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Acne Treatment Reactions

It’s happened to the best of us: reactions to acne treatment ingredients. The peeling, redness and inflammation is not only uncomfortable, it’s even less attractive than the acne blemishes you were trying to get rid of it the first place! Treating reactions and irritation related to acne treatment products is fairly simple in most cases. Here’s a quick look at the most common forms of irritation and what you can do about them.

Mild Reactions
Most people experience redness, peeling, dryness, stinging and warmness when using a new or more aggressive acne treatment. These slight reactions are somewhat normal, and usually go away as your skin gets used to the active ingredients. Most skin types experience some sort of vague irritation when using an acne treatment; however, sensitive and reaction-prone skin types are definitely more likely to experience these and more severe side effects.

Extreme Reactions
Less common and more worrisome reactions include blistering, swelling and crusting, severe burning, extreme redness, changes in skin tone (darkening or lightening), and skin rash. If you experience any of these side effects while using an acne product, you should discontinue use of your product or regimen and consult with your physician or dermatologist as soon as possible. These signs of irritation could be symptoms of an ingredient allergy, and you could risk permanent damage, such as scarring, if these symptoms go untreated.

In the event of a mild reaction, it’s ok to continue using your clarifying product as long as the irritation clears up within a couple weeks. If the irritation is too uncomfortable, you can try decreasing your treatment dosage by using a less concentrated product or applying the product less often. If your irritation worries you or doesn’t clear up soon after beginning your acne care regimen, discontinue the use of your products and consult your dermatologist or general doctor.

Many treatments for acne that are currently on the market use gentler ingredients in order to avoid causing irritation. However, more severe cases of acne are generally too stubborn to be treated by mild products, making more aggressive ingredients, such as benzoyl peroxide, a must for these patients.

If decreasing your application frequency or product concentration is not a choice for you, and you are not experiencing symptoms of a severe or allergic reaction, there are things you can do to diminish discomfort. It may be helpful to begin using a more moisturizing oil-free skin care cream or simply adding jojoba oil to your moisturizer of choice. In addition, there are many travel-friendly hydrating spritzes that supply lightweight, non-comedogenic hydration that can help ease the dryness and discomfort associated with aggressive acne clarifying products.

source:flickr by:missy & the universe

Acne-Clearing Chocolate: a Delicious Surprise or Too Sweet to Be True?

Some believe that chocolate can cause or exacerbate acne, leading many acne-sufferers to give up the sweet treat. However, Frutels, a company that specializes in nutraceutical candies, begs to differ. They created the ultimate treatment for acne: a delicious, antioxidant-rich dark chocolate filled with nutrients that are hand-chosen to provide complexion-clarifying benefits.

Based on Frutels’ original gummy acne treatment, their chocolates contain a slew of vitamins that supposedly heal and prevent blemishes from the inside out by addressing stress, hormone and dietary issues. The chocolate formula is sugar-free, Kosher, vegetarian and a natural acne product. The company also claims that their chocolates are free of side effects, which some people disagree with. The chocolates contain an artificial sweetener called maltitol that can act as a laxative in high doses or on an empty stomach. This ingredient is also known to cause migraines in a very small number of people. (Please note that most people are able to use Frutels without incidence.)

Because Frutels is ingested, the candies may be used to treat acne that occurs on the face, back, chest, buttocks or anywhere else on the body. This makes it a good multi-tasking choice for those who experience breakouts in more than one area. Of course, the most important question when it comes to any acne product has not yet been addressed: is Frutels effective? Let’s take a quick peek at the formula’s active ingredients to find out if the clarifying treats have the ingredients needed to back up these claims.

Each serving of Frutels chocolates (2 pieces) contains the following:

• 50 mg Vitamin C
• 7 mg Thiamine (Vitamin B1)
• 7 mg Riboflavin (Vitamin B2)
• 7 mg Niacin (Vitamin B3)
• 7 mg B6
• 7 mg Biotin (Vitamin B7)
• 7 mg Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
• 7 mg PABA (Vitamin BX)
• 7 mg Choline
• 7 mg Inositol (Vitamin B8)
• 3.34 mg Zinc
• 27 mcg Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
• 7 mcg B12

Based on the active ingredient list, Frutels contains many vitamins and antioxidants, both of which contribute to clear skin. The B vitamins in particular help balance sex hormones, one of the main causes of acne. Zinc, which speeds wound healing while providing other beneficial actions, is often used to treat acne and support the skin’s overall health. Plus, the fact that these nutrients are packed into naturally antioxidant-rich dark chocolate means that each active ingredient is more readily absorbed by the body.

User reviews of the product are varied. Some claim to notice an almost immediate improvement in their acne. Others say that the price ($29.95 for a one month supply for those with mild acne, $58.95 for a one month supply for those with more severe acne) is simply not worth the results, or lack thereof. As with most things, you’ll only be able to find out if it works for you by trying the chocolates yourself. Frutels does offer a money back guarantee on your first purchase – 100% of your initial purchase amount (minus shipping and handling) will be refunded if you return your empty boxes within 60 days of purchase.

source:flickr by:ashley.adcox

Most people with acne (and even some people who don’t experience acne) tend to pick at their skin. While skin picking is certainly not advised, mild picking or scratching generally won’t do more harm than causing your acne lesions to heal at a slower rate. Sometimes those who pick at their skin more often or with a more aggressive approach will experience scarring or pigmentation issues, which may require use of an acne scar treatment. These habits are considered normal, however unadvised they may be.

There are, however, people who suffer from Dermatillomania, or Compulsive Skin Picking. Dermatillomania is classified as an impulsive control disorder, and is often experienced by those who also suffer from Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Dermatillomania usually causes the sufferer to pick at the skin on their face, although they may also pick at the skin on their body or scalp. Compulsive Skin Picking can lead to extreme scarring and other disfigurement. Although Dermatillomania is not directly tied to adult acne, it can also lead to acne issues due to the spreading and embedding of dirt, oils and bacteria.

Compulsive Skin Picking is used by sufferers to cope with stress, boredom or perfectionism. Dermatillomania may be practiced by those who are easily distracted or distressed. If you suspect that you suffer from Dermatillomania, there are many treatment options available to you, which will help you reclaim your life and your complexion.

Acne caused by CSP is able to be treated using traditional acne treatment products. Some suffers of Dermatillomania find that acne treatments formulated with benzoyl peroxide help keep them from picking, as this ingredient is known to stain linens when used in a concentration of 2.5% or higher. Along those same lines, acne scar treatments using hydroquinone will also provide extra incentive to keep from picking, as hydroquinone is very likely to stain your linens, such as your clothes, bedsheets or towels. Of course, the best acne treatment for those with Dermatillomania is to stop picking. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.

Dermatillomania may be treated with psychotherapy, medications or natural remedies. Some sufferers of CSP find that simply keeping their hands occupied will help them re-train their minds and bodies to keep from picking. Before attempting to find a Dermatillomania treatment on your own, visit your health care professional to confirm your self-diagnosis and learn about the best treatment options for you. Remember, the information provided on this website is never meant to replace the professional opinion, advice or diagnosis of your health care professional.

source:flickr by:iujaz

Relax Your Way to Clearer Skin

Studies prove that stress levels have a direct effect on acne, particularly teen acne. One study showed that teens experiencing high levels of stress were 23% more likely to experience an inflammatory acne breakout, something no one wants to deal with when they’re already stressed. But, why does stress make acne worse? Read on to learn why breakouts are more likely to occur when you’re stressed and which acne tips will help you restore clarity to your complexion.

Stress aggravates acne in two ways. First, it stimulates the production of hormones, one of the main causes of acne. Secondly, it slows the healing process, causing acne to last longer. The combination of these two actions lead to a blemished complexion, which can then cause self-esteem issues and even more stress, leading to a seemingly inescapable cycle of stress and acne.

So, what can you do to banish your stress-related breakouts? The answer is obvious: reduce stress. Unfortunately, reducing stress isn’t as simple as realizing that it needs to be done. Luckily for stressed acne sufferers, there are a few things you can do that work as a treatment for acne and a treatment for stress.

1. Get a facial. Facials make a great adult acne treatment and are thoroughly relaxing as well. A facial begins a gentle face cleansing and exfoliation to remove any makeup, dirt, debris and excess oils from the surface of the skin. Then, your esthetician will look at your skin under a bright light to reveal any problem areas. He or she will then extract blackheads or whiteheads if your skin is in need of such a procedure and you are comfortable with it being done. (Sometimes extractions can be too painful or uncomfortable for those with sensitive skin.) Finally, your esthetician will perform a soothing face massage and apply a skin care mask, allowing you to bask in relaxation while the mask rejuvenates the skin.
2. Use an at-home face mask. When facials are too expensive or time-consuming, a perfect alternative is to use an acne treatment mask formulated for home use. These masks are easy to apply and provide fantastic results for a fraction of the cost of an in-office facial. While your mask is working to clarify the skin, you can soak in the tub, read a magazine or do whatever helps you to unwind and regain a calm sense of self.
3. Get a massage. While a massage may not seem like a way to get rid of acne, it can be! Massages release built-up toxins in the body and help to expel them, resulting in a healthier body and, therefore, healthier skin. Plus, it is well-known that massages are one of the best way to release stress. If a professional massage isn’t in your budget, trade massages with a friend or that special someone.

source:flickr by:leeno

Let’s Get Scrubbing!

Exfoliating the skin is an important step in every skin care regimen. The main purpose of exfoliation is remove the outermost layer of dead skin cells in order to achieve a healthier look and feel. Exfoliation also works to smooth and soften the skin, reduce visible signs of aging, restore radiance, and heal and prevent acne blemishes. Using chemical or physical exfoliating acne products will help unclog pores and remove impurities, leading to a clearer complexion.

Choosing the right exfoliation product is as easy as identifying your skin type. You may also want to choose a product based on active ingredients, depending on personal preferences and sensitivity levels. Some exfoliants are specially formulated to act as acne treatment products, making them a great choice for those who experience regular breakouts. Chemical exfoliants use gentle, safe acids (usually plant-derived acids) to exfoliate the skin without scrubbing. Physical exfoliants use beads, generally made from silicone or organic ingredients, to scrub away dead skin cells and debris. Both methods are safe and effective.

Exfoliating ingredients are found in many product types, including cleansers, lotions and masks. It is possible to over-exfoliate the skin, so you don’t want to build your regimen using only exfoliating products. Gentler exfoliants may be used every day; however harsher formulations, such as aggressive physical scrubs, should only be used once or twice per week as needed.

Oily Skin with Acne
When exfoliating oily skin, it is important to choose a formulation that will absorb excess oils and impurities. Chemical exfoliants that use glycolic acid work well on oily skin, as do exfoliants containing kaolin or bentonite clay. The latter ingredients are found mostly in acne treatment masks, such as the Clarifying Clay Masque by SkinCeuticals.

Dry Skin with Acne
Dry skin often needs the most exfoliation as it is more likely to develop a rough, flaky appearance. Using a creamy exfoliating cleanser will help restore moisture to dry and dehydrated skin while removing the dead skin cells that cause a dry appearance. Those with dry skin should not use formulations containing purifying clays, unless the formulation is specifically developed for dry skin.

Sensitive Skin with Acne
Those with sensitive skin need to take special care when exfoliating. Sensitive skin generally does best when exfoliated with a chemical formulation, although there are some physical exfoliant products that are safe for sensitive skin. It is best to avoid overly stripping formulations, such as those often used for oily skin, as they can aggravate sensitive skin. If your skin is too oily for a heavy, creamy exfoliant, look for a good “middle ground” product that will soothe the complexion without causing it to feel greasy or uncomfortable.

Mature Skin with Acne
Acne-prone mature skin is often difficult to treat, as many treatments for acne do not target visible signs of aging. However, there are products out there, such as MD Skincare’s Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel, that will help clear acne while restoring a youthful appearance to the complexion.

Normal or Combination Skin with Acne
Normal and combination skin types are able to pick and choose whatever exfoliating adult acne treatment they prefer. Most normal skin types prefer creamier or more hydrating products, such as those used by dry skin types, while most combination skin types choose absorbent products to create a “squeaky clean” feeling.

source: Flickr by:bionicteaching

Lauric Acid: Potential Skin-Saver?

With so many striving to find gentler and more effective treatments for acne, it’s amazing that lauric acid has stayed under wraps for so long. Lauric acid is a saturated fatty acid, and the main acid in coconut oil and palm kernel oil. It’s also found in cow’s milk, goat’s milk and human milk. It’s known for its ability to boost the metabolism and strengthen the immune system, but its antimicrobial effects are what make it seem promising for use as an acne treatment.

Dr. Huang, the researcher currently working on the P. acnes vaccine, believes that lauric acid would be especially useful in the fight against acne due to the fact that it’s endogenous, meaning that it already occurs in the human body. Because of this, lauric acid would be handled and tolerated by our bodies extremely well, allowing it to offer optimized benefits as an adult acne treatment.

When tested in the lab and in mouse ears, lauric acid yielded good results against P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne. However, because P. acnes isn’t the only factor when it comes to acne, this may or may not mean that lauric acid will be used in future acne treatment products. I, for one, hope to see lauric acid used because it is natural, inexpensive, non-toxic and has a long shelf life, all of which contribute to a gentle, user-friendly and affordable product.

Right now, coconut oil features the highest levels of lauric acid at 47.5%. Does this mean that coconut oil can be used as an acne treatment? Coconut oil is used by many as a moisturizer. It reduces dryness and flaking without causing any adverse effects. It also delays wrinkles and sagging skin, and helps treat eczema, contact dermatitis, psoriasis and other skin infections. Along with these benefits, the idea that coconut oil’s lauric acid content would provide antimicrobial benefits leaves us believing that it wouldn’t hurt to try it as a natural acne treatment!

source:flickr by:only alice

Light Therapy

Sunlight has long been believed to be an effective treatment for acne due to the antibacterial effects of the ultraviolet spectrum. Unfortunately, the sun’s UV rays are also notoriously damaging, making extended sun exposure too harmful to be used as an acne treatment. While studying the healing properties of UV light, scientists discovered that visible violet light in sunlight activates a porphyrin in P. acnes, the bacteria responsible for acne. This porphyrin kills P. acnes, resulting in a clearer and more beautiful complexion.

After this incredible discovery was made, light therapy, also known as phototherapy, was born, and light therapy devices soon followed. These devices use bright LED lights, fluorescent lamps or dichroic filament bulbs to target P. acnes bacteria. Studies have shown that after consecutive light therapy treatments, bacteria in the pores was reduced 99.9%. This means that light therapy is truly once of the best adult acne treatments available!

Light therapy is a great choice for those with skin sensitive to traditional acne treatment products, as well as those who prefer natural acne products. Phototherapy can be administered by a dermatologist or through an at-home light therapy device. Light therapy devices made for home use can supply incredible results when used consistently and correctly.

Myth #1: Acne is Caused by One’s Diet

Many believe that acne can be caused or aggravated by what one eats. This is do to the fact that most non-Westernized societies do not experience acne in the same way Westernized societies do, leading people to wonder if the difference in diet is to blame. While there is no conclusive evidence to support this theory, there have been studies showing that high-glycemic foods (white bread, sweets, soda, etc.) could be linked to acne. Although these links could prove to be false, it is always better to limit the intake of high-glycemic foods, and instead opt for a more well-balanced diet.

Myth #2: Acne is Caused by Poor Hygiene

It is true that keeping your face properly cleansed can help clear up acne; however, the acne is not caused by poor hygiene. Acne begins below the skin’s surface without any help from dirt or grime. Cleansing the complexion with an acne treatment product can help unblock plugged pores, allowing the trapped sebum to escape and the pimple to heal. For a complete explanation of how acne forms, please see our Causes and Treatments for Acne page.

Myth #3: Acne is Caused by Stress

While acne is not directly caused by stress, stress may have an effect on hormones which, in turn, can aggravate acne breakouts. Luckily, an acne treatment product can overcome a bout of stress and its hormonal effects any day of the week.

Myth #4: Acne is Caused by Sex

Folks from older generations enjoy telling youngsters that acne breakouts are caused by sex or masturbation. This acne myth is one of the oldest, dating back to the 17th century. While acne is definitely not caused by sex, both acne and the desire for sex are increased by androgens. Therefore, when one’s body is producing higher levels of androgen, a person may experience both a higher sex drive and more severe breakouts.

Myth #5: Acne May be Cleared with Sun Exposure

Overexposure to the sun’s UV rays causes a reddening of the skin, which can help acne breakouts blend into the complexion. Additionally, sunlight may be able to help your current acne breakouts heal faster; however, subsequent breakouts will probably be worse. Although acne cannot safely be treated with sunlight, it can be treated with violet light using specially designed light therapy acne treatment devices.

When popping a pimple, it is essential that you practice proper pimple-popping technique. Poor technique can lead to exacerbated inflammation and redness, longer healing time, infection and scarring, which could require professional acne scar treatments.

1) Begin by washing your hands and face. It’s a great idea to pop a pimple after a shower, as the warm water opens the pores and helps the skin to become supple.
2) Clean a sewing needle with rubbing alcohol, and gently prick the pimple’s surface. When pricking the pimple, take your time and be precise. Submerging the needle too far into the pimple will cause discomfort.
3) Wrap your index fingers with tissues or cotton balls and gently apply pressure with a down-and-in motion. If the pimple does not pop immediately, leave the bathroom! A pimple will pop when its ready, and forcing its early drainage can cause scarring.

If your pimple begins draining clear fluid or blood, be sure to cease your pimple popping foray. Your only goal should be to release the build-up of pus, which should be simple if the pimple is ready to pop. After the pus is drained, wash your face and hands a second time and let the pimple rest before applying any treatment products or makeup.

Important note: do not attempt to pop a cyst or nodule. It can result in infection and scarring! If you are experiencing cystic acne, consult your dermatologist for a professional acne treatment.

source:flickr by:sidesmirk

Acne is something that almost everyone has had to deal with at some point in their lives. No matter how many acne tips one receives, it’s often impossible to escape those angry red breakouts.

Sadly, even after the acne is under control, many are left with acne scars that leave them feeling less confident about their appearance. Although these scars are not the bright attention-grabbers that exist during an acne breakout, they are definitely

able to make a statement all their own. Thankfully, there are many effective acne scar treatments available for recreating a healthy, smooth completion.

Chemical Peels

Chemical peels are a great treatment for minor acne scarring. They also make a great acne treatment for active acne. Chemical peels use a blend of phenol, trichloroacetic acid and alphahydroxy acids to resurface the skin, leading to a smoother and more even complexion. These ingredients also provide anti-aging benefits by reducing the appearance of fine lines, hyperpigmentation and wrinkles, making chemical peels the perfect all-in-one treatment.

Dermabrasion

Dermabrasion or dermaplaning is a rather invasive procedure, however it yields fantastic results. Ideal for use on shallow imperfections, dermabrasion is a surgical scraping of the skin. True, this procedure sounds a bit scary, but it is safe, common and truly effective. It may be used in conjunction with other acne scar treatments, including chemical peels, for faster or more profound results.

Microdermabrasion

As the name suggests, microdermabrasion is a lesser form of dermabrasion. It works in a similar manner, the main difference being that it removes a finer layer of skin cells. This results in less dramatic results. However, microdermabrasion is a fantastic choice if your acne scarring is minor, or if your budget is tighter. Microdermabrasion also offers anti-aging and rejuvenative benefits.

Punch Techniques

Punch techniques are used on deep acne scars, also known as “ice pick” or “boxcar” scars. Your doctor will remove the scarred tissue and repair the complexion with sutures or, in more severe cases, replacement of the tissue. While punch techniques are more invasive than other acne scar treatments, they are one of the best ways to improve the appearance of excessive or deep acne scars.

In addition to these in-office procedures, there are many acne scar treatments available for use at home. These include cleansers, lotions and treatment products created with alpha or beta hydroxy acids, topical formulas created with vitamin A, botanically-based products, and even at-home microdermabrasion products. Speak with your dermatologist to find the best acne scar treatment for you.