All About Acne

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Alleviate Your Acne Problem

2006-10-27T17:34:00.000-07:00

Acne brings huge problems to teenagers. Teenagers who have acne feel isolated, ugly, and insecure. Who wouldn't when everywhere you look, only clear skinned people are put on the pedestal.

You tried every acne product out in the market but nothing seems to work. At this point, you feel that your social life is doomed but fret not because acne won't stay forever if you take the proper actions early.

First step to take is to understand what acne really is and from there you can take the necessary actions in curing or at least reducing your acne problem.

Acne is the term for plugged pores (whiteheads and blackheads), pimples, and deeper lumps (nodules) that happens in the face, neck, chest, back and upper arms. Acne is caused by build up of excess oil and dead skin in a pore. The causes of this are natural hormones, clogged skin and bacteria.

The onset of acne happens between the ages of twelve to seventeen. Almost all teenagers had acne. Many of them used non-prescription treatments to alleviate acne but more than 40% of teenagers in their mid-teens have severe acne cases. Normally, it goes away in the early twenties. Then again, there are many cases wherein acne starts or continues into adulthood.

It is interesting to note though that young men who are more likely to have severe acne, don't consult dermatologists as much as young women do. But then again, young women are more likely to have irregular acne due to hormonal changes during menstrual cycle or due to the cosmetic products they use. This kind of acne may afflict women even into adulthood.

The ultimate question now is how do you reduce acne?

Knowing the facts that debunk the myths and misconceptions about acne may help you alleviate your acne problem.

Myth 1: Acne is caused by poor hygiene.

This may be true if you don't wash your face at all. But if you resort to frequent and vigorous washing, it will definitely cause scarring which will worsen acne. The best approach is to gently wash face twice a day with mild soap and use appropriate acne treatment after.

Myth 2: Acne is caused by diet.

Scientific studies debunked this having found that there is no connection between food and acne.

Myth 3: Acne is caused by stress.

Stressors are not important factors in acne. Only severe stress that needs medication can cause acne as side effects.

Myth 4: Acne is just a cosmetic disease.

Acne does affect how people look but there's no serious threat to physical health. However, acne can result to serious scarring which can affect how these people live their lives.

Myth 5: You just have to let acne run its course.

The truth is, acne can be cleared up using acne products available in the market today. If they don't work for you, then try seeing a dermatologist.

According to Thiboutot (2000), cure of acne lies in knowing three things:

* That resolution to cure acne takes time; * That what works for one may not work for another; * and that a dermatologist's help may be needed if all actions you take to cure your acne fail.

Remember that acne responds well to early treatment. So to prevent scarring have your acne treated as soon as acne starts showing up on your face.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Adult Acne

2006-10-22T16:26:00.000-07:00

Picture this; the snow-white clear skin that you have been proud of since your teen years has suddenly poofed into a wicked witch's warty face upon reaching the age of 30! "Acne, at my age?" This is often the distressed statement of pockmarked men and women in their 30's to 40's afflicted with adult acne.

This problem is surely not the work of a vengeful sorcerer. Acne vulgaris is what this most common skin disorder in the United States is scientifically called. Statistics has it that 15 million people in US alone are afflicted with acne. It is an embarrassing problem among teenagers. But this condition is not only limited to those awkward years. Adult acne is also prevalent, especially among people in the age group of 25 to 40.

Acne is a disease that resulted from the accumulation of sebum, a highbrow term for oil, underneath the skin. When this happens and the desquamation (human's way of molting) process goes wrong, the pores become clogged. Aggravation will continue and soon infection sets in. A bad bug called Propionibacterium acnes causes this infection. Overproduction of oil and mismanagement of the process of shedding cells equals bunged pores. Clogged pores plus P. acnes, the scoundrel, equals breakout. Those pesky zits are produced just as easy as that.

One of the pushing forces that may cause the occurrence of acne includes the elevation of levels of testosterone among adolescents. No, it's not Toblerone misspelled. No matter how many anecdotes you've heard about chocolate addiction causing zits to dominate your face, there's really no enough scientific basis to prove this. Testosterone is a chemical produced by the body that increase sebum production and change the keratin of the hair follicles. Testosterone is an androgen. Androgen is a hormone produced in high levels among males. This is the reason behind the worse cases of acne among teenage boys more than girls.

Adult acne is called acne rosacea. It is characterized by the following: unsightly thick, red skin on the nose and cheeks, pus-filled blisters, small red bumps, and small red blood vessels seen on the skin surface. It is more commonly linked to increased levels of stress. Isn't it interesting how the body reacts to this stimulus? NOT. When exhausted, like Gizmo getting wet, our skin could actually give birth to little monsters! Though they are not as troublesome as gremlins, they could be just as annoying as well. Seriously, pimples can be difficult to deal with, and can cause depression and anxiety in an adult the same way it can in a teen. Pressure from work and family responsibilities is thought to possibly affect the normal balance of our hormones. And hormones messed up means having to put up with bumpy complexion caused by adult acne.

Aside from stress-triggered hormonal imbalance, hot foods alcohol consumption, and smoking are also considered to exacerbate adult acne. This may help you reconsider your food preferences and habits.

Acne lesions are commonly found on the face, but they can also pop out anytime on the neck, chest, back, shoulders, scalp, and upper arms and legs. Adult acne is more persistent than teen acne. It is because adults are consistently exposed to the many factors that cause breakouts. Another hitch of adult acne is permanent scarring. It is an evidence of the inevitable reality that with the coming of age, the skin loses its erstwhile ability to repair itself. As if there's a need to be reminded of that when your face starts to wrinkle already. Now here's more to shriek in terror for, especially those in their mid-20's: adult acne causes PREMATURE AGING. Isn't that just nerve-wracking? Enough of the endless yada's regarding how adult acne could further destroy us. As how master Yoda puts is, educated we must be with the crusade towards clearer AND younger skin. Or at least skin that is just our age we must maintain.

At the first sight of those wicked pimples together with gray hair and wrinkles (talk about aging signs overkill), just like with teenagers, impulse dictates squeezing. But you very well know that squeezing is a big no-no. How old are you? You surely don't need any more marks of time's passage.

In severe cases, consulting a dermatologist would best help in dealing with adult acne. The dermatologist may prescribe an antibiotic, vitamin A derivative like Isotretinoin or other acne drug available. More women may be afflicted with adult acne than men. Pregnancy is another story if you are prescribed anti-acnes, especially Isotretinoin.

Proper skin care may not guarantee a flawless complexion. But a good skin care regimen may aid in warding off bacteria that worsen adult acne. If you love scrubbing for its squeaky-clean feel, think twice. It can render more damage to your already-blemished skin.

Another hint especially for women: use NON-COMEDOGENIC products. Non-comedogenic basically means anything that does not clog skin pores or cause acne. Do your homework and look for as many non-comedogenic versions of the skin care products you use. It's worth it, you'll see.

If stress is linked with adult acne, then, disengaging yourself from stressful activities might work wonders, right? A day away from work or catching up on one of your hobbies won't hurt.

There's this bold Jean Kerr reacting on a classical quotation.

"I'm tired of all this nonsense about beauty being only skin-deep. That's deep enough. What do you want, an adorable pancreas?"

It doesn't mean the depreciation of a pleasing personality. Such reaction only imparts a message of giving value to what boosts your self-esteem. If it's a clear complexion along with your aging gracefully, so be it. No adult acne should put a shame on your face and get in your way of becoming more confident.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Acne Solution: Answer to an Age Old Problem

2006-10-12T17:30:00.000-07:00

There has been a plethora of acne medication that has placed claim as being the most effective acne solution. While some success has been noted by some of these popular acne medications, they offer no long-term solutions and the recurrence of acne after continuous medication can be very frustrating.

This is because these acne medications treat only the symptoms of acne and not its cause. It’s not entirely their fault as the real source of acne has yet been determined.

Many alternative experts and dermatologists though have dug up ancient methods and have revolutionized acne solution. Viewing internal toxins as an irritant causing acne, they propose that natural and herbal acne solutions can be the key, an old age solution to an age-old dilemma.

This holistic acne solution combines new and old, creams and sprays will still be used for short term relief of acne and an internal care regimen for the long term preventive relief and body detoxification will be done.

Another thing is that with this holistic approach to acne solution, there will be no side effects. Being natural, it is very safe. So trying it out will not cost you anything.

Various websites are already offering this alternative solution. If you have had a frustrating run in finding the right acne solution for you, then it is your responsibility to your skin to explore new acne solution options. Acne should not only be eliminated. They should be prevented even before they start.

http://www.all-acne.com

Sorting out each Acne Skin Care Product: Finding What Works for You

2006-10-08T20:25:00.000-07:00

Are you having problems choosing which acne skin care product would suit you and your skin? Don’t feel left behind. Millions of acne sufferers have this same dilemma as you.

As acne skin care products manufacturers flood us with their different goods, we can be left in a dizzying stance as each one claims to be the best and most effective.

Each and every one of us would naturally seek treatment for acne. Not only does this blemish our skin, it also taints our confidence. This is the reason why the acne skin care product industry is worth hundreds of millions of dollars. There are just too many people experiencing acne problems.

Each and every acne skin care product varies in the stages of the acne problem. While there are some that are taken for severe cases, there are also those that go to closing the pores and exfoliating the skin to prevent acne and remove blackheads and white heads.

Some of these acne skin care products come in forms such as topical creams, exfoliating creams, pills, gels, pore strips and some even uses small machines to steam the face or apply laser treatments.

Unfortunately, it is hard to recommend or to suggest just one that would do the job. The fact of the matter is that while one acne skin care product may work wonders for one person, it may not have any effect to another. That is why consulting a doctor or dermatologist is still the best way to find out which acne skin care product is best for you.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Acne Skin Care: Keeping the Scourge of Adolescents at Bay

2006-10-05T04:12:00.000-07:00

Most popular acne remedies, treatments and medications attack acne where it is most seen, the surface. These ugly bumps, inflammations and blemishes is what keeps many people awake at night, hoping and praying that the next day would promise a smooth and blemish free skin.

The problem is that the zit or pimple that most embarrasses you is just the tip of the iceberg. What needs to be dealt with is in its roots, the internal of the skin. By living a healthy lifestyle you eliminate the toxins from your body that is the most probable cause of acne.

3 Step Skin Care

You also need to have a daily skin care regimen to help keep acne at bay.

First you have to wash your face gently daily.

Use a mild cleanser, not your usual bar of soap, as this tends to dry the skin. A good cleanser should have a good combination of oil (for dissolving other oils), surfactants (for dissolving dirt and make up) and water (for washing all the oil and dirt away).

Avoid over washing your face. Once when you wake up and once before going to bed will suffice. Overwashing can cause more irritation.

Second, you need to exfoliate. Scrubbing your face gently once a week will allow dead skin cells to be removed and avoid pore blockages. This also rejuvenates the skin and allows for growth of new skin cells.

Lastly, you have to moisturize. Once again do not over do this as it may cause more acne. Dry skin can cause acne so moisturizing it will be a good idea.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Finding Effective Acne Scar Treatments that can Rid You of those Unwanted Blemishes

2006-10-02T16:29:00.000-07:00

Aside from the itchiness, irritation and unsightly inflammation acne provides, acne scars are also one of the effects this skin problem has that have many people in constant fear of them. It is unfortunate that what may seemingly be a tiny, short-lived pimple could result to a scar that could ruin your perfect skin forever.

This means that preventing acne should be doubly done in terms of effort in acne prevention to have beautiful skin for a long time. But there are people who just cant wait for their pimples to go away so they just pop them. This is the major reason of acne scars.

If you already have the scars due to acne, there are still some treatments you can turn to. They can totally eliminate the scars, reduce the deepness or at least cover them up.

A couple of acne scar treatments are now available, but you must remember though that not all treatments are okay for all types of acne scars. They also do not provide the same effect. An acne scar treatment greatly depends on your skin type and the type of scarring.

Here are the acne scar treatments that are available:

1) Dermabrasion – This method entails multiple sessions to peel away old skin layers. They expose younger looking skin but peels more than simple exfoliating.
2) Laser Resurfacing – This method is just like Dermabrasion but it uses a laser to do the job.
3) Chemical Peeling – This is much like the first two methods but only gentler. Irritation of the skin may be experienced at first. It is also advised to keep away from sunlight when undergoing this method.
4) Punch Technique – This method uses a punch to make a new scar which is then lifted to be leveled with the previous acne scar.

There are also other who uses facial make up to cover these acne scars and acts as fillers. Consulting with a dermatologist can help you decide which treatment would be best for your type of acne scars.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Discovering the Most Effective Acne Product to Cure Acne

2006-09-23T17:30:00.000-07:00

The quest for one acne product that can eradicate all acne problems have been going on for quite some time now. Unfortunately the end is not yet in sight. A lot of people have had a hard time standing in an aisle with rows and rows of acne products all promising to cure acne. Which one though would surely do the job?

You are not alone with this dilemma. The problem is that the one true known cause of acne is yet to be determined. For some reason acne just pops out. While it is prevalent in adolescents, it is not unknown to happen to many adults and in rare cases to babies.

Most acne products rely on various chemical solutions like, benzoyl peroxide, tetracycline, triclosan and other anti-bacterial and antibiotics to help them cure acne. Most of these acne products are topical creams which are rubbed in the affected area.

Other acne products include oral medications that also consists of anti-bacterials and antibiotics. Some women though use hormonal acne product treatments to cure their acne problem. This may include birth control pills and anti-testosterone pills.

External and oral retinoids are acne products as well that reduces the secretion of oil and prevents the hyperkeratinization of cells that causes blockages that results to acne.

The problem is that not one acne product is effective for all people. What may work for you may not be as effective to another. The different compositions and reactions of human beings to chemicals blocks the search for one tru acne product to cure all.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Acne Medicine: Getting the Best Solution from Medicines

2006-09-22T17:16:00.000-07:00

Many pharmaceutical companies have raked in big revenues and profits each year amounting to billions of dollars as more and more people are suffering from acne. While the real causes of acne have yet to be determined, despite of acne’s long history, people change from one acne medicine to another to find which one suits them best.

The quest for the one true effective acne medicine can be hard as the cause of acne in every person differs. While it is possible that a certain acne medicine works wonders for one person, it may not be as effective to another, worse, it may even aggravate the area infected by acne.

Acne medicine comes in various forms. But the most popular are the topical creams. There are those that are used to exfoliate the skin. This is done to remove dead skin cells and prevent the clogging of pores. This also promotes the growth of new skin cells.

Then there is the topical creams; the topical Bactericidals which contain Benzoyl Peroxide, or sometimes triclosan or chlorhexidine cluconate, then the topical antibiotics, which kills the bacteria that lives in the follicles.

Other forms of acne medicine taken orally are oral antibiotics, for those whould rather ingest the antibiotics rather than wiping them on the infected surface, and the hormonal treatments which many women use. There are also oral retinoids used as acne medicine, they contain vitamin A derivatives such as isotretinoin.

Whichever acne medicine you decide to choose, remember that what works for one person may not work for another, this is where consulting with a dermatologist first becomes important.

http://www.all-acne.com/

There is an Effective Acne Medication for You

2006-09-21T17:54:00.000-07:00

Cries of anguish and tears of frustration have long been the road usually taken by long time acne sufferers. Many have lost hope in acne medication because they seem not to be working for them at all. But this should be used as a basis to lose hope.

It is a known fact that what could be deemed as effective for a person with acne can be a catalyst to more acne symptoms for another. If you have tried 6 to 10 acne medications then that’s no problem, there are some people who have experimented with a lot more treatments and remedy before actually finding the acne medication that perfectly suits them.

Different Acne Medications

Acne medications can generally be divided into two: those that are infested and those that are applied to the surface of the affected area. These are the oral medications and the topical creams.

Topical creams have so far been the most popular types of acne medication. The most common topical creams are the antibiotic creams, antibacterial creams and retinoid creams. Others use exfoliating creams to regenerate the skin and scrub away dead skin cells that may block the pores of the skin.

Oral acne medications include oral antibiotics, hormonal treatments such as birth control pills and oral retinoids. They can be ingested according to directions of a dermatologist.

If all of these fails, (consult a dermatologist before taking any of these acne medications) there are natural and holistic acne medications that are now becoming popular. You never know, going natural may be the solution to your acne problems.

http://www.all-acne.com/

Acne: The Eternal Bain of Many Adolescents

2006-09-20T18:09:00.000-07:00

Since time immemorial, many adolescents, sometimes adults and in rare cases, babies, have been plagued by this natural occurring skin dilemma. While there are those that does frantic searches to cure acne and pimples, there are also those that just shrug it off and accepts it as a fact of life.

Rarely would there be a person who would pass the puberty stage without ever having a single zit or other symptoms of acne. Those that do not experience these are extremely lucky. Simply put, acne is the external or exterior symptom of the interior build-up of toxins in the skin. A lot of experts blame these build up on the over active hormones of an adolescent and their activities.

There have also been a lot of myths and theories in the cause of acne and many have been dispelled because of insufficient and inconclusive evidences. These include the person’s diet, sex and the lifestyle they live (unhygienic habits).

These inflammations that happen on the outside of the skin is usually found on the face, neck, shoulders and chest. There are also some cases where in pimples grow in the back, the vernacular term for these is backne or bacne.

Pimples, zits, acne, backne, whatever you call it, many people are shirking away from it. Not only can it cause blemishes and scars to the infected area, severe cases of acne can have a psychological effect o some persons, they tend to be shy and open for ridicule.

Seeking treatment is the best idea a person with acne can do. Check out the Internet as there are many solutions offered, but most of all, consulting a dermatologist would be a great choice.

http://www.all-acne.com/