Chances are, if you find yourself reading this article, you have suffered the feelings of embarassment, self-consciousness and insecurity an acne breakout can bring on in what seems like the blink of an eye. Suddenly, you find yourself checking the mirror every hour on the hour, hoping the blemishes on your face have spontaneously cleared and you can breathe a sigh of relief. You feel sure that everyone you come in contact with is zooming in on each and every blemish, and why wouldn't they be? It's certainly the first thing YOU see when you look in the mirror!
Now, imagine you experience this exact scenario every day of your life, as many men and women do who suffer chronic adult acne, far beyond the "acne prone" years of adolescence. The fact is, acne remains a very real and persistent problem in today's society for men and women, teenagers and adults, and instead of going away or getting better, it seems to be more prominent and more severe than ever. What this can be attributed to is the subject of much debate in the medical and dermatological community. Higher stress levels? More hormones and synthetic chemicals in our foods? Genes? Changing diets? It's anyone's guess, but the fact remains that acne is a very real cause for emotional distress, self-consciousness and insecurity for many, and it shows no signs of getting better.
With the advent of modern dermatology and medical science, there have been some excellent new products that combine modern science and nature to form a hybrid product superior to many of it's prescription counterparts, and highly effective for many who have found that traditional treatments failed them in the long run. The aim of these products is to facilitate hormonal balance, therefore targeting acne at the source, from the inside, rather than the outside alone.
These herbal acne medicines have proven highly effective in combatting acne by "cleansing" the skin from the inside, getting to the source of the problem by balancing the natural testosterone and estrogen found within the male and female body. Excess testosterone and excess estrogen are the primary causes of acne, hence the most common years for acne breakouts are the teenage years of hormonal turmoil.
Natural acne products can actually clear the skin for good, only requiring occasional follow up treatments, whereas conventional methods can require constant treatment, and the results disappear as soon as the individual weens themselves off the medicine. Also, many acne treatments prescribed by doctors or dermatologists are antibiotic in nature. Continuous antibiotic treatment can actually result in antibiotic resistance in the body, meaning when you really need your body to respond to antibiotic treatment, such as in illness, it may have built a tolerance and need more powerful meds to respond correctly. Some prescribed acne medications can even be dangerous, and are to be taken only for the most severe cases of acne and with the utmost caution (Acutane).
These treatments and systems are designed to target the hormones, balancing them in many cases for good, and requiring little or no follow up treatment or monitoring. They can work for people (myself a case-in-point), who have had every other conventional acne treatment fail them time and time again, or become ineffective over time.
Overall, herbal acne remedies have proven to be a highly effective and cost effective alternative for countless acne sufferers. Why not try it, and join the Clear Skin Club?
Danna Schneider is the webmaster of the beauty review and advice website CosmeticsGalore.com ( http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com ). She is a cosmetics, cosmeceutical and beauty product researcher and enthusiast. Additional acne information and acne product reviews can be found at http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com/acuzine-reviews.html .
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Acne Scar Treatment and Removal
Beautiful skin, without acne scars, is every woman's dream (and some men's too). But it seems only a small fortunate group with good genes ever attain it. But always remember that skin is a reflection of one's health and is the largest organ in the body.
Hence, it makes sense to cleanse and nourish from both the INSIDE and OUT. Your face and body do not need more clogging, synthetic oils and lotions. They need real nutrition that can make a difference when applied topically as well as nutrition internally to enhance detoxification and a healthy blood supply to the vessels beneath the skin's surface.
Natural Acne Scar Treatment Starts with Healthy Blood
That sounds odd I'm sure, but what determines the appearance of our skin, among other things? The existence of poisons (or the lack thereof) and nutrients within the bloodstream feeding the skin cells.
Healthy skin will never exist in the presence of health-depriving toxins from pesticides, PCBs, dioxins, etc. How do we get rid of these guys? Well, any good herbalist would recommend good diets including lots of raw fruits and veggies along with whole grains, seeds and nuts.
Of course, adding plenty of purified water is also vital. Perhaps a quality mineral and vitamin formula, too. But aside from the basics, what else can be done? A program of detoxification.
Detoxification for Healthy Skin
To get healthier, which includes acquiring healthy skin, most herbalists recommend colon cleansing. Then, urinary tract cleansing. Then comes liver, lymph, lung and blood support. You'll find excellent products in several places, but we've had success with what's offered here:Electrical Body Products.
If one can eliminate most refined sugars from the diet, that would be a plus, but that's difficult for most people. Try cutting down, at least.
But the most crucial form of detoxification may be sauna therapy. And not just any sauna will do. Several research papers have shown the efficiency of far infrared (or radiant) heat therapy.
Far Infrared Sauna Therapy
Whole-body hyperthermia treatment causes the excretion of sweat from the sebaceous glands of the body, where these harmful materials are stored. Sweat is not excreted from the sebaceous glands using a normal sauna.
Carbon heaters emit far infrared rays which match the body's own wavelength, which is essential to improving blood circulation and the health of internal organs in the body. In the lying position, the hyperthermic chamber treatment does not lower oxygen levels in the blood or increase lactic acid.
Sweating therapy with carbon heat allows your body to produce a great deal more perspiration through your pores. Why is that good? Because sweating therapy is excellent for overall purification and balancing and can effectively be combined with other cleansing therapies.
About one liter of sweat should be excreted from the user during a 30 minute treatment. This volume of sweat cannot be matched by a normal sauna. Here is our recommendation: hyperthermic chamber.
The skin is the largest eliminative organ in the body and the elimination through sweating is more passive and requires less expenditure of energy than elimination via the kidneys and bowels. And with the hyperthermic chamber above, one has a tool for heating the body core temperature - vital for destruction of viruses and bacteria.
Well, that's the cleansing and nourishing side of skin care, what about topical help for fading or reducing acne scars?
Nutritious Skin Care for Acne Scar Fading and Removal
Detergent soaps do nothing for your skin except change its pH to alkaline and cause more damage than good. Use, instead, a high quality vegetable soap which works to protect and nourish your skin. Now "natural" means something different depending on whom you ask, but we think natural means to avoid using artificial dyes and to use only 100% vegetable bases.
Then, to remove dead skin cells from the surface of our skin, French Green Clay and Fuller's Earth Clay work wonders. This combo always promises us a smile with its remarkable results. The minerals and sun-dried features of these clays (and perhaps some Neem bark powder added to the mix) help dull, lifeless complexions revitalize through oxidation and circulation. This way, the skin's ability to use and retain vital oxygen is increased.
Why is that important to you? Because this creates a healthy, clean environment for the skin, and acts as a catalyst for transporting the micronutrients found not only in these clays but in the fabulous Neem bark powder, into the deeper layers of the skin. You are left with a more youthful, clearer, and vibrant appearance.
These clays and neem bark powders have enormous drawing capabilities and even a lightening effect on the outer epidermal skin layer. That's why people of all skin types can benefit from their dramatic effect on even the most severe acne conditions, as well as remineralizing, hydrating and exfoliating normal to dry skin types. By removing dead skin cells and reoxygenating the skin, your complexion can be detoxified and removed of bacteria, while healing is promoted.
And to top it all off, your last crucial step for acne scar treatment must be organic rosehip seed oil.
Rosehip Seed Oil For Beautiful Skin
Ask any dermatologist what therapies work best to renew skin, and his/her solutions would include Vitamins C and A in a topical application. However, it's very difficult to find a stable form of Vitamin C that could reach deep enough into your skin to do any good at all. And laboratory synthesized trans-retinoic acids (Vitamin A derivatives) have harsh side effects.
It's no accident that organically grown and tested essential oils and organic rosehip seed oil contains essential fatty acids, a high concentration of bio-available Vitamin C and natural tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A.
In this natural state as part of a complex system of unsaturated essential fatty acids, these nutrients' actions are controlled and slowly released by nature, eliminating risk of overdoses or harsh side effects thus helping to boost collagen and elastin levels for smoother, firmer skin.
Rosehip oil has been tested on old scars and improvement was noted in all cases. These old and new scars were caused by acne and otherwise. Time will fail us if we were to relate all the good experiences we've heard about scar removal using these luscious oils, but suffice it to say you can be the next living testimonial about healthy beautiful skin with faded acne scars (and in many cases, elimination of scars altogether).
Apply morning and evening and several times throughout the day if you are targeting both new and old scars or keloids.
In just weeks your skin will look smoother, healthier and more vibrant.
So that's our story and experience in creating beautiful skin and we think with the above program, you can't but improve your skin from lifeless and dull to vibrantly alive and acne scar free.
Rosehip Seed Oil Formula: Organic Rosehip Seed Oil Formula
Article by Rita Lambros-Segur, M.H. of Electrical Body, Inc. Rita has helped thousands of regular folks improve their health-restoring strategies. Visit Electrical Body and infrared saunas for FREE articles, ezines, catalog, a great e-book offer and more.
Hence, it makes sense to cleanse and nourish from both the INSIDE and OUT. Your face and body do not need more clogging, synthetic oils and lotions. They need real nutrition that can make a difference when applied topically as well as nutrition internally to enhance detoxification and a healthy blood supply to the vessels beneath the skin's surface.
Natural Acne Scar Treatment Starts with Healthy Blood
That sounds odd I'm sure, but what determines the appearance of our skin, among other things? The existence of poisons (or the lack thereof) and nutrients within the bloodstream feeding the skin cells.
Healthy skin will never exist in the presence of health-depriving toxins from pesticides, PCBs, dioxins, etc. How do we get rid of these guys? Well, any good herbalist would recommend good diets including lots of raw fruits and veggies along with whole grains, seeds and nuts.
Of course, adding plenty of purified water is also vital. Perhaps a quality mineral and vitamin formula, too. But aside from the basics, what else can be done? A program of detoxification.
Detoxification for Healthy Skin
To get healthier, which includes acquiring healthy skin, most herbalists recommend colon cleansing. Then, urinary tract cleansing. Then comes liver, lymph, lung and blood support. You'll find excellent products in several places, but we've had success with what's offered here:Electrical Body Products.
If one can eliminate most refined sugars from the diet, that would be a plus, but that's difficult for most people. Try cutting down, at least.
But the most crucial form of detoxification may be sauna therapy. And not just any sauna will do. Several research papers have shown the efficiency of far infrared (or radiant) heat therapy.
Far Infrared Sauna Therapy
Whole-body hyperthermia treatment causes the excretion of sweat from the sebaceous glands of the body, where these harmful materials are stored. Sweat is not excreted from the sebaceous glands using a normal sauna.
Carbon heaters emit far infrared rays which match the body's own wavelength, which is essential to improving blood circulation and the health of internal organs in the body. In the lying position, the hyperthermic chamber treatment does not lower oxygen levels in the blood or increase lactic acid.
Sweating therapy with carbon heat allows your body to produce a great deal more perspiration through your pores. Why is that good? Because sweating therapy is excellent for overall purification and balancing and can effectively be combined with other cleansing therapies.
About one liter of sweat should be excreted from the user during a 30 minute treatment. This volume of sweat cannot be matched by a normal sauna. Here is our recommendation: hyperthermic chamber.
The skin is the largest eliminative organ in the body and the elimination through sweating is more passive and requires less expenditure of energy than elimination via the kidneys and bowels. And with the hyperthermic chamber above, one has a tool for heating the body core temperature - vital for destruction of viruses and bacteria.
Well, that's the cleansing and nourishing side of skin care, what about topical help for fading or reducing acne scars?
Nutritious Skin Care for Acne Scar Fading and Removal
Detergent soaps do nothing for your skin except change its pH to alkaline and cause more damage than good. Use, instead, a high quality vegetable soap which works to protect and nourish your skin. Now "natural" means something different depending on whom you ask, but we think natural means to avoid using artificial dyes and to use only 100% vegetable bases.
Then, to remove dead skin cells from the surface of our skin, French Green Clay and Fuller's Earth Clay work wonders. This combo always promises us a smile with its remarkable results. The minerals and sun-dried features of these clays (and perhaps some Neem bark powder added to the mix) help dull, lifeless complexions revitalize through oxidation and circulation. This way, the skin's ability to use and retain vital oxygen is increased.
Why is that important to you? Because this creates a healthy, clean environment for the skin, and acts as a catalyst for transporting the micronutrients found not only in these clays but in the fabulous Neem bark powder, into the deeper layers of the skin. You are left with a more youthful, clearer, and vibrant appearance.
These clays and neem bark powders have enormous drawing capabilities and even a lightening effect on the outer epidermal skin layer. That's why people of all skin types can benefit from their dramatic effect on even the most severe acne conditions, as well as remineralizing, hydrating and exfoliating normal to dry skin types. By removing dead skin cells and reoxygenating the skin, your complexion can be detoxified and removed of bacteria, while healing is promoted.
And to top it all off, your last crucial step for acne scar treatment must be organic rosehip seed oil.
Rosehip Seed Oil For Beautiful Skin
Ask any dermatologist what therapies work best to renew skin, and his/her solutions would include Vitamins C and A in a topical application. However, it's very difficult to find a stable form of Vitamin C that could reach deep enough into your skin to do any good at all. And laboratory synthesized trans-retinoic acids (Vitamin A derivatives) have harsh side effects.
It's no accident that organically grown and tested essential oils and organic rosehip seed oil contains essential fatty acids, a high concentration of bio-available Vitamin C and natural tretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A.
In this natural state as part of a complex system of unsaturated essential fatty acids, these nutrients' actions are controlled and slowly released by nature, eliminating risk of overdoses or harsh side effects thus helping to boost collagen and elastin levels for smoother, firmer skin.
Rosehip oil has been tested on old scars and improvement was noted in all cases. These old and new scars were caused by acne and otherwise. Time will fail us if we were to relate all the good experiences we've heard about scar removal using these luscious oils, but suffice it to say you can be the next living testimonial about healthy beautiful skin with faded acne scars (and in many cases, elimination of scars altogether).
Apply morning and evening and several times throughout the day if you are targeting both new and old scars or keloids.
In just weeks your skin will look smoother, healthier and more vibrant.
So that's our story and experience in creating beautiful skin and we think with the above program, you can't but improve your skin from lifeless and dull to vibrantly alive and acne scar free.
Rosehip Seed Oil Formula: Organic Rosehip Seed Oil Formula
Article by Rita Lambros-Segur, M.H. of Electrical Body, Inc. Rita has helped thousands of regular folks improve their health-restoring strategies. Visit Electrical Body and infrared saunas for FREE articles, ezines, catalog, a great e-book offer and more.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Solutions to Rosacea & Acne Rosacea - Treatments That Eradicate the Redness
Rosacea, or acne rosacea, is clinically defined as a chronic "acneiform" disorder which affects both the skin and the eyes. It's location on the human body is usually the most sun-exposed areas, such as the face and the chest. Rosacea usually varies in severity, and manifests in epsiodes of flushing and inflammation of the affected areas. Clinical research has shown inflammatory episodes to be triggered and/or worsened by the consumption of spicy foods, alchoholic beverages, and hot drinks. The skin lesions which can accompany rosacea (acne rosacea), differ from acne in that spots of inflammation do not swell with fluid and come to a "head" like acne vulgaris postules do.
Rosacea is most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 60, and women are affected almost twice as often as men according to some studies. Although there is much medical speculation that rosacea and acne rosacea frequently affect fair skinned people of European and Celtic descent, there have never been any conclusive findings supporting this theory.
So, if you are an individual who suffers from rosacea, what are your treatment options, and what actions can you take to relieve these symptoms? One course of action is to have a dermatologist prescribe a common rosacea medication, such as oral tetracycline, and maybe a topical ointment as well, like erythromycin. If you want to skip the doctor's office route, there are now some excellent herbal and all natural rosacea treatments available today that will eliminate rosacea just as well as, if not better than, their prescription counterparts.
Regardless of the course of treatment you end up choosing to cure your rosacea symptoms, there are some guidelines you can adhere to in your daily life and skin care regimen that will also help alleviate your rosacea symptoms.
Since rosacea and acne rosacea symptoms are caused in part by the dilation or enlargement of tiny blood vessels under the skin's surface, avoiding hot and spicy foods, alcohol, and hot beverages should become a general rule of thumb in your daily life. Also, a diet rich in multiple vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A, has show to benefit rosacea and acne rosacea sufferers. If you are a smoker, it is imperative you quit. Smoking can aggravate rosacea, and causes problems with circulation, which can lead to other skin problems. Wear a good, non-irritating (PABA free) sunscreen at all times, especially on your face and chest.
Be sure to use a gentle skin cleanser without harsh abrasives or other harsh chemicals/ingredients. Excessive alcohol and harsh chemicals abound in many cleansers, so be sure your cleanser is free of irritants. There are some great anti-redness masks, serums, and gentle cleansers out there for rosacea sufferers that will soothe and calm the skin, bringing back it's normal color and balance.
The good news is, Rosacea is a very treatable problem now, and there are some great natural products available to those who can't afford a dermatologist, or simply have an aversion to doctor's visits and man-made medications and prefer to "go natural". With these high-tech nutreceuticals, your skin will be back to it's calm, gorgeous self in no time!
Danna Schneider is the webmaster of CosmeticsGalore.com, a cosmetics and cosmetic correction and enhancement product review site. Rosacea treatment product information can be found at http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com/acne-rosacea-treatments.html The site features the latest information on the newest technology in the cosmeceutical and nutreceutical field, as well as advice, reviews and customer testimonials.
Rosacea is most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 60, and women are affected almost twice as often as men according to some studies. Although there is much medical speculation that rosacea and acne rosacea frequently affect fair skinned people of European and Celtic descent, there have never been any conclusive findings supporting this theory.
So, if you are an individual who suffers from rosacea, what are your treatment options, and what actions can you take to relieve these symptoms? One course of action is to have a dermatologist prescribe a common rosacea medication, such as oral tetracycline, and maybe a topical ointment as well, like erythromycin. If you want to skip the doctor's office route, there are now some excellent herbal and all natural rosacea treatments available today that will eliminate rosacea just as well as, if not better than, their prescription counterparts.
Regardless of the course of treatment you end up choosing to cure your rosacea symptoms, there are some guidelines you can adhere to in your daily life and skin care regimen that will also help alleviate your rosacea symptoms.
Since rosacea and acne rosacea symptoms are caused in part by the dilation or enlargement of tiny blood vessels under the skin's surface, avoiding hot and spicy foods, alcohol, and hot beverages should become a general rule of thumb in your daily life. Also, a diet rich in multiple vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin A, has show to benefit rosacea and acne rosacea sufferers. If you are a smoker, it is imperative you quit. Smoking can aggravate rosacea, and causes problems with circulation, which can lead to other skin problems. Wear a good, non-irritating (PABA free) sunscreen at all times, especially on your face and chest.
Be sure to use a gentle skin cleanser without harsh abrasives or other harsh chemicals/ingredients. Excessive alcohol and harsh chemicals abound in many cleansers, so be sure your cleanser is free of irritants. There are some great anti-redness masks, serums, and gentle cleansers out there for rosacea sufferers that will soothe and calm the skin, bringing back it's normal color and balance.
The good news is, Rosacea is a very treatable problem now, and there are some great natural products available to those who can't afford a dermatologist, or simply have an aversion to doctor's visits and man-made medications and prefer to "go natural". With these high-tech nutreceuticals, your skin will be back to it's calm, gorgeous self in no time!
Danna Schneider is the webmaster of CosmeticsGalore.com, a cosmetics and cosmetic correction and enhancement product review site. Rosacea treatment product information can be found at http://www.cosmeticsgalore.com/acne-rosacea-treatments.html The site features the latest information on the newest technology in the cosmeceutical and nutreceutical field, as well as advice, reviews and customer testimonials.
Acne Care for Adults
Roughly 20% of acne cases being treated in the United States belong to adults. For many adults, what was thought of as a teenage affliction has continued well into their twenties and thirties. For other adults suffering from acne, the outbreaks did not start until they reached their twenties.
The causes of adult acne vary and can be any one or a combination of the following conditions.
Stress
Until recently, stress related acne was a myth. Researchers are now beginning to understand the correlation between stress and acne. For adult acne sufferers, stress is considered to be the leading cause to post-pubescent breakouts.
When we are exposed to stressful situations, the brain triggers the central nervous system, which in turn sends signals to the rest of the body as part of a primitive fight or flight response. Part of this response is hormonal release from our adrenal glands and fatty secretions from the sebaceous glands, which lay beneath the skin.
Both hormonal imbalance and fatty secretions, which can clog pores, are known contributors to acne outbreaks.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances as a cause of adult acne primarily affect women. Imbalances that occur during a woman's menstrual cycle or as a result of pregnancy can lead to acne outbreaks.
There are adult males who report that they have monthly acne episodes. While men obviously do not menstruate, it is believed that men may have hormonal cycles similar to women.
Coffee ConsumptionAdults tend to ingest more coffee than do teens. The caffeine in coffee and tea promotes the production of cortisol, which is also known as the stress hormone. As noted, hormone imbalances are known contributors to adult acne.
Smoking
The chemicals introduced into the body by cigarette smoking limit blood circulation to skin cells, inhibiting the skin's ability to heal and regenerate. The toxins released in cigarette smoke can clog pores and promote bacterial growth in pores, all of which contributes to adult acne.
Heredity
Recent research has shown that people are more likely to suffer from adult acne if they have a family history of adult acne sufferers.
EnvironmentalJob conditions that expose the skin to high levels of pollutants, irritants, or humidity can lead to an increase in adult acne.
Cosmetics
? Poorly formulated cosmetics that are heavy or greasy can clog skin pores, trapping bacteria, dirt, and oils resulting in adult acne breakouts. Covering acne with makeup can make the condition worse.
BIO:
Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and currently provides information on treating acne, pimples, and zits, via an objective informational skincare website, http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com
The causes of adult acne vary and can be any one or a combination of the following conditions.
Stress
Until recently, stress related acne was a myth. Researchers are now beginning to understand the correlation between stress and acne. For adult acne sufferers, stress is considered to be the leading cause to post-pubescent breakouts.
When we are exposed to stressful situations, the brain triggers the central nervous system, which in turn sends signals to the rest of the body as part of a primitive fight or flight response. Part of this response is hormonal release from our adrenal glands and fatty secretions from the sebaceous glands, which lay beneath the skin.
Both hormonal imbalance and fatty secretions, which can clog pores, are known contributors to acne outbreaks.
Hormonal Imbalances
Hormonal imbalances as a cause of adult acne primarily affect women. Imbalances that occur during a woman's menstrual cycle or as a result of pregnancy can lead to acne outbreaks.
There are adult males who report that they have monthly acne episodes. While men obviously do not menstruate, it is believed that men may have hormonal cycles similar to women.
Coffee ConsumptionAdults tend to ingest more coffee than do teens. The caffeine in coffee and tea promotes the production of cortisol, which is also known as the stress hormone. As noted, hormone imbalances are known contributors to adult acne.
Smoking
The chemicals introduced into the body by cigarette smoking limit blood circulation to skin cells, inhibiting the skin's ability to heal and regenerate. The toxins released in cigarette smoke can clog pores and promote bacterial growth in pores, all of which contributes to adult acne.
Heredity
Recent research has shown that people are more likely to suffer from adult acne if they have a family history of adult acne sufferers.
EnvironmentalJob conditions that expose the skin to high levels of pollutants, irritants, or humidity can lead to an increase in adult acne.
Cosmetics
? Poorly formulated cosmetics that are heavy or greasy can clog skin pores, trapping bacteria, dirt, and oils resulting in adult acne breakouts. Covering acne with makeup can make the condition worse.
BIO:
Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and currently provides information on treating acne, pimples, and zits, via an objective informational skincare website, http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com
The Importance of Water in Caring For Acne
The benefits of water as part of our daily lives are undeniable. We use it to prepare food, to drink, and to bathe. What many people do not know is that water also plays an important roll in the reduction and treatment of acne flare-ups.
During an average day, most people lose almost two liters of water through perspiration, respiration, and waste removal. Include a hot humid day, strenuous work, or athletic activity and the amount of fluid loss multiplies significantly. Water is crucial to healthy cells, and healthy cells, particularly at the skin level where cells are exposed to damaging environmental conditions, can reduce acne outbreaks.
When cells are deprived of water, they become dehydrated. Dehydrated cells do not function properly and are unable to rebuild, heal themselves, or remove waste efficiently.
Sadly, most people do not know that they are dehydrated, or they feel that they are replenishing their body with water through coffee, alcohol, or soft drinks. Yet the caffeine, alcohol, and sugars contained in these liquids actually contribute to dehydration and introduce toxins.
Consuming enough pure water to replenish what the body has lost can greatly enhance your cells' ability to function properly and reduce acne blemishes.
Consuming adequate amounts of water-anywhere from six to eight large glasses of water per day-is beneficial to cell health. But if the water you are consuming is not pure and contains minerals and toxins, these unwanted chemicals will be transported to the cellular level and can actually contribute to the cells' inability to function properly, often causing of acne.
If your water quality is questionable, investing in bottled water or some sort of water purification system can be beneficial to your body's overall health. Water is unflavored and is not suppose to have a taste. If your drinking water has a recognizable taste or leaves an aftertaste, chances are it is not as pure as it could be.
Proper cleansing with water can also help to reduce or eliminate acne. Soaps and other cleansers that we use on our faces and bodies usually contain high levels of alkaline, which can disrupt the balance-as can hard water.
As a treatment for acne, cleansing the face with a solution of purified warm water mixed with salt will help to remove excess oil and dirt from your face without over drying it. Over drying of the face can cause your body to respond with excess oil secretion that can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and currently provides information on treating acne, pimples, and zits, via an objective informational skincare website, http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com
During an average day, most people lose almost two liters of water through perspiration, respiration, and waste removal. Include a hot humid day, strenuous work, or athletic activity and the amount of fluid loss multiplies significantly. Water is crucial to healthy cells, and healthy cells, particularly at the skin level where cells are exposed to damaging environmental conditions, can reduce acne outbreaks.
When cells are deprived of water, they become dehydrated. Dehydrated cells do not function properly and are unable to rebuild, heal themselves, or remove waste efficiently.
Sadly, most people do not know that they are dehydrated, or they feel that they are replenishing their body with water through coffee, alcohol, or soft drinks. Yet the caffeine, alcohol, and sugars contained in these liquids actually contribute to dehydration and introduce toxins.
Consuming enough pure water to replenish what the body has lost can greatly enhance your cells' ability to function properly and reduce acne blemishes.
Consuming adequate amounts of water-anywhere from six to eight large glasses of water per day-is beneficial to cell health. But if the water you are consuming is not pure and contains minerals and toxins, these unwanted chemicals will be transported to the cellular level and can actually contribute to the cells' inability to function properly, often causing of acne.
If your water quality is questionable, investing in bottled water or some sort of water purification system can be beneficial to your body's overall health. Water is unflavored and is not suppose to have a taste. If your drinking water has a recognizable taste or leaves an aftertaste, chances are it is not as pure as it could be.
Proper cleansing with water can also help to reduce or eliminate acne. Soaps and other cleansers that we use on our faces and bodies usually contain high levels of alkaline, which can disrupt the balance-as can hard water.
As a treatment for acne, cleansing the face with a solution of purified warm water mixed with salt will help to remove excess oil and dirt from your face without over drying it. Over drying of the face can cause your body to respond with excess oil secretion that can lead to clogged pores and acne breakouts.
Greg Podsakoff is a former acne sufferer, and currently provides information on treating acne, pimples, and zits, via an objective informational skincare website, http://www.acne-treatments-guide.com
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Acne Treatment
Acne is an annoying skin condition that affects people of every age, gender, and race. The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. Acne is an age old problem that has likely been plaguing people for centuries. But there are numerous treatment methods available for this bothersome condition. Read on to learn more about acne, and what you can do to treat it.
Who Gets Acne?
Acne usually begins around the time of puberty. More than eighty percent of teenagers and preteens will develop acne to some extent. It affects both males and females, but boys are more likely to have severe acne and to have acne that continues into adulthood.
What Causes Acne?
Acne can be caused by a number of factors. Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a common cause of acne, as is the use of certain medication, steroids, on the contraceptive pill. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Androgens are sex hormones that are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. Acne is also caused by ingesting a lot of red meat, milk, sugar and white flour. They are male hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these oil glands become overactive and the exit from the gland is blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
How Should I Treat My Acne?
Over ninety percent of acne patients respond to treatment, although the treatment may need to be continued for months or even years. Here are a few common treatment methods that can be used for acne.
Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.
Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 3 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Remedies: Herbs such as chamomile, lavender, juniper, bergamot, dandelion root, and burdock root can be used to reduce toxicity and improve the overall condition of the skin. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action.
Complementary Treatment
Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve acne.
Homeopathy: For patients with pustules and blind boils, especially on the face, neck, and back, may be helped by Kali brom. Selenium is often used for acne sufferers with oily skin, blackheads, and pustules. And hepar sulph. Is typically used for patients who suffer from pustules that are painful and filled with yellow pus.
Conventional Treatment
Medication: Conventional acne medications may be topical- applied directly to the skin-, or they may be systemic- taken internally.
Dr. Group heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.
Who Gets Acne?
Acne usually begins around the time of puberty. More than eighty percent of teenagers and preteens will develop acne to some extent. It affects both males and females, but boys are more likely to have severe acne and to have acne that continues into adulthood.
What Causes Acne?
Acne can be caused by a number of factors. Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a common cause of acne, as is the use of certain medication, steroids, on the contraceptive pill. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Androgens are sex hormones that are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. Acne is also caused by ingesting a lot of red meat, milk, sugar and white flour. They are male hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these oil glands become overactive and the exit from the gland is blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
How Should I Treat My Acne?
Over ninety percent of acne patients respond to treatment, although the treatment may need to be continued for months or even years. Here are a few common treatment methods that can be used for acne.
Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.
Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 3 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Remedies: Herbs such as chamomile, lavender, juniper, bergamot, dandelion root, and burdock root can be used to reduce toxicity and improve the overall condition of the skin. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action.
Complementary Treatment
Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve acne.
Homeopathy: For patients with pustules and blind boils, especially on the face, neck, and back, may be helped by Kali brom. Selenium is often used for acne sufferers with oily skin, blackheads, and pustules. And hepar sulph. Is typically used for patients who suffer from pustules that are painful and filled with yellow pus.
Conventional Treatment
Medication: Conventional acne medications may be topical- applied directly to the skin-, or they may be systemic- taken internally.
Dr. Group heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Adult Acne
Acne is bad enough when it strikes with puberty. But when it continues or strikes again in adulthood, it can be a real nuisance. Acne is a skin condition that usually begins around the time of puberty. More than eighty percent of teenagers and preteens will develop acne to some extent. But it can affect people of every age, gender, and race. It affects both males and females, but boys are more likely to have severe acne and to have acne that continues into adult acne.
The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. Acne is an age old problem that has likely been plaguing people of all ages for centuries.
What Causes Adult Acne?
Acne is an inflammation of the skin that can form in adulthood just as easily as it forms in pubescence. Acne is caused by a number of factors. Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a common cause of acne, as is the use of certain medications and steroids. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Acne occurs most often to teens and preteens because these androgens are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. But these sex hormones are secreted into adulthood as well and can continue to cause problems with acne. Poor dietary habits and lack of exercise also contribute to adult acne.
Androgens are male sex hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these oil glands become overactive and the exit from the gland is blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
How Do I Treat Adult Acne?
Over ninety percent of acne patients, both teens and adults, respond to treatment, although the treatment may need to be continued for months or even years. Here are a few of the most common herbal, homeopathic, and traditional methods that can be used to treat adult acne.
Adult Acne Products
Home Therapy: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar swabs and other astringent cleansers work to remove the oil buildup that may become blocked in the skin's glands. These products may cause dryness, itching, and redness, so be sure to use them only on problem areas.
Herbs: Herbs such as chamomile, lavender, juniper, bergamot, dandelion root, and burdock root can be used to reduce toxicity and improve the overall condition of the skin. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action. Witch hazel has excellent astringent properties and may be very effective on adult acne.
Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve adult acne.
Surgery: In moderate to severe cases of acne, doctors may use surgery to open up the blemishes and remove blackheads and whiteheads. Unlike medication treatments, the effects of acne surgery are usually more immediate. And surgery is also effective in reducing the development and visibility of adult acne scars.
Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.
Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 4 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap, Oxy-Powder and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group is heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.
The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. Acne is an age old problem that has likely been plaguing people of all ages for centuries.
What Causes Adult Acne?
Acne is an inflammation of the skin that can form in adulthood just as easily as it forms in pubescence. Acne is caused by a number of factors. Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a common cause of acne, as is the use of certain medications and steroids. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Acne occurs most often to teens and preteens because these androgens are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. But these sex hormones are secreted into adulthood as well and can continue to cause problems with acne. Poor dietary habits and lack of exercise also contribute to adult acne.
Androgens are male sex hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these oil glands become overactive and the exit from the gland is blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
How Do I Treat Adult Acne?
Over ninety percent of acne patients, both teens and adults, respond to treatment, although the treatment may need to be continued for months or even years. Here are a few of the most common herbal, homeopathic, and traditional methods that can be used to treat adult acne.
Adult Acne Products
Home Therapy: Organic Apple Cider Vinegar swabs and other astringent cleansers work to remove the oil buildup that may become blocked in the skin's glands. These products may cause dryness, itching, and redness, so be sure to use them only on problem areas.
Herbs: Herbs such as chamomile, lavender, juniper, bergamot, dandelion root, and burdock root can be used to reduce toxicity and improve the overall condition of the skin. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action. Witch hazel has excellent astringent properties and may be very effective on adult acne.
Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve adult acne.
Surgery: In moderate to severe cases of acne, doctors may use surgery to open up the blemishes and remove blackheads and whiteheads. Unlike medication treatments, the effects of acne surgery are usually more immediate. And surgery is also effective in reducing the development and visibility of adult acne scars.
Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.
Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 4 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap, Oxy-Powder and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group is heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Acne Scars
Acne is an inflammation of the skin that affects people from every country and every culture around the world. In the US, acne is predominantly thought of as a teenage dilemma, as more than eighty percent of teens and preteens will develop some form of acne. However, the condition certainly affects a large number of adults and even infants. The scientific name for the condition is acne vulgaris because acne usually strikes in plainly visible locations such as the face, neck, chest and back. There are various types of acne that range in annoyance, severity, and healing time. The most severe type of acne may even lead to scars that if not treated properly, may be visible for a lifetime. If you or a loved one is troubled by severe acne, here's what you need to know about acne scars and what you need to do to avoid and care for them.
How Does Acne Form?
Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a potential cause of acne, as is the use of certain medication and steroids. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Acne is also aggravated by milk or dairy products, red meat and fast food. Androgens are sex hormones that are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. They are male hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these overactive oil glands become blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
Types Of Acne
Acne blemishes are categorized into four grades, ranging from mild to very severe.
Grade I: Mild acne falls into this category. People with grade I acne generally have blackheads and whiteheads but pimples are not present. Grade II: The condition is considered moderate acne when blackheads, whiteheads, and small pimples are present, but they are confined to the face and the inflammation they cause is minimal. Grade III: Severe acne includes blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper pimples with more pronounced swelling. Grade IV: acne is considered very severe when it occurs on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back. Pustules and deeper cysts occur with very severe acne and scarring may result if the condition is not cared for properly. Preventing Acne Scars
The most important rule for acne sufferers to remember is that you should never pick or squeeze acne blemishes. This can lead to the spread of acne and the development of acne scars. Instead, there are a number of herbal, homeopathic, and traditional formulas that can be used to treat acne and prevent the development of acne scars. Herbs work naturally with the body to reduce acne blemishes and prevent the development of acne scars. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action. Witch hazel has excellent astringent properties and may be very effective on acne.
Relieving Acne Scars
Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve acne, and prevent the development of acne scars.
Surgery: In moderate to severe cases of acne, doctors may use surgery to open up the blemishes and remove blackheads and whiteheads. Unlike medication treatments, the effects of acne surgery are usually more immediate. And surgery is also effective in reducing the development and visibility of acne scars.
Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.
Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 3 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org. These products should help prevent acne scarring.
Dr. Group is heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.
How Does Acne Form?
Contact with an oily substance such as mineral oil, vegetable oil, or petroleum is a potential cause of acne, as is the use of certain medication and steroids. However, acne is most often cause by the secretion of androgens. Acne is also aggravated by milk or dairy products, red meat and fast food. Androgens are sex hormones that are initially secreted at the onset of puberty. They are male hormones but they are secreted by females as well. Androgens stimulate the production of oil from the skin's oil glands. Acne occurs when these overactive oil glands become blocked, causing the oil to build up in the gland and swell. A bacteria called Propionibacterium acnes normally colonizes this swollen gland causing the development of inflammation and pus. In particularly severe cases, the glands may burst into the skin and produce cysts.
Types Of Acne
Acne blemishes are categorized into four grades, ranging from mild to very severe.
Grade I: Mild acne falls into this category. People with grade I acne generally have blackheads and whiteheads but pimples are not present. Grade II: The condition is considered moderate acne when blackheads, whiteheads, and small pimples are present, but they are confined to the face and the inflammation they cause is minimal. Grade III: Severe acne includes blackheads, whiteheads, and deeper pimples with more pronounced swelling. Grade IV: acne is considered very severe when it occurs on the face, neck, shoulders, chest, and back. Pustules and deeper cysts occur with very severe acne and scarring may result if the condition is not cared for properly. Preventing Acne Scars
The most important rule for acne sufferers to remember is that you should never pick or squeeze acne blemishes. This can lead to the spread of acne and the development of acne scars. Instead, there are a number of herbal, homeopathic, and traditional formulas that can be used to treat acne and prevent the development of acne scars. Herbs work naturally with the body to reduce acne blemishes and prevent the development of acne scars. Echinacea and poke root are often used for their anti-inflammatory properties and red clover may be beneficial for its estrogenic action. Witch hazel has excellent astringent properties and may be very effective on acne.
Relieving Acne Scars
Acupuncture: Stagnant of Chi in the channels of the face is said to be the cause of acne. Acupuncture performed on these points of the face may help relieve acne, and prevent the development of acne scars.
Surgery: In moderate to severe cases of acne, doctors may use surgery to open up the blemishes and remove blackheads and whiteheads. Unlike medication treatments, the effects of acne surgery are usually more immediate. And surgery is also effective in reducing the development and visibility of acne scars.
Cleaning the intestinal Tract: Acne can be a by-product of a filthy intestinal tract and colon. In most cases when the colon is clean the acne will go away. I recommend the intestinal cleanser Oxy-Powder.
Other remedies include the skin rejuvenation program including 3 products: Oxy-Skin, Oxy-Zap and a strong Aloe Vera concentrate available at http://www.acne-answers.org. These products should help prevent acne scarring.
Dr. Group is heads the research and development division at http://www.acne-answers.org.
Dr. Group, the founder/CEO and clinical director for the Global Healing Center, heads a research and development team producing advanced, new, natural health protocols and products. To learn more visit http://www.ghchealth.com.
7 Ways To Conquer Acne
Reports show that over 90 percent of all adolescents and almost 25 percent of all adults suffer from acne at some time. Acne affects males and females worldwide, regardless of nationality.
The most effective methods to combat acne include a combination of prevention and better skincare.
Here are some of the ways you can use to prevent and treat acne:
1. Exercise
Regular exercise can help fight acne by fighting off negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem and depression. But avoid wearing tight lycra and nylon exercise outfits. These synthetic fabrics that tend to trap body moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Stick to loose clothing made of cotton or natural blends, and keep your sports gear and equipment clean.
2. Safe Cosmetics
To avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations that can contribute to acne, use products labeled "noncomedogenic" or "oil-free." Opt for "hypo-allergenic" perfumes and cosmetics to avoid allergic reactions and skin irritation. Coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes can cause reactions.
Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog pores. Use a lip gloss with a matte finish for less pore-clogging. The more the shine, the more then comedogenic content and the more your pores can clog.
3. Healthy Diet
Studies show that diet does not play a role in either the cause or the treatment of acne. However, what is best for your body is best for your skin. So make sure you get enough vitamins, minerals and supplements that have been known and recommended to prevent and help conquer acne breakouts. These include
Vitamin A or Retinol (High doses are toxic)
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
L-Carnitine
Zinc
A good quality brand name multivitamin will probably have the recommended vitamins and minerals that you need to help with acne prevention. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices.
3. Hormonal Treatment
Hormones (or a lack of them) during later years - especially for women - can play a role in acne flare-ups and prevention. One recent study showed that about 50 percent of women have acne, referred to as hormonal acne, problems during the week before their menstruation.
Treatment options include topical retinoids, oral antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide for teen years. For adults oral contraceptives or hormonal birth control pills and hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) may be helpful for women, combined with systemic or topical treatments, prescription or over-the-counter products and medications.
4. Healthy Skin Regimen
Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or possible over production of oil to replace what's washed off, clogging pores in the process. Use products with gentle exfoliation ingredients and skip products that contain alcohol.
5. Acne Products
Some of the more popular products on the market that can prevent acne include:
Benzoyl Peroxide
Proactiv® Solution
Salicylic Acid
Retinoids
Antibiotics
Oral Contraceptives
Anti-Androgens
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
6. Shaving
Shaving is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne instead of leaving the remains to clog pores. And for some light acne cases already in process, shaving can help rid whiteheads and blackheads from the face. Do not shave areas taht are sore or infected. Use a shaving cream for sensitive skin.
Shave with a sharp blade. Use gentle swipes instead of heavy pressure and go with the flow or "grain." A single-edged blade is better than a twin-blade razor. Electric razors may not shave as close to the skin, but they help with the prevention of acne and other skin breakouts and flare-ups better.
7. Stress
Stress includes external and internal stressors. External Stressors are those that compromise your skin's ability to heal, like oily make-up and too much sun. Internal stressors like anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, depression and a variety of other internalized emotions, can trigger chemical reactions inside your body that can result in acne flare-ups and other skin irritations.
To combat internal stressors and prevent acne problems, get plenty of rest and sleep. Try to maintain regular hours. Keep a check list of "Things that Calm You" handy for stressful times, like reading a book, resting, listening to music, taking a walk, going out for an ice cream cone, etc.
_______________________________________________
Copyright © 2005 Priya Shah
Priya Shah is the editor of The Glutathione Report and Health Naturale. "Get Rid of Acne," is a comprehensive report on acne treatment and remedies available at Treat Acne
This article may be reprinted as long as the resource box is left intact and all links are hyperlinked.
The most effective methods to combat acne include a combination of prevention and better skincare.
Here are some of the ways you can use to prevent and treat acne:
1. Exercise
Regular exercise can help fight acne by fighting off negative stress levels that can come from negative self-esteem and depression. But avoid wearing tight lycra and nylon exercise outfits. These synthetic fabrics that tend to trap body moisture and heat, creating an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. Stick to loose clothing made of cotton or natural blends, and keep your sports gear and equipment clean.
2. Safe Cosmetics
To avoid pore-clogging and skin irritations that can contribute to acne, use products labeled "noncomedogenic" or "oil-free." Opt for "hypo-allergenic" perfumes and cosmetics to avoid allergic reactions and skin irritation. Coal tar derivatives, carmine and heavy cream in blushes can cause reactions.
Shimmering facial colors can contain a flaky mineral called mica that can cause skin irritations and clog pores. Use a lip gloss with a matte finish for less pore-clogging. The more the shine, the more then comedogenic content and the more your pores can clog.
3. Healthy Diet
Studies show that diet does not play a role in either the cause or the treatment of acne. However, what is best for your body is best for your skin. So make sure you get enough vitamins, minerals and supplements that have been known and recommended to prevent and help conquer acne breakouts. These include
Vitamin A or Retinol (High doses are toxic)
Vitamin B Complex
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
L-Carnitine
Zinc
A good quality brand name multivitamin will probably have the recommended vitamins and minerals that you need to help with acne prevention. Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day and making good, healthy dietary food choices.
3. Hormonal Treatment
Hormones (or a lack of them) during later years - especially for women - can play a role in acne flare-ups and prevention. One recent study showed that about 50 percent of women have acne, referred to as hormonal acne, problems during the week before their menstruation.
Treatment options include topical retinoids, oral antibiotics and Benzoyl Peroxide for teen years. For adults oral contraceptives or hormonal birth control pills and hormonal replacement therapy (HRT) may be helpful for women, combined with systemic or topical treatments, prescription or over-the-counter products and medications.
4. Healthy Skin Regimen
Avoid harsh scrubbing or over-washing, because this can cause possible skin irritation or possible over production of oil to replace what's washed off, clogging pores in the process. Use products with gentle exfoliation ingredients and skip products that contain alcohol.
5. Acne Products
Some of the more popular products on the market that can prevent acne include:
Benzoyl Peroxide
Proactiv® Solution
Salicylic Acid
Retinoids
Antibiotics
Oral Contraceptives
Anti-Androgens
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
6. Shaving
Shaving is actually an excellent way of exfoliating or removing dead skin to help with the prevention and spreading of acne instead of leaving the remains to clog pores. And for some light acne cases already in process, shaving can help rid whiteheads and blackheads from the face. Do not shave areas taht are sore or infected. Use a shaving cream for sensitive skin.
Shave with a sharp blade. Use gentle swipes instead of heavy pressure and go with the flow or "grain." A single-edged blade is better than a twin-blade razor. Electric razors may not shave as close to the skin, but they help with the prevention of acne and other skin breakouts and flare-ups better.
7. Stress
Stress includes external and internal stressors. External Stressors are those that compromise your skin's ability to heal, like oily make-up and too much sun. Internal stressors like anxiety, fear, low self-esteem, depression and a variety of other internalized emotions, can trigger chemical reactions inside your body that can result in acne flare-ups and other skin irritations.
To combat internal stressors and prevent acne problems, get plenty of rest and sleep. Try to maintain regular hours. Keep a check list of "Things that Calm You" handy for stressful times, like reading a book, resting, listening to music, taking a walk, going out for an ice cream cone, etc.
_______________________________________________
Copyright © 2005 Priya Shah
Priya Shah is the editor of The Glutathione Report and Health Naturale. "Get Rid of Acne," is a comprehensive report on acne treatment and remedies available at Treat Acne
This article may be reprinted as long as the resource box is left intact and all links are hyperlinked.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Acne and Vitamin Supplements
For years, scientists, doctors, biologists, dermatologists, and dieticians have searched for and studied all of the various causes of acne. Since the majority of the worlds population suffer from acne at some point in their lives, there is no surprise that such efforts are invested in finding out how to it. While there have been some definitive answers on whether acne is hormonally induced (yes), and what can be done to prevent it (prescription drugs, certain herbal remedies, etc), there are still many unknown factors that cause acne.
However, of all the many acne questions that science is yet to find answers to, the most controversial is whether or not diet has an effect on acne.
Historically, diet was thought to be linked to acne. Doctors and housewives alike believed that a high fat content in ones diet would cause an oilier complexion, and this in turn would create acne breakouts.
However, as time went on, science found no directly link between a diet high in lipids (fat), and acne. Since acne is caused by a bacterial growth in sebum trapped in clogged pores, there is no such thing as "extra oil secretion". So, for at least the last 15 years, western medicine has claimed there is no connection between diet and acne.
However, a study conducted in 1997 has rekindled the flame in the "diet causes acne" argument, and this time, with a bit more heat.
This study, conducted by Dr. Lit Hung Leung, states that Acne breakouts are because the body cannot create enough of Coenzyme A to break down the fatty acids that create sebum. The reason is, Coenzyme A is probably the single most needed enzyme in the body. This Coenzyme-A is what synthesizes sex hormones, and what breaks down fatty acids.
The only part of Coenzyme-A that the body does not produce itself is vitamin B5. So, if there is a shortage of B5, there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A. And if there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A, the body will use it to synthesize sex hormones, not break down fatty acids.
So, you can see where this is going?more fatty acids, more sebum production, more acne.
Now, the interesting thing is that Dr. Lit Hung Leung substantiated this claim by testing it on 100 people. The group took 10 grams or more per day of pantothenic acid ( B5 ), and used a B5 topical cream of 20% by weight. After 2-3, sebum production was reduced, and many people with acne noticed a reduction. For those with more extreme acne, a higher dosage of B5 was used (approx. 15-20 grams per day), and treatment was prolonged to see an effect, sometimes up to 6 months.
So, while one study does not definitively prove whether B5 can prevent or reduce acne, it may well be worth considering, particularly for those who want a natural or herbal cure for acne, and do not want to use chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide, or other prescription acne treatments.
As with any medical treatment, it is best to consult a doctor before trying a B5 regimine.
However, of all the many acne questions that science is yet to find answers to, the most controversial is whether or not diet has an effect on acne.
Historically, diet was thought to be linked to acne. Doctors and housewives alike believed that a high fat content in ones diet would cause an oilier complexion, and this in turn would create acne breakouts.
However, as time went on, science found no directly link between a diet high in lipids (fat), and acne. Since acne is caused by a bacterial growth in sebum trapped in clogged pores, there is no such thing as "extra oil secretion". So, for at least the last 15 years, western medicine has claimed there is no connection between diet and acne.
However, a study conducted in 1997 has rekindled the flame in the "diet causes acne" argument, and this time, with a bit more heat.
This study, conducted by Dr. Lit Hung Leung, states that Acne breakouts are because the body cannot create enough of Coenzyme A to break down the fatty acids that create sebum. The reason is, Coenzyme A is probably the single most needed enzyme in the body. This Coenzyme-A is what synthesizes sex hormones, and what breaks down fatty acids.
The only part of Coenzyme-A that the body does not produce itself is vitamin B5. So, if there is a shortage of B5, there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A. And if there is a shortage of Coenzyme-A, the body will use it to synthesize sex hormones, not break down fatty acids.
So, you can see where this is going?more fatty acids, more sebum production, more acne.
Now, the interesting thing is that Dr. Lit Hung Leung substantiated this claim by testing it on 100 people. The group took 10 grams or more per day of pantothenic acid ( B5 ), and used a B5 topical cream of 20% by weight. After 2-3, sebum production was reduced, and many people with acne noticed a reduction. For those with more extreme acne, a higher dosage of B5 was used (approx. 15-20 grams per day), and treatment was prolonged to see an effect, sometimes up to 6 months.
So, while one study does not definitively prove whether B5 can prevent or reduce acne, it may well be worth considering, particularly for those who want a natural or herbal cure for acne, and do not want to use chemicals such as benzoyl peroxide, or other prescription acne treatments.
As with any medical treatment, it is best to consult a doctor before trying a B5 regimine.
Friday, February 1, 2008
Acne Rosacea - A Blush You Can Do Without
What do former presidents Bill Clinton and Boris Yeltsin have in common? A condition called acne rosacea, a chronic inflammation of the blood vessels in the skin, which causes a ruddy complexion and small acne-like eruptions on the cheeks, forehead and nose.
In men it can often cause the skin on the nose to thicken and swell, leading toa condition called rhinophyma.
Nobody know what causes it but the list of potential triggers is endless. The main culprits are alcohol and rich, spicy foods.
Because its roots are unknown, there's no permanent cure either, so management is the key. This is partly achieved by identifying what makes the rosacea worse through a process of exclusion and by the use of topical antibiotics - usually metronidazole.
A GP's diagnosis is vital since the symptoms can be similar to more serious conditions such as lupus. Rosacea can last a lifetime, especially in men, but often clears up on its own.
About The Author
Alicia Caldelas for ultimate-cosmetics.com
Find more info about rosacea symptoms, triggers etc. on http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/beauty/skin_disorders/rosacea-treatment.htm
alicia@ultimate-cosmetics.com
In men it can often cause the skin on the nose to thicken and swell, leading toa condition called rhinophyma.
Nobody know what causes it but the list of potential triggers is endless. The main culprits are alcohol and rich, spicy foods.
Because its roots are unknown, there's no permanent cure either, so management is the key. This is partly achieved by identifying what makes the rosacea worse through a process of exclusion and by the use of topical antibiotics - usually metronidazole.
A GP's diagnosis is vital since the symptoms can be similar to more serious conditions such as lupus. Rosacea can last a lifetime, especially in men, but often clears up on its own.
About The Author
Alicia Caldelas for ultimate-cosmetics.com
Find more info about rosacea symptoms, triggers etc. on http://www.ultimate-cosmetics.com/beauty/skin_disorders/rosacea-treatment.htm
alicia@ultimate-cosmetics.com
Acne Prevention Tips
Preventing acne is an extremely difficult thing to do. There really isn't a cure for it, yet it drags yourself esteem way down. So just what can an acne suffer do to help minimize breakouts? Here are some basic tips to help control your condition.
Wash Your Skin Gently:
When you wash you should be very careful about how hard you press or rub your face. If you press to hard it will irritate your skin. This can also break open any pimples that you currently have. So, be sure to press lightly when washing and drying your face.
Dont Pop those Zits:
Popping pimples is a really bad idea. By breaking them open you can leave scares and cause more infection.
Avoid Stress:
Stress will cause you to have a breakout. You need to make sure you get enough sleep, eat healthy, and take time to have some fun. This will be one of the hardest things to do when trying to prevent acne.
Loose Clothing:
Loose clothing will be much more easier on your skin when your working out. Tight clothing will cause the sweat and oil to be absorbed into your skin more then it needs to be. Loose clothing will also allow for less irritation from the clothing itself.
These are just some general tips to get you started with your acne prevention. If your acne has gotten out of hand you should always go see your family doctor. They will often recommend something with benzoyl peroxide.
Tyler Casselman runs the healthy skin protal at Healthy Skin 4U
Wash Your Skin Gently:
When you wash you should be very careful about how hard you press or rub your face. If you press to hard it will irritate your skin. This can also break open any pimples that you currently have. So, be sure to press lightly when washing and drying your face.
Dont Pop those Zits:
Popping pimples is a really bad idea. By breaking them open you can leave scares and cause more infection.
Avoid Stress:
Stress will cause you to have a breakout. You need to make sure you get enough sleep, eat healthy, and take time to have some fun. This will be one of the hardest things to do when trying to prevent acne.
Loose Clothing:
Loose clothing will be much more easier on your skin when your working out. Tight clothing will cause the sweat and oil to be absorbed into your skin more then it needs to be. Loose clothing will also allow for less irritation from the clothing itself.
These are just some general tips to get you started with your acne prevention. If your acne has gotten out of hand you should always go see your family doctor. They will often recommend something with benzoyl peroxide.
Tyler Casselman runs the healthy skin protal at Healthy Skin 4U
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