Get Rid of Acne

Real stories from Exposed users

2009-01-20T11:14:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you that I love the Exposed Skin care system. I have had skin problems since I was 10 years old. Now I am 42 and I am having the clearest skin I've ever had. Exposed is working well for me. The first couple of weeks were rough, the product too strong and it caused some red blotchiness. But I learned to adjust my skin care needs to the Exposed system and it is working wonderfully for me. I am a happy customer!
Pamela - Portland, OR

I just wanted to drop a line to express my gratitude for the Exposed skin care line. I have been using your products since January & I absolutely love them. My skin is near perfection now, I hear compliments all the time from family & friends about the clarity of my skin!! My skin is so soft & I barely ever get any pimples & if I do, they are completely gone within a matter of a couple days! Thank you so much!!
Kati - South Euclid, OH

Exposed Skin Care

I am 30 years old and I have tried just about everything on the market but Exposed Skin Care is the first product that has worked. My results have been life changing, for the first time I don't feel like I have to have make-up on to leave the house. Thank you!
Maureen - Tulsa, OK

I am just writting to let you know that your product is the only one that has ever worked on my acne. I had more blackheads and whiteheads than pimples and I say had. Even friends are noticing the miraculous changes in my skin. I am so happy and will continue to purchase this product. Thanks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Pam - Niagara Falls, NY

By the way, the product works! I have tough skin to work with and my skin is better than it has ever been. Thank you.
Judy - Auburn, WA

I have used several other Acne products so I was very hesitant to try Exposed. But within the first week my pimples and redness really started to clear up. The best part is that the acne serum is a really light gel that becomes invisible. It's almost like your wearing nothing. I have been on the program for almost three weeks now and my skin is looking better and better.
Jeff P. - Buffalo, NY

Exposed Skin Care

I am a 37 year old woman who has literally tried everything under the sun for my mild, but persistent acne problem......I mean everything!!! Your products are absolutely wonderful.
Jacqueline H. - Bayport, NY

I sent my old Proactiv bottles in for the extra discount on the 4-step system. I was expecting something very similar to Proactiv, but I was really surprised just how much better the Exposed method really was. Proactive was able to clear up most of my acne but I would always seem to suffer from cycles of slight breakouts, redness and dryness. With the Exposed acne solution, the breakouts never returned. Exposed seems to be more effective in balancing out my skin and keeping it constantly clear. Thanks Exposed.
Sara B. - Phoenix, AZ

I have been working in the skin care field for 13 years. The Exposed acne treatment is the first system that really has a complete approach to treating mild and moderate acne, and the only over-the-counter product that I felt comfortable recommending. I often recommend basic system to clients before I have them look at harsher prescription treatments such as Accutane. For those that have dryer skin, I do like their moisturizing complex (lotion).
Dr. Laura P. - Gables, FL

Have you tried everything for your acne, but your skin gets worse?

2009-01-20T11:11:00.000-08:00

One of the most common reasons for acne is skin irritation. The fact that your skin is irritated cause more redness and the acne to become more severe.

Acne myth: Drying our your skin will get rid of your acne.

Acne truth: Your skin is meant to have a level of sebum (oil) and any product that tries to dry your skin will cause your skin to produce even more oil. Trying to stip all oil will make your skin red with irritation and cause your acne to get worse.

Our solution to acne.

Help your skin get back to a being healthy and clear, where it will not breakout because it is not irritated and the oils on the surface are balanced. This is a balance is acheived by creating products which include acne fighting ingredients as well natural healing ingredients that will help sooth your skin.

We have create a acne treatment kit that works with your skin to gently it's appearance and prevent future acne breakouts.

Derma Cleanse® System

About Derma Cleanse® System

This revolutionary acne treatment works both internally and externally, to clear and prevent acne. Experience the sensation of clear and healthy skin with this inspired, three step approach.

Misconceptions about causes of Acne

2009-01-20T10:57:00.000-08:00

There are many misconceptions and rumors about what does and does not cause the condition:

Diet. One flawed study purported that Chocolate, french fries, potato chips and sugar, among others, affect acne. A recent review of scientific literature cannot affirm either way. The consensus among health professionals is that acne sufferers should experiment with their diets, and refrain from consuming such fare if they find such food affects the severity of their acne. A recent study, based on a survey of 47,335 women, did find a positive epidemiological association between milk consumption and acne, particularly skimmed. The researchers hypothesize that the association may be caused by hormones (such as bovine IGF-I) present in cow milk; but this has not been definitively shown. Seafood, on the other hand, may contain relatively high levels of iodine, but probably not enough to cause an acne outbreak. Still, people who are prone to acne may want to avoid excessive consumption of foods high in iodine. It has also been suggested that there is a link between a diet high in refined sugars and acne. According to this hypothesis, the startling absence of acne in non-westernized societies could be explained by the low glycemic index of these tribes' diets. Further research is necessary to establish whether a reduced consumption of high-glycemic foods (such as soft drinks, sweets, white bread) can significantly alleviate acne, though consumption of high-glycemic foods should in any case be kept to a minimum, for general health reasons.

Deficient personal hygiene. Acne is not caused by dirt. This misconception probably comes from the fact that acne involves skin infections. In fact the blockages that cause acne occur deep within the narrow follicle channel, where it is impossible to wash them away. These plugs are formed by the cells and sebum created there by the body. The bacteria involved are the same bacteria that are always present on the skin. Regular cleansing of the skin can reduce, but not prevent, acne for a particular individual and very little variation among individuals is due to hygiene. Anything beyond very gentle cleansing can actually worsen existing lesions and even encourage new ones by damaging or overdrying skin.

Sex. Common myths state that either celibacy or masturbation cause acne and, conversely, that sexual intercourse can cure it. There is no scientific evidence suggesting that any of these are factual. It is true, though, that anger and stress affect hormone levels and thus bodily oil production, which can cause acne.

Acne Free In 3 Days - A Full Review

2009-01-20T10:39:00.000-08:00

There is a lot of hype about the book “Acne Free In 3 Days” all over the place and it all leaves one question to be answered: Does the book live up to the hype? For those of you after a simple answer, yes it does. For those after a more detailed response, let’s take a look.

Product: Acne Free In 3 Days
Source: http://www.acnefreein3days.com

As mentioned in the book, there is a 98% success rate for people who use this treatment. And I know that to be accurate because it is based on the same principles I use and talk about, and I have a similar success rate with the people that I help myself. I have also been contacted directly by readers, some of whom were so impressed with “Acne Free In 3 Days” that they were almost shocked that I hadn’t included it on my site.

There are points in the book that I completely agree with, others that I disagreed with, and some that were incomplete or not as detailed as they should be, but the most basic principle of the treatment applies to everyone, and that is why it works. The basic principle is that the body must always be treated as a whole, and that all the parts of the body are related to each other in one way or another. And I know that this sounds obvious, but you would be surprised how often this is not considered!

The actual process described in “Acne Free In 3 Days” involves a number of processes, which I cannot list without breaching intellectual property laws, but I can say that it includes a brief and drastic dietary change, required only for a matter of days, as well as some procedures you can perform yourself.

The only step I skipped, and I think some or most of you will as well, is the self-performed enema. But there are alternative methods of achieving the same result as an enema without the pervasive nature that the procedure entails. You can use 4-5 glasses a day of lemon water (fresh lemon squeezed into water) or cranberry juice, or you can purchase pharmaceutical grade powders that mix with water, all of which only need to be consumed as a drink, and all of which achieve the same result as an enema, which is to clear the bowels.

The dietary change is intended to allow the body repair itself. It does this by removing the unprocessed foods and toxins that remain in the bowel and interfere with the normal digestive process, causing more waste and toxins to build up in the intestines. Without the natural removal of these, the body finds other ways to repair itself and expels the toxins through other organs. In some people, it does this by creating body fat, in others it causes acne, in others it does both, and on the rare occasion it does something completely different, causing any number of other diseases. The steps in this book, and primarily the 3-day diet change, are designed to fix this issue in your body as it currently exists. You will usualy need to do the process every few months but the steps are very simple and I’m sure you will all agree that it is worth it to get rid of your acne.

What the author doesn’t mention, probably because he is unaware or the book was written before this became popular, is that the reason this is so effective is because of human body’s pH balance. A healthy body will have a pH of just below 7 (neutral), indicative of the high percentage of water in it. The build up of waste and toxins (often from over-acidic foods) creates an acid-alkaline imbalance in the body and allows for an increase in bacteria and a susceptibility to infections. After a while and a few more processes, this will cause acne, which itself is a series of infections in the skin. The processes in this treatment method counteract and prevent this, despite these factors not being mentioned by the author.

In terms of the book itself, I was actually surprised by some of the mistakes that were made in the writing of it. This doesn’t really affect the results but it’s something that bugs me and almost made me put the book away. I persisted and was happy by the end but, for example, in some places popular acne terms were mispelled - like Accutane, which was spelled in 2-3 different ways throughout the book but only sometimes correctly. This just looks unprofessional and it detracts from the true value of the content. It would take less than an hour to go over the text with an editor so it should have been done long ago.

Another thing that I noticed almost instantly, and again almost made me stop reading, was the way that acne was portrayed. Before we even get to the steps the author, Chris Gibson, explains the principles of the book (as mentioned above) but also makes acne appear worse than it really is. I know that it is a difficult condition to live with and often affects one’s lifestyle but I disagree that it must is “one of the most devasting” problems associated with appearance. Acne only affects sufferers as much as they allow it to. I cover this in my previous article “The Psychology of Acne” but basically it is my belief that people will see you as you see yourself and if you are confident, people will see that and be drawn to it. I understand that the author has done this to ‘scare’ people into action but I think that if people really want to get rid of their acne and they have paid to do it, then they will read to the end even without the scare-tactics.

In addition, some of the statistics, though still effective, are out of date and should be updated with new studies. Again, this doesn’t affect the results but it’s something that bugs me.

Overall I think that if you haven’t already then you MUST give this book a read and try the acne treatment suggests. There is a money-back guarantee and unlike some companies they actually refund your money quickly, so there is no risk involved and if you don’t like the book or the treatment doesn’t work, you can easily get your money back. I know that sounds like a sales pitch but it has a high success rate anyway so chances are you won’t need the refund. Despite the issues in writing and some of the concepts, the actual product itself works and I think you will be surprised at how quickly you see results.

http://www.acnefreein3days.com

Proactiv - Some Notes on Its Efficiency

2009-01-17T08:15:00.000-08:00

There are many people who need acne treatment solutions. Luckily, there are many products in the market that can suffice their needs. However, not all acne treatment solutions work. In fact, there are many hyped products that are quite inefficient.

Among the most popular brands these days is Proactiv. Some say that it doesn’t work while others point out that it is quite effective. In general, it should be noted that efficient acne treatment products may not work for some people primarily because their skin may repel the healing effects of the solution. Different people respond varyingly to different kinds of products. The customers should find one that will suit their specific condition.

What Do Manufacturers and Endorsers Claim?

If you check the website, you can see that the manufacturers claim that Proactiv acne treatment solution is “The Answer For Acne”. The site also points out that the product can be used by every kind of customer – regardless of the person’s age and skin type. They also claim that the product works on all types of acne breakouts. Unlike other acne treatment products, Proactiv does not only treat the existing acne. Rather, it also prevents future acne breakouts from resurfacing in the skin.

How Proactiv Acne Treatment Works

Based on the reports stated on the manufacturer’s website, Proactiv acne solution works just like some facial cleansers. Every time the consumer uses the product, the cleansing ingredients unclog the pores of the skin and kill the bacteria that promote skin inflammation that starts on the infected pores.

However, it should be noted that technically, Proactiv acne treatment products do not target the root cause of acne such as hormonal imbalances and more. Basically, the product only helps manage acne. On their website, you can see claims stating that if you want to completely stop acne breakouts from recurring, manufacturers recommend that you should not stop using proactiv products. Some product users also point out that once you stop using Proactiv, acne breakouts immediately occur.

What are the Side Effects of Proactiv?

In general, almost all types of medication and treatment have some side effects. However, the effects differ in severity. Two people using the same product may experience different side effects. In the case of Proactiv acne treatment solutions, some product users report that it irritates the skin. According to some experts, the product component that causes the irritation is benzoyl peroxide. For those who have sensitive skin, they might experience itchiness, swelling, and redness of the skin. In some cases, they can also make the skin dry and flaky.

Overall Review on Proactiv

Generally, Proactiv acne solution is deemed as a good treatment product. The product is effective in treating mild to moderate levels of acne breakout. Moreover, it also produces quick results. After continuously using it for just a week or two, the product user can observe that the acne manifestations will clear out. However, during initial applications, the product may result to some skin irritations. The skin may become dry, reddish, and itchy. Though acne may be reduced or completely diminished after two weeks of continuous use, acne breakouts may recur as soon as the use of Proactiv acne treatment solutions is stopped.

Proactiv Official Site

The ClearPores System

2009-01-17T08:12:00.000-08:00

Acne is one of the most common problems of many people, especially those who are in their teenage years. Without a doubt, many are on the look-out for an effective way to get rid of their acne. Fortunately, there are many drugs, medications, and treatment that people can use when a pimple suddenly appears on their cheeks. The trouble is, with the many choices to choose from, which among the available acne treatment products should one use? There are many fake acne solutions and hyped products that exist these days. That is why every consumer should be careful in buying acne treatment products. For best results, those with acne should settle for highly recommended products.

Among the most recommended acne treatment products these days is the ClearPores System. ClearPores is one of the most notable brands in the field of skin care. According to ClearPore users, this product can definitely bring an end to your acne solution in just a matter of weeks.

A Complete Solution, Not Just a Single Product

According to dermatologists, an acne breakout should be dealt with using treatments that will address the cause of the infection. Acne products that are meant to treat only the exterior scar or wound are definitely temporal solutions. As a result, most experts recommend the use of complete acne solutions. ClearPores Acne System is one of these.

Just like other efficient acne solutions, ClearPores presents a full solution, not just temporal treatment from a single product. The solutions aims to completely destroy the acne, not just temporarily stop the inflammation. Basically, the ClearPores Acne system follows a three-step treatment plan. Primary of these steps is the cleansing phase. In this phase, the brand offers a deep cleansing wash that gets rid of the acne inflammation by unclogging the pores of the skin. It also gets rid of the bacteria that are the main causes of an acne breakout.

Aside from cleaning the inflamed area, the ClearPores System also prevents the reoccurrence of acne breakouts. It contains a special herbal formula that increases the body’s ability to fight acne. Last but not the least; the complete acne solution also includes a protection cream that contains the essential vitamins and nutrients that the body needs in order to keep the skin beautiful and glowing.

PROS versus CONS

Unlike other acne treatment solutions, ClearPores Treatment System is endorsed not just by its users, but by doctors and herbalists as well. As compared to other acne solutions, this brand offers a complete system that can be used not just on facial acne, but on body acne as well. What’s more is that when you buy ClearPores product, you are bound to get a number of bonus products as freebies. However, since the products are only available online, you will have to wait for two business days before you get your order.

Since the ClearPores acne solution can only be bought online, some people actually worry about shipping problems – delay, damages, and the like. In relation to the idea that not all skin products work for everyone, some also worry about the efficiency of this acne solution. To address this issue, the ClearPores manufacturer then offers a money-back guarantee period that lasts for six long months.

ClearPores Official Site

Proactiv - can't go wrong trying this product

2009-01-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

Having heard all the great reviews about Proactive I decided to try it myself. My cousins both use it and have extreme acne and it works wonders for them. Unfortunately I experienced an allergic reaction

to the products so I had to discontinue using it. The reason I am writing this review though is that this company is true to their word on the refund policy, when I called to cancel any further orders and explained what happened they gave me a full refund without any problems and the customer service representative was super nice, I did not even have to waste time sending the product back. I was very impressed with this company--I never write reviews in fact this is the first review I have ever written online! So in conclusion you really can’t go wrong trying this product! I hope this helps with your decision to try this product. -Jan 14, 2009

I have been a proactiv user for many years now and absolutely love it. I have tried many other products prior to it and nothing ever seemed to work; NOT even prescribed medications by the dermatologist!!! I would highly recommend this product- it really works! I saw results in about a week to two weeks. I was really surprised by how well it works. But, use the repairing lotion sparingly, a small dime size amount goes a long way. If you use way too much, redness may occur or dryness. Give this product a try; it was definitely worth my while. Neutrogena screwed up my face, along with clean and clear. Do not use those products! Also, nothing that the dermatologist gave me worked and cost a ton of money even with insurance! This is the only acne product that has worked for me and I absolutely love it. So worth it. Buy this product. You will not be disappointed! - Jan 09, 2009

just got Pro Active for Chistmas and decided I would try it before I went to a dermatologist. I have been using it for about 2 weeks now. I, like most people, was really excited to get started on getting rid of my acne andjumped in full force on this stuff. The first week my face skin was glowing and my existing acne was drying up, the second week my face began to burn and turn red. I was going to stop completely until I read that you should start VERY SLOWY with this product. They suggest only using the first two steps for the first 3-5 days and then slowly add in the 3rd step everyother night. If you are like me, you did not read the FULL booklet before starting and got similar results.

I am taking two days off, like they suggested, and giving Pro Active another shot....THIS TIME FOLLOWING THE DIRECTIONS!!! -Jan 03, 2009

What is Accutane and how does it work?

2009-01-15T15:27:00.000-08:00

Accutane (also known as Isotretinoin), or Roaccutane as is also known in parts of the world, was discovered in 1979 when it was first given to patients with severe acne, most of whom reacted with dramatic and permanent clearing of their acne symptoms. It is a vitamin A derivative (13-cis-retinoic acid) which is administered orally in pill form, normally for 15-20 weeks (3.5-4.5 months). It was originally prescribed for people with severe acne that did not respond to other treatments, but has gained in popularity in the past 25 years and is prescribed more and more frequently for less severe acne. Accutane is a serious medication which must be taken under close doctor's supervision. Blood tests are required and side effects can be as devastating as they are widespread.

Exactly how Accutane works on a cellular level is unknown, but we do know that it affects all of the four ways that acne develops.

It dramatically reduces the size of the skin's oil glands (35%-58%) and even more dramatically reduces the amount of oil the skin produces (around 80%).
Acne bacteria (P. Acnes) lives in skin oil. Since oil is so dramatically reduces, so is the amount of acne bacteria in the skin.
It also slows down how fast the skin produces skin cells inside the pore which helps pores from becoming clogged in the first place.
It displays anti-inflammatory properties.

Although acne may get worse within the first month on a cycle of Accutane, the ultimate results are usually dramatic. Accutane works to achieve complete or partial clearance of acne in about 95% of people who complete a cycle, regardless of whether they have inflammatory or non-inflammatory acne. The majority of people who take it see their acne effectively cured, experiencing long term remission of acne symptoms. Studies show an average relapse rate of 25%, and in these cases sometimes a second course is given. This relapse rate is dose dependent. Patients who receive a cumulative dose of 100-120mg/kg see the best results and lowest relapse rates. Patients who receive a lower dose relapse more frequently. Depending on how much the patient weighs, .5mg - 2mg/kg is usually prescribed per day.

Accutane need not be paired with other medications. For people who have problems handling Accutane, intermittent dosage is potentially an option and is being studied for effectiveness. Generic forms of Accutane may or may not be as therapeutic or safe. This is based on only one study which was performed in the UK in 2006. Out of the 14 generic brands studied, 13 failed to match Roaccutane (as it is called in the UK) in one or more tests and 11 failed in three or more tests. More studies like this one are needed to present better data on this subject.

Clear Your Acne - Naturally!

2008-04-21T07:40:00.000-07:00

Most people who suffer from acne go out and spend good money on common over-the-counter acne treatment products. The truth is, most of these products are full of chemicals that can actually slow down the healing of acne, and irritate your skin, causing farther breakouts.
When an acne product has 20 ingredients listed on it, it can be hard to know if one of those ingredients is actually stopping you from having success. It can be even harder when you can't pronounce the ingredient, much less know what it is and how it is going to affect your skin. Most mainstream acne treatments are not only much more expensive than common household items, but they also don't always work as well either. With that in mind, I will list some basic household items that can work wonders on clearing up your skin.

Baking soda – A very cheap cooking ingredient that most people have in their homes already, baking soda can be used as a great scrub. The purpose of a scrub is to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin that can eventually clog pores and lead to acne spots. To start off, you'll want to mix a small amount of baking soda with some water for form a paste. Baking soda is very effective as a scrub, so you want to be sure to be extra careful when applying it to your face. Gently massage the paste into your skin for ten to fifteen seconds. Then rinse the baking soda off, and pat your face dry with a clean towel.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Though most people that use vinegar to treat acne use the apple cider form of vinegar, you can also use plain old regular vinegar. Regardless of which type you use, vinegar can be very helpful with it comes to clearing up acne. It can kill off acne causing bacteria, balance your skin's pH, and absorb extra oil on your skin.

Starting with clean, dry skin, apply diluted vinegar (eight parts water to one part vinegar) directly to your skin with a cotton ball, and leave it on. If you want, you can also use a stronger vinegar solution (say, 2 or 3 parts water to 1 part vinegar), and apply it directly to problem areas, rinsing it off after ten minutes.

Lemon or lime juice can also be substituted for vinegar. Both of these juices are rich in citric acid, and can exfoliate your skin very well, halting the growth of acne spots, as well as fading previous, non-active acne quicker.

Egg Whites – Rich in protein, egg whites can be used as a mask to heal and rebuild your skin. It can also help to absorb excess oil from your skin. To start off, crack an egg, removing the yolk so that just the egg whites are left behind. Beat these egg whites, and apply them directly to your face. Let it sit for fifteen minutes, and then rinse the egg off.

Oatmeal – As odd as it may seem, oatmeal can absorb unwanted oil and draw out impurities which reside deep in your skin. Cook some plain oatmeal like you would for consumption. Let it cool off, and rub it over your clean skin. Let it sit for a while, like you would a mask, and then rinse off. If you do this on a regular basis, you should begin to start noticing results soon.

Tea Tree Oil – TTO is a commonly used all-natural household antiseptic, which you can pick up at most drugstores or supermarkets. You can apply TTO directly to acne spots to kill bacteria, or, if you strongly dilute it with another oil (such as jojoba oil), over your entire face. Tea tree gel can be easier to apply than the oil, and many are made for applying over large areas of skin, so they aren't quite as strong as straight TTO and do not need to be diluted.

Pantothenic Acid (Also known as Vit. B5) – Pantothenic acid can be taken in large quantities for the benefit of acne reduction. B5 works by helping your body to metabolize fats which would otherwise be later turned into sebum (oil) and excreted through the skin. Small amounts of B5 won't help though, and it has to be taken several times a day.

To help with acne, you will need to take 2.5 grams of pantothenic acid (the powder form is much easier to take), 4 times per day, for a total of 10 grams per day.

Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera has been used for many years in kitchens for topical application to burns. Another benefit of aloe is that it can prevent scaring, fade marks and help heal acne spots.
You now have an idea of some basic household items you can use on your skin, that work better than many OTC acne products, and are much cheaper to use. Since we have only really covered basic acne treatments, you can always take this to another level and take all natural, internal acne treatments.

This sums up our basic list of natural alternatives for chemical based acne treatment products. You can take this a step farther by attacking your acne from the inside out. Acne has been shown numerous times to be very closely affected by the digestive system, so keeping your entire digestive system working as smooth as possible can help reduce acne. I will help give you a basic idea of some all natural products you can take to help clear up acne.

Cucumber, lemon and carrot juice, brewer's yeast, and active charcoal pills are all capable of helping the digestive system function normally. Since the digestive system is closely related with the health of the skin, they should help reduce acne breakouts. Flax seed can also be wonderful for helping your skin heal faster.Ryan Bauer is a former acne sufferer who writes health articles and runs his acne treatment website, Acne Elimination.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ryan_Bauer

Best Acne Treatment Reviews - True Stories

2008-04-18T15:58:00.000-07:00

Anitra's True Story

Hi, I am 23 years old and have been using AcneFree Severe for a little over a month. Within 2 days this product was working. I love this product!!!! My skin is beautiful now thanks to this product. I had bad acne and I tried everything from home remedies, Retin-A, and ProActiv. Nothing worked!! I wasn't going to even try your product until I saw the "If in 60 days I was not satisfied I could return the product". So I thought, why not try it, I have nothing to lose but my acne!!! I am so glad I did because I feel so beautiful now. I don't want to hide my skin any more. My friends and family have noticed how clear my skin is and they all ask,"What did you do?" I swear by AcneFree and recommend it to everyone!!!! Thanks AcneFree for giving me beautiful skin!!!!!!!!!
Anitra

Ihsan's True Story

Dear AcneFree,
Let me start by saying that I am 30 years old and have suffered from acne since I was 13. I have tried virtually every product on the market and have been to several dermatologists but have only managed to achieve moderate success in eliminating my acne. I used Proactiv® for about a year and had some initial success, but over time their products became less and less effective until my skin eventually started getting more worse than it had been prior to using Proactiv®. Frustrated, I turned to your AcneFree three part system as a last resort. To my amazement, I began seeing positive results within the first week of using the products and within a month or so, my skin was virtually clear! I still has some minor breakouts here and there but nothing like what my skin was doing before. I am now in my fourth month of using the three part system and let's just say that I am beyond satisfied with the results I am seeing. My family members have started complimenting me on how clear and radiant my skin looks and my confidence and self-esteem have gone through the roof! To get rid of the irritating red marks that acne leaves behind, I started using you Power Pimple Peel. Once again your products have yielded fantastic results! It has been only one week and already some of the stubborn red marks that I have had for years are gradually fading away. The moisturizer makes my skin feel soft and smooth and is the perfect complement to the peel.
All too often consumers are quick to complain about products not working as advertised but don't speak up when a product actually does works. I have been guilty of that myself and I just wanted to thank you for making such a wonderful line of products. It took many years but I have finally found a product line that works for me and I couldn't be happier. Please continue to manufacture your AcneFree line of products: they are simply amazing. You have certainly gained a loyal customer in me.
Best regards,
Ihsan

Veronica's True Story

Dear AcneFree,
Hi, I'm 22 years old and ever since I can remember I always had acne everywhere! My face, my neck, my back, even my stomach! I hated it! And what made it worse was the people who would stare, and the kids who would ask "What are those red bumps on your face?" I grew up with this until now. One of my friends recommended that I try AcneFree. At first I didn't want to; I wanted to try Proactive®. I heard it was so great; however, I wanted to get rid of it ASAP! So, I went to the store, instead of waiting weeks by mail, and bought it there. When I first tryed it, I could feel the change in my face. My skin was smoother and the next morning, all of my pimples were less red. The second day, I noticed that my face was a lot brighter and healthier. By the third day, all my blackheads, which I could NEVER get rid of, were gone! My pimples vanished! My face was FINALLY clear!I could look myself in the mirror and just smile. I'm happy with my face. I'm happy with myself! My life has completely changed! To all people who are suffering from acne, you wont regret buying and using AcneFree. It truely does work! Just give it one shot for three days and I promise you will be amazed!!
Sincerely,
Veronica

Cecelia's True Story

Hello,
I am writing because I have used your products and the results are unbelievable. I have used lots of anti-acne products but saw no results. When I purchase your products I was really disgusted with my acne problem. I had visited the dermatologist and he prescribed antibiotics and a cream. The prescriptions cost about $60.00. My acne started to get worst and again I had wasted money on products that only promise to work. The first time I used your products I could tell the difference in my acne. My acne problems begin to disappear with the first application. It was unbelieved because I had been struggling with acne for three years. I am 42 years old and believe me it is no fun at any age to struggle with acne. I want to thank you for developing a product at such low cost but the results are worth a million dollars. I am currently using AcneFree products and the products have really save my life. Each application brings about an improvement to my skin. Thank you for helping me accomplish acne free skin and giving me back my self-esteem.
Thank You

Sheila's True Story

Let me start off by saying I watch all types of infomercials daily. I must admit I fall for a lot of hype, and have been burned time after time. Well, I saw the ad for Acne Free and the before and after results on the African American woman, and I was got very excited. I have combo skin, my forehead, laugh lines and chin are dry and peel. My cheeks and nose are oily. I’ve tried Youthful Essence, that product gave me more acne. I’ve tried Dove exfoliate pad with moisturizers etc….All of the products I’ve tried never work. Acne Free was going to be my last try before going to a dermatologist. I started using the product and I promise you I began to see results in two days. I have a bad habit of picking my face when I see a pimple come, and every time it leaves a dark mark. Well, I was so embarrassed because I had three dark spots right next to each other on my right cheek. Well, guess what? After three weeks of using Acne Free they are gone as if they were never there. My face is so soft and bright it’s almost flawless. I look younger, my friends and co-worker ask me if I have make up on. My skin is so nice now. Whoever invented the Terminator, I LOVE YOU!!!!! And I’m sure your MOMMA’S PROUD, that stuff works instantly. I keep it in my purse. I get a menstrual pimple every month like clock work and when I see it, I whip out the Terminator and by the end of the day the pimple is gone, I swear it’s gone. Thank you so much for putting the product in the stores, it’s so convenient, this way I’ll never run out. My son uses the product also, he 15, he loves it. I just wanted to thank you for a product that really works, I feel so much better about my appearance now. I have told everybody about Acne free.
For more info visit: http://www.acnefree.com/af/truestories

The Best Acne Cures - What Will Clear My Skin For Good?

2008-04-16T07:27:00.000-07:00

Acne is a uncomfortable and embarrassing skin condition that affects over eighty percent of people from their teens to their thirties, and yet, despite its prevalence, it remains a problem without a cure.

This might be extremely disheartening news for the many people who suffer from it, but while medical science cannot yet fix the problem as they can a broken leg, medical advances in recent times have led to the formulation of many efficacious products that produce all the effects of what will hopefully one day be the best acne cures. And the best acne cures vary from person to person.

Acne is caused by the overproduction of the skin of oil called sebum, and the best acne cures would offer some foolproof way to regulate this. Unfortunately, the problem is not yet well enough understood to cure acne once and for all, but there are a range of topical and oral tools that can make management of the condition as effective as a cure.

Sometimes age can be acne’s natural cure, but for those who prefer to take a more proactive stance there are many products that can affect results similar to a cure.

One of the most effective oral treatments yet developed for acne is a medication that can be taken at home, simulating for many the effect of the best cures. Accutane must be prescribed first by a doctor, and though it must sometimes be taken for six months before a real improvement can be seen in the skin, the long-term results have been as positive as any cure.

Accutane is a strong drug that can have harsh side effects, but it has cleared the skin completely of many acne sufferers. Your doctor will usually prescribe milder medications before trying Accutane, but for many sufferers for whom nothing else has worked, it can bring all the results of an acne cure.

For those suffering with milder forms of acne, there are many other products that can act as natural acne cures. Dietary supplements, such as folic acid, echinacea and zinc can have drastic effects upon the skin, without introducing harsh and alien chemical substances into the body. A healthy diet and a good cleansing routine are also extremely important, as these are the basic tools for healthy skin, that will give your body the tools it needs to fight acne effectively.
So, what are the best acne cures? They are around, but they vary from person to person according to the severity of the acne they suffer.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Crump

How to Remove Blackheads

2008-04-15T11:55:00.001-07:00

Q&A: What can be done to clear up blackheads?

Cosmetic dermatologist David Herschthal offers these tips on how to get rid of them.

Blackheads can happen to anyone, no matter what your skin type. Blackheads are caused by oil in your skin that gets caught and expands in the pores.Oxidizing from exposure to the air, the oil actually turns black.

Ft. Lauderdale cosmetic dermatologist David Herschthal offers these tips on how to get rid of them:

1. First, stop the problem before it starts. Use noncomedogenic, oil-free,water-based skin-care products. (Noncomedogenic means the products were laboratory tested and approved by the FDA not to clog pores and cause blackheads.)

2. If you change your skin-care routine and still get blackheads, speak to a dermatologist about getting a prescription for Retin-A, which is a strong exfoliant that opens pores, sloughs off dead skin and cleans out blackheads.

3. If all else fails, a dermatologic facial performed at a dermatologist's office involves a prescription-strength acid that gets rid of dead layers of skin and the use of surgical instruments to extract the blackheads.

Blackheads are a problem that should be treated by a dermatologist. But, if you want to try an over-the-counter product, a lot of people rave about Biore Pore Perfect Strips, which are supposed to lift out blackheads on your nose, forehead and chin.
For more info visit http://www.marieclaire.com/

Try these great Blackhead removal products:

Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Scrub

Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Daily Cleansing Pads

Clean & Clear Blackhead Clearing Astringent

Biore Pore Perfect Strips

A Guide to a Clear Complexion

2008-04-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

How to make Homemade Facial Oils For Beauty Treatments On Oily Skin

Facial oils are great for part of any beauty treatment because oils and essentials oils can have some wonderful effects on the skin. Oils have been used for centuries in beauty treatments. Many essential oils will help to even out your skin.

Overactive sebaceous glands cause the skin to become oily. This can become a problem during puberty because of the hormonal changes in the body. Sebaceous glands to seborrhea but most of the time the problem occurs as oily patches which leave the skin shinning.

Ironically as it is this usually happens because the skin is being over cleaned from scrubbing the skin with cleansers, soaps and astringents that are harsh on the skin because of the alcohol content in these products.

Most of commercial lotions that are designed to degrease the skin actually cause the sebaceous glands to produce more fat to make up for the lack of it that occurs because of the lotions results. By using essential oils as part of your beauty treatment they will balance the skin out without causing the glands to produce more sebum and can provide the perfect solution for the oily skin.

Some good base oils to use on oily skin are Almond, Apricot Kennel, and Grape Seed and Hazelnut oil. Some good essential oils that you can also add to these base oils are Borage Seed, carrot and Evening Primrose oil. You should use 45 to 55 drops of essential oil to every 2 tablespoons of base oil for oily skin.

You should always use a glass bottle for storing your homemade facial beauty treatments with a screw on lid that is airtight to help keep the products fresh. It would be more helpful with keeping these products if the glass bottles are also dark in color like amber or cobalt because this will help keep the light out which will in turn help keep the product fresh.

These oils can be hard to blend together so you should always shake up the bottle a few times before each use to make sure that the oils are blended well before you use them. Remember, you should always test a small area of skin before you use a new product to make sure that you don't experience some type of allergic reaction to the product.

Essential Oils that can be used in your mixtures for oily skin are as follows:

Chamomile

German Oil

Cypress Oil

Frankincense Oil

Geranium Oil

Jasmine Oil

Juniper Oil

Lavender Oil

Lemon Oil

Lime Oil

Marjoram Oil

Orange Oil

Palma Rosa Oil

Pettigraine Oil

Rosemary Oil

Ylang-Ylang Oil

Here are some recipes for some oils that you can use on your oily skin as part of your beauty treatment. I hope you enjoy!

Oily Skin Daytime Oil
Ingredients:
10 drops Carrot Oil

10 drops Geranium Oil

2 tbsp. Hazelnut Oil

8 drops Juniper Oil

10 drops Lemon Oil

2 drops Rosemary Oil

Mix all these ingredients together and store in a glass bottle with a screw lid that is airtight.

Shake up a few times before each use. Apply this oil, massage into the skin and then tissue off the excess until no excess can be seen.

Oily Skin Nighttime Oil
Ingredients:
2 tbsp. Apricot Kennel oil

10 drops Carrot Oil

5 drops Frankincense Oil

10 drops Juniper Oil

10 drops Lemon Oil

5 drops Marjoram Oil

15 drops Pettigraine Oil

Mix all these ingredients together and store in a glass bottle with a screw lid that is airtight.

Shake up a few times before each use. Apply this oil, massage into the skin and then tissue off the excess until no excess can be seen.

Learn more about this author, C.D. Hubbard.

Benzaclin Acne Treatment Gel

2008-04-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Benzaclin is a topical treatment for acne which is produced by Denmark labs. The active ingredient is 5% Benzoil Peroxcide and this prescription medication sells for $150 for a three month supply (23 oz bottle).

I started using the medication in March 2003 after my doctor suggested it to me during a check up when I told him about my frequent breakouts. After about two weeks there was a noticeable reduction in acne on my face.

I would get a lot of compliments from family members saying “Your face is really clearing up” and that is something which made me feel great because in school people would comment about how bad my acne looked (before I got this medication).Well, about five weeks later (from the time I started using it) my acne was almost all gone on my face.

My face no longer had acne spots and marks on it, my pores looked smaller and my face looked all clear as I had always wanted. Since then I have gotten my compliments about how my appearance has changed and this medication has helped to provide me with self esteem because

I no longer have to worry about what people are thinking about my acne.

At just $50 a month this medication has many a very big difference in my life.

I am now a lot more outgoing and have more friends but also

I feel good about myself for the first time and this medication is to thank. It is like a miracle in a bottle, if you are looking for an effective acne treatment for your acne then I would suggest you try this. For more information visit: http://www.reviewstream.com/reviews/?p=23747

Do You Know the 9 Most Common Myths of Acne?

2008-04-09T09:51:00.000-07:00

Myth #1: Acne is caused by a lazy lifestyle of poor hygiene. If you indeed believe in this myth, you will soon discover that by often washing and scrubbing yourself, can worsen your acne. In actuality, dirt or surface skin oils are not the causes of acne. Even though an overflow of oils, a day's accumulation of dust on the skin, and dead skin cell appear unattractive, in order not to worsen the current situation, they should not be wiped off through washing or hand scrubbing. In reality, vigorous washing will only irritate the skin and aggravate your acne problem. The ideal approach to both hygiene and acne: Twice a day, tenderly wash your face using a mild soap, pat dry, and a suitable acne treatment for the acne.

Myth #2: Diet is a major cause of acne. To date scientific studies have failed to find a connection between diet and acne. What this means is that what we eat does not cause acne. Food like pizza, french fries, or even chocolate will not cause us to get acne. Still, there are people who insist that certain foods affect their acne. If you are one of them, then simply avoid those foods. Having a well-balanced diet can only help your overall health. Back to latest the scientific evidence: if you're treating a case of acne in a proper way, there is no reason to fret about what you're eating.

Myth #3: Stress causes acne. The general stress of day-to-day living is not a contributing factor in acne. Intense stress that requires medical assistance is sometimes treated with medications which may cause acne as a side effect. If you think you may have acne in account to a medication prescribed for either stress or depression, it's always a good idea to talk to your family doctor.

Myth #4: Acne is only a cosmetically provoked skin condition. Well yes, acne does affect the manner people look; on the other hand, it's not a danger to a person’s physical health. Nonetheless, acne can sometimes materialize as permanent physical scars; in addition, both acne and its scars can do a number on how people feel about themselves to the extent of deeply affecting their lives.

Myth #5: The best action to take when experiencing acne, is no action. In reality, one can take effective steps for clearing up acne. If you have tried several acne products without success, the next step may be to schedule an appointment to see a dermatologist. With so many products available over-the-counter for treating acne and acne scarring, anyone can take responsible and well-informed steps for treating a case of acne or scars.

Myth #6: Acne is just a teenage condition. The reality is: acne affects every age group from teenagers to people beyond the age of 40. Even though acne most often affect teenagers, adults are not immune from this skin condition. Regardless of age, it's a very good practice and preventative measure to wash your face twice a day, especially with an acne fighting item.

Myth #7: Sex and masturbation are causes of acne. Current research indicates no connection between sexual intercourse, masturbation, and acne. As a matter of fact, this idea began as a "tale" approximately in the 17th century in order to reduce the occurrence of premarital sex.

Myth #8: Squeezing and popping pimples is the ideal way to remove them. Touching and popping your pimples actually can push germs under your skin, which in turn can create additional redness, pain, as well as infection. Remember: popping pimples could sometimes lead to permanent scarring!

Myth #9: Sun tanning will clear up your skin. In actuality, a suntan will only cause your skin to become darker. It's true that darker skin will keep redness because of acne from appearing too noticeable. But then, when your tan vanishes, your acne remains! This and other acne tips provided by: www.acneway.com/acne_myths.html

A Clear Complexion Made Easy

2008-04-08T20:01:00.000-07:00

Getting clear skin is a simple matter of paying attention to your daily habits.

First of all, beauty works from the inside out.

Make it your mission to eat as well balanced a diet as possible and take a multi vitamin every day.

While diet has never been shown to have a direct affect on having clear skin or as acne prevention, it is widely known that diet does promote general health and is very likely to play a role in good or clear skin.

It is important and recommended that you consume at least 4-5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

This will help you have clear skin. Certain vitamins such as A, C and E are classified as antioxidants and are also cancer fighters.

Get as much sleep as possible (eight to nine hours is the optimum) because it will do your skin and body a world of good.

Clear skin needs to be well rested so if you cannot get enough sleep at night, try to have a catnap sometime during the day. Even a ten to fifteen minute nap is advisable if that is all the time you can spare.

Adequate hydration promotes clear skin. If you want to keep or improve your complexion, drink at least 6-8 eight-ounce glasses a day (more if you're really a go getter!). Clearer skin, here you come!

Any form of aerobic exercise done at least 20-30 minutes per day will get your blood flowing and help keep your skin as clear as possible. And excercise will play a direct role in the levels of stress in your body. Stress is known to have a "bad" affect on general health, clear skin and acne.

Just remember that sweat and oil accumulate faster with exercise so shower directly after your exercise regimen to retain clear, unblemished skin.

How else can you get clear skin?

Well for another thing, makeup is for daytime and evening wear not for bedtime.

Cosmetics left on the face can clog up pores with dirt and debris.

This can lead to problems such as acne or folliculitis.

Your best bet is to take it off with a mild soap free cleanser before you turn in for the night.

Who else has been search for more articles and information regarding acne and skin treatments? Visit Acne-Care-and-Skin-Treatments.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mike_Herman

Stop Squeezing Your Pimples - 7 Safe Ways to Get Rid of Pimples

2008-04-04T14:07:00.006-07:00

It's everyone's worst nightmare. Waking up the day before a special event to discover a big, red pimple baring itself for all to see right on your face!

Here's how to get rid of it quickly and safely:

1. Don't ever pinch, squeeze or pick at a pimple. This only causes it to become more red and inflamed, and will spread the bacteria and oils that caused it in the first place, to other parts of your face! It can also lead to scars.

2. Every 30 minutes, apply an ice pack to the pimple and hold it there for about 2 minutes. This will decrease the swelling and redness and help shrink the inflammation and pain that sometimes comes along with it.

3. They don't call it concealer for nothing! Covering the pimple with a light dose of flesh-tinted concealer can help mask it when you're in a hurry. It also helps cover up that oily shine.

4. Cleanse your skin 2-3 times a day with mild, unscented soap or a specialized acne cleanser that has no harsh chemicals (such as lye). Scrub skin gently with an exfoliating pad or washcloth, but don't rub too hard, otherwise you'll sap your skin of its own natural oils, which help to repel buildup naturally.

5. Apply a cream or ointment containing benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid (many over-the-counter acne medicines contain these ingredients) to the blemish or around the entire facial area. Note that these ingredients both have a tendency to dry out skin if used too much and are not recommended if you have sensitive skin.

6. Wear oil-free makeup whenever possible. These types have less of a tendency to cause the pore buildup that results in blemishes. Remove your makeup nightly and cleanse with an acne-fighting medicine to remove dirt, oil and makeup from deep within the skin.

7. If you're in need of a quick fix, a dab of toothpaste on the affected area right before bed can help soothe irritation and reduce redness. Pressing and holding a wet tea bag or a cotton ball with a dab of lemon juice against the blemish for five minutes can also reduce swelling and redness.

If you follow these tips, chances are you'll notice a significant difference rather quickly - often within a day or two. If pimples become a recurring problem or worsen, your doctor or dermatologist can suggest a daily skin cleansing routine that will suit your skin type. Other long-term remedies, such as facial masks, diet adjustments and increasing the amount of water you drink can also help combat outbreaks.

The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to medically diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Consult a health care practitioner before beginning any health care program.

Emily Clark writes articles on a wide range of health and lifestyle topics.

14 Ways to Get Rid of Acne

2008-04-04T14:07:00.005-07:00

Whether you're a teen or an adult with acne, you don't have to simply put up with it. Here are 14 ways to get rid of acne.

1. Don't pick, press, rub, or otherwise manipulate your pimples. If you do, you risk spreading the bacteria and increasing the chances of scarring.

2. Use an over-the-counter product containing benzoyl peroxide once or twice a day. It helps break up the plug of dead skin cells, bacteria, and oil that clogs the pore and forms an acne blemish. And it cuts down on the bacteria, too. Start with the lowest concentration, and work your way up.

3. Try over-the-counter products containing sulfur or resorcinol, which help unplug oil glands by irritating the skin. However, most dermatologists believe that benzoyl peroxide is the most effective over-the-counter ingredient for acne.

4. Don't just spot-treat acne; put the product on acne-prone areas, too. That can include your entire face (avoid the lips and eyes), back, and chest.

5. Go easy on your face. Washing removes oils from the surface of the skin, not from within the plugged ducts. In fact, if you're too aggressive in your quest for cleanliness, you may end up drying out or irritating the sensitive skin on your face.

6. Wash properly once or twice a day, using a mild soap, and rub lightly with your fingertips and warm water. If your skin is oily, use a soap with benzoyl peroxide for its drying properties.

7. Don't use brushes, rough sponges, cleansers with granules or walnut hulls, or anything similar on the delicate facial skin.

8. Don't use oily products, such as hair pomades, heavy oil-based facial moisturizers, or oily cleansers.

9. Use water-based make-up.

10. Don't get a facial. You may end up doing more harm than good.

11. Don't rest your chin on your hands or constantly touch your face.

12. Protect your skin from cancer and wrinkles without aggravating your acne by choosing an oil- free sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher.

13. Don't worry about what you eat, unless you notice a correlation between a particular food and your skin breaking out.

14. Watch out for iodine, which can be found in multiple vitamins and iodized salt. Some doctors believe iodine may encourage acne.

Acne Treatments: Old vs. New (Cont. #4)

2008-04-04T14:07:00.004-07:00

Experts compare the latest acne treatments to time-tested remedies.

New Light Treatment
Shedding yet more new light on acne care is "Photo Dynamic Therapy", a treatment involving either a pulsed light source or a laser, in combination with a topical preparation known as Levulan. This therapy is approved for use in treating a precancerous skin condition associated with sun damage.

According to Bruce Katz, MD, one of the pioneers of this procedure, it has turned into a powerful one-two punch that not only clears acne lesions, but may be one of the first treatments to offer permanent results.

"So far, we are experiencing three years of clear skin. And it may be longer, but three years is the longest study we have thus far," says Katz, director of the JUVA Skin and Laser Center in New York City.

Katz tells WebMD the treatment kicks in when the light source activates properties in the Levulan that both destroy the bacteria and shrink the oil gland, returning production back to normal.

"If the long-term results studies prove to be true then this is indeed an excellent advance that may work well for patients not wishing to take Accutane," says Jamal.
Goldberg says the treatment is effective, but it can be problematic if patients do not follow the treatment with sunblock or stay out of the sun.

"Sunblock must be on for at least 24 hours after treatment and direct and indirect sun exposure must be avoided," he says.

And, yes, it too is expensive. Treatment is rendered every two weeks for up to 12 weeks -- at a cost of between $500 and $800 per session. Because skin is extremely sun-sensitive for 24 to 48 hours after each treatment, doctors recommend wearing a superstrong sunblock.

But you are getting a bit more for your money: Katz says not only are the results likely to be very long lasting, the treatment also offers antiaging benefits.

Acne Treatments: Old vs. New (Cont. #3)

2008-04-04T14:07:00.003-07:00

Experts compare the latest acne treatments to time-tested remedies.

Zapping Pimples Away
The newest over-the-counter acne treatment is not a cream or lotion, but a device -- a tiny electronic pimple "zapper" with the high-tech name of "Zeno."

Recently cleared by the FDA, Zeno resembles a tiny cell phone or a large cigarette lighter. It purportedly works by supplying a small amount of controlled heat directly to the acne lesion for two to three minutes, causing the bacteria to self-destruct and ultimately the pimple to clear.
According to the manufacturer, most zits require a single treatment and are completely gone in just hours. Others, they say, may require up to three treatments in 24 hours to see results.
It sounds impressive, but does it work?

"If the lesion is not too large -- and not too severely inflamed -- it can work. But it's not for widespread acne, or moderate to severe breakouts," says Jamal. She says it's best for the occasional pimple and perfect for zit-phobes who want to keep their skin blemish-free without having to run to the dermatologist every week.

Goldberg agrees that it can work, but recommends it only for those with mild, occasional breakouts. "This is not the treatment you want to use for moderate to severe acne," says Goldberg.

The Zeno device sells for about $215, and the company offers a free 30-day trial.

New Laser Treatments
But what if your acne is causing more than just an occasional pimple? Then you may be a candidate for one of several new laser treatments -- professional medical procedures that use laser light to heat up and destroy bacteria, as well as shut down excess oil production.
"One type of laser works to inhibit the growth of 'bugs' -- the bacteria that cause acne; the second type shrinks the oil glands and has an 'Accutane-like' effect, but without the side effects," says Goldberg. Both lasers also have antiaging benefits including encouraging collagen production, making it an excellent treatment for midlife acne.

Although treatment is pretty much painless, it is expensive, costing between $500 and $800 per session, with at least five to seven treatments necessary to see results. Moreover, those results are frequently not permanent.

"The laser that works on the bugs, usually requires five or six treatments, which may need to be repeated in about two months; the lasers that work on the oil glands have a longer-lasting effect, but flare-ups do generally occur again within six months to a year," Goldberg tells WebMD.
He also adds that laser treatments frequently work better after microdermabrasion -- a treatment that helps loosen skin cells and open pores.

Jamal says because they are so costly, lasers should only be used when topical antibiotic preparations aren't enough.

"The lasers don't do a better job than the topical treatments, and they are more expensive. I use them only as an adjunct, when the topicals alone don't work, or to treat large areas such as the back," she says.

Acne Treatments: Old vs. New (Cont. #2)

2008-04-04T14:07:00.002-07:00

Experts compare the latest acne treatments to time-tested remedies.

'Gold Standard' vs. New Treatments continued...

"If a patient has mild to moderate acne, this is still frequently my first recommended treatment. It's the easiest and the most economical, and it works very well for many people," says Jamal.
But while it works well, it can dry and irritate skin. And it was this very complaint that became the impetus for developing one of the first "boutique" acne treatments -- an over-the-counter product known as ProActiv Solution.

Blanketing the nation with celebrity-packed infomercials, product inserts, and direct mail ads, it fast became one of the most popular private-label acne treatments around. But what's in it -- and does it really work?

"It contains a much lower percentage of benzoyl peroxide, in a vehicle that isn't as drying as most prescription medications. And that frequently makes compliance better; so in that respect, yes, it can work better for some people," says Jamal.
Patients' Views

That said, Jamal tells WebMD that pretty much every patient she sees has either used ProActiv, or is currently using it, and is dissatisfied with results.
"I think the problem is that it works initially, but then stops working. At least that's what most of my patients report," says Jamal.

Goldberg agrees. He reports that most of his patients have also tried and failed on ProActiv.
"I think there's a point where it stops working. But to be fair, I think there are probably millions of people for whom the level of effectiveness it achieves is more than enough, just as there are some for whom it's not enough and professional treatment is needed," he says.
The High Price of Treatment

The cost of ProActiv is about $40 for the three-piece starter supply -- about 30 to 60 days worth of treatments, depending on the condition of your skin.

If you aren't overly sensitive to benzyl peroxide, other over-the-counter preparations like Oxy Balance (a 5% solution) and Oxy Maximum (a stronger 10% solution) sell for about $5 for a 30- to 60-day supply. Alternately, Neutrogena's On The Spot Acne Treatment contains the milder 2.5% benzoyl peroxide solution in a preparation closer to ProActiv, and it sells for about $6 for a 30- to 60-day supply.

More recently, another over-the-counter treatment emerged known as Nicomide-T. A topical preparation in cream or gel form, it is derived from vitamin B. In clinical trials of 1,000 patients conducted by the manufacturer it was shown to reduce redness and inflammation not only associated with acne, but also many acne treatments -- like Retin A. In other studies conducted by the manufacturer it was found to be more effective than the topical antibiotic treatment clindamycin. Independent studies found it to be equally as effective as clindamycin "without concerns over bacterial resistance," according to research published in the Journal of Dermatological Treatment.

Still, some doctors say it works best only on mild acne.
"I've used the oral form of this treatment and not had great results. It seems limited to treating mild acne," says Jamal.

Nicomide-T sells for about $40 for a 30-gram tube -- a 30- to 60-day supply.

Acne Treatments: Old vs. New

2008-04-04T14:07:00.001-07:00

Experts compare the latest acne treatments to time-tested remedies.

WebMD Feature

Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD

From occasional breakouts in the teenage years to chronic, ongoing battles that last clear into adulthood, acne is one of the most common -- if not the most frustrating -- of all skin conditions.
And while there have always been a variety of treatment options available, more recently some have been a cause for concern.

Indeed, the popular treatment Accutane was always linked to an increased risk of birth defects. And it has also received media attention when researchers began debating whether it might also increase the risk of suicide in young users.

Antibiotics and Topicals
Long-term oral antibiotic treatments -- once a mainstay of acne care -- also hit the headlines, implicated in everything from encouraging drug resistance to escalating the risk of breast cancer to increasing respiratory infections in teens.

Topicals had their share of problems, as patients continued to report that otherwise effective treatments like Retin A (retinoic acid) were causing skin inflammation, in many instances as bad or worse than the acne itself. And while certain oral contraceptives helped many women clear their skin, some became concerned about side effects, including an increased risk of blood clots, particularly in smokers.

"The treatments that we had, worked. And most worked well. But many patients began looking for options that were either safer or more convenient to use," says David Goldberg, MD, director of Skin and Laser Surgery Specialists of New York and New Jersey. He is also director of the Laser Research and Mohs Surgery Center at The Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York City.

Fortunately, some new options have come on board. But are they any better -- or any safer -- than what we had in the past? WebMD asked experts to help us investigate.
What Causes Acne

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, acne develops when hormonal shifts (like the kind that occur during puberty, and in women, before a menstrual cycle and sometimes prior to menopause) cause an overproduction of oil and cells inside a skin follicle. Together, they form a kind of biological traffic jam that plugs the opening of the pore and causes the follicle beneath to swell.

This allows for the overgrowth of bacteria found normally on skin -- Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) -- producing irritating chemical substances, which further fuel the inflammation. The end result is acne.

"It can be characterized by anything from whiteheads and blackheads, to tiny hard pimples you barely see, to pus-filled nodules, even fluid-filled cysts with roots deep in the skin," says Sumayah Jamal, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of dermatology and microbiology at the NYU Medical Center in New York City.

'Gold Standard' vs. New Treatments
For decades, doctors have said the "gold standard" for treating mild to moderate acne has been a combination of a deep pore cleanser like benzoyl peroxide (it attacks excess oil) and a topical antibiotic or sulphur drug to combat the bacteria. For some patients, treatment also included the topical prescription medication Retin A to help speed clearing. And it's a combination that is still in use today.

The Affects of Acne on Relatiohships - Jay, Edinburgh, Scotland

2008-04-04T14:07:00.000-07:00

Hi I just wanted to say thanks very much for creating this website, people don't really understand the implications and depression caused from having acne. I have had acne since I was 15; I am now 29 years old. The way it affects your social life and affects your relationships and even how it even affects your job. I was a postman for 2 years and had to give it up because it made my acne so much worse; with sweating and the delivery bag rubbing on my shoulders and back. I worked in a bank for the last 2 years but never really felt comfortable with alot of my colleagues and other staff members, I always felt they looked at my face and neck and never really saw me. Acne has affected me so badly I have been on anti-depressants for 10 years. I have now decided to go back to college and get my HNC and HND in computing. I have been going to a dermatologist for 10 years and have been on Roaccutane and have tried (n-lite) which I felt did help but had to go London to have it done which was so expensive because I live in Edinburgh, Scotland. I hope to keep in contact with you and others on this website because it helps talking to people who know something about the nightmare I am going through. (January 2007)

Biological Treatment of Acne Scars

2008-04-03T12:51:00.003-07:00

The best way of treating acne scars is to start early and continue for as long as is necessary. There are, however, a number of treatments available when suffering from scar formation. The idea behind biological acne scarring treatment is that old, damaged tissues and scars are replaced by new cells. Some topical treatments contain ingredients that start this chain of events. These treatments focus on the creation of healthy skin cells instead of aggravating the body´s inflammatory immune system response. The natural ingredients can saturate deep into the skin and promote cellular turnover. Damaged tissues and acne scars are diffused into their own amino acid components and released back into the body as the basis of new cellular growth. One step in the healing process involves an enzyme that starts a metabolic effect and a signal transduction that triggers the process of skin repair and skin remodeling. This metabolism works with extremely complex sequences of controlled biochemical modification of chemical compounds in living organisms and cells. Through these metabolic processes the enzymes can affect how fast a swelling or an edema of injured tissue is reduced. They do this by “digesting” or breaking down the damaged tissue. The waste material is thereby removed from the skin lesions so as to reduce inflammation, speed up the healing process and encourage regeneration of new tissue. In biology, signal transduction is any process by which a cell converts one kind of signal or stimulus into another. These processes often involve a sequence of biochemical reactions inside the cell. These reactions are carried out by enzymes and linked through second messengers. The processes can last a millisecond or as long as a few seconds. In transduction processes, an increasing number of enzymes and other molecules become engaged in the events that proceed from the initial stimulus. In such cases the chain of steps is referred to as a "signaling cascade" and often results in a small stimulus eliciting a large response. So, biological ingredients with active parts like antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, proteins, peptides, and enzymes can with rather little effort stimulate the speed in which the body heals itself.
Improved exchange between cells promotes proliferation which improves collagen and elastin levels in the skin. Biological ingredients will fuse with the skin cells and stimulate the production of fibroblasts which provide the structural framework for the skin. It dissolves existing post inflammatory scars and also fills in depressed scarring. The biological ingredients do this by stimulating the replacement of damaged skin cells, getting rid of scarring and necrotic tissues. They also stimulate the formation of the extra cellular binding between cells, thus improving skin strength, cutting down on fragility, and inhibit microbiological activity of dangerous, pathogenic skin bacteria, including acne.

Dermabrasion
Dermabrasion is a cosmetic medical procedure in which the surface of the skin is removed by abrasion (sanding). It is used to remove sun-damaged skin and to remove or lessen scars and dark spots on the skin. The procedure is very painful and usually requires a general anaesthetic or twilight anaesthesia, in which the patient is still partly conscious[1] Afterward, the skin is very red and raw-looking, and it takes several months for the skin to regrow and heal. Dermabrasion is useful for scar removal when the scar is raised above the surrounding skin, but is less effective with sunken scars.

In the past, dermabrasion was done using a small, sterilized, electric sander. In the past decade, it has become more common to use a CO2 or Erbium:YAG laser. Laser dermabrasion is much easier to control, much easier to gauge, and is practically bloodless compared to classic dermabrasion.

Microdermabrasion
Microdermabrasion comes from the above mentioned technique dermabrasion. Microdermabrasion is a more natural skin care that is a gentler, less invasive technology for doing an exfoliation on the skin. The goal of the microdermabrasion is to eliminate the superficial layer of the skin called the epidermis. If the surface of the abraded skin is touched, a roughness of the skin will be noticed. The roughness is keratinocytes, which are better hydrated than the surface corneocytes. Keratinocytes appear in the basal layer from the proliferation of keratinocyte stem cells. They are pushed up through the cells of the epidermis, experiencing gradual specialization until they reach the stratum corneum where they form a layer of dead, flattened, strongly keratinized cells called squamous cells. This layer creates an efficient barrier to the entry of foreign matter and infectious elements into the body and reduces moisture loss. Keratinocytes are shed and restored continuously from the stratum corneum. The time of transit from basal layer to shedding is generally one month. Corneocytes are cells derived from keratinocytes in the late stages of terminal specialization of squamous epithelia. The microdermabrasion is done to eliminate some of the corneocytes. These cells are responsible for the impermeability of the skin. The minimizing or elimination of scars, skin lesions, blotchiness and stretch marks from the skin can be an easy process with the use of skin exfoliation. The result depends on how well the procedure known as "skin remodeling" works. Results are optimal and fewer treatments are needed with more recent and/or superficial scars. Still, microdermabrasion can be used on scars that showed up during puberty or many years later.

Laser therapy
Fractional Laser resurfacing is a procedure which wounds the skin using microscopic pulses of light. Over the course of several treatments scars are softened as the body regenerates the areas of microthermal wounding. Several lasers are now on the market such as the Fraxel Laser, Affirm Laser, and Pixel Laser.
Laser resurfacing is a technique used during laser surgery wherein molecular bonds of a material are dissolved by a laser.

Chemical therapy
Chemical peels improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin using a chemical solution that causes the skin to blister and eventually peel off. The regenerated skin is usually smoother and less wrinkled and scarred than the old skin.

Surgical therapy
Subcision is a process used to treat deep rolling scars left behind by acne or other skin diseases. Essentially the process involves separating the skin tissue in the affected area from the deeper scar tissue. This allows the blood to pool under the affected area, eventually causing the deep rolling scar to level off with the rest of the skin area. Once the skin has leveled, treatments such as laser resurfacing, microdermabrasion or chemical peels can be used to smooth out the scarred tissue.

Antibiotics Used to Treat Acne

2008-04-03T12:51:00.002-07:00

Acne is caused by the effects of hormones on the pilosebaceous unit, consisting of a hair follicle, sebaceous gland, and a hair. The follicle becomes obstructed and an overgrowth of a normal skin bacteria, Propionibacterium acnes, causes destruction of the lining of the follicle. This process allows follicular material to enter the dermis, causing an inflammatory response. For a more detailed description of this process, see What Causes Acne?

How Antibiotics Work for AcneAntibiotics work by several mechanisms. The most important is the decrease in the number of bacteria in and around the follicle. Antibiotics also work by reducing the irritating chemicals produced by white blood cells.Finally, antibiotics reduce the concentration of free fatty acids in the sebum, also reducing the inflammatory response. The most frequently used antibiotics for acne are summarized here.

TetracyclineTetracycline is the most widely prescribed antibiotic for acne. The usual starting dose is 500 mg twice a day continued until a significant decrease in acne lesions is seen. The dose can then be decreased to 250 mg twice a day or discontinued. The main drawback for this antibiotic is that it must be taken on an empty stomach to be the most effective. For a teenage boy who eats frequently, this can be very difficult. Tetracycline should not be given to pregnant women or children under 9 years of age.

ErythromycinErythromycin is a very commonly used antibiotic for acne. It has several advantages over tetracycline. First, it has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce redness in lesions, in addition to killing bacteria. Also, it can and should be taken with food - a benefit for teenagers. The dosage of erythromycin varies with the type used, but it is typically prescribed as 250 - 500 mg twice a day. It can cause stomach upset and nausea, but can be used in pregnant women.

MinocyclineMinocycline is a tetracycline derivative that has been used effectively for decades as a treatment for acne. It is especially useful for pustular type acne. While the absorption of minocycline is decreased with food, it is not as significant as the decrease seen with tetracycline. The usual starting dose is 50 to 100 mg twice a day. Major side effects of minocycline include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, skin pigmentation changes, and tooth discoloration. The skin and tooth changes are seen more often in people who have taken minocycline for a long time.

DoxycyclineDoxycycline is often used for people who do not respond to or cannot tolerate erythromycin or tetracycline. The dosage of doxycycline is started at 50 to 100 mg twice a day. It should be taken with food; otherwise it can cause significant nausea. Doxycycline is more likely than tetracycline to increase sensitivity to the sun, or cause sunburns.

ClindamycinClindamycin is very useful as an oral antibiotic for acne, but it is most widely prescribed as a topical antibiotic. The starting dose is 75 to 150 mg twice a day. The major side effect of clindamycin therapy is serious intestinal infection called pseudomembranous colitis caused by the bacteria, Clostridium difficile.

Side Effects of All AntibioticsAll antibiotics can cause candida vaginal yeast infections in women.

Tetracycline seems to be the antibiotic that most frequently has this side effect. All oral antibiotics can also lessen the effectiveness of birth control pills,
Article Written by: Heather Brannon, MD,

Effective Alternative Approach to Treating Acne

2008-04-03T12:51:00.001-07:00

I suffered from acne since I was 12 years old. Unlike people whose acne gradually disappear after their teen years, mine continued on for a couple of decades more. I know exactly how it feels as a teenager who agonizes over a big zit on the chin before a date. I also know how a grown-up can lose confidence after a serious breakout and react by canceling important meetings. For the long-term sufferers, I have stumbled along with you the battered psychological journey between high hopes of yet another new doctor and the dashed expectations of the same old result.
I began my study of acne when I was a graduate student at the University of Washington. At one time, I went to see a dermatologist in downtown Seattle. This doctor's office walls were decorated all over with pictures of himself and celebrities. I did the sun lamp for the first time there. When that didn't work, the doctor treated me with liquid nitrogen freezing. The next day, my face was covered with burnt spots all over. I couldn't believe my eyes. My complaint to the doctor was greeted with only a shrug. I vowed then and there to find out what I could about acne and if I could do something about it.What I have found out is that acne is some disease that actually cannot be cured. The goal of treating acne is to control it by reducing the symptoms and to prevent permanent scarring of the skin. Anyone who tells you differently is not telling you the truth.
Effective acne treatment slows the cellular turnover rate and the accumulation of dead skin cells in the pores; slows the production of sebum; and kills or inhibits P. acnes and other microorganisms in the pores. These actions together check the inflammatory activity of the enzymes they produce.For most people, their acnes are not cured by their doctors but by themselves. Acne has the tendency to slowly improve over time and usually go away on its own after the teenage years. Some people who don't have acne earlier can start getting them in their 30's. A few can have acne all through their lives. After about ten years of trial and error, luckily, I've finally found a way to control my acne.
This approach combines Chinese herbal treatment with Western medicines and vitamin consumption. I was treated four years ago by a Beijing dermatologist who, for the first time, was able to clear up my face after a month of treatment. Today, I can still remember vividly the moment of elation and thankfulness I felt towards the physician.
When I talked to the old man, he told me he arrived at his treatment method through years of treating acne patients. He showed me his patients' before and after pictures. They were remarkable. He said he had successfully treated over 5,000 patients with a success rate of 99%. I volunteered to spread his good work over the internet but he didn't want to do it. He is from the old school and believes hoarding knowledge makes him indispensable.
Out of curiosity, I did more research on the subject and read up all the Chinese formulas I could find on treating acne. I experimented with different formulas on myself and friends and eventually came up with a health food that was as effective as the Beijing formula. The health food has been a convenient substitute for preparing herbal medicine. Since the herbs and the ingredients that make up the health food and the formula are all natural and have little side effect, this treatment option therefore provides a long term and safe solution to controlling acne breakouts.

Written by John Mok, owner of the AcneControl Site

The Real Way To Get Rid Of Acne

2008-04-03T12:51:00.000-07:00

Acne is one of the biggest problems for teens these days. Everyone is so worried about it, I was worried about it a few years ago. Whenever a teen saw a little bit of red, they went right to the dermatologist. I knew some people that got these medications that only made the skin feel worse, and not better. It made their skin look like disaster areas!!!

However, I managed to keep my skin clear, and never went to a dermatologist once. What's my secret? Here it is: -Over-The-Counter Remedies- *I tried some, but the ingredients in some of them scared me... Also, some are very bad for your skin. I once tried Clearasil pads just recently, and they actually did work. However, they seemed to irritate my skin quite a bit. Plus one of the main ingredients was the stuff they use in wart medications.

So all in all, these remedies don't really work as well as some other safer ones. Another drawback to these is that they are very expensive, and very many don't work. the best brands however are Clearasil and Biore. Most others are just trash. Remember, it's easy to make a mistake, but not to fix one.

These things can damage your skin possibly. -Dermatologist- *I know someone who had moderate acne that was quite visible. She started to take prescription drugs to treat her acne. It made her skin peel for a while, but then the acne began to subside a little. However, it never went away, and it was still visible.

So in conclusion, the drugs seemed to iritate the skin worse, rather than making the acne go away. Then, she discovered the remedy that I used, and her face became clearer. -The Right Stuff- *So, what's the stuff that works? My favorite soap does, Dove soap. It's not a deoderant soap which can irritate the skin. I've seen people who used a lot of deoderant soap on the face, and it made it very red, it made them look terrible for a little while. However, soap dries out the skin. So, if you have a lot of redness, just wash that area 4 or 5 times a day. I wash my face twice a day. It keeps me from getting acne.

So, get Dove soap, it is without doubt the best soap on the market. -A More Aggressive Approach- *There is one other cheap aggressive approach which is quite unhealthy. Rubbing alcohol. You can purchase a large bottle from some place like Walgreens for $.99 on sale. Alcohol is capable of drying up the skin very quickly, it kills bacteria, and makes the acne go away. Alcohol is a cytotoxic agent though, and therefore kills cells on contact. So, it may be doing more harm than good. Only use in desperate situations, or once a week... Try to use alcohol as little as possible.

The best way to approach acne treatment is the safe way without drugs. Use Dove soap, and lots of it. When your skin is greasy, it becomes red. When it's dry, it becomes normal. Dove soap and rubbing alcohol dry it up nicely, and make the acne away. But, try to stay away from alcohol though, it's cytotoxic. Also, try to stay away from over-the-counter ointments, or atleast some, because they are very bad for your skin. Good luck! Remember, Dove soap is the silver bullet!