Natural Acne Treatment Verses Proactive

Proactive acne solution is usually advised for treating mild to large cases of acne. However while the majority of its users claim it is effective, there is a large worry when it comes to the effects of its possible harsh chemical makeup, which can most likely do more damage than good in treating acne. If you are one of the many individuals who are combating acne for years, you most likely have thought about many over-the-counter (OTC) acne medications to get clearer, healthier and acne-free skin. The Proactive acne treatment solution is one of the more well-known OTC anti-acne treatments available presently. On top of its large celebrity promoters, its favorability stems from the talk surrounding its effectiveness in addition to the dangers of side-effects. The fact is the acne remedy formula used by the Proactiv brand gave an ideal solution to bettering mild to serious cases of acne. Nevertheless, the market's affirmative response to the treatment, which stems from its effectiveness, is shrouded by the powerful possibility that the treatments may lead to mild or permanent side-effects that can most likely further aggravate any acne problem. The Proactiv Acne Remedy The treatment is generally based on traditional acne medications. It uses chemical substances to eliminate acne-causing bacteria and works deeply into the skin to rid of dead cells and stops clogging of the pores or hair follicles. This anti-acne treatment comes in the form of a complete remedy kit that has cleansers, toners and moisturizers that are made for everyday use. These three skin care products are also part of Proactiv's three-part treatment to getting acne-free skin. Its rejuvenating cleanser is created to softly exfoliate dead skin cells by letting active components such as benzoyl peroxide to seep into the pores. Its amazing toner is made to maintain adequate hydration of the skin. The solution also soothes and rids of pore-blocking matter that generally causes acne. Last, its repairing acne moisturizer is made to stop the build-up of acne causing bacteria. Generally, the Proactiv acne solution never ceases to bring rapid results in ridding of acne as well as handling symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching and scarring. The only concern observed with this treatment is that its work stops with just curing and ridding of your existing acne. It does not give much in terms of stopping and managing further breakouts. Although it effectively manages overactive sebaceous glands and unblocks pores, it keeps further breakouts from occurring. Simply said, it treats acne from the surface, and not from its foundation. Do Proactiv anti-acne products work? When Proactiv has been positively reviewed for its fast-working acne ridding capabilities, it falls short to give lasting results in treating acne. Compared to other acne treatments on offer, it is not as effective when used for a long-lasting acne cure. This is due to its lack of focus on the internal causes of acne. Apart from blocked pores and accumulation of acne causing bacteria, further causes of acne go beyond the surface of the skin. For example, a hormonal imbalance, which is primarily related to acne breakouts and leads to androgen functions that lead to the release of excessive oil on the skin. The possible build-up of toxins within the body is another large cause of acne. Really, the harshness of an acne problem is a sign of how toxic the inside of your body is. Last, acne may come about because of genetic sensitivity, which can cause hormonal imbalances as well as overactive sebaceous glands. When the body does not effectively rid of wastes, renew regular amounts of oil released in the sebaceous glands and stop excessive oil on the skin, acne is very likely to occur. In this case, any acne cure that does not manage these issues is pretty much useless. Reported Side-effects of Proactiv anti-acne products The treatment primarily combines two active ingredients; benzoyl peroxide and glycolic acid. Although both ingredients are FDA approved, they have known side-effects. Itchy, dry, flaky and redness on the skin are the common side-effects of Proactiv solutions. In some instances, the treatment can cause major dryness of the skin, making the skin tough, irritated and scaly. Such side effects are generally caused by its active chemical additives, which is not good for use on sensitive skin. The side effects of Proactiv anti-acne products might also bother the liver, which will also worsen your acne problem. Do not forget that the make-up of the skin makes it porous, so that it can easily take in the chemical additives of the OTC anti-acne treatments you use. Therefore, applying treatments that have disputable and potentially dangerous chemical additives, which can simply enter deep into the skin and into the bloodstream, poses a great risk to your skin and overall good health. On natural acne treatments For hundreds of years, people have solely depended upon the healing properties of plants, herbs and fruits to obtain relief for well-known skin disorders. During the age when there were no convenient drugstores, people searched the forests hunting for herbs and plant leaves, tree bark, fruits and roots, which were used to make skin cleansing products. Both for oral and topical use, age-old folk and herbal cures have proven their safe and successful healing ability in relieving small, to severe skin problems such as acne. As additional studies were conducted to see the anti-acne advantages of natural acne cures, individuals have found that drug and chemical derived cures are not the only answer to having acne-free skin. As well, while more and more individuals see the grave health threats of the side effects of OTC anti-acne products such as Proactiv solutions, natural acne treatments have stirred up a huge buzz. Since the determinants that lead to acne flare-ups extend to internal and environmental factors, the only successful answer to bettering acne is working from the inside out. You must do a good cleansing of your organ systems to continue regular and efficient bodily functions. In addition you should try a healthy detox diet to aid the body in naturally ridding and stopping the accumulation of toxins. With the use of the antiseptic and antibacterial elements of some herbs, you can make chemical-free and side effect-free acne cleansing cures that can help rid of your acne problems forever. The skin is the most exposed and therefore most vulnerable part of the body. By trying natural acne cures, you can achieve permanent acne treatment outcomes as well as improved health and contentment. For more information about Natural Acne Treatments go to Natural Acne Treatments. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4465015

14 Things You Should Know About Adult Acne

Have you ever looked in the mirror and uttered these words under your breath, 'Why am I still breaking out'? Did you wonder why, even in your adult years, you still have to put up with acne? The idea that acne should be a thing of the past - a teenage problem - can leave adults frustrated not knowing what is causing their skin breakouts. Here are 14 things you should know to help you identify the causes of your flare-ups and ways to prevent them. #1 Blame it on the hormones Androgens, like testosterone, are male hormones (present in women too) which are responsible for causing acne. Women undergo sharp hormonal changes more often than men, so women are twice as likely as men to be afflicted with acne during adulthood. Given this fact, it is no wonder why acne can strike anytime in a woman's life - during puberty, ovulation, menstruation, pregnancy, menopause, and even after menopause. Female acne can also be a symptom of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) which is a disorder caused by hormonal imbalances; however, usually, these individuals are overweight, have fertility issues, do not have regular periods and grow excess hair in unwanted areas, such as the upper lip, chin and chest (more manly distribution of hair). In addition, some people who have thyroid problems may also have trouble with acne. It is also interesting to know that although men are at a lower risk for adult acne, men are more prone than women to have more severe forms of acne because of the higher levels of testosterone naturally circulating within a man's body. #2 Quit smoking Did you ever notice the complexion of a longtime smoker? It is not supple and often looks dry, rough and leathery. Recent studies have discovered a phenomenon labeled as 'smoker's acne'; the acne in smoking individuals is non-inflammatory (bumps with no swelling or redness), commonly known as blackheads and whiteheads. Inflammatory acne, on the contrary, is when the spots are red, pus-like and swollen. Research shows that for people who had acne as teens, the probability of suffering from adult acne is four times higher in smokers than non-smokers. According to a British Journal of Dermatology, a study of 1000 women aged 25 to 50 found that 42 per cent of smokers had acne compared to only 10 per cent of non-smokers. It is a good idea to kick the habit, not only for health reasons, but also for the reason that smoking has long been associated with premature aging of the skin, wrinkles and a bad complexion. #3 Check skin products Sometimes the products you are applying on your face can trigger breakouts so pay close attention to your cosmetics, shaving creams, cleansers, moisturizers and makeup. Steer away from products with an oil-base which can block pores resulting in acne. Allow your skin to breathe and only put oil-free (noncomedogenic) products on your skin. #4 Side effects of drugs Since hormones are the main cause of acne and most acne cases are not drug-related, do not stop using your medications. However, bear in mind that some medications can cause acne breakouts. Phenobarbital (medication used for seizures), steroids (prescribed and illegal use in bodybuilding), lithium (medication for bipolar disorder), isoniazid and rifampin (medication used in tuberculosis), DHEA supplements (marketed as the extremely controversial anti-aging pill which causes serious side effects and has not been proven to work), hormone therapies and certain birth control treatments can cause or worsen acne. Again, talk to your doctor before discontinuing any medication. #5 Your skin is what you eat Although skepticism still exists in the dermatology community linking diet with acne, some people swear that certain foods cause them to break out. Until more solid evidence is out, the link between certain foods causing acne remains to be controversial. With that said, if you notice something you eat causes you to break out in pimples, avoid the food; by the same token, there is no guarantee that avoidance will necessarily cure your acne, but it is worth a try. -Nuts: Although nuts are healthy snacks that calm our hunger pangs quickly because they are satiating, they can provoke acne in some individuals. -Dairy: Recent studies have shown that milk and dairy products may trigger acne. It is not recommended to stop dairy as a means to improve your skin until more studies are conducted. Calcium is abundant in dairy products and is crucial for osteoporosis prevention. If your dairy intake is low, make sure to take dietary supplements to keep your bones strong. -Chocolate: Some people experience pimples when they eat chocolate while it may not even faze others. It is not proven that chocolate causes acne and some claims have gone as far as saying 'a bar a day keeps the spots away' suggesting that chocolate can even cure acne! -High glycemic foods: There is some evidence that foods with high-glycemic indices (sugared drinks, sweets, white bread and carbohydrate-rich foods) produce a quick spike in blood sugar which may aggravate acne. Although debate still exists in the scientific community around the notion that greasy and fatty foods worsen acne, many still carry the belief that it is definitely a contributor to acne. It has also been proposed that switching to a plant-based, low-fat, high-fiber diet can reduce acne flare-ups since vegetables and fruits are natural anti-oxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. Eating more fish may also pave the way for clearer skin as they are rich in omega 3-oils which is known to reduce inflammation. -Acne-fighting foods: Essential fatty acids (flax seeds, fish), Vitamin A (carrots, green leafy vegetables, sweet potatoes), zinc (whole grains, spinach), Vitamin E (green leafy vegetables), Vitamin C (citrus fruits, green peppers) Vitamin B-complex (brown rice, bananas), chromium (whole wheat breads, broccoli) and selenium (fish, lean meat, garlic, barley) are a sample list of foods that are rich in acne-suppressing vitamins and minerals. It is best to get these nutrients by eating enriched foods; do not take supplements without consulting a medical professional as overdosing can occur. #6 Stay regular Constipation can trigger acne by keeping toxins in your body. Eating a diet rich in fiber, drinking water and maintaining an active lifestyle will help prevent constipation and may be just what you need to clear up your skin. #7 Stress-management Stress-induced acne has been a highly debated topic and, recently, numerous studies have proven that stress does, in fact, worsen acne. Stress causes acne by lowering our immune system's ability to heal and causing androgens and cortisol to be activated which are acne promoting hormones. #8 It is in the genes Your genes may control your skin type. Adults with oilier skin are more prone to acne breakouts; also if acne runs in your family, chances are you will develop acne in your adult years. People who have the 'perfect-skin gene' should really know how lucky they are. #9 Climate Does the weather affect acne? It is not hard to believe that hot and humid weather may cause more break-outs due to excess sweating; however, sweating alone does not clog pores, rather the mix of sweat with exposure to oils and polluted air provides a better environment for acne to erupt. It is also important not to use the sun to dry out your acne as over-exposure will prematurely age the skin, darkens spots and may flare up acne, let alone the cancerous effects of the sun's harmful ultraviolet rays. How about the cold weather? Winter tends to worsen acne since cold weather causes the skin to dry out and the pores to shrink, leading to more clogging of pores. It is essential to moisturize, year-around, to help keep acne from worsening. Just because the weather is cold, does not mean you should skip the sunscreen since the sun's rays are still strong and can penetrate even on a cloudy day or through the windshield while driving. Sunscreens should, not only be used in the summer, but also in the winter. #10 Pressure and Friction Adult acne can be caused by certain types of constant physical pressure to the skin, such as tucking a phone under the chin, or the friction from the straps of a backpack or purse. Tight clothing and undergarments, such as tight bra straps, and even excessive phone use can contribute to acne. #11 Dehydration Not only does too much sun exposure and cold weather worsen acne by drying out the skin, but dehydration from lack of fluid intake can also cause breakouts. Hydrating the skin by hydrating the inside of your body will help prevent clogging of pores. Any caffeinated drinks, such as soda, tea and coffee, are dehydrating because they have diuretic properties (increase urination) so limit their intake. Water is the best fluid for your skin. #12 Dirt Clogged pores cause acne. Acne strikes when bacteria, excess oils and clogged pores are present. Although, dirt itself does not cause acne, it is essential to maintain a daily hygienic skin regimen in order to remove dead cells, dirt and excess oils to prevent blockage of pores. Avoid touching your face because your fingers have oils that can exacerbate acne. Dirty, oily hair touching your skin can also clog pores. #13 Work out There is strong evidence suggesting that exercise may clear up skin by lowering stress levels. Sweating is a normal bodily function and does not directly cause acne; nonetheless, it is still recommended to pull your hair away from your face during exercise to avoid oils from your hair touching your face and wash away or towel off sweat when you finish working out. #14 Get good sleep Not getting enough sleep increases stress which can lead to acne. In addition, studies have shown that sleep deprivation increases inflammation, thus exacerbating acne. Sometimes, more than one factor may be causing your acne and it is not always easy to figure it out. Achieving clear skin may be as simple as switching your facial cream to a complex problem that requires a specialist. You might be surprised that just by lowering your stress, your complexion might improve. Remember sometimes, you might feel worse than your face actually looks and, without a doubt, you are your own worst enemy. Keep in mind that a natural glow comes from within, not just from an absence of pimples. Dr Sandy Zabaneh is a US board-certified Doctor in Pharmacy who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, as well as a Bachelor of Science degree in Physiology from University of California, Davis. She is the Health Editor of U Magazine, clinical pharmacy consultant and life coach. Dr Sandy likes to follow the motto set forth by the World Health Organization in 1948: Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Check out her blog at http://www.sandyzabanehblog.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4195261

Acne - The Facts and the Myths By Tuhin Dev

There are certain periods of our lives we rather forget. And acne is one of them. It can be an embarrassing phase which affects not only our skin but also affect our self confidence. Acne is a common non-contagious skin condition relating to blocked skin pores that results in skin lesions. It affects most of us at sometime during our lifetime, more commonly during our teenage years. It can be grouped broadly into two main categories: 1) Non-inflammatory acne: Here acne lesions appear as whiteheads (closed comedones) or blackheads (open comedones). When bacteria and sebum are trapped in the pores below the skins surface, they appear as white spots and are known as 'whiteheads'. When the pore opens up to the surface of the skin and the contents gets oxidized and turns black, the lesions are then known as 'blackheads'. 2) Inflammatory acne: Here the acne lesions are inflamed and may appear as papules, pustules, cysts, nodules. With nodules being the most severe. Incidence: o Majority of acne cases occur between 10-17 years in females, and 14-19 years in males. o But late onset acne can sometimes occur in persons 25 years old or older. Some women develop acne in their 30 & 40's often with pre-menstrual exacerbations. o The incidence of acne is actually lower in Asians and blacks, and even rarer in China. o It can occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders. Myths about Acne: 1. Acne is NOT caused by chocolate or fatty foods. 2. Acne is NOT caused by poor personal hygiene (otherwise we would have acne between our toes too) 3. Acne is NOT caused by diet. Foods do not cause acne. 4. Acne is NOT caused by masturbation 5. Acne is NOT improved by sun exposure. The Pathogenesis of Acne: By pathogenesis we mean how does a condition develop? Acne is caused by a complex interaction between the sex hormones known as androgens and bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes), along with abnormal keratinisation in the hair follicles of individuals ( usually on the face, neck, chest and back). The androgens (usually in normal amounts) stimulate the sebaceous glands of the hair follicles to produce increased amount of sebum. Normally the sebum journeys along the hair follicle to the surface of the skin keeping it soft and supple. However in the development of acne, the combination of the increased amount of sebum, with the abnormal hyperkeratinisation of the lining of the follicle results in the plugging of the pore opening. This is known as a closed comedo (whitehead). If the plug gets exposed to the skin surface and is oxidised, it is called an open comedone (blackhead). The bacteria in these follicles act on the sebum which leads to a sterile inflammatory response. Within the follicle the bacteria continue to multiply and act on the sebum, releasing large amounts of inflammatory chemicals. The follicle walls continue to distend and may break, leading to the release of the contents into the surrounding dermis. The body mounts an intense inflammatory reaction that may result in papules, pustules or nodules which we commonly recognise as the lesions of acne. Factors that may cause or aggravate adult acne: 1. Drugs such as: Lithium, topical or systemic corticosteroids, anabolic steroids, certain types of oral contraceptive pills (oestrogen-dominant oral contraceptive pills may improve acne, while Oral contraceptive pills which contains a progestin with significant androgenic activity may aggravate acne). 2. Occupation: exposure to acnegenic mineral oils, halogenated hydrocarbons, dioxin, others. 3. Genetic Factors: Severe acne may be associated with XYY syndrome. 4. Cosmetic Induced: Certain cosmetics have ingredients that are comedogenic and may block the hair follicle openings (pore) on the skin, leading to bacterial proliferation and resultant inflammatory process with the follicle. 5. Occlusion or pressure acne: Any impermeable material worn on the skin for prolonged period of time can cause acne. Also materials that are in constant contact with the skin and cause friction or maceration can lead to acne. Occupational acne is most commonly seen in soldiers who develop acne where their bare flesh is in constant contact with their rucksacks and other equipment which they carry for prolonged periods of time. It may also be seen in person involved in regular bondage or fetish activities which involves the use outfits made of leather, rubber or PVC. 6. Emotional stress can exacerbate acne. Severity of Acne: Mild to Moderate Acne: It is the most common from of acne. Mild to moderate acne may have a combination of acne spots, such as whiteheads, blackheads, papules (red spots) and even pustules (a white or yellow pus filled centre surrounded by an inflamed red circle. Severe Acne: Nodules and Cysts are the main lesions. Nodules appear has hard painful bumps beneath the skin and can take months to heal, and scarring is common. Cysts, like nodules are painful, but are pus filled and larger (more than 5mm in diameter) in size. They too commonly heal with scarring. Treatment of Acne: Whether acne occurs in teenagers or adults, the treatment is dependent upon the severity of the lesions and psychological impact it has on the individual. Acne can very broadly be classified as mild acne, moderate acne or severe acne. For mild acne topical treatments are the first line of therapy. In moderate cases along with the topical treatment, oral antibiotics may be added. In severe cases oral retinoid may be prescribed after blood test and close supervision by the treating dermatologist (as side effects with such a treatment can be serious). Over the counter products for acne treatment: 1. Benzoyl peroxide gels or creams are the most popular over the counter topical treatment for acne. They are effective in treating comedonal and papulopustular acne. Improvements occur over a period of months. 2. Topical preparations containing Salicylic acid helps to correct abnormal shedding of skin cells and unclog pores. Like benzoyl peroxide it needs to be used regularly otherwise pores may become blocked when treatment is stopped. It is found in many over the counter products such as lotions, creams and gels. It may be irritating to the skin. 3. Topical preparations containing nicotinamide has been shown to help to treat acne. 4. Natural remedy: Tea tree oil has been shown to have anti-microbial activity and that is probably why it is popular among those who want a 'natural' treatment. Unfortunately only a few studies have been done, so its actual effect on acne is still unclear. But one study that compared tea tree oil to benzoyl peroxide found it to improve acne but was not as effective as benzoyl peroxide. 5. Turmeric creams have been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat acne. Avoid: Avoid products that contain ingredients that are may irritate your skin (e.g. Acetone, Algin, Laureth 4, Octyl stearate, etc), or contain comedogenic ingredients (e.g. Acetylated Lanolin, cocoa butter, Potassium chloride, Sodium Lauryl sulphate, etc). The presence of a comedogenic ingredient does not mean it will cause comedone because it also depends on the formula and what is its intended use. For instance a cleanser will remain on the face for a short time compared to a moisturiser. The list is extensive but only a few have been mentioned here. What would a dermatologist prescribe? If the topical over the counter remedies do not work, then a dermatologist after evaluating the severity of the acne lesions and the psychological condition of the patient may prescribe: 1. Mild Acne: Topical antibiotic or topical retinoid creams. 2. Moderate Acne: In addition to a topical treatment, an oral antibiotic may be added. 3. Severe Acne: Isotretinoin is a powerful retinoid drug that is usually reserved for severe acne, which has failed to respond to all other treatments. It inhibits sebaceous gland function and inhibits keratinisation and has proved to be very effective for severe acne. But it does have serious side effects and thus must be closely monitored by your dermatologist. Pregnancy must be avoided at all costs while on this treatment. In conclusion I want to say that Acne is one of the most common skin conditions that affects almost everyone of us at some in our lives. Most of us experience it during our teenage years while a few of us experience it during our adult life. But at whatever age it decides to pay us a visit, it affects us in more ways than one. Dr Tuhin Dev is a skincare expert, entrepreneur and founder of Dr Tuhin Dev Skin Care Ltd, which is based in the United Kingdom. To learn more about him and what he does please visit http://www.drtuhindev.co.uk. If you enjoyed this article, you can find other articles written by him at http://blog.drtuhindev.co.uk. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/3319846