>> MyAcneAndMe <<

Understanding Your Acne

2006-09-27T08:02:00.000+07:00

Many people between the ages of twelve and twenty four suffer from acne. Even after that age it never really stops. It just reduces to far fewer pimples. It's uncomfortable and embarrassing. Boys tend to suffer from it more than girls at the beginning of puberty, likely because of the increased level of the hormone testosterone in the body. Acne is generally caused by bacteria filling up clogged pores, resulting in zits or pimples breaking out. The zits usually spread over the face, back, shoulders, chest and neck. Some doctors think it may be hereditary. There is a great deal of advice when it comes to acne cures, unfortunately mostly contridictory.
Many people with severe acne seek advice from doctors and specialist dermatologists. Some sufferers use over the counter treatments, some have prescription treatments and others prefer to use natural methods. There is a great deal of anecdotal promotion of the benefits of one treatment or another and it all gets quite confusing. You just have to see which acne cures work for you and it may be a case of trying this and that until you find what works for you.Some experts say there is no such thing as a cure and that you should disregard such claims.
Despite the claims and counter claims of differing treatment, prevention is certainly better than cures. It's worth a try anyway. Attention to diet is important and avoiding fried foods, and refined and processed foods in general is a good start. Also, try to cut down on caffeine, alcohol, soft drinks and tobacco. Eat lots of fresh vegetables and fruit, and drink plenty water. Eating irregularly can cause constipation and this can promote acne because the toxic material has to break out somewhere.
It may not be possible to prevent the acne but you may be able to lessen its effects. If all measures fail, it's time to decide on which of the acne cures to try. There are numerous gels, lotions, creams and solutions on the market. Benzoyl Peroxide is a common ingredient in over the counter medications and some people have found that it works very well, especially when combined with regular cleansing and moisturizing. Other acne cures are antibiotics, salicylic acid and sulfur.
Others prefer vitamins or natural herbal remedies. These are all easily available as acne treatment. Vitamin A and Niacin is recommended, and also Zinc tablets. There are a number of home remedies that you could try. Some sufferers apply orange peel crushed with water or lemon juice. Another acne cure is coriander or mint juice mixed with a little bit of turmeric powder. Others apply grated cucumber leaves or crushed garlic cloves. You could also try an overnight face mask made from mashed up fenugreek leaves, to be washed off when you wake next day. Tea Tree Oil is said to be another acne cure.
Cheer up. There is a lot you can do do and try to lessen the severity of acne.

Use Right Acne Products, Medicine, and Treatments to Cure Your Acne

2006-09-26T07:46:00.000+07:00

History tells us that evolution is far better than revolution! When we talk and decide about medicines that treat acne, we have to keep aside our emotions, for acne is a emotional subject, which touches the patient's psychological tissues, very painfully. You are likely to be carried away by the attractive labels and full page advertisements, "Want beautiful skin?"-as if it is stored in shelves and you have to only tell the number of yards of skin that you require!
The so-called premium products designed to treat and prevent acne need a careful scrutiny. Always remember, your acne problem is YOUR problem. Never make the mistake of comparing it with the neighbor's acne problem. If no two individuals are alike, how can their skins be alike? It is you who have to decide, whether a particular medicine will work for you or not. A dermatologist has a major role to play in the acne drama, but you are the producer-director. You perhaps produced acne due to your wrong living and you better direct it and bring it to a happy ending!
What is acne after all? It is an inflammatory skin disorder of the skin's sebaceous glands and hair follicies. Are you aware that the skin breathes! If the pores become clogged, the microbes that are involved in cause acne flourish and then you get pimples, blackheads and often inflammation. It is possible to clear pimples and blackheads with proper remedies.
The post-inflammatory changes caused by acne are part of the skin's natural healing process. There are certain practices and medicines that can help facilitate their healing process. Using tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova, Avita) speeds up the skin's remodeling process and helps heal post-inflammatory changes.
Renewing cleanser gently exfoliates dead skin cells allowing benzoyl peroxide to penetrate pores. It is all about protecting your skin from forming new bacteria that cause the breakouts!
The most common agents to treat acne are the antibiotics, though not the safest! Side-effects and reactions can not be ruled out. Soaps, lotions, gels and creams are a matter of choice. Careful selection is the rule!
Rub garlic over the pimples and they would vanish without leaving a trace. Do it a number of times in a day. Garlic has cured very tough forms of acne cases, wherein the sufferers had thought that it is incurable and they are supposed to live with the scars forever. It is the external use of garlic that matters to finish off the presence of boils, pimples and spots on the skin. Garlic purifies blood, when you take it orally. Make garlic a regular part of your food and it will provide solid support to the skin to remain in the original condition. Also, it will keep the infections at bay.
So, for every minor acne problem, you need not visit the dermatologist. Only you should be sure of the merits of the medicines you take, and with right type of living, in co-operation with the Nature! Even then, say Hello to the dermatologist on the eve of New Year! You may still need his advice for some stubborn acne!

Acne and Isotretinoin: Using Isotretinoin the Right Way

2006-09-25T13:24:00.000+07:00

What is isotretinoin?

Isotretinoin (brand name: Accutane) is a medicine used to treat very bad acne. It is usually used for acne that did not get better after treatment with other medicines. It is important for you to take isotretinoin the right way. You should also know about the side effects of isotretinoin. Talk to your doctor if you have any questions about this medicine or if you have side effects when you take it.

General Information

You should take isotretinoin with food. You don't have to keep the medicine in the refrigerator, but keep it out of sunlight. Don't keep it in a place that is very warm.

Isotretinoin has been prescribed just for you. Don't share it with other people. Keep isotretinoin away from children. You may not give blood while you are taking this medicine or for at least 1 month after you stop taking it. You should also not have cosmetic procedures done to smooth your skin (such as waxing) while you are taking isotretinoin and for at least 6 months after you stop.

Acne, Pimples, Whiteheads, and Blackheads

2006-09-24T23:19:00.000+07:00

Acne usually appears around puberty but may also start in adulthood. About 85% of teenagers develop Acne, 15% of which may be moderate to severe. Acne is not infectious and the exact cause is not known but there are many treatments which are effective, but Acne is slow to respond or returns after treatment is stopped. Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat the resulting acne infections and pimples, often reducing the patients own immune system.

acne before UVA phototherapy

acne after UVA phototherapy

For reasons no one completely understands, hair follicles sometimes get blocked. Sebum (oil) which normally drains to the surface gets blocked and bacteria begins to grow and an acne pimple is formed. Both white heads and blackheads start out as a "microcomedone" or below the skin. The picture below is a "microcomedone".

Preventing Acne Problems for Teens

2006-09-24T19:44:00.002+07:00

Acne problems are not just the jurisdiction of teenagers. A surprising number of adults develop acne at some point in their lives - up to 25% of men and 50% of women. Some adults even develop acne where they didn‘t have it as teenagers. For women especially, this can occur around changes in their hormonal cycle, and during or after pregnancy. Many women with severe acne use certain types of birth control to help deal with it, as they may be taking birth control anyway.

So, what steps can you take to avoid developing acne problems?

If you have sensitive or dry skin, be careful about using harsh skin care products. When the skin dries out too much, it produces more oil to compensate for the dryness. This can even be true for people with oily skin and large pores.

read more....
source : acne treatment

Home Remedies for Acne – Cheap and Effective Ways to Get Rid of Acne

2006-09-24T19:44:00.001+07:00

How Laser Therapy Helps In Curing Acne?

2006-09-24T19:44:00.000+07:00

How Laser Therapy Helps In Curing Acne?

Acne evokes disgust. Laser treatment evokes some essential dignity to the treatment. The very fact that you have gone up to the level of laser treatment, presupposes that you have tried various other medications for treating acne, without much success. Laser therapy definitely helps you in curing acne.

Perhaps you are taking the right step. You are also taking this step in consultation with your dermatologist. Laser therapy has given some outstanding results to the acne sufferers. The area where the laser has actually helped is the elimination of zits, pimples and acne. There are many types of laser exposures. Two of them are nonablative lasers and carbon dioxide lasers. Most of these laser treatments do deliver positive results and they are painless. But price wise? You will raise the eyebrows on looking at the rate chart of the dermatologist.

But after all it is your face! No price is too great for maintaining the health and beauty of your face. Since the procedure is without any side effects, the laser procedure evokes confidence and has become very popular. How does it work? By focusing the affected area, the laser device emits a smooth laser beam. Skin's surface is heated by the laser and has the immediate effect on the sebaceous glands. The size of the glands is reduced. These are indeed responsible for your acne. Cream is used to numb the area, where the laser will be used. The whole procedure is painless.

The type of laser which the dermatologist will use on you depends upon your skin and acne condition. Nonablative lasers reach underneath the skin and stimulate collagen growth. This helps tighten the underlying skin. It leaves some good after effects. They are- reduction in fine lines, good skin tone and appreciable change in skin appearance. Therefore, this is an excellent acne blemish laser treatment. {mospagebreak}

Every laser has to go through the skin, but in the case in point, the Erbium Lasers, the water molecules in the skin, take on the heat. This treatment is good to those persons with shallow or moderate blemishes and facial wrinkles. Zits are also treated with this type of laser.

Another category of lasers is Carbon Dioxide Lasers. These lasers give short bursts of high energy light to the skin. Damaged tissue is treated layer by layer. It is good for removing all types of zits. Many consider this to be the top quality acne treatment.

The side effects of the laser treatment are negligible as compared to the gains. The side effects reported are, skin discoloration, skin crusting and in a few cases, swelling.

source : acne treatment

How To Overcome Acne

2006-09-23T19:57:00.000+07:00

I've been battling with acne since I was a teenager. For my last bout of
acne, I went to seek the help of three different doctors. I was diagnosed with
Acne Vulgaris, the type of acne you'd get in your teens, not Acne Rosacea or
adult acne, though it has been decades since I was a teen.

The first doctor prescribed me a two week course of antibiotics and a cream
for allergies. My skin improved while I was medication, but the moment I'd
finished, the acne came back.

The second doctor told me how the typical acne treatment for Acne Vulgaris
works. He's a very cautious person who tends to be pessimistic. "No point
taking antibiotics for just two weeks. If you want to take oral antibiotics for
acne, be prepared to take it for six months. The idea is to suppress the
bacteria long enough so hopefully your body fights it off and can take over for
there. Even with six months of antibiotics, there is no guarantee that you stay
clear of acne. If you take the antibiotics for just two weeks, the acne is bound
to return and the bacteria would build an immunity to that antibiotic."

That didn't sound positive. I wasn't keen on going on antibiotics for six
months with no guarantee of a cure.

The third doctor put me on a 4% benzoyl peroxide cream. Actually, we did a
test. Two unlabeled brands of benzoyl peroxide cream, one on the left side of my
face, one on the right. The right side cleared to some extent, while the left
did not respond to the treatment. That means not all creams are created
equal. With equal concentration of the active ingredient, some work better than
others. I can't take a higher concentration of benzoyl peroxide as it dries and
irritates my skin. What we needed was something to kill off the bacteria first.
Benzoyl peroxide is the first topical thing you'd use to treat acne. It
forces oxygen into the pores. Acne bacteria cannot thrive in an oxygen rich
environment, hence the bacteria should die off giving your skin a chance to
heal.

The next thing on the list was a topical alcohol based antibiotic. That
worked more effectively than benzoyl peroxide, but it dried my skin.

I had been trying several other things on my own. Acne can be due to hormonal
imbalance and I do get nasty mood swings and the breakouts intensify according
to my monthly cycle. There are herbs you can take to balance your hormones. I
came across an interesting herb from Thailand, Pueraria
Mirifica that is traditionally used to balance a woman's hormones, to treat
menopause and period problems. It is rich in a potent phytoestrogen and testers
have reported skin clearance as well as healthy hair, nails, reduction of PMS or
menopause symptoms and increase in breast size. I'd rather take those herbs than
a course of oral antibiotics, and you know what? It worked. My skin is clearing.

I tried several brands of skin care as well. Most caused my skin condition to
worsen. I considered a skin care regime that did not aggravate my acne to be a
success. That was until I decided to switch to Clinique products again. Acne is
hereditary. My mother found Clinique great for her skin and got that for me when
I stayed with her.

After switching to Clinique for less than a month (I used half a bottle of a clinique
facial liquid soap so far, two thirds a bottle of clinique
clarifying lotion 2 and I'm not sure how much clinique
visible skin renewer (the bottle is opaque so I can't tell how much is
left), my skin cleared. All that's left are a few scattered zits and scars that
are slowly fading.

source : http://www.womensarticles.com/article_86473_17.html

Coping with the Acne Picture

2006-09-23T11:27:00.001+07:00

Adults tend to feel an extra sense of shame when they deal with having acne pictures long after school has ended. You know those high school photos some of us dreaded having made because we just knew the acne was going to show up like a beacon? Even after graduating school people with acne may hesitate to have their pictures taken, causing them to miss out on year’s worth of memories. It seems we as people have an artificial deadline in our minds, even though we know it’s not logical, that when we graduate from school the acne will go away.

Unfortunately adult acne can remain with a person many years and even decades after the schooling years are over or it can suddenly sprout up one day when we’re thirty-something and had thought that acne problems were over and done with.

In the ideal world adult acne would be seen purely as a medical condition with no bearing on our personal habits, or even our personalities. However things are not always that way and many sufferers of adult acne truly believe that they have somehow brought this acne problem on themselves. They start dreading outings without make up and absolutely fear seeing acne pictures filled with the bane of their existence.

Up to ninety percent of the population has to deal with acne at some point in their lives. Certainly not all ninety percent have brought the wrath of acne down on themselves? Of course not, acne is a medical condition and sufferers of adult onset acne have no more responsibility for its development than the teenagers who similarly deal with it.

Some people are so ashamed of their acne that they absolutely refuse to allow the mere mention of a pimple in conversation or even in their homes. They may avoid the mirror, and even avoid spending time with their loved ones because of a socially ingrained shame of a medical condition that affects everyone to varying degrees. Accepting that your acne condition is altering your lifestyle is usually the first step towards treatment. Plenty of people work so much that they don’t have the time to worry about their appearance and tell themselves it doesn’t matter. Once you see the acne as a medical condition you can begin to carve out time on a daily basis to treat it. Don’t feel overwhelmed by your acne. Take basic steps to find a good treatment plan and method for treating your adult acne. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Acne is much more complicated than it appears and it will take some time to find the right way to treat your acne and start to rid yourself of those darn acne pictures.

9 Acne Questions and Answers You Need to Know to Get Rid of Pimples

2006-09-23T11:27:00.000+07:00

If you suffer from persistent acne, there are probably a number of urgent questions on your mind about how to make it go away. If you read this article, you just may find one or more of your questions answered.

1. What is acne?

It is a very common skin infection caused by excess oil produced by your sebaceous glands. The pores of your skin become blocked up with this excess oil -- plus dead skin cells. In this condition your skin become a great breeding ground for bacterial infections which results in pus-filled lumps on your face.

2. When does acne start?

It usually starts when puberty sets in, but it can last well into your adult years.

3. What causes acne?

It is commonly believed that hormonal surges during puberty bring on the onslaught of acne.

4. Is it expensive to wage war on acne?

It certainly can be costly to try to get rid of persistent pimples. However, there are a number of home remedies that you can do for yourself that don't cost very much at all -- such as being persistent about keeping your face scrupulously clean and eating wholesome foods instead of junk food. When it comes to dealing with acne, you will find that many of the treatments can be quite effective -- but they come at a price.

5. What types of over-the-counter acne products are available?

There are a number of factors to take into consideration when someone is suffering from persistent acne. As a result, different types of products have been developed. For example, some products specialize in attacking the infection caused by bacteria. Other products pack a fourfold punch -- removing infection, dealing with the excess oil production, removing dead cells plus trying to camouflage the damage caused by pimples popping out all of your face.

You might want to give ProActiv a try. It's a popular over-the-counter product and is expensive, but you might find that the expenses worth it if it works for you.

6. How hard is it to find an acne treatment that actually works for you personally?

Most people can be helped by the various kinds of acne treatments available, but you have to be persistent as you are searching for just the right remedy for you. That's because when you choose a new project, you have to give it a good try and that may take a few weeks to see if the cream or lotion you choose works for you.

7. Can food allergies cause acne?

They can and do, so you should be on the lookout to see if any of your favorite foods activate pimple breakouts and then eliminate those foods if they do.

8. How helpful is it to seek medical care if you are suffering from acne?

One of the best actions you can take to clear up acne is to go to a dermatologist. There are certain medicines that only a doctor can prescribe and one of them may work for you. For example, Accutane although expensive, may work and be worth the expense. Don't forget to be on the lookout for side effects though which you should discuss with your doctor before taking Accutane.

Another acne remedy that your doctor might suggest is Retin-A. It not only can help acne, but it can help improve wrinkles, skin discolorations and scars.

9. What if your face has already been scarred from fighting your war against pimples?

If you often put your fingers on your pimples or squeeze them or pick them, you will probably scar your face. And these scars can be permanent as well as disfiguring. To prevent further scarring, keep your fingers away from your face.

Removing scars can be expensive but well worth it in the long run. You may need to seek the services of a plastic surgeon or dermatologist. There are a number of techniques that have been developed that actually work to remove embarrassing and disfiguring scars.

Don't be discouraged if you don't seem to be making any headway in your battle with pimples because help is available. Be persistent as you seek for an acne solution that works for you. The results will be well worth it.

source : http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Patricia_Wagner

Home Remedies for Acne – Cheap and Effective Ways to Get Rid of Acne

2006-09-22T19:44:00.001+07:00

Many people are now looking towards natural home remedies for acne, instead of off-the-shelf products to get rid of their acne problems. This is understandable since it is both convenient and economical to do so at home. Before we go straight into any home remedy for acne, let’s take a look at some of the simple things to do to complement our acne home remedies.

Proper vitamin supplement intakes, lots of water and regular exercise will help to detoxify our bodies, and improve our skin condition. This will work hand in hand with the following cheap but effective home remedies for acne:

1. Did you know that your toothpaste can help to reduce the swelling of your pimples? Apply some before you sleep and you will see the immediate effect the next morning.

2. Mix lemon juice with rose water. One lemon with same proportion of rose water will do. Apply it on your face and rinse it only after 30 mins. Constantly doing so will not only get rid of acne and pimples, but it also has the effect of lightening the skin blemishes.

3. Use fresh mint juice to apply on your face.

4. Strawberry leaves can also help to reduce the pimple swelling.

5. Orange peel can also be used. Basically, you need to mash it or blend it, mix with some water to form a paste before applying on your problem area.

6. Mix turmeric powder with some mint juice before applying on the acne. Wash it off with clean, lukewarm water after about 30 mins.

7. Even cooking condiments such as vinegar and salt have their uses as home remedies for acne. Mix the two together, before rubbing the mix over the pimples. Leave it there for some 10 to 20 mins before removing with lukewarm water.

8. Make a paste with cucumber before using it as a facial mask. Leave the mask on for 30 mins daily. Doing this will prevent acne from breaking out.

9. If you can tolerate the smell of garlic on your face, then go ahead to apply some fresh garlic on the pimples. They will disappear after repeated applications.

10. Even the milk that you drink is useful as a home remedy for acne. Blend nutmeg with milk and you have a powerful paste to zap those pimples away.
While these have worked for many folks who tried them, it does not guarantee it will work for some people.

This article may be freely reprinted or distributed in its entirety in any ezine, newsletter, blog or website. The author’s name, bio and website links must remain intact and be included with every reproduction.

source : acne treatment

What Really Causes Acne?

2006-09-22T19:43:00.000+07:00

The cause of acne is hard to pinpoint because acne is not caused by just one factor. It occurs in different people for many different reasons. This makes finding an effective acne treatment tricky for a lot of people. Once you find out what the root problem or cause of your particular type of acne is, finding an effective acne treatment will be easier for you. Factors like diet, stress, heredity, and dirt are believed to be causes of acne, but this is actually incorrect.

Acne vulgaris is the most common type of acne, and it normally occurs when puberty begins in a person. The exact cause of this type of acne is unknown, but there are factors that are believed to be directly related. At puberty, increased hormonal activity and high levels of androgens, cause the sebaceous glands or oil glands to overproduce sebum, or oil. This causes the cells that are close to the openings of the oil glands to get blocked or clogged. Bacteria in the skin feast on the oil, and this causes the skin to be inflamed. When the inflammation is near the surface, that’s when pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads appear. This type of acne usually goes away on its own.

Acne excoriee is a type of acne that is usually found in young girls. It is caused when a pimple on the skin is damaged due to scratching. When scratching persists, the pimple is unable to heal, leaving a scar. Another type of acne is acne cosmetica, which is due to prolonged use of topical make-up products and usually consists of small bumps and inflammation on the forehead, chin, and cheeks. Acne treatment of this type of acne would just be to figure out which cosmetic products is the cause of the acne and discontinue the use of it.

Cystic acne is a type of acne caused by cysts being formed deep under the skin instead of near the surface. When this happens, the infect matter cannot be released. For acne treatment of this type of the condition, a dermatologist should be seen as soon as possible. Occupational acne occurs when the skin is exposed to grease and oils very frequently. This condition is suffered mostly by auto mechanics. Another type of acne is suffered because of a climate change. When a person moves from a cool climate to a warm climate, the skin has to produce more sweat and oil all of a sudden to keep the body cool. This causes the pores to clog which can cause breakout. A helpful acne treatment for this type of the condition would just be to switch your facial cleanser and moisturizer to oil-free products.

As you can see, acne does not come from one factor, so acne treatment will differ depending on what type of acne that you have. So the first step in finding an effective acne treatment would be to understand what is causing your acne. Acne treatment may be as simple as changing what you are exposing your skin to, or changing your skin cleanser to one without oil. It is always a good idea to check with your dermatologist before trying any system to get rid of your acne.

source : acne treatment

Topical Therapies Alone May Maintain Positive Effects of Acne Treatment

2006-09-22T16:41:00.000+07:00

Acne Therapy

Patients who were first treated with an oral antibiotic and topical gel for acne were often able to maintain their clearer skin by using topical agents alone, according to two studies in the May issue of the Archives of Dermatology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Acne is a common, recurring disease, according to background information in the article. Acne treatment can be complex, often requiring aggressive combination therapy of oral antibiotics and medication applied directly to the skin (topical), as well as a long-term strategy. Because acne can return after successful treatment, maintenance therapy is necessary for many patients. However, due to reduced sensitivity of acne to some antibiotics, it has been recommended that antibiotic use be limited to three months. Topical retinoids, medications derived from vitamin A, have been identified as a choice for maintenance therapy.

Diane M. Thiboutot, M.D., of the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine and Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, and colleagues studied the efficacy of a gel containing adapalene, a retinoid-like compound, in maintaining the effects of successful acne treatment. Patients from a previous study were included if they had shown at least moderate improvement in their acne when treated with either adapalene gel and 100 mg of doxycycline (an oral antibiotic) or doxycycline and an unmedicated gel. A total of 253 patients aged 12 to 30 years were randomly assigned to receive either adapalene gel or unmedicated gel once daily for 16 weeks. Patients' acne was evaluated at the beginning of the study and after four, eight, 12 and 16 weeks.

The group that continued treatment with adapalene gel had significantly higher rates of maintaining previous treatment success, defined as at least 50 percent improvement since beginning therapy, than the unmedicated gel group, 75 percent vs. 54 percent. During the study, the number of breakouts gradually increased in the unmedicated gel group, while remaining stable or decreasing in the adapalene gel group. In a survey, a significantly larger percentage of patients treated with adapalene gel were "very satisfied" or "satisfied" with the overall treatment, compared with patients treated with unmedicated gel (75 percent vs. 58 percent).

"The present 16-week and previous 12-week studies provide data to support regimens, such as those recommended in the recent acne treatment guidelines, wherein oral antibiotics can be used initially in combination with topical retinoids to gain control over the acne, and maintenance with adapalene can delay the recurrence of acne," the authors write.

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

What's New in the Treatment of Acne?

2006-09-21T16:41:00.000+07:00

Acne Treatment

Acne affects nearly 85 percent of all people, making it the most common skin disorder in the United States. Acne is a well-known rite of passage for adolescents and young adults, though some people in their 30s and 40s continue to suffer from this skin problem. While there is no cure for acne, new treatments are targeting the cause of acne and helping patients keep their skin healthy and clear.

Speaking at the American Academy of Dermatology's (Academy) skin academy 2005, dermatologist Wendy E. Roberts, M.D., assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Loma Linda University Medical Center in Loma Linda, Calif., discussed the latest in the treatment of acne.

"Today patients have more choices than ever before to treat acne," said Dr. Roberts. "Since what works for one person may not work for another, it's important for patients to work with a dermatologist who can create an effective individualized treatment plan."

A recent poll conducted by the Academy shows that while people are starting to learn the truth about what causes acne, there are still some areas of confusion. Although 53 percent understand that acne is not caused by poor hygiene, myths still exist about the role of diet and stress. Sixty-two percent of respondents still believe that acne is caused by stress while half the respondents continue to believe acne is caused by diet. In fact, acne is caused by three major factors: the overproduction of oil by enlarged oil glands in the skin; blockage of the hair follicles that release the oil; and a growth of bacteria called P. acnes within the hair follicles. Scientific research has led to many new acne therapies and changes in existing treatment options.

Topical and Systemic Therapy
Depending on the type and severity of the acne, it can be treated with oral or topical antibiotics or topical retinoids. There are a number of ingredients that help unblock the pores and reduce bacteria, including topical retinoids, hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide and antibiotics. "These treatments are a cornerstone of therapy and are helpful both initially and in long-term maintenance of acne," said Dr. Roberts. "These ingredients may cause some drying and peeling, but they can achieve good results in patients, even those with moderate to severe inflammatory acne." Since some topical ingredients can stain or bleach, Dr. Roberts recommends applying the treatment before going to bed and using white towels when washing to avoid staining clothes or colored towels.

In some patients, the effectiveness of topical retinoids can be enhanced when combined with oral treatments. These combination therapies allow all of the factors causing acne to be targeted, making the treatment plan more successful. "Combination therapies should be discussed with a dermatologist who can recommend the most effective treatment after evaluating important factors such as the type and degree of acne, the patient's skin characteristics and environmental factors," noted Dr. Roberts.

Cosmetic Procedures
Combination therapies using oral and topical antibiotics or topical retinoids in conjunction with a chemical peel also have been found effective in managing acne. Chemical peel solutions with glycolic acid or salicylic acid are applied to the skin to exfoliate and help to unblock the pores, open the blackheads and whiteheads and stimulate new skin growth. This promotes the penetration of topical medications and also may treat blemishes which result from breakouts.

Similar to chemical peeling, microdermabrasion results in superficial exfoliation of the skin and can improve irregularities in the skin's surface to help enhance the penetration of topical treatments. "Chemical peels and microdermabrasion are minimally invasive, produce almost no discomfort and involve almost no recovery or down-time for the patient," stated Dr. Roberts.

These procedures are best used in combination with other acne treatments. And because these procedures help smooth the skin's surface, they can help diminish scars created by acne.

Laser and Light-based Therapies
New laser and light treatments can specifically target two of the factors that cause acne. Lasers use heat to damage the oil glands. Photodynamic therapy, a light-based treatment, uses the combination of a photosensitizing medication on the skin that is then treated with a light to target the oil glands and P. acnes bacteria. Both of these therapies reduce the overproduction of oil which helps diminish, and in some cases completely remove, acne.

"These therapies are non-invasive and cause minimal pain and discomfort to the patient," said Dr. Roberts. "Lasers also promote collagen formation and renewal which regenerates new skin and also can be used to treat acne scarring."

"To help prevent acne scars, do not pop, squeeze or pick at acne and seek treatment early for acne that doesn't respond to over-the-counter medications," advised Dr. Roberts. "There are many treatments available today and a dermatologist can guide a patient to the most effective treatment for his or her type of acne."

The consumer poll on skin-related health behaviors and attitudes was a Web-based poll fielded in September 2005 by Segmentation Company, a Division of Yankelovich, Inc., in collaboration with the Academy. A total of 1,112 respondents age 18 and over responded to the poll.

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

Acne Medication Associated With Abnormal Blood Test Results

2006-09-21T16:17:00.001+07:00

Acne Medication Isoretinoin

Elevated cholesterol levels and liver enzyme levels appear to be more common than previously thought among patients taking the acne medication isoretinoin, including those who had normal blood test results before beginning therapy, according to a report in the August issue of the Archives of Dermatology, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.

Isoretinoin, commonly marketed as Accutane, is the most effective acne treatment currently available, according to background information in the article. As many as 89 percent of patients taking the medication achieve long-term remission from acne. Side effects include elevations in the levels of triglycerides, blood fats that can have an adverse effect on cardiovascular health; liver enzymes, the presence of which indicates liver disease or inflammation; and total blood cholesterol. According to the article, the Accutane package insert notes that 25 percent of patients develop elevated triglycerides and 15 percent elevated liver enzymes. Other studies have found elevated triglycerides in 5 to 18 percent and elevated total cholesterol in 6 to 32 percent of individuals taking the drug.

Lee T. Zane, M.D., M.A.S., University of California, San Francisco, and colleagues assessed the frequency of abnormal laboratory tests in a population of 13,772 patients (aged 13 to 50 years, 51 percent male and 49 percent female) with acne who underwent isoretinoin therapy between 1995 and 2002. The researchers analyzed medical records for each patient before, during and after they took the medication, using information from laboratory tests of triglycerides; total cholesterol; liver transaminase (enzymes) levels; white blood cell (cells that fight infection) count; hemoglobin (which carries oxygen through the body) level; and platelet (involved in blood clotting) count.

Patients taking isoretinoins had an increased incidence of elevated triglyceride, total cholesterol and liver enzyme levels, but not hemoglobin levels, white blood cell counts or platelet counts. Among patients with normal pretreatment laboratory tests, 44 percent developed high triglycerides, 31 percent high cholesterol and 11 percent high liver enzymes while taking the medication. "Moderate to severe abnormalities in triglyceride, total cholesterol and transaminase levels were generally transient and reversible," the authors write. "Among those subjects with such abnormalities who received posttreatment testing, the proportion returning to normal or grade 1 [slightly elevated] levels by the end of the posttreatment period was 92 percent for transaminase level, 80 percent for triglyceride level and 79 percent for total cholesterol level."

"Our study did not examine adverse clinical outcomes and thus cannot estimate the ability of abnormal laboratory results to predict such outcomes," they conclude. "In clinical practice, laboratory abnormalities should be evaluated in the clinical context of the individual patient. Neither does the presence of a laboratory abnormality necessarily signal the presence of an adverse clinical outcome, nor does the absence of a laboratory abnormality preclude the possibility of an adverse clinical outcome." Still, patients with acne who develop substantially high triglyceride levels are at risk for high cholesterol and the metabolic syndrome, which in turn may increase the risk for coronary artery disease; further study is needed regarding these side effects, the authors write.

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

Link Between Acne Treatment and Depression

2006-09-21T16:03:00.000+07:00

Severe Acne Treatment Drug Warning

Since the drug's introduction in the early 1980s there have been controversial reports of depression and suicidal behaviour that may have occurred in some people taking Roaccutane.

This has led to the drug's manufacturers, Roche, including a warning in the product information that taking the medication may cause depression, psychosis and suicidal behaviour.

However, the chemical mechanism by which this might happen has never been established.

In new independent research, scientists at the universities of Bath and Texas at Austin gave Roaccutane to mice over a period of six weeks, and then monitored the rodents' behaviour.

They found that whilst there was no change in the physical abilities of the mice, the rodents spent significantly more time immobile in a range of laboratory assessments designed to test their stress responsiveness – suggesting that administration of Roaccutane increases depression-related behaviour in mice.

"Without more research it is difficult to say for sure whether the same link applies to people taking the drug," said Dr Sarah Bailey from the Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology at the University of Bath.

"However, establishing a link between the active molecules within the drug and a change in depression-related behaviour, albeit in mice, is an important step forward in our understanding of the effects of this drug in the wider context of brain function.

"To date the only evidence for any link with patients has come from individual case reports and such patient data is complicated by the psychosocial effects of having severe acne.

"This laboratory evidence provides a useful model for future research into Roaccutane and understanding how this family of compounds affects the brain."

Retinoids
Roaccutane belongs to a group of medicines called retinoids - vitamin A-related compounds known to affect development of the nervous system. For this reason Roaccutane is not prescribed to pregnant women.

"Previously scientists thought that retinoids were only important in the development of the nervous system. Now there is a growing interest in retinoids as regulators of different aspects of brain function in adults," said Dr Bailey.

"While our research is the first to demonstrate that retinoids are capable of influencing depression-related behaviours, these compounds may also play a role in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia."

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

10 Natural Ways of Acne Treatment

2006-09-21T02:34:00.000+07:00

Natural Acne Treatment

Many are looking for acne treatments that really work? Whether you are a teenager or an adult suffering from acne, you don't have to live with it. Here you can find 10 easy and effective ways to treat acne.

1. Do not pick, press or rub your pimples. These actions actually increase the sebum production and rupture the membranes below your skin. The infection and sebum will spread underneath your skin and cause more pimples. Also, you risk increasing the chances of leaving scars on your face.

2. Wash your face twice a day using a mild soup. It is even better if you can buy sulfur-based soap especially for acne. If your skin is too oily, use a soap with benzoyl peroxide. Do not use rough sponges, brushes, or anything similar on your face. You shouldn't, however, over-wash your face because it will actually stimulate your sebaceous glands to produce more sebum which will increase your acne.

3. Check if it is because of the food. For many people, food allergy can cause very serious acne condition. You should avoid eating too much oily and spicy food. Recent studies have shown that acne can also be caused by milk which contains hormones as well as seafood with relatively high levels of iodine. If possible, cut down on those foods. Other foods you may consider avoiding are: sugar, dairy products, deep-fried food, meat, nut butters, etc. On the other hand, it is believed that green vegetables, vegetable fuices and foods rich in zinc can help alleviate acne condition.

4. Drink more water every day. "Eight glasses of water a day can keep acne away." says Jennifer Thoden, a respected acne expert. The reason is that water can carry waste material out of our body and it really helps heal and prevent acne flare-ups.

5. Do not wear makeup if possible. Makeup products can clog your pores, cause more blackheads and pimples. If you have to wear makeup, make sure it is water-based. Be sure to clean your makeup brushes regularly and cleanse your skin before you sleep.

6. Do not use oily products. Avoid products such as hair pomades, intense oil-based facial moisturizers, and oily cleansers.

7. Keep your face clean. Do not rest your chin on your hands or constantly touch your face. Regular shampoo your hair and keep it off your face, especially when you sleep.

8. Exercise moderately as it helps in blood circulation and eliminataion of toxins.

9. Stay stress-free. Studies have shown that stress not only worsens acne flare-up, it also worsens the overall skin condition. Talk to your friends, listen to your favorite music, or take a walk in the park. There are many things you can do to be stree free.

10. Get Sunshine and fresh air. Sunshine stimulates vitamin D in the body, an essential vitamin for healthy skin. Fresh air and sunshine can also reduce stress (acne tip #9) and increase oxygen to the skin. Don't get burnt in the sun though. Burnt and heavily tanned skin forms a layer on the skin that doesn't exfoliate quickly enough and can lead to blocked pores.

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

Laser Is A New Effective Treatment for Severe Acne

2006-09-20T16:23:00.000+07:00

Acne treatment with laser

New laser technology may become one of the safest and most effective means to fight severe acne, said a dermatologist at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston.

The Candela Smooth Beam Laser has been recently FDA approved for the treatment of acne. In studies of acne on the back in volunteers, there was 98 percent improvement after four treatments.

"Patients are leaving here amazed," said Dr. Ramsey Markus, assistant professor of dermatology at Baylor. "The laser appears to be effective with very few side effects, mainly mild redness that goes away within a few hours."

The new technology heats the skin and shrinks oil glands, improving acne gradually during three to five treatments that are generally less than 15 minutes each. Physicians treat regions of the body that tend to develop acne, such as the face, back or shoulders.

According to clinical studies, a 60 percent improvement occurs after just one treatment. After four treatments, the majority of patients experience near complete resolution of their acne. In addition, this treatment also treats acne scars.

"It heats the skin in the area causing the collagen in the skin to remodel and generate new collagen. So over time, it will tighten the skin, smoothing out acne scars," said Markus.

Markus' patient, Danelle McClain, has battled acne for the past two years, as well as developed some unsightly scars that make her feel very self-conscious. She opted to have the procedure instead of taking Accutane, a common therapy for severe acne.

One week after the procedure, McClain said she was happy with the results.

"My skin complexion has been a lot smoother, so I think the effectiveness of the pore shrinking was successful," she said. "Additionally, I haven't seen any new breakout."

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

Back-to-School Stress Can Trigger Acne Problems

2006-09-20T16:13:00.000+07:00

Cause of Acne

For teens, getting rid of embarrassing acne can be just as time consuming as picking out an outfit for the first day of school. But Dr. Denise Metry, an assistant professor of dermatology and pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston and Texas Children's Hospital, says improving your skin isn't as difficult as you may think.

"Stress can be a catalyst for acne breakouts because it stimulates hormones, which in turn causes some skin glands to pump out more oil," Metry said. "Teens are more prone to this type of outbreak because of hormonal changes."

Acne begins when hair follicles become blocked with excess skin cells. Oil produced by sebaceous glands cannot flow to the surface and instead backs up within the follicle. A thin hair also grows through the follicle and out the skin. As the oil collects, a swollen pocket develops and a pimple forms.

Mild acne usually causes only whiteheads and blackheads. Occasionally, these may develop into an infected pore, or pimple.

"When acne gets severe it can scar and it's permanent," Metry said. "So anything that we can do to prevent that is ideal."

Acne can cause problems that go beyond skin-deep, especially when it affects your social life, and even schoolwork.

"I think that parents downplay acne a lot of the time thinking that it's just a part of being a teenager, but it can become a serious problem if it's not addressed early on," Metry said. "I encourage kids to talk to their physicians and in severe cases contact a dermatologist."

Today, dermatologists have an arsenal of effective acne treatments including topical creams such as Retin-A to help unclog oil ducts. Antibacterial creams, lotions, or gels with benzoyl peroxide, can be used alone or in combination with topical or oral antibiotics.

Metry says that most topical and oral medications will take several weeks before you begin to see results.

"For women that don't respond to any of the topical creams we may use birth control pills, because the fluctuating hormones that can cause acne are stablilized by the pills," Metry said.

For those who suffer from severe acne Metry suggests chemical peels, which involves resurfacing of the skin with an acid solution that peels the top layers and allows smoother, regenerated skin to emerge, or laser treatments, which heat the skin and shrinks oil glands.

She warns teens about scrubbing their faces and using strong astringents, which can aggravate the skin and make the acne worse. Metry suggests that teens wash their face twice a day with a gentle cleanser, maintain a healthy diet, and get adequate rest to help prevent future acne breakouts.

source : eMaxHealth.com - HealthCare Articles

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2006-08-31T16:52:00.000+07:00

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