Determining what really causes Acne

Having acne can be an agonizing experience for any teenage, especially for adults who never seemed to got out of the phase. Tons of acne medications get sold every year, this is a clear indication that people with acne are determined to get rid of them, at all cost.

Some of these acne medications though simply cover up acne and do not really treat them. Getting rid of acne should be from its roots, their cause.

Acne is the result of abundant amount of toxics in the body. These toxics can be an amassing of fat not properly disposed off, or accumulation of hormones the body produces. When the kidney, liver and the bowels could not dispose all of these toxins, they need to dispel them some other way. The body releases them either through the lungs or through the skin.

This is when a breakout of acne can occur. The toxins released through your skin are the dirt and oil that causes the acne to swell up and get the pores infected.

That is why most dermatologists recommend having the face and neck scrubbed regularly with soap and water to rid of these toxins. With a well-cleansed face, you eliminate the chances for the pores to be infected. Untreated acne can cause ugly scarring in the affected area that could be permanent.

This blemish to the face could be quite hard to remove. Therefore, to prevent acne from happening you need to clean your face regularly as well as cut down on foods that are full of fats and hard to digest foods. Also cleanse your bowels and your waste system so that you won't have a build-up of toxins in your body.

Mild and moderate acne isn’t the end of the world!

Admit it…there has been at least one time in your life where there was acne on your face at just the wrong time. Whether it is a first date, your senior prom, or that big job interview, you think that everyone will be focusing on your acne instead of the whole you. Today, with all the many scientific advances, there are several new treatments for acne that may be just the ticket to a clearer face and body.

The most common acne treatments on the market today can be purchased over the counter. Some common brand name treatments you can find at the drug or grocery stores are Clearasil, Seabreeze and Neutrogena. Most of these brands have creams, facial washes, acne pads and moisturizers. When using these treatments, don’t give up on the product if your acne has not shown a great deal of improvement in a day. Many times it takes trial and error to find the product that will work for you…and you need to give each product about two weeks to reach any kind of effectiveness.

A new wave in treating acne is the product Proactiv. After countless infomercials, ads in magazines and on the internet, it is becoming one of the most widely known acne treatments on the market. With celebrities raving about the results they get with this product, many people are trying it out…with mixed results. The ingredients in Proactiv can be found in many of the other treatments you can get at local stores. The difference between the products - the price.

One specific type of acne that many people find frequently on their face are blackheads, a particularly difficult type of acne to get rid of. Found mostly on the nose, cheeks and ears, this type of acne is a very deep, hard to reach blemish that can feel like it is impossible to treat. However, products are on the market to help with this type of acne as well. Commonly known as “nose strips”, this treatment consists of a strip that has a substance on it that dries and literally removes the blackhead from the pore. Washing does little to stop blackheads from appearing on your face, but washing should be done if you try to squeeze this type of acne. You can do more damage to your face trying to “self-extract” blackheads!

Today there is a relatively new treatment out there for mild to moderate acne. It is a hand-held device known as the Zeno Acne Clearing Device. This FDA approved acne clearing device applies a precise 2 ½ minute heat treatment to acne. This heat treatment essentially kills the bacteria causing the acne, thus healing the pimple. Unlike other treatments on the market, the Zeno Acne Clearing Device can actually clear up a pimple in a day as opposed to days or even weeks with other alternatives. Although the heat from the zeno device can cause mild redness to the area where applied for roughly 20-30 minutes after you use it, no other adverse side effects were reported by users…unlike the skin irritation that topical treatments can cause.

Good hygiene is still the best way to fight acne on your face and other parts of your body. Washing your face regularly with a mild soap will usually keep acne at bay. Regular soap and water won’t irritate your face like some acne treatment products may. Only those with severe acne will require any kind of visits to a dermatologist for prescription acne medications.

The Social Impact of Acne

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 & 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.

Actual quotes from people with acne
The fact is, people with acne generally hate the way they look with acne. Let people with acne tell you-here are some testimonials about living with acne*:

Verbatim #1
"I don't look in mirrors.... I am like a vampire--I shy away from mirrors. I comb my hair using my silhouette on the wall to show the outline of my head. I have not looked myself in the eyes in years, and is painful not to be able to do that, and that is a direct result of acne, the acne scarring."

Like a vampire, hating mirrors! Unable to face himself, how can this person hope to face the world?

Verbatim #2
"I think that if I had more self-esteem about the way I looked, I think I would have been more outgoing. I would have gone to more parties. I probably would have been more outspoken in class and would not have felt so insecure about going up and speaking in front of a group of classmates."

Here is an extrovert, turned in on himself (or herself) because of acne. Who knows how different things would have been if he didn't have acne?

Verbatim #3
"It is really humiliating to feel like I have no control over my acne. I hold my head down and I am ashamed to look at: people, embarrassed. I am 25 years old and to be acting this way is very frustrating."

In just three sentences, this person revealed humiliation, lack of control, shame, embarrassment and frustration. With the treatments available today, there is no reason to suffer like this.

Verbatim #4
"It's associated with being dirty, and I hate that, because it's not at all like that. I inherited it from my mother, and she's always telling me that she had the exact same thing and that it will go away. I am mad that I inherited it from her. My dad makes me feel bad because he never had bad skin when he was younger, so he doesn't understand.... I hate that the first thing people see when they look at me is bad skin. I really. really hate that."

Myths about acne are a common source of family conflict. Teenagers tend to be rebellious anyway--do they need to have acne misinformation driving another wedge between them and their parents? One myth that makes this family situation worse: The notion that nothing can be done to clear serious acne sooner than if it were left alone.

Verbatim #5
"I feel like I don't look right no matter how hard I try to dress up and look nice--there is always that area of pimples there, and it is very unsettling. There really hasn't been a day gone by that I don't think about it, or look at my face.... Should I spend that much energy on it? I could be doing other things...instead of wasting 5 to 10 minutes every day looking at my face in the mirror, or playing with it, picking at my acne."

This person is so preoccupied with acne that he almost neurotically picks at it. He is also clearly frustrated, as acne thwarts all attempts at achieving a good appearance.

These testimonials show the extent of the psychological, emotional and social disturbances that acne can cause. Clearing up the acne would relieve the source of these disturbances, but many people don't realize that something can be done.

Many myths about acne, especially regarding diet and hygiene, are still considered to be true. And many parents and older siblings are stuck in the attitude of past generations that nothing can really be done but wait it out.

Making matters worse, there is confusion among people with acne and their families about what works and what doesn't. They are often frustrated by products that promise to clear skin but that don't work for them.

Some nonprescription products may be more effective than others, but dermatologists have treatments that work just about 100% of the time. Most cases of acne can be cleared up with the right treatment.

Kerwin Chang writes for http://www.acnestuff.net where you can find out more about acne and other skin care topics.

Water As A Natural Acne Remedy - Could It Be Possible!

As you may already know, there are many acne treatment products available. Some of these treatments include over-the-counter cleansers, creams, and medicated pads. Other acne products involve prescribed medications provided by a dermatologist. However, the increasing popularity of natural remedies has also become prevalent in treating many common conditions, and acne is no exception.

Surprisingly, water is considered as one of the best natural remedies for treating acne. Water? Yes! Water... and for good reasons! Water is used to hydrate the body, which, of course, hydrates the skin as well. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, must be properly hydrated to work correctly and serve its purpose. This is accomplished in two ways: by washing the face, which hydrates the surface of the skin, and by drinking water, which hydrates the entire body, from the inside out. This, of course, includes the skin. Drinking plenty of water will keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. Healthy skin cells promote a healthy body. Now you've got one more good reason why you should drink lots of water ;-)

Doctors tell us we should drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Although this might sound like an overused cliché, and "six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day" seems like a lot of water to drink in one day, think of what it can do for your body. In addition to improving skin tone and texture, it can stimulate cell growth and will help all your organs work correctly. It also helps filter out unwanted substances that can be harmful to your skin.

Water is also a crucial component deep within your skin. It provides the basis for a soft, smooth, and healthy complexion and will help you look more youthful. Though very little water is stored in the outer layers of your skin, this moisture is important and is constantly removed by outside elements such as sun and wind.

Sun and wind can dry your skin, removing moisture and irritating its surface. When this occurs, pre-existing acne can become even more irritated, which in turn prolongs the problem. While irritation won't directly cause more acne to form, it can worsen the problem. It is important to keep proper moisture in the skin.

You've probably heard that oily skin does not need moisture. This is one of the most common myths. Just because skin is oily, it doesn't mean it is moisturized. By cleansing the skin, you are wiping away excess oil, and my moisturizing it, you are helping it remain smooth and decreasing your chances for irritation.

As the best natural remedy for treating acne, water helps to properly hydrate the skin. This not only promotes and stimulates cell growth, but also helps the other organs of the bodywork together. If properly hydrated, the skin will not wrinkle or sag as easily, and will appear youthful for a longer period of time. Even though water is not the only natural remedy that you can use for treating your skin, it is the most important. Without it, the skin could not do its job in keeping the rest of the body in the best possible condition. So, don't forget about the many benefits that water provides for your skin, especially if you suffer of any type of acne. Try to give your skin a little bit more help - a little bit more water.

Acne Home Remedy

As you may already know, there are many acne treatment products available. Some of these treatments include over-the-counter cleansers, creams, and medicated pads. Other acne products involve prescribed medications provided by a dermatologist. However, the increasing popularity of natural remedies has also become prevalent in treating many common conditions, and acne is no exception.

Surprisingly, water is considered as one of the best natural remedies for treating acne. Water? Yes! Water... and for good reasons! Water is used to hydrate the body, which, of course, hydrates the skin as well. The skin, being the largest organ in the human body, must be properly hydrated to work correctly and serve its purpose. This is accomplished in two ways: by washing the face, which hydrates the surface of the skin, and by drinking water, which hydrates the entire body, from the inside out. This, of course, includes the skin. Drinking plenty of water will keep the skin looking and feeling healthy. Healthy skin cells promote a healthy body. Now you've got one more good reason why you should drink lots of water ;-)

Doctors tell us we should drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Although this might sound like an overused cliché, and "six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day" seems like a lot of water to drink in one day, think of what it can do for your body. In addition to improving skin tone and texture, it can stimulate cell growth and will help all your organs work correctly. It also helps filter out unwanted substances that can be harmful to your skin.

Water is also a crucial component deep within your skin. It provides the basis for a soft, smooth, and healthy complexion and will help you look more youthful. Though very little water is stored in the outer layers of your skin, this moisture is important and is constantly removed by outside elements such as sun and wind.

Sun and wind can dry your skin, removing moisture and irritating its surface. When this occurs, pre-existing acne can become even more irritated, which in turn prolongs the problem. While irritation won't directly cause more acne to form, it can worsen the problem. It is important to keep proper moisture in the skin.

You've probably heard that oily skin does not need moisture. This is one of the most common myths. Just because skin is oily, it doesn't mean it is moisturized. By cleansing the skin, you are wiping away excess oil, and my moisturizing it, you are helping it remain smooth and decreasing your chances for irritation.

As the best natural remedy for treating acne, water helps to properly hydrate the skin. This not only promotes and stimulates cell growth, but also helps the other organs of the bodywork together. If properly hydrated, the skin will not wrinkle or sag as easily, and will appear youthful for a longer period of time. Even though water is not the only natural remedy that you can use for treating your skin, it is the most important. Without it, the skin could not do its job in keeping the rest of the body in the best possible condition. So, don't forget about the many benefits that water provides for your skin, especially if you suffer of any type of acne. Try to give your skin a little bit more help - a little bit more water.

The Whole Truth About Fading Acne Scars

Unsightly scars that appear on the face are usually the result of severe acne. Cystic acne or common acne that has ruptured are the main causes. It is a common problem that most people desire to have corrected as soon as their acne finally clears up. There is the option to have a procedure done in a doctor's office to fade acne scars, as well as things you can do yourself at home.

Some people would be pleased with the appearance of their face if only they could just find a way to fade their acne scars. These are usually attention-drawing red or purple and are hard to cover up. Since scars are permanent, it is desirable to find a way to lessen their appearance. There are over-the-counter creams that can gradually fade acne scars. Mederma is available without prescription and even offers a money-back guarantee. It doesn't claim to completely rid your face of scars, but it will visibly fade them. Mederma is expensive but one tube can go a long way. And if the scar fades then repeated usage is not necessary. If the scar is indented, the appearance of the scar is mainly caused by the shadow. The way this is treated it through basic collagen injections.

There are skin resurfacing treatments available that can reduce the visibility of acne scars. They usually require more than one visit and could become expensive. The common procedures done to fade acne scars are dermabrasion and laser treatment. The long-term safety of laser treatment is uncertain so there has been controversy and debate surrounding this procedure. Dermabrasion is safe but you will have to endure recovery afterwards.

Daily exfoliation and application of Vitamin E oil is an effective way to fade acne scars cheaply at home. Most people do not want to spend a lot of money on something cosmetic and this is a very safe way. The longer the scar has been present, the more difficult it will be to alter its appearance. It may be possible to fade acne scars at home if they are mild. Lemon juice has been a success in fading scars for many people. The citric acid that it contains help to remove dead skin cells, increase skin elasticity, and help new cell growth. It could be irritating for people with sensitive skin but it will most likely fade the scars. Aloe Vera is also known for its healing ability and could also help to fade scars. The best aloe to use is determined by how much of it is combined with inactive ingredients that can dilute the healing properties.

An exfoliating serum that you can purchase is the Bliss Sleeping Pill Serum. It uses amino acids to exfoliate you skin and lighten dark scars. Another over-the-counter way to fade acne scars is with a product called Advance Complex Fade Gel. It is used for treatment of dark spots, such as scars, and is specially formulated for people with dark skin. It also contains sunscreen to keep the dark spots from ever coming back.

Resource guide for natural acne treatment.

eClass on total acne treatment.

Following Acne Skin Care Regime…

The basic fallacy about acne skin care that most of the people commit, is to understand the role played by the skin in the human system in isolation. God has created a total, complete and perfect machine in the form of human body and he has covered it with skin for valid reasons. When something is wrong with the parts (organs) inside, the complaint regarding their malfunctioning is reported through the skin.

The digestive organs only react to what we have given to them. Their reporting system is fair and without any blemishes. The combination of rich carbohydrates and protein in great number forces the toxins to the surface of the skin and form acne and pimples. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that if you apply some lotion or balm and in the process some pimples disappear, do not think that you have achieved something.

A host of other pimples are readying themselves for the attack on the surface of the skin, they may however change the strategy and appear on other parts of the body. Because, the royal battle is going on within, on the part of the affected body.

As a natural healing process of skin, the post inflammatory acne changes start surfacing. By adopting some medical and herbal practices you can speed up this healing process. The understanding and knowledge about the type of acne is important in the treatment of acne. Also, constant exposure to the sun can cause severe skin damage and delay the healing of your acne. Thus wear a good sunscreen and be protective to heal your acne.

Common skin problems include rashes, acne, blackheads, whiteheads, dry and oily areas, reddish-brown blotches. In acne conditions, skin care is not only its external medication, but we have to clearly understand and be conscious about the food intake– foods that aggravate the condition and foods that benefit. The former are acid producing foods. In the later category come minerals, especially iron-rich foods.

To say something about one of the ancient remedies prevalent in most of the Indian households— the juice of raw papaya, being an irritant is useful in several skin disorders, including acne. It is applied with beneficial results to swellings to prevent pus or warts and pimples formation. The juice as cosmetic, removes freckles and brown spots due to exposure to sunlight.

It is worth mentioning certain simple aspects and instructions to understand and follow a good acne treatment regime.

1. Avoid tight clothes, they are known to cause body acne by trapping sweat.
2. Use a sun-blocker by wearing a hat.
3. Dab the face dry, carefully. Do not apply pressure.
4. Use make up that do not clog the pores.
5.Think well before buying any over the counter products. Be even more careful, if they are introduced recently in the market.

Let your skin not be the experimenting ground for the product. It is better to go by the advice of the dermatologists in these matters.