Acne Products Reviewed

Filed under: Acne Help — Justine September 30, 2007 @ 3:01 pm

>

Various types of topical treatment for acne are to be found in the drugstores. After buying them, one should glance through the tips that are inscribed on it. It is really important because proper usage should be made of these medicines.

Benzoyl peroxide

The three key functions of this ointment is to kill bacteria, reduce skin irritation and open the clogged pores. A doctor’s prescription is not necessary. It is available at various levels of concentrations i.e. 2.5%, 4%, 5% and 10%. The following concentrations should be applied to the skin as per your suitability. Try using the lowest level at first and use it only once a day and then gradually increase your usage.

Antibiotics It helps fighting the bacteria present in the skin and also cures inflammation that occurs, but it is not useful in treating the blocked pores. A doctor’s prescription is necessary. It may cause you mild side effects. The drawback of this medicine is that it does not heal your blackheads and whiteheads.

Retinoids

It is mainly useful in unplugging blocked pores of the skin compared to the other mentioned medicines, but otherwise it has nothing much to yield. The few set of disadvantages are that, they do not cure inflammation nor scrub away blackhead or whitehead. But you may feel a weird sensation after applying such as skin redness, irritation, dryness, burning and even peeling of skin.

Azelaic acid

It unplugs the pores that are clogged, and also rules out blackheads and whiteheads like retinoids. It is also useful in stopping inflammation but does not work as effective as antibiotics.

A team of acne experts has found that combinations of treatment work out quickly when compared to the other treatments. Till today there is no such topical treatment that is listed as a priority when compared to others. Each of them have their own significance depending upon the nature of disease and how an individual reacts to the therapies.

To be fairly cured, it is better to continue the treatment for about 4-6 weeks, or else extend it for 3-4 months. Do not stop the treatment if you are not satisfied after completing half the course. Even if you feel quenched do not discontinue because the flares may surge up again. On the whole, it is advised to continue the treatment for several years.

About the Author

Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn1525.html

Filed under: Acne Products — Justine September 29, 2007 @ 7:00 pm

Acne treatment for black skin is the same as that for white skin, with some exceptions. Some treatments for acne scars may cause temporary lightening of dark skin.

Acne treatment for black skin is the same as that for white skin, with some exceptions. Some treatments for acne scars may cause temporary lightening of dark skin.

Very dark or black skin may be less well-moisturized than lighter skin, so topicals like benzoyl peroxide that have a drying effect on the skin should be used under the supervision of a dermatologist.

Darker skin has a tendency to develop excessive skin darkening at places where the skin was inflamed. Severe inflammatory acne (cysts and nodules) may result in dark spots. The spots disappear over time; a dermatologist may be able to recommend cosmetic measures to make the spots less apparent until they resolve. Some acne treatments, such as topical retinoids and azelaic acid, may also help fade the discoloration.

Alterations of melanin (dark pigments that give the skin its color) pigmentation such as vitiligo and melasma are not related to acne, but they may be present simultaneously with acne. The diagnosis and treatment of melanin pigmentation disorders such as vitiligo requires a dermatologist with knowledge and experience in treating these conditions.

Many doctors feel that laser resurfacing isnt meant for dark skin because it alters the color of skin too dramatically and unpredictably. Others believe that in the hands of a very experienced surgeon, people with darker skin tones can benefit.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Acne Treatment provides detailed information on the best acne treatments, including laser acne treatment, and scar treatment, as well as adult, natural, home treatment, and more. For more information go to Microdermabrasion Web for related information.

Filed under: Acne Help — Justine September 28, 2007 @ 9:00 pm

At the onslaught of puberty, many teens suffer from various radical changes - physical, physiological, emotional.. you name it! Of course, one of the most apparent transformations is that of the physical changes. Aside from the males developing more muscles and moustache and females developing their breasts and hips, there’s this one change that commonly annoys an enormous portion of the adolescent population. Acne vulgaris!

Acne vulgaris is also known as acne or pimples in more common terms. Overproduction of oil that suddenly happens to teenagers and sensitivity to dirt are the precursor to this menacing skin disorder. But those two or their combination are not the only cause of breakouts. Many other factors could trigger acne. Genes, weather conditions and certain substances from food may set off the invasion or just the presence of acne.

Dermatologists and researchers have been trying to discover the best acne medication. Acne, no matter how miniscule a disorder it may seem, needs adequate attention. These tiny bumps on one’s face could elicit major effects on a person. Not only vanity motivates experts to find or formulate the most excellent acne medication. Ridicule for having a pockmarked complexion is often one of the leading causes of low self-esteem among adolescents. What’s worse is that this lack of confidence may be brought until one reaches his maturity.

The most recent forms of acne medication are the following:

Oral Antibiotic Acne Medication. This type of medication should always be mediated by consulting a physician. Various acne medication antibiotics that may be taken by mouth are supported by researches. Assorted antibiotics that act as acne medication are intended for moderate, severe to persistent types of acne. It is very important that a doctor is asked first on which antibiotics for acne medication is right for you.

Cortiscosteroids. Very severe acne may be prescribed with this acne medication antibiotic. This potent antibiotic is usually taken in a short span of time only. They have metabolic effects that make them inappropriate for long-term use.

Oral Tetracycline. This antibiotic is one of the most popular oral acne medications. Moderate to severe acne may be treated with an initial dose of 500 to 1000 mg per day in a decreasing dosage as skin condition improvement is noted. This antibiotic is not for the pregnant women since it can cause skeletal defects to fetus. Children with age of under 8 years are also not advised to be given this medication.

Oral Minocycline and Doxycycline. These acne medications in the form of antibiotics are only derived from tetracycline. Research evidences tell that these acne medications are more effective than tetracycline. Doxycycline is reported to induce sunlight sensitivity. Both are advised not to be taken by pregnant women.

Oral Erythromycin. This antibiotic that serve as an acne medication may be taken as an alternative to tetracycline since it is safer for pregnant women and young children.

Isotretinoin. This acne medication antibiotic is said to revolutionize acne treatment due to its potent effect in dealing with severe and treatment-resistant acne. Reports has it that isotretinoin is very effective in treating all forms of acne. But it should be noted that many side affects are also attributed to isotretinoin. This includes severe birth defects to a fetus, dryness of the skin and mucous membranes. Therefore, pregnant women, breastfeeding women or those who are planning to become pregnant must not take isotretinoin as a form of acne medication.

About the author:
Kirsten Hawkins is a freelance writer specializing in skin conditions such as acne and rosacea. Visit acne-remedies.for–you.info’ target=’_blank’ class=’navigation’>http://www.acne-remedies.for–you.info

Filed under: Acne News — Justine September 26, 2007 @ 7:00 am

>

Acne is a type of skin disease that is mainly caused due to excessive secretion of oil called sebum. Basically, the function of this oil is to regulate the skin texture and body hair by reasonably moistening it. It is produced by the sebaceous glands present in the skin. But, due to excessive lubrication, you easily become prone to development of congested pores on the skin surface. These pores give rise to various skin bumps such as cysts, blackheads and whiteheads, pimples etc.

There are various types of bumps, which vary in nature. Cyst is a condition where your skin is covered with a tiny sac that is filled with fluid. In the case of whiteheads, the pores get blocked with sebum and protrude slightly outward. When the pores stay open and are filled with sebum, they get darkened from the outside surface and it is called blackhead. It is known as a pimple, when the pores get exposed to a different kind of organic matter such as bacteria and other germs. A reddish colored swelling will be noticed.

Acne is commonly found between the age group of 10 to 40 years. You can find a quicker treatment, if you have thorough knowledge regarding the causes and how they should be treated. You can meet with the drug store or cosmetic center and find medicines for yourself. In case it is not easy to understand your actual skin condition, you can consult a physician and follow his prescription.

About the Author

Paul has been providing answers to lots of queries through his website on a wide variety of subjects ranging from satellite phones to acne. To learn more visit http://www.askaquery.com/Answers/qn1519.html

Filed under: Teen Acne — Justine September 25, 2007 @ 7:00 am

If you think you’re alone in the struggle to ward off acne,don’t fret. It seems that while not everyone suffers fromit severely, many-around 85% of people, go through it atsome point in their life.

If you think you’re alone in the struggle to ward off acne,don’t fret. It seems that while not everyone suffers fromit severely, many-around 85% of people, go through it atsome point in their life.

Breakouts vary from person to person. So, instead of givingup, get educated! Here are some tips that you can use toclean up and eventually clear up that beautiful skin!

The skin, being the body’s largest organ, is alwaysmending, growing and changing to fit our needs and to keepus healthy. In a way, it’s a type of bio-shell, surroundingyou and growing with you. In fact, you shed dead skin cellsconstantly. This constant loss means that about every sevenyears, your skin has completely molted itself in itsentirety.

So, your skin maintains itself with proper cell functionand reproduction. In order for you to maintain thisdelicate balance, you need to be sure to wash your facedaily.

To all intents and purposes, you should actually wash withsoap and rinse well two or more times per day. Rinsingthoroughly is probably the most important step, even ifsoap is not available, especially after intense exercise.

Moreover, another way to take care of the skin on yourface, neck, back and shoulders is to be sure that you washyour hair frequently. You hair releases oils constantly.This oil naturally glides down the forehead onto the face,and from the neck onto the back. This is a real concernduring humid weather and elevated outdoor temperatures.

Men really need to experiment when shaving. Using anelectric razor or a razor with shaving cream can affect theskin. Find out which is the better option for you. Be sureto keep your razors clean, lather-up well and use qualityshaving cream and/or soap.

In the same fashion, women who wear makeup also need to becareful not to use products that irritate the skin. If youare undergoing acne treatment, especially with topicalproducts, makeup might actually irritate the more. If youstill feel the need to use facial products duringtreatment, be sure to use noncomedogenic (oil free)products.

Discover useful advice and information about the causesand prevention of acne. Website contains useful articlesand updated information on this nasty skin condition.Click Comments (0)

Filed under: Teen Acne — Justine September 24, 2007 @ 7:00 am

More frequently women are combating acne and wrinkles simultaneously. Its a hideous fight wrought with mysterious hormone signals and an even more baffling search for a cure.

Acne does not go away with age

Dr. Alan R. Shalita, who co-authored “The Effect of the Menstrual Cycle on Acne,” found that contrary to the adage that, Youll grow out of acne, premenstrual acne only seems to get worse with age. This study examined a group of 400 women ages 12 to 52. The investigators observed that 53 percent of women over age 33 experienced a higher rate of premenstrual acne than women under age 20– who only reported a 39 percent increase in premenstrual acne.

Dermatologist Diane Thiboutot, MD, associate professor of medicine at the Milton S. Hershey Medical Center , Hershey , Pa. , proposes to clarify acne treatment options for women. Dr. Thiboutot explains that control of acne is an ongoing process and that all acne treatments work by preventing new acne. While most women suffering from adult acne seek standard treatments such as topical preparations or antibiotics, 60 percent of these femmes either do not respond to standard acne treatments or build up a tolerance to frequently prescribed medications such as antibiotics.

Causes of Adult Acne

It is not yet known exactly what causes adult acne, but several dermatologist like Dr. Alan R. Shalita, link adult acne to hormone fluctuations. Acne in a woman is often linked to her menstrual cycle. Women with premenstrual acne outbreaks, such as pimples on the lower face and neck, seem to respond particularly well to treatment with medications that either reduce or block androgen production. Androgen hormones create male traits in women such as a deepening of the voice, an increased libido or hirsutism that causes excessive or abnormal growth of hair. They also stimulate the oil glands. The oil mixes with skin cells and bacteria, causing inflammation in the skin that can result in the arrival of zits.

What to Know Before Your Begin Hormone Therapy for Acne

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Before you begin a hormone treatment for acne, you should confirm that you are not suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, worldwide, about 15% of the women of reproductive age have PCOS. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a hormonal imbalanced characterized by irregular menstruation, obesity, infertility, acne and hair growth on the face, chest, and back (hirsutism). Like acne, PCOS is caused by an imbalance in androgen hormones. Dermatologists should work closely with your gynecologist to reduce the risks of infertility, cardiovascular disease and insulin-resistant diabetes.

Before your dermatologist prescribes hormone therapy, she may perform a standard screening that includes two hormones - testosterone and DHEAS (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate). It is important that you stop taking oral contraceptives for at least one month before any tests are performed because birth control pills can suppress androgens.

Acne Hormone Treatment Options

Dr. Diane Berson, MD, a clinical Assistant Professor at the Department of Dermatology, New York University , New York states that once a woman is diagnosed with hormonal acne, treatment options include oral contraceptive pills, corticosteroids and spironolactone. These treatments act by decreasing sebum production.

Oral Contraceptive Pill

The oral contraceptive pill, OCP, is the keystone of hormonal therapy. The OCPs most successfully employed in controlling acne contain a hormone called progestin, which has low androgenic activity, combined with 35 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol, an estrogen. You can find generic forms of this pill under names such as norgestimate or desogestrel.

Oral Corticosteroids

Oral corticosteroids, such as prednisone and dexamethasone may help improve acne by decreasing androgen production in the adrenal gland.

Oral Spironolactone

Oral spironolactone is a steroidal antiandrogen that prevents excessive oil production by blocking androgen receptors. Additionally, spironolactone decreases androgen production in both the ovaries and adrenal glands, resulting in fewer acne flare-ups. Doctors usually prescribe oral contraceptives with spironolactone to reduce spironolactones side effects of breast tenderness and menstrual irregularities.

Risk Factors with Hormone Therapy

Dr. Thiboutot counsels, “As with any therapy, there are risks and rewards. The risks of hormonal therapy require regular breast and pelvic exams to guard against the increased risk of certain types of cancers. It is vitally important that dermatologists work with the patient’s gynecologist to determine the most appropriate treatment and follow-up especially in women over the age of 40 or those who might be smokers”.


About the author:

Health author and Stanford University graduate Naweko San-Joyz lovingly writes from her home in San Diego. Her works include Acne Messages: Crack the code of your zits and say goodbye to acne (ISBN: 0974912204) and the upcoming work Skinny Fat Chicks, Why were still not getting this dieting thing (ISBN: 0974912212) for release in June of 2005. For useful acne self-help articles visit http://www.Noixia.com

Filed under: Acne Help — Justine September 23, 2007 @ 7:00 am

Want to get rid of those zits in your face but you are currently low on budget? How about looking for acne control to avoid the sudden appearance of acne in your skin? So how do we do this?

First, what is acne? Acne is a skin disorder caused by the hormones action on the oil glands of the skin which is called the sebaceous glands. The excretion of oils from this glands can lead to congested skin pores. This is when acne occurs. The face, neck, chest, back and shoulders is where the glands are most profuse, that is why most acne are found on this locations. People who are with this kind of disorder often tends to be depressed, and humiliated.

There are a lot of factors that can generate acne to transpire. First is our Genes. Genetics can’t be changed but other factors like our daily routine and the way we take care of our skin can be improved to make acne control no problem at all. Don’t feel so sad about your acne because there’s lots of things you can do. This acne control tips will help you say bye-bye to those zits.

1. Include Fruits and Vegetables in your daily Diet. A healthy diet consists of at least four to five servings of fruits and vegetables. Acne control will be a lot easier if you start including this in your daily habit.

2. Rose water can be used as a facial cleanser. Dipped in a cotton, clean your face using this everyday for at least two to three times each day.

3. Don’t wait for your pimples to form. If you see a bit of it in your face, do something. Acne control is best done early. Pat some ice on the affected area for this will make it less swollen.

4. Acne control is easier when accompanied with multivitamins. Start taking vitamins that contains zinc supplement. Zinc helps in making your skin stronger and acne resistant.

5. Cucumber can help in acne control. Blend it with some water to form a mask. Put it in your face and leave it for about half an hour before rinsing it off. This is a good and affordable acne control remedy that can also refresh your skin.

6. Use only mild soaps and avoid soaps that contains petroleum based products and animal based ingredient for this causes your skin to get dry and irritated.

7. Using alcohol free facial cleansers makes Acne control trouble-free. Alcohol tends to dry your skin more.

8. Makeup also prompt the occurrence of acne. Choose your makeup wisely. Most of the makeup available contains petroleum based ingredients that makes skin dry. An all natural makeup helps acne control become more effortless.

9. Lastly, Drinking loads of water is very important. It flushes out the dirt in our body, Making acne control more natural.

Now you have a list of some helpful tips in acne control. It is your choice if you are to do these methods. There are lots of ways in acne control, be it naturally or by technology. Skin products are always around for you to pick your choice. The thing is, these products are very costly. If you are the innovative type of person, better try this methods in acne control. It is all natural and wont do any harm in your body. No side effects of course! Plus, you can really save a bunch out of this. There’s no harm in trying! Saying goodbye to those acne is just a step away!

About the author:
Kirsten Hawkins is a freelance writer specializing in skin conditions such as acne and rosacea. Visit