The 11 Kinds of Acne Classified According to Causes

If you have been plagued with acne at some point in your life, you are probably obsessed with washing your face all the time - making sure that it's clean to keep away the acne Ironically, people who are prone to acne are actually quite particular with cleanliness. They often wash their faces and making sure that their body is clean. By doing this, they are hoping that the affliction will eventually go away.

The 11 Kinds of Acne

There are actually different kinds of acne The word is a catch-all term for all types of acne There are general kinds of acne that you might call cystic acne adult acne and so on; but to be really specific and to classify acne according to its causes, the 11 classes are as follow:

1. Acne Cosmetic. This is the acne that is cause by use of cosmetics. The use of cosmetics alone does not cause acne It is actually the kind of cosmetics and the prolonged use of cosmetics that irritates the skin. Your pores react negatively to the ingredients and acne results.

2. Acne Conglobata. This is the type of acne that is largely caused by hereditary factors. If your parents suffered from severe acne you will probably suffer the same. Oftentimes, this type of acne results to severe scarring on the area affected. The unfortunate thing about this acne is that you can hardly do anything about it.

3. Acne Detergents. This acne is caused by soaps, detergents and cleansers which irritate the skin.

4. Acne Excoriee. This is the type of acne that is caused by skin picking which then spreads the germs on other parts of the body.

5. Acne Fulminans. This is the serious type of acne that is accompanies by flu-like symptoms when the lesions erupt. The sufferer may also experience loss of appetite, skin scaring and high WBC count. Men seem to suffer more from this type of acne.

6. Acne Keloidalis. It is the African race that suffers much from this acne The lesions and inflammations generally appear on the neck.

7. Acne Mallorca. This is the type of acne that is caused by excessive sun exposure.

8. Acne Mechanica. The kind of acne that results from skin irritation caused by exposure of bare skin to various irritants like clothing fabrics and bag straps.

9. Acne Medicametosa. This is the type of acne that occurs as a side effect to medications. There are oral contraceptives that could cause acne too. Anti-psychotic medications and mood stabilizers can also cause acne.

10. Acne Neonatorium or baby acne This is caused by the excessive sebum secretion in children. This results from the transfer of hormones from the mother to the infant.

11. Acne Pomade. This is the kind of acne that results from the skin's irritation to hair products. The irritating ingredients, specifically oils, eventually irritate the forehead causing acne to form.

Knowing what type of acne you have will certainly help in determining the treatment for it. If your acne is caused by irritants like fabrics, hair gels and makeup, you can avoid using the products that cause your acne Your physician can help you determine the cause of your acne and seek proper treatment for it.

The author is an online medical researcher and webmaster of Best Acne Products [http://www.10acneproducts.com] and Natural Acne Treatment. Visit site for related article: "Natural Acne Treatment [http://www.10acnetreatments.com/olive_leaf_extract.html] - Olive Leaf Extract". Also, don't forget to download your 70-page Acne eBook for FREE.

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Astonish Findings on How to Get Rid of Acne Efficiently and Permanently

How to Get Rid of Acne Fast & Permanently - A Complete Guide with the Latest Discoveries

Acne is a serious problem that plagues teenagers and young adults alike, which prompts everyone to try and figure out how to get rid of acne fast. Though it was once not very well understood, much research has gone into figuring out how to get rid of acne. Much to one's surprise, there are plenty of reasons why one can develop acne.

Poor Diet

One thing that must be taken into consideration is the fact that a poor diet makes for bad skin. Skin health, which includes acne, has a strong tie to diet. As some quick proof: standard indigenous cultures find themselves with few acne outbreaks, but once they begin to indulge in the standard American diet, the level of acne begins to increase. This is important to know when learning how to get rid of acne fast.

For women, consuming a large amount of sugar will raise the level of insulin the body, which causes testosterone to be produced in women, which would result in acne. For everyone in general, having plenty of processed and saturated fast will compete with the omega-3s within the body, which will also increase acne.

On an interesting note, having milk chocolate can increase acne due to being high in sugar, but dark chocolate will do the exact possible: decrease acne.

Deficiency in Nutrition

A diet that is poorly constructed is bound to lack nutrients. Having a deficiency in certain nutrients can allow acne to appear. To know how to get rid of acne requires knowing what to avoid in terms of one's diet.

Specifically, having a deficiency in omega-3 fats, omega-6 fats and zinc can cause acne to appear. By taking some supplements, one can reduce the inflammation that leads to acne. Similarly, topical vitamin B3 can help with acne.

Finally, having low antioxidant levels and not eating enough fruits and vegetables can lead to the production of acne.

Hormonal Imbalances

Hormonal imbalances can have adverse effects in many aspects in life, and acne is listed among those. The largest factor that contributes to what affects hormones includes the glycemic load of one's diet, which is how rapidly the food in question increases the blood sugar and, in turn, the level of insulin in the body.

To combat this, it helps to cut out sugar to reduce insulin and eating both fiber and omega-3 fats for women to reduce acne-causing testosterone. This can help balance out the hormones and will help in the journey in how to get rid of acne.

Food Allergies

Acne can actually be the result of delayed food allergies. Those who have leaky guts can be affected by eggs, yeast, dairy and eggs. It is possible to either avoid these foods or take probiotics to try and combat this; the bacteria from the probiotics will also help by taking up space on the skin and reducing the amount of acne that can appear. Therefore, learning how to get rid of acne fast includes knowing what to avoid.

The Brain

When people consider how to get rid of acne, they never realize that their brains can also have an impact on it. Acne flare-ups are very common under stress; this is because stress creates an environment that increases inflammation, which raises the cortisol level in the body and repletes the selenium, magnesium and zinc that inhibit acne.

In addition, stress can cause someone to make poor dietary choices as she feels more likely to eat comfort foods to relieve the stress.

Stress can be managed through many means, such as biofeedback, yoga, meditation, massages, saunas, aromatherapy, exercise and much more.

How to Get Rid of Acne Fast

To figure out how to get rid of acne means figuring out the right product that can get the job done when a healthier diet cannot fix it. There are hundreds of different products out there, but the most effective ones all have similar properties to them. At the end of the day, there are seven different ingredients and products that will help effectively kill acne and bring back one's self-confidence. Why wait to figure out how to get rid of acne fast?

1. Benzoyl Peroxide

An antibacterial compound, benzoyl peroxide is often the main ingredient in several acne medications available in the former of cleansers, lotions and creams. When used as the instructions direct, this ingredient can do wonders for reducing acne as well as its associated skin problems.

Typical dosages of this ingredient can be anywhere between 2.5 percent and 10 percent. Milder forms of acne will respond well to the low 2.5 percent dosage while moderate to severe forms will require 5 percent to 10 percent concentration.

2. Salicylic Acid

This is another topical treatment for skin conditions that not only treat acne but can serve against calluses, corns, warts, seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis and more. The primary ingredient is a beta hydroxy acid that comes deep within the bark of willow trees. It is often available as an ointment, medicated pad, shampoo, cream and toner.

For people who have acne, this kind of ointment works well by removing the dead skin cells and exfoliating the skin. During this process, the body produces new skin cells beneath the current surface. As these cell reach the surface, it sloughs away the ones on the outer surface.

3. Glycolic Acid

An alpha hydroxy acid, glycolic acid is an ingredient that is found in many acne care products. It is actually an anti-aging ingredient that penetrates the top of the skin and smooths its appearance by removing dead and aging skin.

Typically, creams with alpha hydroxy acids as the base come between 5 percent and 20 percent. This is important to know for those looking to figure out how to get rid of acne fast.

4. Aloe Vera

Everybody knows aloe vera to be a soothing gel from plants that can treat burns and other wounds. It is actually effective to use this ingredient when the acne is still red or swollen. In truth, it will not reduce the size or the acne or get rid of it outright; its purpose in this stage is to expedite the process of healing and reduce the redness. To use it, wash the affected area and then apply the aloe vera directly to eliminate acne.

5. Sulfur

One reason that sulfur is such a popular choice for getting rid of acne is because it can aid in cellular turnover, which promotes faster healing from pimples. It is often included in various exfoliating products for those who are prone to developing acne.

Some people also choose this ingredient since it comes with mild antibacterial properties. Most acne is due to bacteria, causing inflammation that leads to pimples, whiteheads and blackheads. By getting rid of the bacteria, sulfur can reduce the likelihood of future breakouts.

6. Azelaic Acid

Finally, on the list of ingredients that teaches how to get rid of acne, this is an effective way to stop the painful effects of acne. It is useful to eliminate the effects of the bacteria by cleaning away the bacteria within, which will then also decrease the symptoms of acne.

7. Alpha Hydroxy Acids

This is one of the names that will be familiar to those who have looked for anti-aging elements to try and get a more youthful appearance. It is the name of something that is often used in a number of products that help with cosmetics and with skin care. The term applies to an entire family of different acids that come from a number of places, whether it is sugar, milk or fruit.

Glycolic acid is the most commonly used of this family, which is made from sugar. The other common kind of alpha hydroxy acid is lactic acid, which is made from milk. Of course, these are also known as citric and fruit acids.

Women in particular often have used lemon juice in order to create a bleaching effect on their freckles, and this has been true for centuries. In addition to all of this, this family of acid can also help treat acne and get rid of it overnight.

For more information on how to get rid of acne fast, you can visit ebestacnetreatment.com, a popular website that offers the latest information on "how to treat acne" and the "top acne products".

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Frequently Asked Questions About Acne

Acne is a very common disease. People who have it tend to have similar kinds of questions about it and its treatment. This section addresses some of the common questions asked by people with acne. Please remember that your dermatologist is always the best source of specific information about your individual health issues, including acne.

Questions and Answer does follows:

1. What causes acne?

The causes of acne are linked to the changes that take place as young people mature from childhood to adolescence (puberty). The hormones that cause physical maturation also cause the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin to produce more sebum (oil). The hormones with the greatest effect on sebaceous glands are androgens (male hormones), which are present in females as well as males, but in higher amounts in males.

Sebaceous glands are found together with a hair shaft in a unit called a sebaceous follicle. During puberty, the cells of the skin that line the follicle begin to shed more rapidly. In people who develop acne, cells shed and stick together more so than in people who do not develop acne. When cells mix with the increased amount of sebum being produced, they can plug the opening of the follicle. Meanwhile, the sebaceous glands continue to produce sebum, and the follicle swells up with sebum.

In addition, a normal skin bacteria called P. acnes, begins to multiply rapidly in the clogged hair follicle. In the process, these bacteria produce irritating substances that can cause inflammation. Sometimes, the wall of the follicle bursts, spreading inflammation to the surrounding skin. This is the process by which acne lesions, from blackheads to pimples to nodules, are formed.

2. I wash my face several times a day. Why do I still get acne?

Many people still believe that acne is caused by dirty skin. The truth is, washing alone will not clear up or prevent acne. Washing does, however, help remove excess surface oils and dead skin cells. Many people use all kinds of products, including alcohol-based cleansers, and scrub vigorously, only to irritate the skin further and worsen their acne. Washing the skin twice a day gently with water and a mild soap is usually all that is required. However, acne is actually caused by a variety of biologic factors that are beyond the control of washing. For that reason, you should use appropriate acne treatments for the acne.

3. Does stress cause acne?

Stress is commonly blamed for the development of acne. Stress can have many physiologic effects on the body, including changes in hormones that may theoretically lead to acne. In some cases the stress may actually be caused by the acne lesions, not the other way around! If the acne is being treated effectively, stress is not likely to have much impact on the majority of people.

4. I never had acne as a teenager. Why am I now getting acne as an adult?

Usually, acne begins at puberty and is gone by the early 20s. In some cases, acne may persist into adulthood. Such types of acne include severe forms that affect the body as well as the face (which afflict males more than females) and acne associated with the menstrual cycle in women. In other cases, acne may not present itself until adulthood. Such acne is more likely to affect females than males.

There are several reasons for this. As females get older, the pattern of changes in hormones may itself change, disposing sebaceous glands to develop acne. Ovarian cysts and pregnancy may also cause hormonal changes that lead to acne. Some women get acne when they discontinue birth control pills that have been keeping acne at bay. Sometimes young women may wear cosmetics that are comedogenic-that is, they can set up conditions that cause comedones to form.

5. What role does diet play in acne?

Acne is not caused by food. Following a strict diet will not, clear your skin. While some people feel that their acne is aggravated by certain foods, particularly chocolate, colas, peanuts, shellfish and some fatty foods, there is no scientific evidence that suggests food causes or influences acne. Avoid any foods which seem to worsen your acne and, for your overall health, eat a balanced diet-but diet shouldn't really matter if the acne is being appropriately treated.

6. Does the sun help acne?

Many patients feel that sunlight improves their acne lesions and go to great lengths to find sources of ultraviolet light. There is no proven effect of sunlight on acne. In addition, ultraviolet light in sunlight increases the risk of skin cancer and early aging of the skin. It is, therefore, not a recommended technique of acne management, especially since there are many other proven forms of treatment for acne. Moreover, many acne treatments increase the skin's sensitivity to ultraviolet light, making the risk of ultraviolet light exposure all the worse.

7. What is the best way to treat acne?

Everyone's acne must be treated individually. If you have not gotten good results from the acne products you have tried, consider seeing a dermatologist. Your dermatologist will decide which treatments are best for you. For more information about the types of acne treatments that are available, and for basic acne treatment guidelines, please see Acne Treatments in the main part of AcneNet.

8. What kind of cosmetics and cleansers can an acne patient use?

Look for "noncomedogenic" cosmetics and toiletries. These products have been formulated so that they will not cause acne.

Some acne medications cause irritation or pronounced dryness particularly during the early weeks of therapy, and some cosmetics and cleansers can actually worsen this effect. The choice of cosmetics and cleansers should be made with your dermatologist or pharmacist.

Heavy foundation makeup should be avoided. Most acne patients should select powder blushes and eye shadow over cream products because they are less irritating and noncomedogenic. Camouflaging techniques can be used effectively by applying a green undercover cosmetic over red acne lesions to promote color blending.

9. Is it harmful to squeeze my blemishes?

Yes. In general, acne lesions should not be picked or squeezed by the patient. In particular, inflammatory acne lesions should never be squeezed. Squeezing forces infected material deeper into the skin, causing additional inflammation and possible scarring.

1. Can anything be done about scarring caused by acne?

Scarring is best prevented by getting rid of the acne. Dermatologists can use various methods to improve the scarring caused by acne. The treatment must always be individualized for the specific patient. Chemical peels may be used in some patients, while dermabrasion or laser abrasion may benefit others. It is important that the acne be well controlled before any procedure is used to alleviate scarring.

2. How long before I see a visible result from using my acne medication?

The time for improvement depends upon the product being used, but in almost all cases it is more a matter of weeks or months instead of days. Most dermatologists would recommend the use of a medication or combination of medications daily for 4 to 8 weeks before they would change the treatment. It is very important for patients to be aware of this time frame so they do not become discouraged and discontinue their medications. Conversely, if you see no change whatsoever, you might want to check with your dermatologist regarding the need to change treatments.

3. Would using my medication more frequently than prescribed speed up the clearing of my acne?

No-always use your medication exactly as your dermatologist instructed. Using topical medications more often than prescribed may actually induce more irritation of the skin, redness and follicular plugging, which can delay clearing time. If oral medications are taken more frequently than prescribed, they won't work any better, but there is a greater chance of side effects.

4. My topical treatment seems to work on the spots I treat, but I keep getting new acne blemishes. What should I do?

Topical acne medications are made to be used on all acne-prone areas, not just individual lesions. Part of the goal is to treat the skin before lesions can form and to prevent formation, not just to treat existing lesions. Patients are generally advised to treat all of the areas (forehead, cheeks, chin and nose) that tend to break out rather than just individual lesions.

5. My face is clear! Can I stop taking my medication now?

If your dermatologist says you can stop, then stop-but follow your dermatologist's instructions. Many times patients will stop their medication suddenly only to have their acne flare up several weeks later. If you are using multiple products, it may be advisable to discontinue one medication at a time and judge results before discontinuing them all at once. Ask your dermatologist before you stop using any of your medications.

6. Does it matter what time I use my medication?

Check with your dermatologist or pharmacist. If you were taking one dose a day of an antibiotic, you could probably take it in the morning, at midday or in the evening, although you should pick one time of day and stay with it throughout your treatment. With oral medications prescribed twice a day or three times a day, you should try your best to spread out the doses evenly. Some antibiotics should be taken on an empty or nearly empty stomach. For optimal results with topical treatments, you should strictly follow your dermatologist's recommendations. For example, if instructed to apply benzoyl peroxide in the morning and a topical retinoid at bedtime, it is important to follow these directions strictly. If the two were applied together at bedtime, for example, you could decrease the efficacy of the treatment because of chemical reactions that make them less effective.

7. I have trouble remembering to take my oral medication every day. What's a good way to remember? What should I do if I forget a dose?

This is a common problem. Many patients try to associate taking their medication with a routine daily event such as brushing teeth or applying makeup. It also helps to keep the medication close to the area where the reminder activity is carried out.

In most cases, if you miss a day of your oral treatment, do not double up the next day; rather, get back to your daily regimen as soon as possible-but there may be different instructions for different oral medications. Ask your dermatologist or pharmacist about what to do if you miss a dose of your particular medication.

8. I have been using topical benzoyl peroxide and an oral antibiotic for my acne and have noticed blue-black and brown marks developing on my face and some discoloration on my body. The marks are especially noticeable around acne scars and recently healed lesions. Is this a side effect of medication and is it permanent?

It is not possible to make general statements about side effects of medications that apply to individual cases. A dermatologist should be consulted. The facial marks and body discoloration described by the patient in this case do fall within the range of side effects of some antibiotics.

Unique patterns of pigmentation are sometimes seen in acne patients treated with certain oral antibiotics-particularly minocycline. The pigmentation patterns that appear may include:
* Localized blue-black or brown marks in and around acne scars and in areas of previous acne inflammation

* A "muddy skin" appearance that may cover much of the body

* Diffuse brownish pigmentation of the feet and lower legs.

The pigmentation side effect gradually disappears after the therapy is discontinued.

Any side effect of a medication should be noted by the patient and brought to the attention of the physician. While most side effects are temporary they should be discussed with the physician and monitored.

1. My doctor is prescribing a topical retinoid for my acne. He said a retinoid is a substance related to vitamin A. If the drug is related to vitamin A, shouldn't vitamin A dietary supplements be helpful in getting rid of acne?

Dietary vitamin A is essential to good health, especially vision. It has healthful effects in the skin. Large doses of vitamin A for the treatment of acne is not recommended on grounds of safety. The retinoids and retinoid-like substances used as topical treatments for acne are prepared especially for their potent effect on the shedding of cell lining in the sebaceous follicle. Their use should be monitored by a dermatologist.

Dietary vitamin A has multiple health effects in the human body. Vitamin A is essential for good vision. Extreme vitamin A deficiency can result in blindness, usually accompanied by dry, scaly skin. Vitamin A overdose that far exceeds the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 5,000 IU can have effects nearly as catastrophic. Extreme vitamin A overdose can cause the skin to blister and peel-an effect first seen in early North Pole explorers who nearly died after eating polar bear liver that has an extraordinarily high vitamin A content.

Topical retinoids are usually prescribed as a treatment for moderate to severe acne. Side effects are chiefly dermatologic, including redness, scaling and dryness of the skin, itching and burning. These side effects can usually be managed by adjustment of the amount and timing of retinoid applied to the skin. Dose adjustment must be discussed with the dermatologist who prescribed the treatment.

2. Are there any acne treatments specifically for people with dark skin? Are there any treatments specifically harmful to dark skin?

There are no acne treatments specifically for use on dark skin. Acne treatments are generally as safe and effective on dark skin as on light skin. Some treatments for acne scars may cause temporary lightening of dark skin.

Acne is a common skin disease that has the same causes and follows the same course in all colors of skin.

Very dark or black skin may be less well-moisturized than lighter skin. Topical anti-acne agents such as benzoyl peroxide that have a drying effect on the skin should be used under the supervision of a dermatologist. Benzoyl peroxide also is a strong bleach and therefore must be applied carefully to avoid inadvertent decolorization of a patch of hair, towels or clothing.

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

Removal of acne scars by dermabrasion or chemical peeling may cause temporary lightening or darkening of dark skin in the areas of treatment. Scar treatment should be discussed with a dermatologist or dermatologic surgeon before it is undertaken.

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

3. Is acne that appears for the first time in adulthood different from acne that appears in adolescence?

Acne has a specific definition as a disease of sebaceous follicles. This definition applies to acne that occurs at any age. However, it may be important to look for an underlying cause of acne that occurs for the first time in adulthood.

Current understanding of the causes of acne vulgaris is described in the Main Text section Why and how acne happens. In brief summary, acne vulgaris develops when excessive sebum production and abnormal growth and death of cells in the sebaceous follicle result in plugging of follicles with a mixture of sebum and cellular debris and formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads). Bacteria in the follicles-chiefly Propionibacterium acnes, the most common bacterial colonist of sebaceous follicles-may contribute to the inflammation of acne by release of metabolic products that cause inflammatory reaction. The pathogenic events, which cause disease, in the sebaceous follicle are believed to be due in large degree to changes in levels of androgenic (male) hormones in the body-a circumstance usually associated with growth and development between ages 12 and

4. Some acne investigators believe that although this understanding is generally correct, there is more yet to be learned about the causes of acne vulgaris.

Acne that appears after the age of 25-30 years is (1) a recurrence of acne that cleared up after adolescence, (2) a flare-up of acne after a period of relative quiet-for example, during pregnancy, or (3) acne that occurs for the first time in a person who had never previously had acne.

Acne that occurs in adulthood may be difficult to treat if there are multiple recurrences. Some patients with severe recurrent acne have undergone repeated courses of treatment with the potent systemic drug isotretinoin.

Acne flares in association with pregnancy or menstruation are due to changes in hormonal patterns.

Acne that appears for the first time in adulthood should be investigated for any underlying cause. Drugs that can induce acne include anabolic steroids (sometimes used illegally by athletes to "bulk up"), some anti-epileptic drugs, the anti-tuberculosis drugs isoniazid and rifampin, lithium, and iodine-containing drugs. Chlorinated industrial chemicals may induce the occupational skin disorder known as chloracne. Chronic physical pressure on the skin-for example, by a backpack and its straps, or a violin tucked against the angle of the jaw and chin-may induce so-called acne mechanica. Some metabolic conditions may cause changes in hormonal balance that can induce acne.

Some lesions that appear to be acne may be another skin disorder such as folliculitis-infection and inflammation of hair follicles-that require different treatment than acne. Acne that appears for the first time in adulthood should be examined and treated by a dermatologist.

5. My 15-year-old daughter has what I would describe as a very mild case of acne. She has made it much worse by constant picking and squeezing. She looks in the mirror for hours, looking for some blackhead or blemish she can pick or squeeze. Does she need psychological counseling?

Excessive picking and squeezing of otherwise mild acne is a condition called excoriated acne, seen most often in young women. A dermatologist may provide effective counseling.

The typical person with excoriated acne is a person-often a young women-who is so distressed with her appearance due to acne that she literally tries to "squeeze the acne out of existence." The acne is often very mild, but the person's face may constantly be covered with red marks from squeezing, and open sores where lesions have been picked open.

The word excoriate means to scratch or abrade the skin. Excoriated acne is a medically recognized condition that should be discussed with a dermatologist. Occasionally giving in to a temptation to squeeze a blackhead is not defined as excoriated acne. Hours in front of a mirror, squeezing and picking every blemish, is a definition of excoriated acne. A dermatologist may be able to counsel the patient regarding a course of treatment in which the patient can participate, but keep "hands off."

6. Can the rate of secretion or the composition of sebum be altered by diet? If it can, shouldn't alteration of diet be considered a treatment for acne?

Diet has never been proven to have a role in the cause or treatment of acne. Dietary manipulation may have a role in the treatment of some scaling diseases of the skin, but not in the treatment of acne.

Dietary cause is one of the most persistent myths about acne. Foods, such as chocolate or greasy foods, do not cause acne, but certain foods seem to make some people's acne worse. The following can bring on or worsen it:

*Hereditary factors

*An increase in male hormones found in both males and females

*Menstruation

*Emotional stress

*Oil and grease from cosmetics, work environment

No food has been shown to be effective in preventing or treating acne. A healthy diet is, of course, necessary for good general health.

7. Shouldn't I just try to eliminate sebum from my body?

No. When it isn't blocked in your pores, sebum helps keep your skin healthy.

8. Why does acne usually start at puberty?

No one knows for certain. What is known is that the sebaceous glands that produce sebum get much larger at puberty than they were before.

9. Why does the skin around a pimple turn red?

This redness is caused by the body's inflammatory response. Inflammation is a sign that your immune system is working to fight an infection. However, the inflammatory response doesn't always work perfectly, and can even be the cause of scarring.

10. If my skin turns red, does that mean that I'm going to have scars?

Usually, no. Even when there will be no permanent scar, the aftereffects of the inflammatory response can leave the skin red for months, sometimes for more than a year.

11. What are free radicals?

Free radicals are byproducts of oxidation in your body. We all need oxidation to occur as part of our life process, but there is concern that the buildup of unrecycled free radicals contributes to many conditions, including skin damage. Antioxidants, including several of the active ingredients in Acuzine, help prevent the buildup of free radicals.

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Helpful Information On How To Put A Stop To Acne

Acne not only affects teenagers but also affects adults as well. While some teens with acne may notice acne disappear as they enter adulthood, for other teens, it may continue unabated into adulthood while for others who may never have had acne in their teens, they may suddenly develop adult acne. Acne is the most common skin condition and before we look into how to stop acne, we need to get an understanding of this common skin condition.

What is Acne?

Acne vulgaris as mentioned previously is one of the most common skin conditions that affects people all over the world (over 80 percent of people). Acne represents the appearance of small raised bumps or pustules (pimples or large cysts). Although the complete understanding of what causes acne is still a work in progress, several theories tie it to genes as well as hormone activity.

Hormones are believed to be a big part of what causes acne specifically the male sex hormone testosterone. Both men and women have this male hormone with men obviously having more of testosterone than women. When male hormone levels increase in men and women, it stimulates the sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin to produce excessive amounts of sebum (oil).

These excessive amounts of sebum end up clogging the pores as they are released by the sebaceous glands into the hair follicles that the sebaceous glands surround. The clogged pores then allow certain bacteria (propionibacterium acne) to fester and multiply which then leads to this bacteria releasing certain enzymes that lead to the inflammation of the hair follicles (sebaceous glands are attached to hair follicles). This inflammation may result in swelling followed by rapture which then allows the bacteria to spread onto the skin leading to various acne blemishes.

The raised swellings resulting from acne are frequently found on the face, back, neck, chest as well as the shoulders. These bumps can be painful or sore and may even itch. In severe cases, acne may feature pus filled sacs that break open leading to the discharge of the fluid. While hormonal imbalance at puberty is believed to be one of the causes of acne, hormonal imbalance can also occur around the time of the menstrual cycle, during stressful times, etc.

Acne can also be caused by the use of certain cosmetics that are comedogenic (pore clogging) and this is known as acne cosmetic. Certain drugs may also lead to acne (acne medicametosa) such as some epilepsy medications. There is another type of acne known as acne rosacea which is a different type of severe acne altogether that usually affects those over the age of 40. Acne rosacea is a complication of the skin condition rosacea and is different from other types of acne because it features inflammation (swelling), redness as well as dilated blood vessels. It is also usually centered around the nose and cheeks and rarely includes blackheads but instead includes a lot of pustules (pimples containing pus).

How to Stop Acne

Seeing as this skin condition affects more than 80 percent of the general population, it can be difficult but not impossible to treat so that you can have clear skin free of blemishes or at least keeping breakouts to a minimum. Most of us like looking good and dealing with acne can prevent this from happening which is why severe acne can rob a sufferer of their self-esteem. Acne eruptions can cause one to hide away and not interact with people because you may feel like other people are judging you negatively because of the acne. If acne is a big problem, here are some tips on how to stop acne and have clear skin;

1. Proper Cleansing

Keeping the face clean with an oil free cleanser is sometimes all you need or a step in the right direction especially in cases of mild acne. Washing the face more than twice a day may be too taxing on the skin though causing it to dry out which then causes the sebaceous glands to go into overdrive producing excessive amounts of sebum or oil. Do use a gentle hand too. Being overly aggressive to get your skin clear and free of oil by using rough wash cloths, scrubs, etc, can make an already bad situation worse. So be gentle with your skin. It is not your enemy even if it may feel like it at times.

2. Benzoyl Peroxide, Salicylic Acid, Sulfur, etc

These are generally over the counter medications that can be used quite effectively for acne treatment and are usually included in cleansers, toners, moisturizers, masks, etc, to help kill the acne causing bacteria as well as normalize excessive oil production. Some of these ingredients though such as salicylic acid and sulfur may be too irritating and drying for certain people's skin and may actually make acne worse.

If this is the case for you, start at the lowest concentration and only use products containing these active ingredients once a day and gradually build up to twice a day as your skin gets more tolerant. Another alternative is to switch to benzoyl peroxide. Many dermatologists actually believe that benzoyl peroxide is the most effective acne ingredient that is available over the counter but you also want to start at the lowest concentration especially if you have sensitive skin.

3. Prescription Medications

For moderate acne that may not respond to the above methods, eliminating this type of acne may require prescription antibiotics applied topically or taken orally to fight infection associated with acne development. If antibiotics (tetracycline, doxycycline, etc) fail to work, using several vitamin A derivatives known as retinoids may be the next step. The common vitamin A derivatives used for acne treatment include retinoids such as isotretinoin (Accutane). Others include Differin and so on and so forth. These retinoids are usually recommended in severe cases of acne such as cystic acne that is unresponsive to other treatment methods.

The retinoids used work by getting to deeper levels of the skin to shrink the sebaceous glands which then helps to decrease oil production. Decreased oil production means less chance of clogged pores and less bacteria caught in these clogged pores. While these retinoids can be very effective, some can be very drying on the skin and worst of all, many of them can cause birth defects. So if you are pregnant, or are thinking of getting pregnant in the future, do avoid using retinoids. Even if you stop taking these medications, they may stay in your system for many months or years before they are eliminated from your body which is something to keep in mind.

4. Birth Control

When adult acne becomes an issue for many women, one of the causes is usually fluctuations in hormone levels. This is another reason that some women report breakouts around the time of their menstrual cycle. In such cases, the use of certain birth control pills is one of the best ways on how to stop acne. Low dosage estrogen birth control pills can help to regulate estrogen levels to help balance hormones. Other pills can also be used that target various other hormones in the body to help balance hormone levels and thereby reduce or eliminate hormone triggered acne.

5. Stress

Hormone levels can also be affected by stress levels, If you suffer from chronic stress, it may lead to hormonal imbalances which may lead to acne as well as many other more dangerous effects of chronic stress. Stress is normal but if you live with chronic stress day in and day out, your body and your skin will suffer so look for ways to properly manage stress.

While you may not be able to completely eliminate acne, there are many methods on how to stop acne and prevent it from completely taking over your skin and robbing you of your self-esteem. The above tips and many others available at http://putastoptoacne.com/ can help you keep acne to the barest minimum and take control of your skin.

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Tips On How To Get Rid Of Acne Fast

If you have acne on your face, it may be due to the lack of water in your body. Most of us don't drink enough water in the here and now. According to doctors, you should have at least 2 liters of water on a daily basis. Rather than drink water what we do is go for sodas and other beverages, and most of these drinks are not good for our health.

If you don't drink enough water and have the acne problem, you should increase your intake of water right now. Below are two reasons for this:

· For exfoliation, your body needs water constantly. But what will happen if you don't keep your body hydrated? Prolonged lack of water in your body can lead to blockage of pores. As a result, you may get acne. That is why you may want to drink plenty of water each day, as this is an effective means of exfoliation.

· Your body has to get rid of toxins and wastes on a regular basis, and your body can that only if it gets enough water. If your body doesn't get rid of these toxins for long, your internal organs will absorb the toxins and expel them through your skin pores in the form of acne. Here it is important to keep in mind that acne is full of germs.

Other Methods

Apart from increasing your intake of water, you can use a number of other ways to get rid of acne in short order. Make sure you follow the practices given below, and you will soon be able to get a clearer skin.

· Include fresh fruits and veggies in your diet, as they are high in nutrition and help you have a healthy skin. Stay away from foods high in oil as these foods can make your acne worse.

· Get at least 8 hours of sleep every day, as this will help your body relax and keep working properly. If you can't sleep at night, sleep during the day for at least 8 hours. Most of us just don't sleep well, which is a bad habit.

· Use your facial wash or soap to wash your face on a daily basis. Besides, if possible replace your old pillowcases and bed sheets. Dirt accumulated in pillowcases is on the list of main reasons of acne.

· If you want to get rid of acne as soon as possible, you can try an ointment. All you need to do is apply a little bit of it on the acne affected spots on your face. Ideally, you should find a solution with salycillic acid, which helps a lot in drying acne in a short period of time.

So, these are a few simple ways of getting rid of acne as soon as possible. If your problem is worse, you may want to get in touch with a doctor. Just don't ignore the problem.

If you have acne to get rid of, you can head for this site as it is a great resource of help information http://www.thegetridofcrew.com.

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Acne Laser Treatment Program

The advancement of laser treatment and technology has brought therapy into the new century and is the suggested treatment for acne and acne scarring. In most cases this laser therapy is not covered by insurance and also the acne can come back even after treatment. - Additional research is needed before laser therapy can be recommended as a treatment for acne, according to a study. Other treatments Recent advances in acne treatment include light and laser therapy, and chemical peels.

Laser therapy is an appealing treatment for acne: no messy creams, no drugs and minimal risk of side effects. Although approved to treat acne scarring, Pulsed dye laser therapy is also being used for the treatment of active inflammatory acne vulgaris. More research is needed before this laser therapy may be recommended as an acne treatment." Pulsed-dye laser treatment for inflammatory acne vulgarisOctober 2003. Objective To evaluate the clinical efficacy of pulsed dye laser therapy in the treatment of acne. More research is needed before this laser therapy may be recommended as an acne treatment. The study authors concluded, "More research is needed before this laser therapy may be recommended as an acne treatment".

Previous studies have indicated that light therapy and laser treatment can actually improve acne. Successful removal by ruby laser of darkened ink after ruby laser treatment of mismatched tattoos for acne scars. The laser treatment program for acne scar removal is somewhat different than acne laser treatment. produces advanced pulsed light and laser systems for treatment of hair removal, leg veins, acne, and pigmented and vascular lesion removal. Excellent waxing services (using a very high-grade, mint oil-infused stripless wax), top-notch laser hair removal, acne laser treatments and skin rejuvenation. skin resurfacing, laser wrinkle removal, vein treatment, acne removal, birth mark removal ...

With laser acne scar treatment, the focus is on developing new collagen in the lower layer of skin. When an acne patient faces pitting, or deep holes, in the skin as a result of acne, there is a treatment called laser resurfacing. This assists in better evaluation of your skin and for more effective acne laser spectrum light treatments. The CO2 laser vaporizes thin layers of the skin and tightens collagen fibers, which makes it an appropriate treatment for depressed acne scars.

Most acne blemish laser treatment methods are painless and effective, but they also come at a noticeable price. A successful acne blemish laser treatment may include various types of laser exposure such as carbon dioxide lasers or nonablative lasers. The Carbon Dioxide laser is also known to produce higher levels of pigmentation during the acne blemish laser treatment . one of the best methods for acne blemish laser treatment. The Carbon Dioxide laser is also known to produce higher levels of pigmentation during the acne blemish laser treatment. Patients of acne blemish laser treatment use creams to numb the area where the laser will be applied, so the process is virtually painless.

V-Beam (Pulsed Dye Laser) is commonly used for the treatment of red acne scars, stretch marks and keloids, which are thickened scar tissue. Here you will find information about acne laser scar treatment. The Er:YAG laser should be reserved for sculpting of individual scar edges and treatment of mild acne scars. Scar Treatment Another option for the use of acne laser treatment is that in which the acne scars can be removed.

Pulsed-dye laser treatment for inflammatory acne vulgaris: randomised controlled trial. Pulsed-dye laser treatment for inflammatory acne vulgaris: Randomised controlled trial. Pulsed-dye laser treatment for inflammatory acne vulgaris: randomized controlled trial. However, few randomized, controlled clinical trials have examined the value of lasers for treating acne and none show conclusively whether the treatments actually work.
http://www.acne-proactive-treatment.com/acne-laser-treatment/

Acne Care Skin Treatment

There are many possible causes for acne.  People of all ages, lifestyles, and backgrounds can develop it, and the causes can be different for each.  The first step to understanding what is causing your acne is knowing your skin type and how to care for it.  If you have oily skin, you wouldn't want to use a facial cleanser containing oil because your body is already producing a good amount of it.  Likewise, if your skin is dry, you wouldn't want to necessarily use a product that is oil free.  Perhaps, one of the most common myths is that oily skin does not need to be moisturized.  Oil is not moisture, and skin needs moisture.  Determining the cause and caring for your type of acne, as well as properly caring for your skin is crucial in curing acne.

This article covers some of the possible causes of acne and how to help determine what might be causing yours.

The skin is the largest organ in the human body.  Like all other organs, proper care must be given to ensure it works correctly.

Topical treatments are those used on the surface of the skin.  By helping to keep pores open, eliminating excess dirt and oil, and getting rid of unwanted bacteria, these may do the trick.  There are other medications that can be taken orally to help eliminate excess oils by keeping the body from producing it, along with various other medical remedies that help treat acne.  Before you can treat it, however, you need to understand what is causing it.

Hormones can play a major part in causing acne.  In adolescence, the changes the body goes through can cause constant breakouts, while in adult years, bodily changes, such as premenstrual and pre menopausal episodes, can cause breakouts to continue.  While any hormonal excess can promote acne, the mail hormones are most notorious for doing so.

The body can then produce more oil, which can block pores and cause breakouts.  Using products that help eliminate or control oil may be helpful in curing acne with this cause.

Stress can also be a contributing factor to the presence of acne.  When you are stressed, the body releases certain hormones and chemicals which can produce toxicities that cause acne.  Try to eliminate stress by staying away from stressful situations.

It is also believe that some foods, such as chocolate and sugar can cause acne.  While this is commonly disputed and often thought to be a myth, it is unclear whether these foods are unable to actually cause acne.  Ask a physician if you want to know more about this as a possible cause.

Because there are many types of acne, there can be many causes.  Environment can influence acne, as well as lifestyle.  The products you use can also effect your acne.  If you are not using the proper products to counteract acne, you may see an increase in breakouts.  As mentioned above, if your skin is oily, you don't want to use products containing excess oil, as this would add to the oil on your skin and could clog pores and cause further breakouts.  It is also important to keep the skin properly hydrated and moisturized.  Learn how to care for your particular skin type and try to eliminate the factors that are causing your acne.  This will help you have healthier skin.

Acne at its Worst - Uncommon Forms Which Can Disfigure

Severe acne can cause physical as well as emotional scars. Although most people stress out over the occasional zit, acne can deliver serious blows to an individual's sense of confidence and self-perception.  Acne can cause a person to experience consistently blemished skin that may include pimples, papules, abscesses, cysts, blackheads, whiteheads, and other painful inflammations of the skin.  Moreover, acne can be a whole body problem.  While most people are seriously afflicted primarily in the facial area, many people also experience considerable blemishing across their back, chest, neck, and other areas of the body.

While most people experience the brunt of acne during the difficult adolescent years, imagine the agony of living with acne well into your middle years.  With the stress of modern day living and increased exposure to environmental pollutants, adult acne is becoming a fact of life for many adults.  Although most people will only have to deal with transient acne, some will experience far worse.  Here is a quick run-down of the most serious forms of acne.

Acne Conglobata (AC) This is a very uncommon form of acne that can produce significant disfiguration.  Acne conglobata is characterized by the development of burrows in the skin, along with papules, abscesses, keloidal and atrophic facial scars.  Individuals with AC often develop blemishes that appear in clusters of two or three.  Cysts are often present that are filled with pus. Nodules may also be present, especially in the area of the back and chest.

Who is more susceptible to acne conglobata? In general, males are more likely to experience AC.  Onset of AC usually occurs at a young age, between the ages of 18 and 30.  Although no one knows the exact cause of AC, some believe it is caused by a mutation in the XXY karyotype chromosomes.  A person with AC may experience extensive scarring and subsequent disfigurement.  Because the effects of AC can often be dramatic, individuals afflicted with the skin disorder may be at greater risk of suffering from self-esteem issues, depression, anxiety, and they may feel stigmatized.

Acne Fulminans (AF):  Acne fulminans, sometimes referred to as acne maligna, was originally thought to be acne conglobata (AC).

The major characteristics of acne fulminans include sudden onset of ulcerating acne, which may be accompanied by fever and symptoms of polyarthritis.  Usually, AF does not respond well to conventional acne treatment, such as antibacterial therapy.  The most successful treatments appear to be debridement used in conjunction with steroid therapy.

What causes AF?  It appears that acne fulminans is caused by a weakened immune system and increased levels of testosterone and certain anabolic steroids.  These high levels of hormones cause an increase in the production and excretion of sebum and the acne-inducing bacteria known as propionibacterium acnes (P acnes).  Some skin professionals believe that isotretinoin may also precipitate an eruption of AF.

How can you tell the difference between acne conglobata and acne fulminans?  Although the physical symptoms may at first appear identical, AF is usually characterized by the presence of more physical pain.  Patients with AF may describe feelings of bone or facial pain, migraines, and fever.  Acne conglobata and acne fulminans also differ in the way they are treated.  While AC may be treated with conventional anti-acne oral and topical agents, AF typically does not respond well to such treatments.  AF responds better to steroid treatments.

Gram-Negative Folliculitis: Gram-negative folliculitis refers to an infection of gram-negative rods that usually occurs after an extended period of antibiotic therapy.  Scientists use the word "gram" to describe the blue stain that is used in laboratories. This is often used to locate microscopic organisms.  The bacteria that cause gram-negative folliculitis does not stain blue, thus the term 'gram-negative.'  The most common forms of bacteria that are believed to cause gram-negative folliculitis include E. coli, serratia marcesoens, pseudomonas aeruginosa, and bacteria's from the proteus and klebsiella species.

How does gram-negative folliculitis differ from regular acne vulgaris?  Most cases of gram-negative folliculitis produce less papules and comedones than acne vulgaris.  Treatment of gram-negative folliculitis is fortunately much easier to treat than other severe types of acne.  In most cases, conventional antibiotic therapy will help clear up gram-negative folliculitis.  Isotretinoin may also help clear up this condition.

Acne: What It Is And How To Fight It

Acne is basically a blockage in the pore which causes bacteria to be trapped and form either a whitehead or a blackhead. While there are many myths that point to diet as a cause of acne, these are unfounded. Junk foods and chocolate are not associated with acne. The reason people get acne is because of overactive oil glands or blockage of pores. Acne is a condition that afflicts both children and adults. It is, however, more prevalent in teenagers when hormones are at their most active. Heredity also plays a large part in who gets acne and how severe it may be. Those who are genetically inclined to acne will often get more severe cases than people who are simply going through a stress induced or hormone induced acne phase. They also may have a more difficult time clearing up blemishes. The blemish that occurs on the skin can be unsightly and embarrassing so prevention and treatment should be the focus.

The best form of treatment for acne is prevention as it is with any affliction. You should try to keep your hands away from your face because dirt and oils can contaminate pores. Proper health is also important. This means proper diet, exercise and sleep to reduce stress. Keeping your face clean using mild soap is also a good preventative. If you have an outbreak, there are home remedies, over the counter medications and prescription medications that can help. There are several topical creams and soaps that are used in the treatment of acne. These can be found in pharmacies and in the cosmetics department of grocery stores. Benzoyl peroxide creams, vitamin A and zinc are all used to help treat acne. For more severe cases a prescription oral antibiotic may be prescribed along with a topical cream that is stronger than the over the counter medications.

Acne! Did It Have to Happen Now?

The thought of dating is hard enough for the self-conscious teenager.  And now - it couldn't have happened at a worse time - Acne!

Acne is the most common concern of almost all teens all over the world. Nearly every otherwise healthy teenager suffers from acne and all of them detest it. In some, the disgust is so strong as to border on the obsessive. And in still others, unresolved acne problems could very well result in low self esteem and consequent depression. But the good news is that almost all acne is a normal and natural process of growing up. With or without the use of acne treatments, all acne will eventually disappear as the teenagers move on to adolescence and beyond. But almost everyone is eternally on the quest to identify and secure the ultimate acne treatment.

In order to determine the ideal acne treatment, it is essential to understand what causes acne in the first place. Acne is usually caused, not as most people believe due to poor hygiene, but due to hormonal changes in the human body. Some people secrete excessive oil due to the hormonal changes brought on by puberty and this traps dirt and moisture, resulting in blackheads and acne. In some others, acne is brought on by infection or by the blockage of the pores. Still others may have acne as a result of poor diet. But acne treatment is available for all kinds of acne. It would however always be a good idea to consult a dermatologist to determine the cause of acne before trying to go in for self treatment.

There is an unimaginable range of acne treatment available in the market. Just go to any pharmacy or drugstore and you will see shelves upon gleaming shelves of products offering acne treatment. Most of them are generalized acne treatment lotions that may or may not eradicate your problem. But in order to find the best acne treatment, suited to your specific acne, your doctor is the best advisor. Acne treatments differ for various acne. And unless you are able to pin down the cause, you may end up spending a fortune on acne treatments that don't ever seem to work. Some of the more common acne treatments include azelaic acid creams, benzoyl peroxide and Accutane. Other treatments include topical antibiotics and lotions. Still other treatments include glycolic and gluconic acids. But as mentioned earlier, each of these acne treatments works for a particular kind of acne. And the more severe the acne, the more strong the treatment.

The best advice anyone can give you regarding acne treatments is that time is the best healer. But for those who are unwilling to let time be the healer, the pharmacy is their playground. While common treatments could work wonders for some, others will have to go in for prescription drugs.

Know this, the key is to understand your particular case of acne.  Only then can you begin to solve the problem.  And you will be amazed how quickly you can solve your acne problem once you understand the source of your acne and implement the right strategy to attack it!