Home and Over-the-Counter Acne Treatments

by S.A. Wilson


Acne is the most common skin disorder known today. In United States alone, nearly 60 million people are infected with acne, where 85 per cent of teenagers suffer from it.
Skin experts and practitioners recommend several natural acne treatments. Here are some that we have compiled just for you.
*Wash your face twice a day (thrice at most) with gentle and unperfumed cleanser. Avoid using soaps as they contain harsh chemicals and ingredients that can damage your skin.
*Avoid touching your face. Stop putting your hands by your face! I am often guilty of this resting my hand on the side of my head while reading. Also rubbing or bracing your chin is another common problem when thinking. Avoid rubbing, touching, or itching your skin with your hands. Your hands contain a lot of bacteria that can cause acne flare-ups. It is probably one of the most difficult things to avoid since much of the hand to face contact throughout the day we are unconscious of. Make it a habit to avoid hand contact and be conscious of it during the day to avoid bacteria.
*Avoid the temptation to pick, prick and squeeze your acne. This will send the infection deeper into the skin and can cause severe scarring.
*For mild to moderate acne, you can use over- the- counter topical ointments, solutions, lotions or gels that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid or azelaic acid as an alternative to benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is best at killing P. acnes and may reduce oil production. Resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur help break down blackheads and whiteheads. Salicylic acid also helps cut down the shedding of cells lining the follicles of the oil glands.
*Topical antibiotic solutions and lotions can also be applied.
*Tea tree oil is a natural antibiotic and antibacterial agent and has a drying effect on the skin. It keeps the P. Acnes bacteria at bay along with decreasing facial oiliness, which makes this oil a worthwhile investment.
*Sulfur helps to heal existing blemishes by unblocking pores.
*Alpha or Beta Hydroxy Acids (AHA or BHA) works by keeping the skin exfoliated. Glycolic acid, the most well-known of the bunch is a useful adjuvant therapy for mild acne. Mandelic acid, a lesser known one, but one that combines the keratolytic properties of glycolic acid with natural antibacterial properties that help reduce the presence of P. acnes, may be considered a more effective alpha hydroxy acid in treating acne lesions. It is also much less irritating than glycolic acid, a factor that may be very important to those with sensitive skin who are unable to use other agents such as Retin-A, benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, or salicylic acid. It is effective in treating mild cases of acne on its own, and can be used successfully with other therapies on moderate acne. These treatments are usually effective for mild to moderate acne problems only. The effectiveness usually takes several weeks or approximately three to six months to be noticed. For more severe and serious acne conditions, do not hesitate to consult your dermatologist.
For More Information Go To:http://www.clearpores.com/clicks/clickthrough.html?a=150511
About the Author
S.A. Wilson
http://www.clearpores.com/clicks/clickthrough.html?a=150511

Thanks to S.A. Wilson for this article.

Acne Care for Adults

by Humphry David


Roughly 20% of acne cases being treated in the United States belong to adults. For many adults, what was thought of as a teenage affliction has continued well into their twenties and thirties. For other adults suffering from acne, the outbreaks did not start until they reached their twenties.The causes of adult acne vary and can be any one or a combination of the following conditions.StressUntil recently, stress related acne was a myth. Researchers are now beginning to understand the correlation between stress and acne. For adult acne sufferers, stress is considered to be the leading cause to post-pubescent breakouts.When we are exposed to stressful situations, the brain triggers the central nervous system, which in turn sends signals to the rest of the body as part of a primitive fight or flight response. Part of this response is hormonal release from our adrenal glands and fatty secretions from the sebaceous glands, which lay beneath the skin.Both hormonal imbalance and fatty secretions, which can clog pores, are known contributors to acne outbreaks.Hormonal ImbalancesHormonal imbalances as a cause of adult acne primarily affect women. Imbalances that occur during a woman's menstrual cycle or as a result of pregnancy can lead to acne outbreaks.There are adult males who report that they have monthly acne episodes. While men obviously do not menstruate, it is believed that men may have hormonal cycles similar to women.Coffee Consumption Adults tend to ingest more coffee than do teens. The caffeine in coffee and tea promotes the production of cortisol, which is also known as the stress hormone. As noted, hormone imbalances are known contributors to adult acne.SmokingThe chemicals introduced into the body by cigarette smoking limit blood circulation to skin cells, inhibiting the skin's ability to heal and regenerate. The toxins released in cigarette smoke can clog pores and promote bacterial growth in pores, all of which contributes to adult acne.HeredityRecent research has shown that people are more likely to suffer from adult acne if they have a family history of adult acne sufferers.Environmental Job conditions that expose the skin to high levels of pollutants, irritants, or humidity can lead to an increase in adult acne.Cosmetics* Poorly formulated cosmetics that are heavy or greasy can clog skin pores, trapping bacteria, dirt, and oils resulting in adult acne breakouts. Covering acne with makeup can make the condition worse.
About the Author
Author writes articles on different topics. To know more, visit:exposed acne solution, www.acne-treatments-guide.com

Thanks to Humphry David for this article.

Acne Back - Get Rid - Period!

by John Thorne


If you've got acne back and want to get rid of it, or for that matter, any acne, there is only one way to cure it - period! - and it's NOT what you've been told.
The blunt truth is that, no matter what you have read, what you have bought at the chemist, or what you have been prescribed by a doctor, it hasn't worked, has it?
Let's face a simple fact - if it HAD worked you wouldn't be reading this, would you?
You would have a fine, unblemished, beautiful, natural-looking skin which is what you have always wanted - and deserve, but so far been denied.
What is so totally unfair about it is that you have been misled through, at the best, ignorance on the part of those who have told you to rinse at least twice daily with lukewarm water and certainly before you go to bed, to, at the worst, the voracious greediness of chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturers who have a vested interest (in fact it's their ONLY interest!) in keeping you buying their products.
Don't get me wrong. Many of the things you have been doing will help to keep down your acne, but if they don't get to the root cause of the problem, you will never have a complete cure.
It's a bit like, say, Dutch elm disease - a devastating disease of elm trees which has wiped out millions of them. Certainly, you can lop off diseased branches and cut away diseased leaves and, for a while the tree will look healthy again.
Then, sadly, it starts to die away. Because, quite simply, you have failed to eradicate the virus and/or the beetle which caused it in the first place.
It's just the same with acne. The basic root cause is DIETARY and if you don't sort out that problem, then you CANNOT get a permanent cure; you can only temporarily alleviate the symptoms.
So, for a while, you look and feel better and then the problem rears its' ugly head again (sorry for the pun - it wasn't intended).
Now I don't want to be pessimistic - far from it. There IS a way to cure acne permanently, but it isn't what you've been doing. As I said above, if what you've been told and what you've been doing worked, you wouldn't be here.
By all means keep on rinsing your skin, eating fresh fruit and so on. It cannot do you anything but good.
I would suggest that you do NOT go to the doctor for a dose of antibiotics. Again, these may give temporary relief, but I've always had a sneaking suspicion that I'm actually doing something harmful to my body if I take these.
Not only that, but they can build up in the body and cause allergic reactions. I should know. When I was a youngster (50 or more years ago) I was introduced to the new wonder drug - penicillin. I had a sore throat, white pustules down the back of the throat - not very nice - and the first penicillin tablet I took cured it in half an hour! Wow! Was I impressed?
So the next time I suffered the problem, back I went to the good ole doc for some more.
Within an HOUR I got swellings the size of an egg - I kid you not - all over my arms, legs and feet. So bad were they, that for three days I couldn't even get a pair of shoes on, let alone walk anywhere. I'm allergic to penicillin to this day.
By all means read up everything you can on acne, but with an open mind. You need a CURE - not a temporary alleviation of the symptoms. I'm sure you will agree.



About the Author
John Thorne is a fitness and wellness expert. He offers counselling, dietary and fitness advice to a wide range of clients.John wholeheartedly recommends that you take a look at the following site if you are SERIOUS about getting rid of acne once and for all. Click on this link: http://kmeister.solution72.hop.clickbank.net/

Thanks to John Thorne for this article.

Curing Acne with Tea Tree Oil

by Vern Beatty


Introduction.Tea tree oil has proven to be a very powerful anti-bacterial and anti-fungal agent. Best known as an alternative acne remedy, this versatile potion has fans among doctors and consumers alike. It has been found to have anti-microbial properties, so it is often applied topically to kill acne-causing bacteria. It is well known for its numerous beneficial effects as a natural, deep cleansing, antiseptic, antiviral and antimicrobial agent, as well as an immuno-stimulant. Therefore, it has the ability of deep cleansing oily or troubled skin and hair types, as it helps to remove harmful bacteria, fighting the effects of grease, pollution, and dirt.
What is Tea Tree Oil?Tea tree oil comes from the Australian paperbark tree, and has been used traditionally as a folk remedy by Australian aborigines. It has powerful anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, and anti-viral qualities. There are close to 300 varieties of Melaleuca alternifolia (the Latin name for the tea tree), but only one produces the medicinal oil. Tea tree oil has been traditionally used for such maladies as athlete's foot, body odor, bad breath, and cold sores. It has been proven effective killing acne bacteria, when topically applied. Historically, the leaves were used as a substitute for tea, which is how tea tree oil got its name. The part used medicinally is the oil from the leaves.
How has it Been Used?Tea tree oil has a 70 year history of safe use, and scientific data to support claims about its properties. Tea tree oil has been used as an antiseptic for burns, cuts and insect bites. It has also been used for acne, eczema and fungal infections of the skin (i.e., athlete's foot). A small number of people are allergic to the oil, and experience skin reactions at low concentrations. It is especially recommended for teenagers, those with greasy skin or acne.
How do you Use it for Acne?Many acne sufferers' skin is very sensitive to tea tree oil. Therefore, it's important to start out with a very mild dose, and experiment with just a small part of your skin. If your skin is aggravated by it, then either choose a lower dose, or try another acne treatment all together. Apply this product to the affected area of skin as directed. Follow all directions on the product package. If you are uncertain about any of the product information, consult your doctor or pharmacist. This product is for external use only. If your condition persists or worsens, or if you think you may have a serious medical problem, seek immediate medical attention.
Precautions and Limitations of Use.Some acne sufferers don't realize that you should not aggressively apply the undiluted oil onto acne lesions. This can irritate skin, causing redness, blistering, over-drying, and itching. Tea tree oil should never be taken internally, even in small quantities. It can cause impaired immune function, diarrhea, and potentially fatal central nervous system depression (excessive drowsiness, sleepiness, confusion, or coma). Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms of overdose: excessive drowsiness, sleepiness, poor coordination, diarrhea, or vomiting. Keep tea tree oil out of the reach of children and pets. If an overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Occasionally, people may have allergic reactions to tea tree oil, ranging from mild contact dermatitis to severe blisters and rashes. Tell your doctor immediately if you experience rash or skin irritation. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. Tea tree oil is not recommended for use during pregnancy, or during breast-feeding. Before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription medications you may use, especially any other medicated skin products.
The Bottom Line.Does tea tree oil cure acne? The answer is yes and no. As an anti-bacterial agent, it can help decrease the symptoms of skin inflamed with acne bacteria. However, many users will be sensitive to it. Like all topical acne treatments, it can't cure acne totally. The only way to do that is internally. Tree tea oil is a proven alternative treatment for acne, and should be considered seriously by any acne sufferer. The potential benefits for curing acne with tea tree oil outweigh the risks.
For more information on acne, or curing acne, please visit: http://acne.verdig.com
About the Author
Vern Beatty is an engineer who writes articles about business and the internet.

Thanks to Vern Beatty for this article.

The Wonders of Green Tea- It can Help With Acne Care

by Humphry David


Green tea is the most consumed beverage in the world, second only to water. The craze for green tea exceeds taste, as this beverage--derived from the white-flowered plant, Camellia Sinensis--is continually proving its health and wellness benefits.A native to Asia, green tea is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their ability to help fight diseases and maintaining healthy cell structure. Antioxidant research has shown that antioxidants help prevent cancer, reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease, and can even lower blood cholesterol levels.Researchers are now linking the antioxidants in green tea to acne prevention.It has been long known that placing a warm tea bag on an acne blemish or similar growth will help to draw the toxins out of the lesion, promoting quicker heal times.Current research has shown that green tea extracts fight bacteria, reduce redness and inflammation, and can deter hormone activity. All three of these symptoms are present in acne blemishes.According to the findings reported to the American Academy of Dermatology by dermatologist Dr. Gan-Wong, when compounded into a cream with a content of 3% green tea extract, acne treatment results were comparable to using a topical solution containing 4% benzoyl peroxide, a common treatment for acne.Dr. Gan-Wong's findings were based on an independent study of just over 100 acne suffers. The test subjects were randomly split into two groups, with one group receiving the green tea treatment and the other receiving a benzoyl peroxide treatment. Neither group was aware of the treatment they received, nor were the dermatologist who documented their progress.After a twelve week period, significant improvements in the reduction of acne and redness were noted in the patients using the green tea extract. The results were comparable to the results of the benzoyl peroxide users.Additionally, dermatologist noted improvements in skin tone on the test subjects who were using green tea extract cream, and green tea users reported fewer cases of dry skin and allergic responses.Thus, green tea extract cream had proven to offer the same benefits in the treatment of acne as benzoyl peroxide, with fewer side effects.Benzoyl peroxide is a crystalline powder that is used in tire and plastic production as well as cosmetics. Benzoyl peroxide can irritate eyes, skin, and respiratory tracts, and is on OSHA's hazardous substance list as a precaution against prolonged exposure.What makes using green tea extract appealing as an acne treatment is that green tea is all natural.Furthermore, it gives the holistic community a welcomed study on something that has been recommended by holistic healing practioneers for years. It is quite probable that green tea has MANY medicinal properties yet to be verified by western science. This seems very likely, considering the vast amount of anecdotal evidence regarding the healing properties of green tea.So, on a holistic level, there is now one more scientifically backed treatment for acne available to those who want to avoid the harmful side effects of the various chemical acne treatments.With this in mind, those who want to treat their acne, but hate the redness and irritation caused by using benzoyl peroxide and other chemicals on the skin, there is now a scientifically proven, all natural treatment. Green Tea!
About the Author
Author writes articles on different topics. To know more, visit:exposed skin, www.acne-treatments-guide.com

Thanks to Humphry David for this article.

Colon Cleaning May Help Acne Sufferers

by Alexander Holle


Many doctors and alternative medicine practitioners believe that one essential component of achieving overall bodily health is having a colon that is clean and free of the toxins that can build up over time. Many of these same doctors and alternative medicine practitioners believe that one of the benefits of colon cleansing is the improvement of acne conditions.One process of colon cleansing is called colon hydrotherapy. This cleansing process involves the gentle bathing of the large intestine, or colon. The purified warm water that is used during colon hydrotherapy helps to remove the poisons, toxic materials, and build-up of waste from the body.Unlike an enema, which only cleans the first two feet of the large intestine with only a relatively small amount of water, a colon hydrotherapy treatment cleans the colon with between fifteen and twenty-five gallons of water. This water cleans the entire colon and reaches difficult areas and areas where fecal matter tends to gather and build up.Colon hydrotherapists often recommend that hydrotherapy treatments be received in conjunction with appropriate herbal remedies.Effective colon hydrotherapy treatments remove not only fecal material, but also excess mucus, bacteria, and parasites. Therapy treatments help to restore the colon to its original shape, which can get distorted over years of accommodating the build up of waste.The restoration of the colon to its original shape helps it to move out waste materials more effectively. Hydrotherapy treatments can also help the body to have regular bowel movements without the disturbance of constipation and diarrhea.Those who practice colon hydrotherapy truly believe that this practice rejuvenates the body as a whole. The removal of toxins and poisons helps the body to alleviate many health problems like fatigue, frequent headaches or stomachaches, weight problems, allergies, and various skin conditions such as psoriasis and acne.Colon hydrotherapy treatments also help the colon to be able to do its job better in the future, excreting wastes more efficiently and keeping polluting toxins out of the body. A colon that is working more efficiently is one that is helping to maintain overall body and skin health.We don't often think about it, but the skin is actually the body's largest excretory organ. When the colon is clogged with fecal matter, bacteria, and other toxins and waste material, the skin begins to act as an excretory substitute.Because problematic skin is so often an indication of unhealthy colon in need of cleansing, antibiotics, skin medications, and topical creams may not work well to correct the problem.Vitamin A is of vital importance to overall skin health, and to maintaining skin that is free of acne and other conditions. Dietary Vitamin A enters the body largely through absorption through the walls of the large intestine, or colon. The colon, in a state of ill health, has a difficult time absorbing adequate amounts of Vitamin A. A healthy colon that has received cleansing hydrotherapy will more effectively absorb Vitamin A, helping the skin to maintain clarity and good health.Many people who suffer from various skin problems, such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema, find that their skin conditions improve after colon hydrotherapy treatments.

About the Author
Author writes articles on different topics. To know more, visit:exposed skincare, www.acne-treatments-guide.com

Thanks to Alexander Holle for this article.