which is used as a blood-purifier, a tonic and a febrifuge.

It is an evergreen tree or shrub with white flowers. Its principle constituents are the three alkaloids viz. toturine, toturidine & colloturine. The astringent bark of the stem is used to alleviate itching and inflammation that accompany acne. It has got anti- pyretic and hypothermic properties which help reducing elevated temperature around acne and pimples.

Amla is one of best natural source of vitamin C which is considered as building block of skin tissues accompanying radiance and glow of healthy skin.

Acne and/ pimples are the result of either bacterial infection or production of excess sebum (oil) by oil glands underneath epidermis especially in T-Zone area. Dead cells form black heads if not taken care of and all these make skin sensitive and absorbent of dust particles which lead to acne and kind of skin problems. http://acnope.com/

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What Foods Cause Acne?

2006-03-23T14:47:00.000-08:00

What Foods Cause Acne Breakouts?

By following these guidelines for clear skin, you can actively work to maintain healthy looking skin that is free of acne.

The old adage, ""you are what you eat"" cannot be truer than when it comes to common causes of acne. Often people who do not consume a healthy diet or whose diet lacks the proper amount of critical vitamins and minerals suffer from acne problems.

Remember, you body must be healthy before your skin can be healthy, so strive to eat a well balanced diet, and dedicate yourself to an active lifestyle in order to enjoy unblemished, smooth, and glowing skin.

If you are experiencing skin problems, instead of treating your body's largest organ with harsh chemicals or taking medications that may interfere with your other prescriptions, look first at the nutrition value of your current diet. Work to improve your skin and protect yourself from acne by following these guidelines.

Banish Fats, Oils, and Sugars

Consuming a diet high in fats, oils, and sugars can wreck havoc on an your skin. Just as these unsavory additions to your diet can cause other issues seen in your body, what you eat directly affects the quality of your skin.

Most people have experienced acne breakouts after binging on junk food or fast food, most of which is high in fat, sugar, carbohydrates, and oils. In order to stop acne breakouts associated with eating this unhealthy food, begin to replace these items in your diet with foods that are natural and healthy.

Avoid Popular Misconceptions

Many people are under the misconception that eating certain foods can cause or worsen their acne condition. The most popular food to blame for bad skin is undoubtedly chocolate. Chocolate lovers will take great pleasure in noting that no one specific type of food-including chocolate-has been proven to cause or worsen acne in individuals. However, you should enjoy your chocolate sparingly, as your entire diet can definitely affect the quality of your skin's appearance, even though one particular item may not be the trigger.

Try Organic Foods

When looking to change your diet for the better, take care in including fresh, wholesome foods into your new lifestyle. Many peopel have found great success in incorporating organic foods into their diet, since these items lack any added chemicals, preservatives, or potential toxins that can affect both your body and your skin.

Furthermore, structure your diet around fresh fruits and vegetables, most of which contain necessary vitamins that will positively affect your entire body. Also, you may want to avoid eating meat products high in fat, since fats can be quickly be stored in your system, lasting long after that greasy burger has been digested.

Consider Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Many people do not receive the properly daily recommended dose of vitamins or minerals in their diet. For this reason, you should look into including supplements in your daily health regimen. Remember, before consuming any medications or supplements of any kind, be sure to consult your primary health care provider to ensure the dosage is proper and the medication will not negatively interact with your current prescriptions.

Too, you may want to find a solid multi-vitamin that is specified for your gender, age, or activity level. Be sure to look for supplements that include Vitamin E, a necessary vitamin when it comes to the health of your skin.

Hydrate Your Body

Unless you are drinking at least eight eight-ounce glasses of water each day, you are not hydrating your body to a healthy extend. Most individuals are not properly hydrated and their skin pays the price. If you find your skin is dull, ashy, flaky, itchy, or excessively dry, you are not drinking enough water to benefit your body.

Hydrated skin is fresh and glowing, so you should drink up to experience these great effects! Also, drinking the proper amount of water on a daily basis will also benefit your overall sense of health. Avoid drinking sodas or sugary sports drinks, since the added sodium and sugar can be detrimental to your healthy lifestyle.

By following the above guidelines for clear skin, you can actively work to maintain healthy looking skin that is free of acne. If you find yourself suffering from acne or other skin conditions, focus inward instead for a treatment of this problem instead of slathering your skin with potentially harmful creams or lotions that may cause more harm that good. By eating a proper diet, you will ensure your skin is as healthy as you are.

Scott J. Patterson, Acne Care Information

Phoenix Doctor Launches Successful Cold Sore and Acne Remedies Against the Odds and Discovers the Power of the Web

2006-03-23T14:45:00.000-08:00

Phoenix Doctor Launches Successful Cold Sore and Acne Remedies Against the Odds and Discovers the Power of the Web

Download this press release as an Adobe PDF document.

After twenty six years of successful results and testimonials, retired Phoenix surgeon turns to the web to introduce his magical cold sore and acne remedies to the masses.

Phoenix, AZ (PRWEB) March 23, 2006 –- Merrill S. Chernov, MD, has spent his working life saving lives. Thirty years ago while working in the burn unit of a Phoenix hospital, he created an anti bacterial solution for the skin. He soon after discovered the solution also had a remarkable ability to treat and rapidly heal cold sores and acne. In 1979, Dr Chernov founded the Joshua Skin Care Center, located in Phoenix, Arizona, where to this day he continues to sell his cold sore and acne solutions to the public.

“When you get to my age it is difficult to embrace emerging technologies such as the internet, but I have been encouraged by hundreds of loyal customers to create a website so folks could order our product on line.” Anyone who clicks on the doctor’s website will be amazed to see all of the viewable cold sore, canker sore and acne treatment testimonials, some dating back to the 70’s. “Customers as far as Australia and Israel have purchased our cold sore remedy. Our product works faster than anything available on the shelves, it’s that simple.”

Over 100 Million Americans suffer from cold sores (HSV-1 Herpes Virus). Amidst all of the remedies available and heavily advertised, Dr Chernov and his loyal customers believe that nothing can come close to his remedy known simply as “Doctor’s Cold Sore Solution.” When asked about the competition from the large pharmaceutical companies Dr Chernov smiled and said “ I cannot compete with their advertising budgets, word of mouth is my only source of advertising and has kept me in business, hopefully with a web presence word will get out to the world”.

Jeffrey Fay, of Truckee, California says, “ I have tried all of the remedies for embarrassing cold sore outbreaks… most of them are applied by hand and make a expensive sloppy mess around my lips. Doctor’s Cold Sore Solution is a much cleaner application and seems to dry out the area and heal it very quickly…sometimes within one day!”

After using the Anti Acne Solution, Tammy Mercer of Florida wrote, “what a big difference, I have had acne since I was 13 years old. I am 24 and have not been able to see my skin color because it was always red. I am going to continue using this product. I have tried everything. 11 years of this is a long time and it not only hurts the self-esteem but just plain hurts. You have made me believe I will not have this problem forever.”

The magical solution is available in two containers; a convenient lipstick sized 4ml roll on tube and a larger 14ml bottle that is applied with a cotton ball.

John Musil, a Scottsdale pharmacist who carries Dr. Chernov’s product also comments, “This is the best solution for cold sores and canker sores on the market today. We recommend it at our eleven pharmacies to every one of our customers. It is without equal.”

Dr. Chernov has gone one step further with his on-line campaign—he offers a limited amount of the solution per week on EBay, winning bidders can leave testimonials and even write reviews of the product. “Up to now I have 100% positive feedback and have had several positive guides written for my solution on EBay,” Dr. Chernov says. Additionally Dr Chernov noted “there are not many medical solutions off the shelves that offer a 60 day money back guarantee, that is how confident I am that we will get return customers and NOT returned products.”

Dr. Chernov operates the Joshua Skin Care Center in Phoenix Arizona. He also offers proven remedies to relieve shingles and chicken pox which is caused by the herpes zoster virus.
He is also the founder of a non-profit organization people saving pets and insists that none of his solutions have been tested on animals.

How to handle adult acne yet fight wrinkles

2006-03-22T18:43:00.000-08:00

I would love to see an article or suggestions on problem-solving for people dealing with wrinkles and acne. I know you have written about them separately, but what about those of us who have adult breakouts plus worries about wrinkles? What do we do? Help!

-- Carmen, via email

Dear Carmen, Many 40- and 50-something women, including those with minimal to no history of acne, find themselves dealing with wrinkles and breakouts at the same time. We know that wrinkles are the cumulative result of unprotected sun exposure (extrinsic) and internal factors tied to aging (intrinsic), but what kind of cruel joke is Mother Nature playing when she deals our skin the double-whammy of wrinkles and acne?

Adult breakouts, particularly for women, are generally tied to one of two sources: hormones or the overuse of products that are too emollient for their skin type. If you have fallen for the widespread claim that an aging face is a "mature" skin type and therefore needs a range of rich, ultra-moisturizing products, you may have set your skin up for the breakouts you're experiencing now. If that is not the case and your skin-care routine remains suitable for your overall skin type, you may want to visit your physician to have your hormone levels checked. The role of androgens (male hormones) should be carefully considered, especially if you are entering or have just finished menopause. A surge in androgens can cause acne flares, particularly as estrogen levels drop. Your physician will discuss treatment options to help balance hormones, which should reduce (if not eliminate) breakouts.

As for how to treat blemishes and wrinkles, my previous advice for both still applies. Blemishes must be treated with a gentle, water-soluble cleanser, a topical disinfectant (a gentle benzoyl peroxide product), a beta hydroxy acid exfoliant (BHA/salicylic acid), and by avoiding products that are thick, greasy or occlusive. For fighting wrinkling, lightweight toners, serums, or very thin lotions loaded with antioxidants, cell-communicating ingredients, and ingredients that mimic the structure of healthy skin can improve the skin's condition and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.

Don't forget that your greatest anti-wrinkle ally remains an effective sunscreen rated SPF 15 or higher, and that it must be applied every day, rain or shine. Use a lightweight sunscreen to avoid exacerbating blemish-prone areas; you'll get the best results using a matte-finish foundation with an effective sunscreen.

Another option to address wrinkles and blemishes is the active ingredient tretinoin, found in prescription products such as Renova, Tazorac, and Retin-A. Tretinoin not only has the ability to stimulate collagen production (which reduces wrinkles), but also affects the way new skin cells are formed, travel through the pore's follicle lining, and are shed. Reconfiguring this process so it functions in a more normal manner unclogs pores and often has a significant impact on preventing new breakouts from occurring (Source: Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology, December 2001, page 43). Note that if you decide to use a tretinoin product, it cannot be applied with benzoyl peroxide because the latter inactivates tretinoin. Use the benzoyl peroxide over blemishes in the morning, and apply the tretinoin product at night. For detailed battle plans that address wrinkles and blemishes, please visit www.CosmeticsCop.com.

Paula Begoun is the author of "Don't Go to the Cosmetics Counter Without Me (6th edition)" (Beginning Press, $27.95). Write to her at 1030 SW 34th St., Suite A, Renton, WA 98055 or check out her Web site: www.cosmeticscop.com

Acne Myths

2006-03-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

Myth: Fatty foods and chocolates affect acne
Fact: Although it is always important for general health to follow a balanced diet, there is no proof that eating fatty foods and chocolates will cause or worsen acne. In fact, there is a poor relationship between acne and diet in general. An exception to the rule is iodised table salt which may aggravate acne. But if you find that certain foods have a bad influence on your skin, try to avoid them – it may be causing an allergic reaction.

Myth:Only teenagers have acne
Fact: Rarely, babies are born with acne and some people get acne for the first time after they’ve reached adulthood. Most people outgrow acne; but in women it may last until the menopause. 5% of women of 40 years of age have acne; but only 1% of men in that age group.

Myth: Acne can be cured
Fact: Not yet - but don't despair, it can be treated effectively.

Myth: Poor hygiene can cause acne
Fact: Acne is not caused by dirt or surface oil. As many people believe it to be the case, they tend to overwash their skin, thereby making acne worse, drying the skin out and causing flare-ups. It is only necessary to wash your skin twice a day with a gentle soap.

Myth: Being in the sun can improve acne
Fact: There is no evidence that sunlight improves acne. Sunlight can do more harm than good as it leads to early ageing and increases your risk of skin cancer. Many medications used to treat acne can actually make your skin more sensitive to ultraviolet light.

Myth: You should let acne run its course
Fact: Why run the risk of letting acne run its course? There have been great advances in the treatment of acne and with the right treatment, acne can be cleared up.

Myth: Acne is caused by stress
Fact: Stress cannot cause acne but it can make acne worse and having acne can be very stressful.

Myth: There is nothing I can do about scarring
Fact: Thanks to modern technology though, you don’t have to be scarred for life! Before launching into the many ways to treat acne scarring, there’s one sure method of preventing or limiting the extent of scarring. Treat acne itself early and effectively, for as long as necessary. There are many different ways in which you could treat scarring. Go to the section on scarring to learn everything you need to know.

Myth: Acne is an infection
Fact: Acne is a skin disorder caused by a combination of factors, including hormones and genetics.

Myth: Acne is only a cosmetic disease
Fact: Acne can also affect your mood, self confidence and the way you feel about yourself. You may feel that everyone is staring at you and you may even avoid going out and socialising. You may also feel hopeless and even depressed. Fortunately there are many things you can do to lift your spirits and to make you feel more confident. The first step is to speak to someone you trust. If need be, professional help is available to help you deal with things.

Myth: It is safe to stop your medication if your acne has cleared up
Fact: Never stop on your own – always ask your doctor or dermatologist first. If you stop your medication too soon, or even if you change the dose, your acne might flare up again.

Myth: Sex and masturbation can lead to acne
Fact: This is an age-old myth. Although the sex hormone testosterone is a major cause of acne, whether or not you engage in any sexual act has no effect on acne and definitely doesn’t cause it.

Practicing A Proactive Acne Treatment

2006-03-18T08:08:00.000-08:00

The best way to counteract the effects of acne is to carry out a proactive acne treatment, which will help you to take care of your body as well as your skin.

Acne affects nearly everyone at some point in his or her life, whether it's during puberty, pregnancy (or during some other hormonally-charged period in life), or just during any time of adulthood.

There are ways to prevent and even control acne if you take a preemptive approach. The best way to counteract the effects of this skin problem is to carry out a proactive acne treatment, which will help you to take care of your body as well as your skin.

Proactive is defined as acting in advance of an expected problem, or to be anticipatory. If you know that you are prone to acne, anticipating the problem and taking steps to defend yourself against it is the best way to go. There are several proactive acne treatment measures that a person can take in order to reduce the amount of breakouts, and to keep the breakouts that do occur from being too bad. One of the best ways to deal with acne is through exercise.

Exercise is not only a great way to regulate your weight and keep your body in good physical condition, but it also helps to lower stress levels that can cause or aggravate acne. In addition, sweating is a way of cleaning out the body, ridding it of oils and bad bacteria. It is important, though, to wear lightweight, breathable fabrics when exercising. Perspiration that is trapped between fabric and the skin can let bacteria grow and clog the pores, which will lead to acne.

Another effective proactive acne treatment is through diet. Though it is commonly understood now that what you eat does not cause acne, it is also commonly known that certain vitamins and minerals help the body fight the war on acne. It is a good idea to eat a healthy, well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, B, C, and E. This will not only give you a healthy body, but will help to curb breakouts. In addition, drinking plenty of water will help keep your skin looking fresh, and your color bright.

Stress has an immense effect on a person's complexion. We wear our problems on our faces, in the form of dark circles, wrinkles, and yes, even acne. There are a variety of stressors that affect us in different ways. Stressors are things that cause anxiety to your body and your well-being, which can also cause or aggravate an acne problem. Certain external stressors involve things that negatively affect the outside of your body, and include such things as oil-ridden cosmetics, overexposure to the sun, and a poor diet.

Internal stressors include factors that cause anxiety, depression, or low self esteem. Not dealing with emotions or high stress levels can cause acne flare-ups or other outward indications of inward problems. As mentioned before, exercise is an ideal way to manage stress. Also, participating in activities that you enjoy can also reduce your stress levels. And, don't forget to get an abundance of sleep if at all possible. Sleep provides your mind and body time to rest and rejuvenate.

There are several acne treatments that you can perform that, if done on a regular basis, prove to be highly effective, proactive measures. For example, always try to use oil-free cosmetics that won't clog your pores. Shaving the skin with a light touch and a sharp razor or even an electric shaver helps to exfoliate the skin and won't be too rough on skin that is broken out. It is best, though to avoid areas of the skin that are especially irritated or infected, and allow them time to heal. Also, make sure to gently wash your face twice daily with lightly exfoliating products. Do not ever scrub the skin, for this can lead to further irritation and more acne problems.

Taking the proactive approach to acne treatment is by far the best way to avoid embarrassing or painful breakouts. And you will find in doing so, that you will not only have healthier looking skin, but that your body and general well-being will be healthier in the effort as well.

Launch of its Zeno Acne Clearing Device Forum

2006-03-15T16:17:00.000-08:00

AcneClearingDevice.com Announces the Launch of its Zeno Acne Clearing Device Forum

AcneClearingDevice.com has officially launched a forum specifically for the new FDA approved Zeno Acne Clearing Device. The forum is poised to become the webs largest online Zeno Acne Clearing Device community and discussion area.

Salt Lake City, UT, March 15, 2006 --(PR.COM)-- The new Zeno Acne Clearing Device forum and discussion area located on AcneClearingDevice.com has officially been launched and signifies a gigantic effort to bring individuals and groups of acne sufferers together with one common goal, taking control of their acne. The Zeno Acne Device forum will be a great meeting place for consumers looking to find more information on the Zeno Acne Device. Within the forum, consumers can expect to find items such before and after photos, testimonials, skin care routines, and customers first hand experiences with the Zeno Acne Clearing Device.

“I’m very happy and excited we’ve been able to provide one centralized location for consumers from all over to world to discuss their experiences with the Zeno Acne Clearing Device and other skin care topics. It a great place for those looking for Zeno Acne Device reviews from others who have used the product. If someone has been looking at purchasing a Zeno Device to help clear up their acne, this is the place they should look to find information and get testimonials from others,” said Cory D. Bridgewater.

About Zeno

The Zeno Acne Device is an FDA approved acne clearing device for the at-home treatment of acne pimples. The Zeno Acne Device effectively eliminates up to 90% of acne blemishes within a 24 hour timeframe. The Zeno Acne Device is a handheld, portable electronic device that is clinically proven to make acne pimples disappear fast. In fact, for treating acne pimples, the Zeno Acne Device is the most scientifically advanced and effective acne clearing device available without a prescription. Zeno is designed for people with mild to moderate acne. Each acne blemish should be treated for 2 ½ minutes, two to three times throughout the course of a 24 hour period for best results.

About AcneClearingDevice.com

AcneClearingDevice.com is poised to become one of the nations leading online retailers of the Zeno Acne Clearing Device. AcneClearingDevice.com was launched in order to provide consumers with one centralized location on the web to learn more about the Zeno Acne Device and make their purchase. Since its launch in early 2006, AcneClearingDevice.com has experienced tremendous success in their pursuit to help educate consumers about the Zeno Acne Clearing Device.

Acne Herbal and Home Remedies

2006-03-15T16:10:00.000-08:00

There are many natural acne remedies being offered on the market today as alternatives to conventional acne treatments. Do these herbal products work?

The manufacturers claim they do. There are plenty of satisfied customers that say they do. The problem with herbal acne remedies lies not in the lack of testimonials but in the lack of scientific proof to back those testimonials.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) governs pharmaceutical products but there is no such agency to validate the health related claims of herbal products so, you must rely on your own judgement.

How then, do you decide whether or not herbal treatments and natural acne remedies are effective? Trial and error. Research the various herbs and learn what their special healing properties are. You will be amazed at what you discover and you may gain a new-found respect for the medical wisdom of our ancestors. Long before modern medicine people understood and relied solely on the medicinal powers of herbs.

Did you know that Echinacea, when taken internally is known to reduce inflammation and promote healing? Aloe Vera has long considered to be one of nature's miracles. When applied topically, it has excellent antibacterial and astringent properties. Tea Tree Oil is a very versatile and powerful antiseptic used to disinfect minor wounds.

Study the ingredients in natural acne remedies. If they contain herbs with the healing properties that you desire - try them. Experimenting with various herbal acne remedies and measuring your own results is the best way to determine their effectiveness.

It is interesting to note that your liver plays an important role in controlling and preventing acne.

Acne is caused by a surge of hormones, more specifically, the male hormones, testosterone and androgens, during various stages in life such as puberty, pregnancy and menopause. When hormone levels become excessive, the tiny sebaceous glands located at the base of each hair follicle, produce too much oil. This oil combined with dirt dead skin cells becomes trapped in pores and causes acne.

The liver is you body's purifier. It works to clear your body of excessive toxins and hormones. Improving your liver function helps your body to rid itself of excess hormones thereby improving your acne. Milk Thistle is commonly used for cleansing and strengthening the liver.

The best advice regarding natural acne remedies is to do your homework. Choose herbal supplements that are explicitly labeled from a reputable company and try them. You may be pleasantly surprised by the results!

Cynthia Barros publishes informative articles and product reviews of today's most popular acne treatments. Visit the Acne Skin Care Guide. It's the first step to a clearer complexion and greater self-esteem!

Acne Rosacea: Is It Curable?

2006-03-15T16:08:00.000-08:00

Thought you finally outgrew the days of bad skin and pimples? Well, think again!

Many adults suffer from acne in their late twenties and thirties, even those that had never experienced the problem in adolescence. There are generally two types of adult acne - the more common form called Acne Vulgaris, and the more rare form called Acne Rosacea.

It is estimated that up to 85% of the American population between the ages of 12 to 24 years of age have suffered from some form of Acne Vulgaris. However, only about 5% of the population, or 13 million people, experience the aggravation and "rosy" cheeks of Acne Rosacea.

Acne Rosacea is a skin condition that is generally restricted to the face and eyes. It generally affects people between the ages of 30 to 60 years old. The condition is characterized by pimples, redness, and broken blood vessels.

At the onset, a person's cheeks may tend to blush or flush very easily. However, as the rosacea develops further, redness will be noticeable around the nose area, and then extend over the remainder of the face. An extreme case might experience enlarged oil glands in the nose that can lead to an enlarged and bulbous red nose.

For those suffering from this condition, almost 50% will have issues extending to their eyes. Eye symptoms may include burning and tearing, redness, inflamed eyelids, or a scratchy feeling of something in the eyes.

Acne Rosacea is not medically dangerous, but is also incurable. The good news is that it can be controlled with treatment. The goal of the treatments is to minimize the symptoms and reduce sensitivity of the skin and eyes.

The first step in determining a treatment regimen is to identify possible "triggers", which will be different for each individual. Acne Rosacea generally flares-up when an affected person is exposed to certain environmental or dietary conditions. Some common "triggers" may include hot baths, exercise, wind, cold weather, and certain skin products. This is by no means a comprehensive list.

The key to relief is to identify those conditions which tend to aggravate your rosacea.

The National Rosacea Society recommends that you maintain a symptom diary. The purpose of your diary is to record what was eaten or the conditions immediately prior to the onset of a Rosacea flare-up. Over a few weeks time, you should start to see a pattern form that will give you insight into your own "triggers". Of course, once you have these "triggers" identified, you can avoid these conditions by modifying your lifestyle or eating habits.

Other factors can also contribute to the exacerbation of Rosacea and should be avoided if at all possible. These factors include: avoiding direct sunlight, reducing stress, avoiding long workouts or exertion in hot weather, and limiting spicy foods and hot beverages.

Besides avoiding known "triggers", symptoms can be treated with oral or topical antibiotics. Other medications similar to vitamin A are utilized in more extreme cases and are only available through your dermatologist. Also, laser surgery is available as a treatment alternative for reducing enlarged tissue on the nose and improving overall physical appearance.

Bill Wilson is a medical writer for a number of skin care publications. Bill focuses on treatment alternatives for acne skin disorders, including acne and acne rosacea.

Cyst Acne: Understanding Cystic Acne

2006-03-13T22:16:00.000-08:00

By Paton Jackson

Cystic acne is a common type of skin infection that is commonly found on teens.

Understanding what cystic acne is can help you to better treat this condition on your own body. For many individuals, it is traumatizing in the way that their outward appearance is flawed by these small but powerful infections. The skin becomes inflamed here and it may even hurt. The irritants are likely to be bacteria as well as a combination of other factors. The bottom line is, though, that people want and need results when it comes to treating cystic acne.

What Causes It?

Cystic acne is caused by when the oil ducts in the skin become clogged. This will lead to the ducts (or pores) becoming infected. The oil ducts are over producing oils that are generally need to help keep the skin moist as well as to help the hair follicle to ease out of the skin. Yet, for many teenagers, hormones are all out of control and this can cause these oil glands to simply produce too much oil. Eventually, bacteria find there way into this area and irritate it enough to cause the infection on the skin. This is what cystic acne is.

Treatments For It

While the causes of cystic acne are important, the treatments for it are just as important to those that are suffering from it. Many individuals, mostly teenagers will deal with this type of acne for at least several years of their life if they do have the right conditions for it. But, the good news is that there are acne treatments that really can work and work well for them. The best acne treatments are those that provide for all aspects of the condition.

1. They should treat the bacteria that are infecting the skin.

2. They should stop or slow down the production of oils through either destroying oil glands or through controlling hormone levels.

3. They should protect the face from new infections forming through methods such as cleansing and exfoliation.

Acne products are available that can do any and all of these things. If you are like most, you’ll want to get started on it right away. Start with natural acne products and then work on the acne treatments that are not working. You will soon see that cystic acne can respond to medication and treatment.

About the Author: We have made a research to find the best acne products. Find the results on Cystic acne products and info . Find more valuable information on http://www.tigilet.com – Web Content Experts

Diet can have affect on acne problem

2006-03-12T15:14:00.000-08:00

I have a lot of zits, and I'm really self-conscious about them. I went to a dermatologist and I'm about to go back, but the stuff the dermatologist gave me didn't help before, and [he said] it would take a couple of months to clear up. How can I feel more confident and think that it's not just the zits that people see on me? -- Nicole, 16, Austin, Texas

OK -- I totally feel you, sister -- I also had a major zit problem and thought it would never go away. I tried everything: every antibiotic, every lotion and I even went on Accutane twice. (Accutane is a very controversial pill that most doctors use only as a last resort for acne that doesn't respond to any other treatment.) Here's the only thing that ended up working for me: eating the right foods and drinking enough water. Whenever I'd read about drinking enough water and stuff in magazines, I'd just be like, Yeah, whatever, blah, blah, blah. But the fact is, now that I drink two tall Poland Spring bottles of water and I've cut the sweets and junk out of my diet (I eat lots of fish and veggies), my life has changed! You might not love vegetables and salmon --but I'm telling you, Nicole, once you see the effect they have on your skin, you will learn to live with them. Before you spend tons of time and money at the derm, just try changing your diet for a few months and see if you notice a difference. But your question has a lot more to do with just your skin: You need to feel more proud of yourself. What are you good at? (Don't say nothing!) If you're not sure, you need to try out different clubs and activities -- whether you do it at your school or in your community. For me? It was all about singing. Turned out that I was a really good singer, and so my successes in that arena (whether I had a solo in choir or the lead in the school play) made me feel like I was more than just what I looked like. It gave me something to feel very proud of. Find that thing for yourself. Everyone's got a talent. It's now your job to try different things that interest you to find out what yours is. Good luck!

Last night at my boyfriend's house, his aunt walked in when I didn't have my shirt or bra on. She told me not to come over for a while, yet my boyfriend says I should because it's not important. But I feel really uncomfortable and embarrassed now. What should I do about all of this? -- E.P., 17, Schenectady, N.Y.

Don't listen to your boyfriend -- he just wants to keep getting you naked! How selfish. Hopefully you learned something from this situation: You two have different values. You don't feel comfortable having people see you in a compromising position -- and he couldn't care less. Also, you have more respect for adults -- which is why you feel so uncomfortable. My advice: Get the aunt a little gift (like a plant) and say: "I'm really embarrassed about what happened. It wasn't respectful of us, and it won't happen again." And mean it. You should see this as a red flag about your boyfriend too. Stay with him only if you feel you can look out for yourself better than you did in the scenario with the aunt. Otherwise you'll find yourself in other bad situations -- and they might have more serious consequences.

Questions may be sent directly to Atoosa Rubenstein at: dearseventeen@hearst.com. Atoosa Rubenstein, the founding editor of CosmoGirl! magazine, is the editor in chief of Seventeen magazine.

A Doctor Written Guide To Acne Treatment and Cure

2006-03-12T06:37:00.000-08:00

Press Release on Acne Treatment and possible cure guide for people with acne.

Advances in our understanding of acne and its treatment means people no longer have to suffer for years with acne. This includes all spectrums of disease from mild to severe. This DOCTOR WRITTEN guide is for people who want the facts about acne without the myths. It is available FREE at www.acnefacts.blogspot.com

(PRWEB) February 21, 2006 -- Acne Vulgaris, Acne, Pimples, Zits they go by many names but for many they are all too common. Almost 80% of people will have acne in their teenage or young adult life. For some acne can have a strong negative impact one's psychological development, resulting in withdrawal from society and depression. It can also persist for years resulting in permanent disfigurement and scarring. Clearly, acne is a problem which has a definite impact on one's overall well being.

Fortunately, advances in our understanding of acne and its treatment means people no longer have to suffer for years with acne. This includes people with mild to severe disease. This doctor written guide helps one discover the facts and debunk the myths about acne. All information is based on the latest medical literature.

This guide in simple terms explains what really causes acne. This understanding is crucial as one then understands why various treatment regimens are prescribed. Perhaps as importantly, one will understand why other treatment regimens simply don't work. All major treatment modalities are reviewed as well as the reasons for each one. Many acne myths are debunked along the way leaving one with a clear understanding of the road to clear skin.

Acne Treatments

2006-03-10T19:49:00.000-08:00

Isotrexin
A topical gel thats active ingredients include Erythromycin 2% w/w and isotretinoin 0.05% w/w for the treatment of acne

Stridex
Stridex is a common acne treatment and prevention medicine. It comes in the form of pads contianed in a plastic tub of fifty-five pads. They come in a number of different strengths, and contain Salicylic acid, as an acne medication.

Levulan
Levulan photodynamic therapy is a treatment method for certain skin conditions developed by Dusa Pharmaceuticals. The active ingredient is δ-aminolevulinic acid (ALA). FDA approval for actinic keratosis was received in December 1999; it is also prescribed against acne but this is an off-label use, which means it is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

A 20% solution of ALA is applied to the lesions, and after 14–18 hours wait the skin is irradiated with blue light for 15 minutes. This generates an active form of oxygen in the skin that kills cells and bacteria. The treated areas are sensitive to light, and patients must protect themselves against bright sunshine for two or three days after treatment. Patients must stop using topical acne medicine and avoid steam rooms, hot showers, and generally protect the skin in every way possible for up to one week after treatment.

Clinical trials indicate an 80% success rate for face lesions and a 50% success rate for scalp lesions after a 12 week course of treatment.

Adapalene
Adapalene is a chemical compound that is primarily used as a topical treatment for acne. It is a retinoid, meaning it is chemically similar to Vitamin A, and is currently sold by Galderma Laboratories under the trade name Differin in many different forms. In pure form, adapalene is a white to off white powder that is insoluble in water.

Tretinoin
Retin-A is a trademarked brand name for Tretinoin, a retinoic acid cream used to treat acne and keratosis pilaris; it is claimed that it stimulates skin cell turnover and smoothes wrinkles. It is used by some as a hair loss treatment.

Azelaic acid
Azelaic acid is a saturated dicarboxylic acid found naturally in wheat, rye, and barley. It is a natural substance that is produced by Malassezia furfur (also known as Pityrosporum ovale), a yeast that lives on normal skin. It is effective against a number of skin conditions, such as mild to moderate acne, when applied topically in a cream formulation of 20%. Azelaic acid may be useful as a hair growth stimulant.

Tazorotene
Tazorotene commonly called Tazorac is a prescription topical retinoid sold as a cream or gel. This medication is approved for treatment of Psoriasis, Acne and sun damaged skin (Photodamage). It is commonly sold in two concentrations: 0.05% and 0.1%.

Common side effects include worsening of acne, dry skin, itchiness, redness and in some cases extreme drying and cracking of skin. For most patients these side-effect are uncomfortable but mild and decrease markedly after the first 2-4 weeks of use.

For best results dermatologists recommend applying the cream or gel once daily before bedtime after washing the face with a mild soap.

Retin-A
Retinoic acid, or Retin-A or vitamin A acid, is a carotenoid organic compound that is a component of visual pigments.

Medicinally, it is used in tretinoin creams for the treatment of acne and other skin disorders. It is also a component of many commercial products that are advertised as being able to slow skin aging or remove wrinkles.

Light therapy
Light therapy or phototherapy consists of exposure to specific wavelengths of light using lasers, LEDs, fluorescent lamps, or very bright, full-spectrum light, for a prescribed amount of time. It has proven effective in treating Acne vulgaris, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and for some people it has ameliorated delayed sleep phase syndrome. Proponents claim demonstrable benefits for skin conditions such as psoriasis, as well as more controversially, some degree of "skin rejuvenation".

Doxycycline
As well as the general indications for all members of the tetracycline antibiotics group, Doxycycline is frequently used to treat chronic prostatitis, sinusitis, syphilis, pelvic inflammatory disease, acne and rosacea. In addition it is used in the treatment and prophylaxis of Bacillus anthracis (anthrax) and malaria.

It is also effective against Yersinia pestis (the infectious agent of bubonic plague) and is prescribed for the treatment of Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever.