How Dermatologists Treat Early Acne Signs

Today, there are a number of effective acne treatments and virtually every case of acne can be controlled. However, what clears one person's acne may not work for another person. This is why appropriate treatment begins with an evaluation by a dermatologist.

During the evaluation, the dermatologist will determine the severity and types of acne lesions present. The doctor may ask questions to learn how the acne affects the patient. Sometimes the acne worries the parents; however, a young adolescent may not be concerned about appearance. The dermatologist also will want to learn if the patient is willing to follow an at-home treatment plan.

After the evaluation, the dermatologist will decide what, if any, treatment is appropriate. For a young adolescent who has mild acne, the dermatologist may prescribe a low-dose topical retinoid or benzoyl peroxide. It is important to realize that appropriate treatment may require more than one medication. Sometimes a topical antibiotic is part of the treatment plan. Severe acne may require an antibiotic in pill form as well as topical medication.

Proper skin care plays an important role in acne treatment. The dermatologist can provide tips for taking care of acne-prone skin as well as provide product recommendations for everything from cleansers to sunscreen.

Using Medication as Directed Gets Results

To get clearing, acne medication should be used as directed. Some medications must be taken daily; others may be used intermittently. Before leaving the dermatologist's office, be sure that you understand how to use the medication and when to use it.

If using the medication as directed becomes a problem or the treatment plan does not seem to work, be sure to tell your dermatologist. There are many effective treatments available today.

It is important to realize that acne cannot be cured, but it can be effectively controlled. Keeping acne under control may require long-term treatment. Acne often returns when treatment is stopped, so continue to use your medication until your dermatologist tells you to stop. This helps prevent new acne lesions from forming.

A Lifelong Difference
Acne sometimes appears earlier than parents expect. If early acne develops, teaming up with a dermatologist can help keep acne from becoming severe as well as prevent physical and emotional scars. Preventing severe acne can make a difference that lasts a lifetime.

Early Acne Treatment Helps Prevent Physical and Emotional Scars

When acne is severe, large, red bumps called “cysts” form. Cysts can be painful and may cause permanent scarring. While not life threatening, these physical effects often cause extreme emotional distress that can last a lifetime.

Anxiety, loss of self-esteem, and depression are common in people who have acne. Even mild and moderate cases cause emotional distress. When asked to talk about how acne affects them, patients often mention feelings of inferiority, embarrassment, and depression. One teenager said, “I was more self-conscious about my skin, and at times very shy because I felt my acne made me very ugly.” A college student confessed that he avoided asking girls out because he thought, “She won't be interested because of how I look.” Another patient confided, “I got severely depressed, and sometimes I wouldn't go to school because I had a particularly large pimple, and I just didn't want to be seen like that.”

Severe or long-lasting acne can cause feelings of insecurity that last a lifetime. One study found that people who had acne for a significant amount of time tend to feel “scarred for life.” Long after the acne clears, they may have low self-esteem and feelings of inferiority.

To avoid these physical and emotional scars, dermatologists recommend that early acne be properly treated and that treatment continue for as long as necessary to prevent the acne from recurring.

Early Acne Often Predicts Severe Acne

When acne begins early, between 8 and 11 years of age, it often means severe acne as a teenager. Treating the acne before it becomes severe can:

• Prevent severe acne
• Reduce the risk of acne scars
• Avoid lifelong emotional stress

Studies Confirm Link Between Early Acne and Severe Acne

Two large-scale U.S. studies looked at how acne develops during adolescence. One of these studies evaluated the severity of acne in 468 boys who ranged in age from 9 to 15 years. About half of the boys were African-American and half were Caucasian. The researchers found that acne becomes more common and more severe in adolescent boys as they mature. The researchers concluded that keeping an eye on acne in preadolescents and young adolescents can help determine when treatment, which can prevent severe acne from developing, should begin.

To expand upon these findings, the researchers evaluated acne in girls. This study followed 871 girls for 5 years. Again, about half of the participants were African-American and about half were Caucasian. At the beginning of this 5-year study, the girls were in 4th or 5th grade. Following the girls over a five-year period showed results similar to the previous study. The researchers found that the number of acne lesions and the severity increased as the girls matured. The girls who had significantly more acne lesions at age 10, when the study began, had the most severe acne at age 15. The researchers concluded that the best way to predict how severe acne will be at age 15 is to determine the severity at age 10.

Do Not Use Acne Medications Duribng Pregnancy

Some potent acne medications must not be used by women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant because of the potential harm to a fetus. These medications include:

• Hormonal therapy – estrogen, flutamide, spironolactone
• Isotretinoin
• Oral tetracylines – doxycycline, minocycline, tetracycline
• Topical retinoids – adapalene, tazarotene, tretinoin

Women in their child-bearing years need to avoid pregnancy while using these medications.

Here's the lowdown on why these medications should not be used during pregnancy:

Hormone therapy. The “female” hormone, estrogen, and the anti-androgens, flutamide and spironolactone, are sometimes used to treat acne in women. None should be taken while a woman is pregnant. Flutamide and spironolactone can cause birth defects. It is not known if these medications can be passed along when a woman is breast feeding so the medications must also not be used if a woman chooses to breast feed.

Isotretinoin. Isotretinoin must not be used by a woman who is pregnant, trying to become pregnant or breast feeding.

This potent acne medication has revolutionized acne therapy due to its effectiveness in treating severe and therapy-resistant acne. However, isotretinoin also has the potential to cause some serious side effects. The most serious is the potential to cause severe birth defects in a developing fetus. For this reason, it is imperative that women taking isotretinoin follow the pregnancy-prevention program. This requires using 2 forms of birth control continuously beginning 1 month before therapy starts and not ending until 1 month after isotretinoin therapy is complete. A women taking isotretinoin must also be carefully monitored by her dermatologist during therapy. If pregnancy occurs, isotretinoin must be stopped immediately. Women planning a pregnancy should discontinue taking isotretinoin and maintain birth-control methods for at least 1 month before trying to become pregnant.

Oral tetracyclines. Tetracycline as well as doxycycline and minocycline—which are synthetically derived from tetracycline—must not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding because of potential side effects. These broad-spectrum oral antibiotics can inhibit bone growth and discolor permanent teeth in both a fetus and a child being breast fed.

Topical retinoids. The topical (applied to the skin) retinoids adapalene, tazarotene and tretinoin carry warnings stating that it is not known if these medications can adversely affect a developing fetus or child that is being breast fed.

5 Key Factors that Causes Acne in Different Skin Colors

Whether it's a few pimples or severe acne, there are five key factors that people with skin of color, especially those of African descent, should know before they begin acne treatment. Considering these factors can help individuals with skin of color make informed decisions about their treatment options and obtain better results.

5 Key Factors that Causes Acne in Different Skin Colors:

1. Dark skin prone to developing “dark spots.”

These darkened spots on the skin, which dermatologists call “post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation,” can occur at the site of a healed or healing inflamed acne lesion. Caused by excessive melanin production, this darkening of the skin is a normal reaction when dark skin becomes inflamed, such as after a rash, scratch or pimple. While these spots tend to gradually disappear over time, they are the number one complaint among dark-skinned patients with acne vulgaris. Like acne, “dark spots” can diminish one's self-esteem and affect a person's ability to function confidently in society.

How to treat “dark spots.” When these spots appear, they can be treated with a topical skin-lightening product. Some skin-lightening agents are available over-the-counter, and stronger forms can be obtained from a dermatologist. Dermatologists can also recommend cosmetic tips that will make the spots less apparent. Additionally, some topical acne treatments used by dermatologists may help fade the discoloration.

Sunscreen may help. Although there are no clinical studies to confirm this, some dermatologists find that repeated sun exposure leads to longer treatment time and that daily use of sunscreen (SPF of 15 or higher) helps resolve the spots more quickly. Only sunscreen labeled “noncomedogenic” should be used. “Noncomedogenic” means the product will not clog pores.

2. Acne treatments designed to dry the skin should be use with caution.

Acne medications that can have a drying effect on the skin, such as benzoyl peroxide, should only be used under the supervision of a dermatologist as these medications may irritate the skin and prolong post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in some cases. Benzoyl peroxide can also decolorize skin.

Topical acne medications for skin of color. Clinical studies show that some topical medications, such as retinoids, safely and effectively treat acne in skin of color without the drying effects when used properly. Topical retinoids, which are only available by prescription, include adapalene, tazarotene and tretinoin.

3. Pomade may be the culprit.

A recent survey of acne patients with skin of color revealed that almost half, 46.2%, use pomade (oil or ointment for hair) to style or improve the manageability of their hair and that 70.3% of the patients using pomade developed forehead acne. The acne that develops from using pomade is called “acne cosmetica” or “pomade acne.” It occurs when pomade blocks pores and acne develops on the scalp, forehead and/or temples—places where pomade comes into contact with the skin. Pomade acne usually consists of blackheads and whiteheads, with perhaps a few papules and pustules.

Treatment. For pomade acne, treatment consists of these options:

• If using pomade to decrease scalp dryness, try applying pomade one inch behind the hairline.
• If using pomade to style or make hair more manageable, try applying pomade to the ends of the hair only to avoid contact with the scalp and hairline.
• Stop using pomade.

Once use of pomade stops, pomade acne should clear. If it persists, be sure to see a dermatologist.

Folliculitis. Pomade can also contribute to a bacterial infection of the scalp called “folliculitis,” in which pus bumps and redness develop around the hair. Folliculitis can cause hair loss and the spread of infection. If folliculitis is suspected, discontinue using pomade and see a dermatologist.

4. Moisturizers can worsen acne.

Moisturizers relieve the dry or “ashy skin” that is common among dark-skinned people. When using moisturizer, make sure the label includes the word “noncomedogenic.” This means the product will not clog pores. If acne gets worse after moisturizing with a product labeled “noncomedogenic,” discontinue moisturizing and seek the advice of a dermatologist.

5. Keloid may form after acne outbreak.

When scarring occurs in a person with skin of color, there is a greater tendency for a keloid (large raised scar that spreads beyond the size of the original wound) to form. While uncommon in acne patients with skin of color, keloids have been seen on the chest, back and jaw line. Early and aggressive acne treatment is needed to prevent scarring because keloids, unfortunately, tend to return even when treated.

Treatment. Scar treatment should be discussed with a dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon before it is undertaken. Depending on the location, treatment may involve pressure, silicone gels, surgery, laser treatment or radiation therapy.

Before beginning any acne treatment, be sure to consider these key factors and direct your questions to a dermatologist. But, don't delay treatment as dermatologists recommend early and aggressive acne treatment in skin of color to prevent scarring and darkened spots from developing.

How to Tell When You Need to See a Dermatologist

You may feel awkward about seeing a dermatologist, especially if you've been told that acne is something you will eventually outgrow. To help you decide whether or not it's time to consult a dermatologist, listed below are some statements. Do any apply to you?

• My acne makes me shy.
• I am embarrassed by my acne.
• My outlook on life is less optimistic since I developed acne.
• None of the over-the-counter products and/or remedies I've tried has worked.
• I am beginning to see scars after acne lesions clear.
• I have painful, pus-filled lesions (nodules) in addition to blackheads and whiteheads (comedones), and reddened spots on my skin.
• I have dark skin, and a patch that is darker than my skin appears when an acne lesion clears.

If you said “yes” to any of the above statements, seeing a dermatologist may be beneficial. Today, virtually every case of acne can be successfully resolved. Not only can dermatologists help resolve existing acne, they can also help prevent new lesions from forming and reduce your chance of developing disfiguring scars.

How Acne Affects People's Lives

"There is no single disease which causes more psychic trauma, more maladjustment between parents and children, more general insecurity and feelings of inferiority and greater sums of psychic suffering than does acne vulgaris." -- Sulzberger and Zaldems, 1948

While known for quite some time, the psychosocial effects of acne have not been fully appreciated until recently. The reasons for this are many. After all, everyone gets acne to one degree or another. In most cases, it goes away on its own. While it's running its course, it is not a serious threat to anyone's overall physical health. In addition, until the last couple of decades, there was very little anyone could do to treat it.

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

• Social withdrawal
• Decreased self-esteem
• Reduced self-confidence
• Poor body image
• Embarrassment
• Feelings of depression
• Anger
• Preoccupation
• Frustration
• Higher rate of unemployment

The effects listed above are often interrelated, with one effect leading to another and another, only to make the first effect worse. These negative psychosocial effects can have a crippling impact, discouraging patients from pursuing life's opportunities--socially, on the job, or at school.

What are the Treatments for Acne Scars

A number of treatments are available for acne scars through dermatologic surgery. The type of treatment selected should be the one that is best for you in terms of your type of skin, the cost, what you want the treatment to accomplish, and the possibility that some types of treatment may result in more scarring if you are very susceptible to scar formation.

A decision to seek dermatologic surgical treatment for acne scars also depends on:

• The way you feel about scars. Do acne scars psychologically or emotionally affect your life? Are you willing to "live with your scars" and wait for them to fade over time? These are personal decisions only you can make.
• The severity of your scars. Is scarring substantially disfiguring, even by objective assessment?
• A dermatologist's expert opinion as to whether scar treatment is justified in your particular case, and what scar treatment will be most effective for you.

Before committing to treatment of acne scars, you should have a frank discussion with your dermatologist regarding those questions, and any others you feel are important. You need to tell the dermatologist how you feel about your scars. The dermatologist needs to conduct a full examination and determine whether treatment can, or should, be undertaken.

The objective of scar treatment is to give the skin a more acceptable physical appearance. Total restoration of the skin, to the way it looked before you had acne, is often not possible, but scar treatment does usually improve the appearance of your skin.

The scar treatments that are currently available include:

Collagen injection. Collagen, a normal substance of the body, is injected under the skin to "stretch" and "fill out" certain types of superficial and deep soft scars. Collagen treatment usually does not work as well for ice-pick scars and keloids. Collagen derived from cows or other non-human sources cannot be used in people with autoimmune diseases. Human collagen or fascia is helpful for those allergic to cow-derived collagen. Cosmetic benefit from collagen injection usually lasts 3 to 6 months. Additional collagen injections to maintain the cosmetic benefit are done at additional cost.

Autologous fat transfer. Fat is taken from another site on your own body and prepared for injection into your skin. The fat is injected beneath the surface of the skin to elevate depressed scars. This method of autologous (from your own body) fat transfer is usually used to correct deep contour defects caused by scarring from nodulocystic acne. Because the fat is reabsorbed into the skin over a period of 6 to 18 months, the procedure usually must be repeated. Longer lasting results may be achieved with multiple fat-transfer procedures.

Dermabrasion. This is thought to be the most effective treatment for acne scars. Under local anesthetic, a high-speed brush or fraise used to remove surface skin and alter the contour of scars. Superficial scars may be removed altogether, and deeper scars may be reduced in depth. Dermabrasion does not work for all kinds of scars; for example, it may make ice-pick scars more noticeable if the scars are wider under the skin than at the surface. In darker-skinned people, dermabrasion may cause changes in pigmentation that require additional treatment.

Microdermabrasion. This new technique is a surface form of dermabrasion. Rather than a high-speed brush, microdermabrasion uses aluminum oxide crystals passing through a vacuum tube to remove surface skin. Only the very surface cells of the skin are removed, so no additional wound is created. Multiple procedures are often required but scars may not be significantly improved.

Laser Treatment. Lasers of various wavelength and intensity may be used to recontour scar tissue and reduce the redness of skin around healed acne lesions. The type of laser used is determined by the results that the laser treatment aims to accomplish. Tissue may actually be removed with more powerful instruments such as the carbon dioxide laser. In some cases, a single treatment is all that will be necessary to achieve permanent results. Because the skin absorbs powerful bursts of energy from the laser, there may be post-treatment redness for several months.

Skin Surgery. Some ice-pick scars may be removed by "punch" excision of each individual scar. In this procedure each scar is excised down to the layer of subcutaneous fat; the resulting hole in the skin may be repaired with sutures or with a small skin graft. Subcision is a technique in which a surgical probe is used to lift the scar tissue away from unscarred skin, thus elevating a depressed scar.

Skin grafting may be necessary under certain conditions—for example, sometimes dermabrasion unroofs massive and extensive tunnels (also called sinus tracts) caused by inflammatory reaction to sebum and bacteria in sebaceous follicles. Skin grafting may be needed to close the defect of the unroofed sinus tracts.

Treatment of keloids. Surgical removal is seldom if ever used to treat keloids. A person whose skin has a tendency to form keloids from acne damage may also form keloids in response to skin surgery. Sometimes keloids are treated by injecting steroid drugs into the skin around the keloid. Topical retinoic acid may be applied directly on the keloid. In some cases the best treatment for keloids in a highly susceptible person is no treatment at all.

In summary, acne scars are caused by the body's inflammatory response to acne lesions. The best way to prevent scars is to treat acne early, and as long as necessary. If scars form, a number of effective treatments are available. Dermatologic surgery treatments should be discussed with a dermatologist.

What are th Types of Acne Scars

There are two general types of acne scars, defined by tissue response to inflammation: scars caused by increased tissue formation, and scars caused by loss of tissue.

Scars Caused by Increased Tissue Formation
The scars caused by increased tissue formation are called keloids or hypertrophic scars. The word hypertrophy means "enlargement" or "overgrowth." Both hypertrophic and keloid scars are associated with excessive amounts of the cell substance collagen. Overproduction of collagen is a response of skin cells to injury. The excess collagen becomes piled up in fibrous masses, resulting in a characteristic firm, smooth, usually irregularly-shaped scar.

The typical keloid or hypertrophic scar is 1 to 2 millimeters in diameter, but some may be 1 centimeter or larger. Keloid scars tend to "run in families"—that is, abnormal growth of scar tissue is more likely to occur in susceptible people, who often are people with relatives who have similar types of scars.

Hypertrophic and keloid scars persist for years, but may diminish in size over time.

Scars Caused by Loss of Tissue

Acne scars associated with loss of tissue—similar to scars that result from chicken pox—are more common than keloids and hypertrophic scars. Scars associated with loss of tissue are:

Ice-pick scars usually occur on the cheek. They are usually small, with a somewhat jagged edge and steep sides—like wounds from an ice pick. Ice-pick scars may be shallow or deep, and may be hard or soft to the touch. Soft scars can be improved by stretching the skin; hard ice-pick scars cannot be stretched out.

Depressed fibrotic scars are usually quite large, with sharp edges and steep sides. The base of these scars is firm to the touch. Ice-pick scars may evolve into depressed fibrotic scars over time.

Soft scars, superficial or deep are soft to the touch. They have gently sloping rolled edges that merge with normal skin. They are usually small, and either circular or linear in shape.

Atrophic macules are usually fairly small when they occur on the face, but may be a centimeter or larger on the body. They are soft, often with a slightly wrinkled base, and may be bluish in appearance due to blood vessels lying just under the scar. Over time, these scars change from bluish to ivory white in color in white-skinned people, and become much less obvious.

Follicular macular atrophy is more likely to occur on the chest or back of a person with acne. These are small, white, soft lesions, often barely raised above the surface of the skin—somewhat like whiteheads that didn't fully develop. This condition is sometimes also called "perifollicular elastolysis." The lesions may persist for months to years.

How to Prevent Having Acne Scars

As discussed in the previous section on Causes of Acne Scars, the occurrence of scarring is different in different people. It is difficult to predict who will scar, how extensive or deep scars will be, and how long scars will persist. It is also difficult to predict how successfully scars can be prevented by effective acne treatment.

Nevertheless, the only sure method of preventing or limiting the extent of scars is to treat acne early in its course, and as long as necessary. The more that inflammation can be prevented or moderated, the more likely it is that scars can be prevented.

What are the Causes of Acne Scars

In the simplest terms, scars form at the site of an injury to tissue. They are the visible reminders of injury and tissue repair. In the case of acne, the injury is caused by the body's inflammatory response to sebum, bacteria and dead cells in the plugged sebaceous follicle. Two types of true scars exist, as discussed later: depressed areas such as ice-pick scars, and raised thickened tissue such as keloids.

When tissue suffers an injury, the body rushes its repair kit to the injury site. Among the elements of the repair kit are white blood cells and an array of inflammatory molecules that have the task of repairing tissue and fighting infection. However, when their job is done they may leave a somewhat messy repair site in the form of fibrous scar tissue, or eroded tissue.

White blood cells and inflammatory molecules may remain at the site of an active acne lesion for days or even weeks. In people who are susceptible to scarring, the result may be an acne scar. The occurrence and incidence of scarring is still not well understood, however. There is considerable variation in scarring between one person and another, indicating that some people are more prone to scarring than others. Scarring frequently results from severe inflammatory nodulocystic acne that occurs deep in the skin. But, scarring also may arise from more superficial inflamed lesions.

The life history of scars also is not well understood. Some people bear their acne scars for a lifetime with little change in the scars, but in other people the skin undergoes some degree of remodeling and acne scars diminish in size.

People also have differing feelings about acne scars. Scars of more or less the same size that may be psychologically distressing to one person may be accepted by another person as "not too bad." The person who is distressed by scars is more likely to seek treatment to moderate or remove the scars.

What is Acne Scarring

Before talking about scars, a word about spots that may look like scars but are not scars in the sense that a permanent change has occurred. Even though they are not true scars and disappear in time, they are visible and can cause embarrassment.

Macules or "pseudo-scars" are flat, red or reddish spots that are the final stage of most inflamed acne lesions. After an inflamed acne lesion flattens, a macule may remain to "mark the spot" for up to 6 months. When the macule eventually disappears, no trace of it will remain—unlike a scar.

Post-inflammatory pigmentation is discoloration of the skin at the site of a healed or healing inflamed acne lesion. It occurs more frequently in darker-skinned people, but occasionally is seen in people with white skin. Early treatment by a dermatologist may minimize the development of post-inflammatory pigmentation. Some post-inflammatory pigmentation may persist for up to 18 months, especially with excessive sun exposure. Chemical peeling may hasten the disappearance of post-inflammatory pigmentation.

Acne Treatment for Anybody's Acne Problem

Today, every case of acne can be resolved. The key to getting rid of acne lesions and preventing new ones from forming lies in knowing that:

Resolution takes time. Treatments that promise “fast,” miraculous” or “overnight” results often capture the attention of acne sufferers hoping for quick resolution. However, the fact remains that acne does not clear overnight. On average, 6 to 8 weeks are needed to see initial results. Once acne significantly improves or clears, continued treatment is needed to keep acne from re-appearing. If acne does not improve in 6 to 8 weeks, treatment may need to be adjusted as not every acne treatment clears every case of acne.

What works for one person may not work for another. What is an appropriate treatment for one person may not clear another's acne because many factors affect resolution, including the cause(s) of the acne, a person's skin type and the kind of acne lesions present.

A dermatologist's help may be required. With so many factors affecting clearance and a multitude of treatment options available (some only by prescription), a dermatologist's help can make a difference. Before prescribing treatment, dermatologists consider several factors, including the severity of the acne, types of lesions present, co-existing conditions, as well as the patient's age, skin type, lifestyle and motivation.

The knowledge gained from considering these factors allows dermatologists to create effective individualized therapy that will resolve the patient's acne over time and prevent new lesions from forming.

Sometimes a dermatologist may combine two or more treatment options. A patient may be instructed to use one medication in the morning and the other at night. Or, two medications may be combined in one prescription medication. Due to possible side effects, over-the-counter medications should not be combined unless directed by a dermatologist or other medical practitioner.

Acne responds especially well to early treatment. Dermatologists recommend that acne be treated early to maximize effectiveness as well as help prevent scarring.

Who Gets Acne?

Close to 100% of people between the ages of twelve and seventeen have at least an occasional whitehead, blackhead or pimple, regardless of race or ethnicity. Many of these young people are able to manage their acne with over-the-counter (nonprescription) treatments. For some, however, acne is more serious. In fact, by their mid-teens, more than 40% of adolescents have acne severe enough to require some treatment by a physician.

In most cases, acne starts between the ages of ten and thirteen and usually lasts for five to ten years. It normally goes away on its own sometime in the early twenties. However, acne can persist into the late twenties or thirties or even beyond. Some people get acne for the first time as adults.

Acne affects young men and young women about equally, but there are differences. Young men are more likely than young women to have more severe, longer lasting forms of acne. Despite this fact, young men are less likely than young women to visit a dermatologist for their acne. In contrast, young women are more likely to have intermittent acne due to hormonal changes associated with their menstrual cycle and acne caused by cosmetics. These kinds of acne may afflict young women well into adulthood.

Acne lesions are most common on the face, but they can also occur on the neck, chest, back, shoulders, scalp, and upper arms and legs.

Normal Distribution of Acne
Acne also has significant economic impact. Americans spend well over a hundred million dollars a year for nonprescription acne treatments, not even taking into account special soaps and cleansers. But there are also the costs of prescription therapies, visits to physicians and time lost from school or work.

What are the Types of Acne

Acne is the term for plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent. However, the disease is not restricted to any age group; adults in their 20s - even into their 40s - can get acne. While not a life threatening condition, acne can be upsetting and disfiguring. When severe, acne can lead to serious and permanent scarring. Even less severe cases can lead to scarring.

When you read about acne or other skin diseases, you encounter words or phrases that may be confusing. For example, the words used to describe the lesions of acne—comedo, papule, pustule, nodule and cyst—are understandable only if you know each word's definition. It also is helpful to have a photo that is characteristic for each type of lesion.

Here is a brief summary of definitions of words used to describe acne, with accompanying photos. Let's begin, though, with the definition of lesion, an all-purpose word:

Lesion — a physical change in body tissue caused by disease or injury. A lesion may be external (e.g., acne, skin cancer, psoriatic plaque, knife cut), or internal (e.g., lung cancer, atherosclerosis in a blood vessel, cirrhosis of the liver).

Thus, when you read about acne lesions you understand what is meant—a physical change in the skin caused by a disease process in the sebaceous follicle.

Acne lesions range in severity from comedones (blackheads and whiteheads) to nodules and cysts. Here is a brief definition of acne lesions:

Comedo (plural comedones)—A comedo is a sebaceous follicle plugged with sebum, dead cells from inside the sebaceous follicle, tiny hairs, and sometimes bacteria. When a comedo is open, it is commonly called a blackhead because the surface of the plug in the follicle has a blackish appearance. A closed comedo is commonly called a whitehead; its appearance is that of a skin-colored or slightly inflamed "bump" in the skin. The whitehead differs in color from the blackhead because the opening of the plugged sebaceous follicle to the skin's surface is closed or very narrow, in contrast to the distended follicular opening of the blackhead. Neither blackheads nor whiteheads should be squeezed or picked open, unless extracted by a dermatologist under sterile conditions. Tissue injured by squeezing or picking can become infected by staphylococci, streptococci and other skin bacteria.

Papule — A papule is defined as a small (5 millimeters or less), solid lesion slightly elevated above the surface of the skin. A group of very small papules and microcomedones may be almost invisible but have a "sandpaper" feel to the touch. A papule is caused by localized cellular reaction to the process of acne.

Pustule — A dome-shaped, fragile lesion containing pus that typically consists of a mixture of white blood cells, dead skin cells, and bacteria. A pustule that forms over a sebaceous follicle usually has a hair in the center. Acne pustules that heal without progressing to cystic form usually leave no scars.

Macule — A macule is the temporary red spot left by a healed acne lesion. It is flat, usually red or red-pink, with a well defined border. A macule may persist for days to weeks before disappearing. When a number of macules are present at one time they can contribute to the "inflamed face" appearance of acne.

Nodule — Like a papule, a nodule is a solid, dome-shaped or irregularly-shaped lesion. Unlike a papule, a nodule is characterized by inflammation, extends into deeper layers of the skin and may cause tissue destruction that results in scarring. A nodule may be very painful. Nodular acne is a severe form of acne that may not respond to therapies other than isotretinoin.

Cyst — A cyst is a sac-like lesion containing liquid or semi-liquid material consisting of white blood cells, dead cells, and bacteria. It is larger than a pustule, may be severely inflamed, extends into deeper layers of the skin, may be very painful, and can result in scarring. Cysts and nodules often occur together in a severe form of acne called nodulocystic. Systemic therapy with isotretinoin is sometimes the only effective treatment for nodulocystic acne. Some acne investigators believe that true cysts rarely occur in acne, and that the lesions called cysts are usually severely inflamed nodules, and the term nodulocystic should be abandoned. Regardless of terminology, this is a severe form of acne that is often resistant to treatment and likely to leave scars after healing.

Common Topical Antibiotic Acne Creams

Topical acne cream is one of the most common anti-acne medications prescribed to people suffering from acne vulgaris. These are topical antibiotics that are given when OTC medications fail. They are often used as a stand-alone treatment or in conjunction with other medications in order to totally eliminate acne and prevent breakouts.

The Common Topical Antibiotic Acne Creams

Using topical antibiotic acne cream is fairly easy. The process is simple and anyone can do it. You only need to apply a thin layer at least twice a day. When you’re using antibiotic acne cream, you should avoid using harsh cleansers or putting on other acne creams that would react negatively with the antibiotic cream. Some of the most common topical acne antibiotic cream includes:

a. Clindamycin - This medication also contains phosphate and benzoyl peroxide. This helps by killing the bacteria which causes the acne. It also assists in shedding off the dead skin cells from the skin’s surface layers. There are side effects to using this medication and you need to watch out for these side effects. They are mild though and fairly tolerable. These side effects may include skin dryness, irritation and peeling. You might also experience excessive oil production, skin itching or burning, rash, skin swelling and slight breathing difficulty. If the medication does not suit, you could have an allergic reaction to it. If you experience an allergic reaction, you need to immediately cease from using the medication and consult with your healthcare provider promptly.

b. Erythromycin - This medication is unique in a way that it uses oxygen in order to kill off the bacteria causing the acne. It helps clear off blockage from the skin pores and follicles. The good thing about erythromycin is that you can use it even while you’re pregnant. So, pregnant women who are most likely to suffer from acne brought about by hormonal imbalances may resort to erythromycin as treatment without worrying that they’d be putting their baby at risk. There are, however, slight side effects to erythromycin. People using this medication may experience skin itching, redness, increased oil production, skin dryness or flaking, and a feeling of slight skin burning. Again, if you have any adverse or allergic reaction to erythromycin, you need to consult with your primary healthcare provider immediately.

Erythromycin and Clindamycin requires prescription. These medications are more effective than OTC acne medications. You will also notice faster results with prescription acne medications.

Comparing with Oral Acne Medications
Oral acne medications are also available and maybe more familiar than topical acne cream products. After some time, people will develop resistance to these antibiotic medications that this product will lose its effectiveness. This is why people are not advised to use oral medications longer than half a year. For this reason topical acne creams are prescribed for chronic acne.

What should you do then if you are a chronic acne sufferer?
You cannot use oral antibiotics as a stand-alone medication far longer than six months but you can use a topical acne cream beyond six months. Many people prefer topical antibiotics acne cream because they will be able to avoid the dangers associated with oral antibiotics. It’s easy to use and it’s easily absorbed by the skin.

Using Birth Control Pills as Acne Treatments

“I’m suffering from acne. I’ve tried everything but nothing seems to work!”

This is the typical complaint of most women acne sufferers. If you’re one of the many who seem to suffer from acne, you’re probably frustrated and emotionally bothered. You’re probably wondering, “Am I going to suffer this for the rest of my life?”

Acne is fairly common among teenagers and young adults. However, if you’re 35 and you’re constantly suffering from acne breakouts, you’re one of the many people who’d likely put up with acne for the rest of their lives. This is what you call adult acne. Many of these acne sufferers are women who may not have considered that their hormones are the one causing the breakouts and the only remedy is contraceptives or birth control pills.

Hormones, Acne and Birth Control Pills
Your dermatologist may actually advise you to take oral contraceptives or birth control pills to treat your acne if it is obvious that the most likely cause of your acne breakouts are hormonal imbalances. Birth control pills are quite effective in treating acne.

How do they work?
Birth control pills or oral contraceptives actually reduce the body’s androgen which triggers excessive oil production. The lesser androgen, there will be lesser oil and the skin becomes clearer. From the time you start taking oral contraceptives for acne, you should not expect immediate changes. It may take up to 2 or 3 months before you will see significant improvement or skin changes. What happens is that the pills first prevent acne breakouts and once breakouts are under control, they’d work on healing acne scars or visible blemishes.

“Can I use this as an acne treatment if I have adult acne?”

There are people who are fortunate enough to have oral contraceptives working for them continuously that they need not look into other acne treatments. However, there are people who testified that, at most, oral contraceptives can only treat their acne for a number of years.

The Possible Side Effects and Risks of Birth Control Pills as Acne Treatment
There are significant side effects to using birth control pills to treat acne. Oral contraceptives alone basically have side effects whether or not they are taken for acne prevention or pregnancy prevention. The side effects of oral contraceptives used for acne treatment and prevention include:

a. Thrombosis
b. Diabetes
c. Gall stones
d. Cardiovascular disorders
e. Breast cancer
f. Osteoporosis
g. Liver tumors

Of course, these are the serious side effects and not everyone who uses oral contraceptives develops these illnesses. The lesser side effects, however, include:

a. Depression
b. Facial hair growth
c. Migraines
d. Vaginal bleeding
e. Allergic reactions
f. Urinary tract infection

Therefore, it is advisable that before you take oral contraceptives or birth control pills for acne prevention or treatment, you should consult with your health care provider. Have an in-depth and thorough discussion about the benefits and risks associated with this treatment. You should also look into alternative treatments if you don’t feel comfortable taking this route to acne treatment and prevention.

How to Get Rid of Acne the Natural Way

Every day people search the internet for effective ways to get rid of acne and are most likely to find a hundred and one ways to do so. But before trying out any of these tips, put in mind that we also need to consider their side effects. That is why I have here some natural and less complicated ways to get rid of acne.

Let’s start with prevention. Prevention is better than cure as the saying goes, and it applies even to acne. Although there is no concrete evidence to blame the outbreaks of acne on improper hygiene, improving personal hygiene is still beneficial, as it is most likely to help in stopping the onset of acne.

It is necessary that we wash our faces at least twice a day or even more if your skin is of the oily type. The oil on your face will attract dirt, and it is eventually trapped on the skin pore and will lead to pimples if not washed off. Be sure to wash with mild non-scented facial soap. It is also possible to use any facial wash available in the market but you may want to consult with your dermatologist on how natural these products are.

Use a soft, clean cloth when drying your face. It is important that the skin won’t be open for bacteria to enter. Gently pat your skin dry and never rub, as rubbing may be too harsh for your sensitive facial skin to handle.

For women, whenever there is a need to apply make-up, make sure that you are using water-based make-up. Oil-based make-up promotes clogging of the pores which is the start of acne. Also, remember to remove the make-up before going to bed. Cleanse, tone and moisturize to remove excess oil and dirt.

If possible, avoid environments that will expose you to dirt. Getting involved in sports is healthy physically but some sports venue makes skin contact to dirty surfaces inevitable. If this cannot be avoided, wash your face after every game.

Be aware of the habit of touching the face. Doing so transfers the dirt on your hands to your face. Keep your face free from loose hair and regularly shampoo your hair. Our scalp secretes oil that when transferred to the skin, becomes another cause of acne growth.

Avoid stress. Stress affects the way our body secretes hormone. Hormonal imbalance is another reason for acne outbreaks. Always find ways to calm yourself. Doing yoga or spending some quiet time alone may actually be of great help.

Drink lots of water. Drinking water helps our body release some of the waste it produces. Enough water makes waste management or body detoxification efficient. If the toxins or wastes are properly and thoroughly excreted outside the body, a good and healthy complexion is not impossible to achieve.

I’ve tried all these things myself and they have been effective for me. However, if your acne prove to be worse than the usual, consulting an expert is still the last and best resort.

Psychological Effects of Acne

Acne vulgaris, commonly known as acne, is a chronic skin disease that usually affects young adults who are in one of the most sensitive stages in their life. As acne is oftentimes seen as a mere superficial affliction, its deeper effects are often overlooked. People rarely realize that this skin condition is more than skin deep, as it can also negatively affect the individual holistically, particularly in the psychosocial aspect of one’s life.

Depression and/or Anxiety
Surprisingly, the severity of acne does not seem to affect the level of anxiety or depression. Individuals who have mild acne suffer as much anxiety or depression felt by those who have more grave cases. Compared to the adolescents, adults tend to feel more of the negative effects of acne in their lives. One reason for this is that their present condition has been resistant to medications and treatment, or probably because the social stigma is greater for adults who have acne.

Signs of depression that should be cautiously observed in individuals with acne problem include depressed mood, significant weight loss or gain of at least 5% than the weight the previous month, sleep pattern disturbances, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, fatigue, psychomotor retardation or agitation, and thoughts of death or suicide. Adolescents who show a significant decline in school performance and exhibit extreme mood and behavior change may also need special attention. Affected adolescents may also be easily annoyed or snappy. In some cases, adolescents turn to alcohol or drug abuse because of depression brought about by acne.

Social Withdrawal
In our society today, vanity plays an important role as appearance is greatly emphasized. Hence, it is typical for individuals with acne problems to feel embarrassed or uncomfortable.

Acne, most especially when found in the face, provokes cruel scoffs from other individuals. Also, acne sufferers may have a difficult time in building new relationships, particularly with the opposite gender. Consequently, such individuals will lack more confidence to meet new acquaintances and create bonds. They would even find it difficult to establish eye contact when communicating. They become introverted and withdrawn from the society.

In severe cases, they may develop social phobia. Also, acne can influence decision making in everyday life, like that when friends invite them for a swim but declines the invitation because of the fear that his back acne might only embarrass him.

Acne affects not only the skin, but the quality of a person’s entire life as well. Other people may find it difficult to understand how acne greatly influences a person’s self-confidence, self-esteem, and viewpoint in life. Early treatment of acne should be done before the self-esteem of the individual is damaged. Improvements of the acne may likewise improve one’s self-esteem, as well as the quality of life.

Help from a dermatologist is essential to have the acne problem treated accordingly. Individuals with chronic and long-lasting acne possibly endure more psychological implications. In such situations, psychological counseling could be a great help. Lastly, support systems can also be helpful in driving out feelings of hopelessness and isolation for individuals who are suffering from acne.

18 Tips on Home Acne Treatments

When fatty, oily materials clog the pores of the skin, an inflammation occurs, resulting to a chronic skin condition known as acne. Acne, if not immediately treated, can possibly result to permanent scarring on the face, neck, and back.

There are several ways of treating acne at home; the ones that are mentioned below are easily prepared and always available. Why not open the fridge and see what you can find in the vegetable compartment, chances are big, that you will find the ingredients needed for an effective natural remedy for acne.

1. Aloe Vera that is taken internally is effective in treating acne. Its juice can also be applied on skin areas that have acne.

2. Rose water mixed with sandalwood paste can also be applied on the face for 30 minutes before rinsing it off.

3. The paste from blended cucumber can be applied on the face and be left for about 30 minutes before rinsing. This serves as good refreshment for the skin, as well as an effective acne prevention cream.

4. Fresh garlic can be rubbed on the affected areas. Though this remedy can be pretty smelly, it has a very effective antiseptic property that will dry out acne.

5. Cumin seeds are also an effective treatment for acne. Paste produced from these seeds may be applied on the skin for about one hour before rinsing it off.

6. Paste made from water and powdered Neem leaves can also be applied on the affected skin as an acne treatment.

7. Lavender oil can also be directly applied to skin areas with acne.

8. Paste made from the mixture of vinegar and ground seeds of black cumin can also be applied to the skin to treat acne.

9. Paste from the mixture of little water and ground orange peel can be applied on affected skin areas.

10. Cooked oatmeal can also be applied on the skin for about 15 minutes. Then wash off.

11. The mixture of avocado paste and water can be a good facial wash.

12. A warm bath with rosemary and blanch of nettle can also help in the reduction of acne.

13. Egg white can also be an effective acne remedy when applied on the acne for at least 15 to 20 minutes.

14. Ground bay leaves that are blanched in water and are cooled afterwards can also be applied on the skin with acne.

15. Lavender compresses can be used to relieve the inflammation of acne.

16. You can blend the following fruit and vegetable: Peeled apple, half serving of cucumber, 1 tablespoon of yogurt and honey. The end-product can be applied on the skin for about 20 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water. This will reduce acne scars.

17. Paste from the mixture of powdered and roasted pomegranate and fresh lemon juice can be applied over blackheads, pimples, and acne.

18. Paste formed from water and fresh leaves of fenugreek can be applied overnight and rinsed off the next morning with lukewarm water.

Remedies for acne that can be done at home are really easy to come up with. But to achieve best results, the appropriate supplementation of vitamins and minerals should be done as well.

6 Common Myths and Facts about Acne

Despite scientifically based facts about acne, a lot of so-called myths about the disease still exist in the society. Some of the common myths (and their counter facts) that need to be corrected are the following:

Myth 1: Tanning or sun exposure can cure acne

Fact: Getting a tan or getting exposed under the sunlight may cause the skin to become darker, thus temporarily concealing the redness of the acne. But once the tan disappears, the ace is still there.

Also, tanning or sunbathing may cause dryness and irritation to the skin. And worse, it can increase the risk of premature aging and cancer of the skin. Instead, use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, and one that will not clog pores. Such sunscreen is referred to as nonacnegenic or noncomedogenic.

Myth 2: Fried, oily, and fatty foods can cause acne

Fact: There is actually no scientific basis on the belief that greasy diet, including French fries, pizza, or chocolates, can be a cause of acne. However, this myth can be helpful to make children prefer to consume more vegetables and fruits rather than the less nutritious pizza and chocolate bars. However, there are certain foods that worsen, but not cause, acne. Such foods include those that have high Calcium content (milk) or high Iodine content (seafood).

Myth 3: Acne is primarily brought about by poor hygiene

Fact: Skin infections may be related to acne in some ways. But poor hygiene is actually not the cause for the outbreaks of acne. Oil combines with dead cells, producing acne. And this combination occurs beneath the surface of the skin where it is impossible to reach and clean away. However, gentle washing with mild soap and water and patting the face dry at least twice daily is the best way to reduce bacteria, which can cause skin infection that may eventually lead to acne.

Myth 4: Makeup or cosmetic products can cause acne

Fact: This could be true, but not entirely. Some cosmetic products are not advisable because it can cause unhealthy clogging of the skin pores. However, “nonacnegenic” or "noncomedogenic" makeup products can be safely used, even by those who already have acne. As a matter of fact, there are some cosmetic brands that contain acne-treating ingredients.

Myth 5: Sex and masturbation can result to acne

Fact: Although testosterone, a sex hormone can cause the outbreaks of acne, sex and masturbation has absolutely no relevance to the occurrence of such skin disease. This belief was used in the 17th century to discourage young people to engage with premarital sex.

Myth 6: The best possible way to get rid of pimples is to squeeze them out

Fact: Such action could only aggravate the spreading of bacteria. Also, popping or squeezing the pimples out can eventually lead to the formation of scars, which in grave cases, can be permanent.

Most often than not, misconceptions such as the previously stated ones, are untrue and should thus be corrected to foster better assessment, treatment, and prevention of acne.

Changes in Adolescents that Causes Acne

Acne is a self-limiting inflammatory disease that involves the sebaceous glands that empty into hair shafts (the pilo-sebaceuos unit) mainly of the face and shoulders. It is the most common skin disorder of teenagers, occurring slightly more frequently in boys than girls. The peak age for the lesions to occur in girls is 14 to 17 years; for boys, 16 to 19 years. Although not proven, genetic factors may play a part in the development of acne. Cigarette smoking may also increase the number of inflammatory lesions.

Before the rapid increase in androgen secretion with puberty, the sebaceous glands that enter into hair follicles are small and relatively inactive, so acne is nonexistent.

The following changes associated with puberty cause acne to develop:

1. As androgen levels rise in both sexes, sebaceous glands become active.

2. Abnormal keratinization (cell growth) of the lining of the ducts occurs; this overgrowth obstructs the ducts.

3. The output of sebum increases. Sebum is largely composed of lipids, mainly triglycerides.

4. If all of the material formed cannot be eliminated to the skin surface due to the narrow gland ducts, the glands enlarge, and trapped sebum causes whiteheads, or closed comedones.

5. As trapped sebum darkens from accumulation of melanin and oxidation of the fatty acid component on exposure to air, blackheads, or open comedones, form.

6. Bacteria (generally, Propionibacterium acnes) lodge and thrive in the retained secretions, forming papules.

7. Leakage of free fatty acid from triglycerides causes a dermal inflammatory reaction.

8. If glands rupture, sebum is extruded into adjacent skin, which produces reddened inflammatory cysts.

Acne is categorized as mild (comedones are present), moderate (papules and pustules are also present), or sever (cysts are present). The most common locations of acne lesions are the face, neck, back, upper arms, and chest. Flare-ups are associated with emotional stress, menstrual periods, or the use of greasy hair creams or makeup that can further plug gland ducts.

Lesions are less noticeable in summer months, probably because of increased exposure to the sun, which increases epidermic peeling, and the reduction of stress, possibly as a result of being out of school.

The goal of therapeutic management of acne is threefold: (1) decrease sebum formation, (2) prevent comedones, and (3) control bacterial proliferation. Although acne may be treated, some degree of scarring may result. Hence, laser therapy is a follow-up possibility to reduce the effect of scarring.

Treating acne, especially in its early stage, can stop the disease from getting any worse, and can also prevent further damage and possible scarring. And in most cases, acne treatment does not just cure the physical dilemma but it also alleviates the emotional and psychological effects of the disease, thus boosting the sufferer’s self-esteem and confidence.

It is important to respect what acne means to the adolescent. The actual extent of the condition often is not as important as an adolescent’s feelings about it. When one’s face is constantly covered by red marks, it is extremely difficult for an individual to feel good about oneself.

5 Homemade Acne Treatment Tips from Experts

What type of homemade acne treatments work for your skin?

Experts all over the world specializing in skin and related disorders are of the opinion that acne treatments should have their base in correct food habits and proper hygiene. In recent times many over-the-counter drugs have been found that could tackle the problem of acne. But in some cases these are seen to be not very effective prompting people to take the help of homemade remedies. Cures discovered in your home’s comfort are not only cheap but effective too.

Tip No. 1
If you have a good diet, sleep properly and exercise regularly be assured that half your battle is won. Apart from this keeping your skin clean is absolutely essential and you could do this with the help of cotton dipped in alcohol. This is beneficial in killing the bacteria and also for cleansing the pores thoroughly. But make sure not to overuse alcohol or repeat this process often as this can lead to skin irritation or the skin can also start peeling.

Tip No. 2
According to experts an overtly oily skin should be treated with an oatmeal mask to get good results. Oatmeal when mashed not only acts as a great scrub but also effectively soaks away the excess oil from your face. The usage of oatmeal paste must be followed by a cold water rinse that helps in contracting the pores.

Tip No. 3
Other homemade acne treatments involve the usage of honey with apples where grated apple is mixed with honey and this paste needs to be made to dry on the face for a stretch of 15- 20 minutes after which warm water should be used to wash it off. This procedure can be followed twice or thrice a week depending upon the skin type of the person in question.

Tip No. 4
Besides using fruits, experts are of the opinion, that herbs can also help you attain a pimple-free complexion. Herbs like burdock, sarsaparilla and yellow dock can act overnight on your pimples and bring them to a more manageable state. Tea tree oil is most preferred when it comes to handling a sudden outbreak. The antiseptic properties of tea tree oil cures the affected spots in very little time.

Tip No. 5
Apart from having a great diet and applying magical concoctions it is important for you to have a daily intake of vitamins. Tests carried out by experts have proved that an intake of five thousand international units of vitamin A each day can actually decrease pimples. Vitamin B6 makes the skin more tenacious and consequently reduces the chances of a pimple outbreak. Zinc, in mild doses, if taken before an outbreak, can prevent acne from happening.

The next time you think you’re getting an outbreak make sure to follow the simple homemade acne treatments mentioned above and see for yourself the changes that consequently take place.

Herbals, Fruits and Natural Products are the Best Acne Remedies

When talk about best acne remedies, natural should be your first choice. In fact in certain cases chemical treatments if not appropriate can lead to some disfiguration of the skin and can make the end result worse. Moreover, people have more faith on natural remedies mainly because they do not have side effects like chemical treatments.

Acne is basically the infection that takes place when the sebaceous glands overwork and excess oil blocks the hair follicles, natural remedies mainly aim to stop the generation of a surplus amount of oil. Different kinds of natural cures are found when treatment of acne happens to be the concern.

Herbals Remedy
Herbals remedy can be the key for you to attain skin that you always wanted. If use of herbs like aloe vera, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, sandalwood oil and tea tree oil are made, then the occurrence of acne can not only be controlled it can even be stopped. A combination of a number of herbs can in fact be of more help and can eradicate the problem of acne for a long time to come. Among the best acne remedies, neem is one that, if made into a paste and applied can work wonders upon your skin. And if you lack the time to devote to such lengthy procedures you get natural substances like neem and turmeric in powdered form.

Fruits Remedy
Other than treatments that make use of herbs in the healing process, fruits are also great natural substances to counter the occurrence of acne. Fruits such as mango, papaya, apple, grapefruit and even raisins can be used by applying them directly and making masks by mashing them. You can even make your toner using parts of cucumber juice, apple cider vinegar and tea tree and distilling them in mineral water.

Natural Skincare Products
You can easily make out the magic of natural cures once you see the range of natural products available. The best acne remedies include cures that fight against inflammation, that soothe the skin and those which naturally absorb oil. Among oil-absorbing substances the most common are the Konjac root and charcoal both of which are added to skincare products.

Before you try any of the above mentioned remedies you must carry out a personal research of your own so that you exactly know the remedy best for you. Remember what works for others might not work for you. Visit the reliable internet sources to find out what type of best acne remedies suit you could be a good way to start.

Understanding the Ingredients and Treatments of Acne Home Remedies

Acne home remedy may be effective if you have the right understanding about your skin condition, the ingredients and the treatments that you are apply.

1. Causes of Acne
Acne chiefly targets the neck, face, back, chest and shoulders. Teenagers, young adults and sometimes babies are worst hit by an outburst of acne. It generally begins at puberty when there is an increased secretion of hormones called the androgens. Androgens lead to the overproduction of sebum from the sebaceous glands.

These oil glands swell to secrete excess sebum which normally helps to keep the skin well lubricated. When this sebum from the sebaceous glands bond with the dead skin cells, they clog the pores of the skin and form a layer that prevents the outflow of excess sebum the skin does no require. This plug then contracts with bacteria and sensitizes the hair follicle causing it to crack. The red inflammation is called the acne.

2. Cleaning, Scrubbing and Scars Treatment
There are many ways in which you can treat acne. But, if you do not choose to expend on expensive cosmetics or medicines, you may try the effective acne home remedy. The prerequisite to a healthy skin is clean skin. You may wash your face with avocado mixed in water, grapefruit or saturated lettuce leaves boiled in water. The next step after cleaning your skin is scrubbing it for deep cleaning of the clogged pores. You may choose from orange peel, chopped nutmeg, grated peach or ground almonds. Various juices also help to treat acne. Cucumber, lemon or watermelon juice treatment done regularly helps to cure acne and lighten the scars caused by it.

3. Healthy Skin Is From Inside To Outside
However, beauty is skin deep and if you wish to have a glowing skin, you must take proper care of your healthy. The condition of the skin reflects the state of your health, so, just like you eat a proper diet to keep fit; ensure a healthy skin care regime for a nourished skin. Drink plenty of water and have a well nutritional diet. Acne home remedy is not just about applying grated fruits and vegetables; it is indeed a holistic home care regime.

4. Understand Your Skin Condition
One of the first things you must remember is that your home care should suit your skin condition. Home remedy is one of the best ways to treat the menace, but, if done carelessly and ignorantly, the routine may actually prove to be futile. So, keep in mind your requirements even in case of the home remedy. You may actually whip out some potent concoctions from your own kitchen garden without much effort or expenditure. Your acne home remedy must be a well informed decision.

Sunflower Oil can Guard Your Skin Naturally Against Acne

When searching for alternative treatments for acne sunflower oil must definitely be considered. This natural oil is rich in vitamins that are needed for healthy looking skin and is very soothing to several types of skin irritations including acne.

Sunflower oil is obtained from the seeds of the sunflower plant and is very helpful is relieving skin irritations such as acne. The oil from the sunflower seed is extremely rich in vitamins A,C,D and E. Because it is so rich in vitamin E this natural oil in very soothing and gentle when applied to the skin.

Oil obtained from sunflower seeds like most other oils is excellent in helping the skin retain moisture. What sets sunflower oil apart however is that it can additionally provide the sin with a natural barrier of protection against bacteria and others irritants which are at the root of most blemish issues.

Greasy food is often to blame when it comes to finding the source of acne. If you must add any oil to foods or cook your foods in oil switch from fatty vegetable oil to sunflower oil as vitamins A,C,D and E are all essential for healthy skin. By fighting bacteria and other potential irritants below the skin, you can help to prevent acne before it occurs on your skin.

Sunflower oil can be found in skin care products such as soaps, body wash and lotions. It can also be found in many types of cosmetics (foundations and pressed powders in particular), which are very popular with women who suffer from blemish problems.

Sunflower oil is a tremendously versatile oil that is easily absorbed by all skin types making it a great choice for anyone suffering from acne problems that are worried about the effects that most over the counter acne remedies would have on their skin. If you choose to add sunflower oil to your dietary regime as well as applying it to your skin your body and skin will both see very positive results.

Effective Green Tea Herbal Acne Treatment

Studies have shown that green tea is a very effective herbal treatment for those suffering from acne. Green tea is quite unique as compared to other teas in that it is not fermented. This useful herbal tea is steamed very quickly after it is harvested in order to keep all of its active ingredients in tact.

Health care professionals have done many studies comparing the benefits of using green tea to treat acne as apposed to over the counter acne treatments.

Those studies showed that green tea was just as effective in treating blemishes as its over the counter counterparts with the bonus of causing little irritation to the skin.

Green tea can reduce inflammation and aides in detoxification, which is extremely helpful to those suffering from acne issues of any kind. Overactive hormonal activity, which is a huge factor in acne breakouts, can also be limited by using green tea.

This very versatile supplement is ideal for many types of people suffering from blemish problems. You can drink it as a tea, there are facial creams that you can use that contain green tea and can also be consumed in pill form. So no matter what your lifestyle might be you can find a way to incorporate using green tea to combat your acne.

If you drink green tea to clear up your acne make sure that you do not add any sugar or other types of sweeteners to your tea. Doing so will result in all the positive effects of the tea to be negated.

There are very few if any side effects to using green tea as an acne treatment With green tea being so easy to use and reasonably priced no matter what form you choose to take it in there is no real reason why you should not give it a try to get rid of your acne.

Black Current Seed Oil Acne Treatment

There are many excellent alternative acne treatments available today with one being black current seed oil. This natural remedy most often comes in pill form and is easy to digest making it a great choice for just about all types of people who are suffering from acne to use.

Studies have shown that black current seed oil contains antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. Additionally black current seed oil is a tremendous source of essential fatty acids. Adding this natural remedy to your daily routine is an excellent way to maintain great health.

By keeping your body free of irritants and fats that are not very healthy for you to consume you can limit if not end completely any potential acne breakouts that you might experience.

When taking black current seed oil it is recommended that you take one to two tablets or soft gels daily. Preferably, you should take this natural remedy around the same time that you eat or at a time that has been recommended by your health care provider.

If you suffer from any type of arthritis or joint problems be aware that black current seed oil may possibly cause arthritic flare ups if too much is taken. If you have any concerns at all about adding a supplement of any kind to your diet make sure to check with your health care provider. You doctor will be able to give you the most informed opinion on if it would have adverse effects on you should you take it.

If you have tried product after product and no over the counter acne remedy is helping your skin clear up then you need to give black current seed oil a try. Over a period of time with safe and consistent use black current seed oil can aide in clearing up your acne problems and will have you feeling great on the inside as well.

Tea Tree Oil Natural Acne Treatment

Tea tree oil is a hugely popular natural treatment for acne with very good reason. Tea tree oil has solved the acne problems of thousands that suffer from all types of blemish problems.

Tea tree plants are native to many areas around Australia. Harvesting the leaves, steaming them and then collecting the oil that the leaves have produced is the most common method of obtaining tea tree oil.

Tea tree oil has become extremely popular over the last few years. During studies preformed by health care professionals it was shown to be more effective in killing bacteria (such as staph bacteria) then many popular man made antibiotics. Additional studies have shown that benzoyl peroxide is less effective in treating acne then tea tree oil as it can leave the skin red and irritated while tea tree oil does not.

To use this great blemish fighter all that you need to do is apply one drop two to three times per day to any areas of your skin that is affected and it will begin to kill the bacteria. The are also many great facial and body cleansing products that contain tee tree oil that you can use in combination with tea tree oil. There are also blemish sticks and pressed powders that contain this natural acne treatment so women suffering from blemishes do not have to worry about their makeup making their skin worse.

Tea tree oil can be found in health food stores, pharmacies and well as in grocery and other retail stores. Additionally you can also find it sold online as well as a vast amount of information concerning the benefits and proper usage of this oil. If you are looking for an effective but natural treatment method for taking care of you acne problems then use tea tree oil, your skin will thank you.

Yoga is a Stress Reducing Way to Fight Acne

Many people that suffer from acne should look into the skin healing benefits of doing yoga. This relaxing form of exercise is an excellent way to regenerate both the body as well as the mind. Now how can yoga help to rid your skin of acne?

Stress is one of the largest contributors to someone experiencing an acne breakout. When you are tired and stressed your skin is one of the first things to suffer. Many skin experts claim that exercise will help rid the skin of acne however, sweat can cause new breakouts in addition to potentially making current acne problem worse then they were before you started exercising.

You will have a very hard workout when you participate in yoga. The difference is yoga is preformed at a much slower pace then most other exercises so you are much less likely to work up a sweat. This pace will allow a person to get a great workout and by not sweating as much they are likely to have their skin clear up as well.

In addition to being a low impact exercise yoga is known world wide as being an excellent way to relax your body. Since stress is a huge factor being able to lessen the stress in your life will do wonders for clearing up blemish problems on your skin. If you keep up with a regular routine of yoga you are likely to see healthier looking skin in no time at all.

Yoga is a suitable form of exercise for just about anyone of any age who is suffering from acne. If you are unsure about beginning a new exercise routine be sure to consult your health care provider. If you are looking for a great treatment for your acne problem as well as a fantastic way to get your body and mind feeling great then yoga is for you.

Alternative Acne Treatments

Acne is very common and medically classified as a skin disease. They are caused by excessive secretion of oily substance called the sebum by sebaceous glands. Although sebum is very good in maintaining skin and hair texture, excess secretion of the same gets stuck in hair follicles and leads to formation of acne lesions. Due to the oily nature of sebum and its exposure to dust and dirt causes bacterial growth and results in what is commonly known as the pimple.

Pimples are not the only outcome of such bacterial formations. Cysts, whiteheads, blackheads are also quite common depending on exposure and skin types. Occurring mainly in the age group of 10 to 40 years, these conditions need to be cared for with various acne treatments available.

Various kinds of acne and various skin types need different treatments. Keeping this in view, there are some fast acne treatments while there are some that take some time to help one get rid of acne. Although acne treatments are available across drug store and on the internet, it is important to know one’s skin type and the kind of acne that they have been afflicted with before deciding on a cure. In case you cannot assess your skin type, it is recommended that you consult a dermatologist and follow his prescription instead of medicating yourself.

Herbal treatments for acne are much sought after now a days, since traditional acne treatments have become very expensive and so have dermatologists. Herbal or alternative acne treatments have become more and more popular due to lack of considerable side effects that most acne treatments seem to have.

Not only the lack of side effects, but also additional benefits like vitamin and botanical nourishments such as DMAE (anti-oxidant), anti-aging compounds, vitamins and other supplements in alternative acne treatment make skin pristine, add tone and improve texture.

Pharmaceutical cures for acne treatments have also evolved since and have stopped making the “magic pill” that fell out of vogue. Although many a company has made the magic pills in the past, their expensive touch and side effects have left them in the cold. Taking a cue form alternative treatment methods that comprise of herbal acne treatment, pharmaceutical medication for acne treatment have evolved to integrate the goodness of the additives in herbal medicines and have become more affordable and grown in variety to suit various skin and acne types.

Alternative acne treatments also include no medication. Yes, no medication. Acne can also be cured over a longer period of time through sheer self discipline of eating nutritious, anti-oxidant diet, reducing stress levels, drinking more water, proper hygiene and through regular exercise.

Diet recommended for people plagued with acne would consist of fruits and vegetables, no-oily and non-fatty food taken with a lot of fluids. This will help in removing toxins from your system and produce healthy sebum. This kind of diet is also good for overall health and contributes to proper digestion and detoxification.

Reducing stress levels would result in reducing pressure thus controlling the secretion of sebum and. This can be achieved through meditation or even getting proper sleep of at least eight hours a day.

Drinking more water helps in keeping your body hydrated, since dry skin also causes acne and inflammation. This increases kidney function and removes toxins via the urinary route.

Exercise helps reduce toxin levels due to sweating and opens up pores on your skin. It also regulates the water levels in your body. Exercise also contributed to reduction of stress and contributes to overall health.

Hygiene for acne treatment would include regular washing of the affected areas. Always wash with plain water, several times a day. Although, washing with water removes only surface dirt, this would prevent further development of acne. Never use harsh or oily soaps. Try to use a normal soap that would help retain the pH balance of your skin.

Added to this, further alternative remedies for acne are available, which could be classified as grandmother’s cure. These remedies are local to regions and countries and have been developed with many years of experience. They are known to work because they have been made to the cure acne in specific environmental and pollution specifications of the said region.

However, despite all these remedies and perspectives of looking at acne treatments, it is strongly advised to take the opinion of a qualified dermatologist before embarking upon any acne treatments.

Side Effects of Acne Treatments

When we talk about acne, only two things come to mind – treatment of acne and control of acne. Easy to think, hard to know and harder to try. Which or what kind of acne treatment would you opt for? With a plethora of products occupying already dwindling shelf space in most drugstores, picking up the right acne treatment would be like groping for a light switch in the dark. You know it is there, but cannot find it..!

With many acne treatment products using a lot of marketing slogans like “magic acne pills” or “clear acne in 72 hours”, what works and what does not is difficult knowledge to attain, much less buy an acne treatment option. Most claims, of course are dubious. Many over the counter acne treatments are known to worsen the acne situation, much less cure it.

An overall life style change is absolutely necessary. An acne free face not only depicts good skin but also represents a good and clean life style with healthy habits.

Life style changes are hard to get used to but not entirely impossible. A little bit of discipline can go a long way in changing life styles, part-by-part. You could begin with a clean, oil free, fat free and nutritious diet that consists of fruits and vegetables in good quantities.

An effective acne treatment is more of an inside-out process.

The more garbage you eat, the more it shows on the outside. Conversely, a healthy diet will depict health on your skin.

However, there are various varieties of acne that require acne treatment. It is important to know the skin type and the cause of acne. Moreover it is important to know and understand the composition of the acne treatment you would be using. Many acne treatments are known to have side effects that could even set you back in your efforts of getting rid of acne.

Unfortunately, many acne treatments are known to result in creating different complications. Allergic reaction is a primary complication and most prevalent. Many acne victims may have allergic reactions chemicals that make the acne treatment. Very often, it happens that the victims themselves are not informed of such allergies and only come to know once it has happened and the doctor enlightening them about the outcome of using a particular acne treatment.

Apparently, this could cause serious problems to may people who are unfortunate. In a bid to get their acne treated, they may end up with other health complications which may need expensive treatment.

Other allergies that may crop up by use of acne treatments could be redness, flaking or inflammation of the skin. Most acne treatments tend to dry up the skin and over drying could result in such complications like flaking. However redness and inflammation may also be caused due to light allergies.

Research and investigation into any acne treatment as to its compositions and their ill effects on human skin is absolutely necessary before using any acne treatment products, either prescribed or bought over the counter.

It is not advisable to take unnecessary risks, just because someone else has used it or because the salesman has emphasized on no side effects. Such decisions may not only be detrimental to health but also to your finances. Finally, it is your own health and you are only person that can take good care of it.

Effective Naturopathic Acne Treatments

Before we dwell upon various ways and methods of getting rid of acne, we need to understand what they are and how they are caused. Although all factors and causes of acne are yet to be ascertained and understood, the most well known cause of acne is the secretion of an oily substance which promotes hair growth and keeps it healthy. This oily substance keeps hair and skin soft, so the secretion is not without a reason. This oily substance is also called Sebum. Sebum is produce din a human body in large quantities during adolescence.

Although sebum in itself is not harmful, it comes in contact with dust particles and tends to block hair follicles. These hair follicles thus blocked turn into acne lesions. Apart form this, since sebum is an oily substance it forms a conducive environment in the acne lesion thus formed for bacterial growth. The bacterium thus grows into what we normally call a Pimple.

Acne treatments are varied and wide spread. Probably my grandmother will suggest a cure and your grandmother would suggest another and both might work effectively or neither might. This essentially implies that acne treatments go a long way back, probably to the beginning of civilization and none of them are concrete.

Acne treatments depend on various factors like skin type, environment, hygiene and of course the primary cause of acne. However, people suffering from acne have a common symptom, they keep worrying about them incessantly. Let alone treatment, they worry about scars that may come up after they are treated. Be assured, the scars go away all by themselves after proper treatment has been done.

With a plethora of acne treatment products available across the globe, it is not so difficult to choose the right one. Dermatologists across the globe have also developed ways of healing scars that do not go away automatically. Some procedures like dermabrasion, microdermabrasion are popular where the external layer of the skin is removed using lasers.

Acne treatment can be very simple. Before acne take over and run amok, it is necessary that we take some preventive care to reduce the chances of acne.

We could begin with cleansing the face. Cleaning and washing the face removes only the surface dirt and does not remove any dirt accumulated in hair follicles filled with sebum. Cleansing the face is important so to prevent further accumulation. While cleaning the face, make sure never to:

1. Scrub: Scrubbing will only worsen the acne situation.
2. Over-wash: Washing too often upsets the pH balance resulting in dry skin.
3. Use strong soaps: Strong and harsh soaps remove the oil, thus misbalancing your skin configuration.
4. Use heavy make up: Oil content in heavy makeup clogs skin pores which will increment the acne problem.

The next best option to maintain a healthy and glowing skin is to have proper diet and exercise regularly. Diets should be full of fruits and vegetables and other nutritious food. Avoiding oily food and fattening food is recommended. Exercising regularly helps maintain the water balance in the skin. Exercise also helps control stress level helping maintain a hormonal balance in the body. It is however, very important to remember that drinking lots of water, while exercising or otherwise is very essential to the body and helps the skin heal fast.

Sleep is another essential factor that contributes towards health and acne treatment. Sleep removes stress and thus the body’s hormonal balance does not get disturbed. A minimum of eight hours is recommended.

Acne treatment is a wide ranges science. However, traditional treatments of acne are basically oral and topical. Topical creams like Retin-A, benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid help open up pores and prevent development of blackheads and whiteheads. Exfoliation procedures are also available and help in reduction of discolored pigmentation.

For adults, oral antibiotics are a preferred form of acne treatment. Tetracycline family based antibiotics can help reduce bacteria on the skin, thus fighting inflammation to prevent redness of skin.

Although acne treatments are wide and varied, localized treatments are available and the most effective since these acne treatments are formulated as per the local environmental conditions and effects.

Despite all kinds of acne treatments available, naturopathic treatments are recommended to be the best.

8 Factors That Causes Acne

Acne, also known as pimples, whitehead or blackhead, is a kind of skin disease that can happen on any part of the body, but usually on the face, neck and upper body. Whitehead occurs when the plug remains below the skin surface. Blackhead happens when the plug is forced to the skin surface by the pressure of sebum and dead cells.

People can tell you many factors that cause acne. In summary, below are the key 8 factors that bring you to this unwanted skin disease. The 8 factors can be simply classified into 4 internal and 4 external factors.

Internal factors that causes acne:

1. Bacteria
The bacteria, named Propionibacterium Acnes (P. Acne), are typically live on our skin and cause to acne. The presence of P. Acne attracts white blood cells produce enzyme that causes local inflammation and redness. The presence of P. Acne does not cause by dirt or poor hygiene. Reducing P. Acne numbers through treatment can effectively reduce acne inflammation.

2. Sebum
Naturally, sebum, produces by sebaceous glands, “fill up” the hair follicles and the “over filled” sebum gives the skin surface an oily appearance. Sebum good to our skin as it makes our skin waterproof. Also, sebum helps to carry dead cells to exterior of skin. For reasons that are unknown, some hair follicles become obstructed and the sebum that trapped inside the hair follicles can cause P. Acne to grow. Eventually, it causes inflammation and redness to our skin.

3. Hormones (Androgens)
Many acne causes come from hormonal change or imbalance. Hormone changes due to stress, menstruation, pregnancy, starting or stopping birth control pills. The hormones that cause acne are called “androgen”’. Androgens stimulate the sebaceous glands and secrete sebum to the surface of the skin. Combination of sebum, P. Acne and toxin-blocked-pore aggravate the skin and causes inflammation and redness.

4. Genetics
Although not been proven, possible cause of acne is heredity or genetics because it does influence thickness of skin, oily tendencies of the skin and basic hormone responses. Even some studies have shown that acne development can be passed down from one generation to the next. However one’s parent has acne does not necessarily mean that next generation will suffer from acne.

External factors that causes acne:

1. Improper Skin Care Products
Improper skin care products can cause irritation to your skin. These include any products that can block oil pores. Besides, avoid applying herbal medication that has not been proven or approved. It might give you toxic reactions.

2. Over Exposed to Sunrays
Over exposure to sunrays cause skin damage and worsening existing acne. Some common acne medications can make your skin sensitive to the sun and lead to worse skin condition.

3. Picking and Squeezing
Picking and squeezing acne is not recommended. Picking pushes bacteria deeper into the skin cells or spread the bacteria already beneath the surface of the skin. Squeeze acne using fingers can cause acne to become serious. In the situation that picking or squeezing is unavoidable, only dealing with blackheads and whiteheads, but not the swollen and red goobers.

4. Washing Face Too Often
Too much washing can stimulate oil glands. Wash your face with mild soap and warm water 2 to 3 times a day. Again, acne is not caused by dirt and hygiene. Washing too often or too vigorously may actually make acne worse.

In conclusion, you can find thousands of resources related to acne skin care products, acne remedies, acne therapies and so on. Be aware of those who given mislead or wrong information. Also, many of them over claim their products over there. So, be a smart shopper, make sufficient survey and study before you spent money.

Natural Food Acne Treatment to Help Combat Acne

Natural acne treatment without acne products? Really? In fact, modern researches have found that our eating habit and the occurrence of acne are closely related. Even there is no medical proven, however, researches believed that changing our eating habit is the most natural method to combat acne- no acne product involved.

Before we talk about the natural acne treatment, we have to understand that acne is caused by over produced of sebum on our skin surface. High-fat foods promote sebaceous glands to produce more sebum.

Therefore, avoid high-fat, greasy and stimulus foods, less ham, sausages and other preserved foods, less chocolates, coffee and alcohol drinks could be the best way to combat acne. Besides, don’t forget to consume more vegetable, fruits to maintain gastrointestinal system healthy.

These are the natural food acne treatment to help combat acne:

Soy Milk
Drink more soy milk helps to reduce acne.

Garlic
Garlic juice mix with warm water to wash face helps to remove acne pigment.

Lemon Juice
Lemon juice mix with warm water to wash face helps to clean the oily skin.

Vitamin A & Zinc
Vitamin A and Zinc are the basic for controlling of sebaceous glands secretion and reduce the size of the epidermal cells exfoliated. Vitamin A helps for skin regeneration. Foods contain rich Vitamin A and Zinc including spinaches, lettuces, apricots, mangos, soybeans, eggplants, lentils, cabbages, carrots, green onions, pumpkins, tomatoes, powder milks and so on.

Vitamin B
Vitamin B2 & B6 accelerates the oxidation of cell, help on healing of acne. Vitamin B can easily be found in most green leafy vegetables and fish. Also, Vitamin B can be obtained from foods such as liver, eggs, seaweed (dry), soybeans, peas, yeast, chicken, cattle, pork (skinny), carrots, bananas, and grapes.

Vitamin E
Vitamin E is everything about beauty skin. Foods contain Vitamin E including soybean oils, nuts, algae and mushrooms.

High Fiber Foods
High fiber foods help on metabolism and promote the intestinal peristalsis and get rid of the excess grease from our body. High fiber foods include whole wheat, coarse grains, soybean and bamboo shoots.

In conclusion, combat acne by changing of our eating habit could be the first and most natural way before we spend money on the expensive acne products. Understand our skin type and select the suitable acne products would be the next important step after we have a healthy eating habit and proper control of diet. We can find many natural acne treatment and skin care products online but which is really the best? As a smart user we would not forget to do research before we spend our hard-earning money.