Real stories from Exposed users

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?

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

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

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

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

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

A Guide to a Clear Complexion

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

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?

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

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

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

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)

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)

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)

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.

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

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)

Effective Alternative Approach to Treating Acne

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