Acne & Blemishes Tips

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How can I clear up acne without a prescription or harsh chemicals?

Natural Home Remedy to Zap Away Zits

Acne is caused when excess oil on your skin traps dirt and bacteria inside your pores. Most face wash and acne treatments contain a soup of harsh chemicals, designed to eliminate oil in order to keep gunk from infecting pores. These chemicals, however, often dry out and irritate the skin. Skin responds by producing even more oil because skin needs moisture to stay healthy, especially the delicate skin on your face. Luckily there are many gentle home remedies that work even better than the chemical concoctions available at drug stores. These remedies effectively cleanse the skin, removing dirt and bacteria, without depleting moisture.
Regular honey (the same kind you put in your tea) has natural antibiotic and moisturizing properties, which eradicate acne causing bacteria. Honey can be mixed with plain oatmeal, and used as a scrub to gently exfoliate the skin, preventing breakouts. It can also be applied as an overnight spot treatment to deep clean a zit while you sleep. In order to spot treat a pimple, apply a dab of honey to the problem spot and place a bandaid over it to keep it sealed and in place (just like applying antibiotic ointment to a cut). Leave the honey in place over night. Your clear skin will amaze you the next morning!

   
Can Washing My Face Alot Prevent Acne?

Acne Control Begins With Good Skin Care

Acne control begins with taking good care of your skin. Many people mistakenly believe that washing your face excessively can prevent acne. However, overwashing can actually work against you because your skin can dry out, which increases the inflammation and aggravates the acne.

Instead, wash your face twice a day with a cleanser specific to your skin type, moisturize accordingly and treat any potential acne early with the correct product based on skin type and the type of acne you have.

   
What Kinds of Acne Are There?

Types of Acne

Acne presents itself in three major ways: comedones, papules, pustules, and nodules. Identifying which kind of acne you have can help you determine the best course of treatment.

Comedones: These are the early blemishes caused by blocked pores. This is the stage of acne where black heads (open comedones) and whiteheads (closed comedones) occur. The skin is not generally red or inflamed at this point.

Papules/Pustules: This type of acne manifests as a pimple or zit and is larger and more inflamed. This acne is usually red and inflamed.

Nodules: These painful bumps are things like cysts and boils and are usually large and deep. This is the most painful type of acne.

   
What Kind Of Remedies Exist For Acne Scar Removal?

Try Home Remedies For Acne Scar Removal

Acne scar removal is a difficult and cumbersome process. Until recently, many people simply resolved to live with acne scars, unaware of acne scar removal remedies. However, there are a number of home treatment products that can reduce the appearance of scars.

For example, scar reducing creams work well for smaller, less prominent scars. Rose hip seed oil is a great natural remedy and reduces scar tissue, as does aloe vera and lavender oil. Home abrasion and chemical peels work for scars that are more prominent. You can also try using a product with alpha hydroxyl after to have a better impact.

Those with sensitive skin should wait some time before applying these products after chemical peels, and it’s always good to test a small patch of skin to see how you will react before completely engaging in the process.

   
Do I Still To Have A Skin Care Regimen While Treating My Acne?

Take Care of Skin While Treating Acne

For most, treating acne consists of different products that are incorporated into a daily skin care regimen. You do not want to solely focus on the treatment of acne and neglect your skin as a whole. This is a great time to purchase acne products that do double duty.

For example, an anti-acne cleanser could also double as your daily cleanser. Anti-acne masks can work in place of your regular masks, providing you with an opportunity to take care of your skin as well as your acne problem.

Just remember that it takes about two weeks to see noticeable results from acne treatment. Do not give up if you do not see results right away --- the best improvement occurs over the course of about three months.

   
Does It Matter What I Use To Treat My Acne?

Natural Treatment Is Best for Acne

While natural acne treatment is the preferable way to rid your skin of blemishes, most people use products found in their local pharmacy. Many over-the-counter remedies contain chemicals that kill acne bacteria quicker.

There are two general ingredients found in many acne treatment products. Benzyl peroxide kills the bacteria that causes acne; however, it often irritates sensitive skin and cause overall dryness. Salicylic acid removes the dirt and oil that clogs pores and destroys acne-causing bacteria. It is easier on the skin and does aid in collagen production. These two ingredients are found in most over-the-counter acne medications and are the most common forms of treatment.

   
Does Acne Only Affect Certain Skin Types?

Acne Affects Everyone

Acne is the most common skin disorder, one that most everyone will encounter at one point in his or her life. There is no one form of acne remedy and treatment. Acne treatment options often depends on the severity – some cases are mild, others are moderate and some are very severe. Contrary to common belief, teenagers are not the only ones affected by acne; it affects adults, babies and senior citizens as well. In some cases, adults who have never experienced acne before can find themselves facing an adult onset case. Acne affects each gender differently, often presenting itself more severely in boys during formative teenage years and in women in adulthood.

   
Why Shouldn't I Pick At My Acne?

Don't Pick At Blemishes

Acne and blemishes are an unfortunate fact. Big or small – everyone encounters this skin care issue at some point. How you treat blemishes can make a difference in their lasting effects. Most people have a hard time resisting the urge to squeeze, pick or poke at blemishes.

These actions, however, can increase your chances for scarring. Instead, invest in a treatment specific to your acne and skin type and try to refrain from touching the blemish. Your skin will benefit in the end.

   
How can I get clearer skin?

Keep Skin Clear

Want clear skin? Acne care and prevention are the keys to achieving skin that others will envy. Here are some tips for individuals of all ages who want to keep their skin clear: Do not squeeze or pick at blemishes on the skin—this can lead to further infections and/or scarring. Wash your pillowcase and face towels on a frequent, regular basis. Dirty towels and pillowcases can house bacteria and germs that can cause blemishes or even worsen existing acne. Keep hair away from the face when sleeping. Shower as soon as possible after working out; sweat mixed with skin oils is a recipe that can trap bacteria and dirt. Never sleep with makeup on; this can clog pores and trigger breakouts. Clean or replace make-up applicators regularly and dispose of old make-up. Use topical treatments, such as Murad Acne Complex, on affected areas.

   
Why is my skin scarring from acne?

Annoying scars from acne

First thing we must all remember is NOT TO PICK at our blemishes, even though it is human nature and we all want to. Picking at acne is a sure way to cause scarring on your skin and it can stay there for the rest of your life!

Always use three steps for keeping skin clean and balanced: cleanse, tone, moisturize (no need to freak out you "oily" people). If your skin is acne-prone, use a cleanser that is gel based and has no alcohol. Then, use a spray toner or put a little toner on a cotton ball and wipe up and outwards on your face and neck. Again, use a toner that is ALCOHOL-FREE! When looking for a moisturizer for acne-prone skin, try to look for a gel base or lotion (not a creme) and make sure there is no alcohol. Alcohol only dries your skin out and ruins your skins Ph-level. You may want to try to find a moisturizer with AHA (Alpha-Hydroxy Acid) to remove dead skin cells and help prevent further scarring. Start by using this type of mositurizer once a day for a week and then use twice daily after your skin has had a chance to adjust to the treatment.

   
How can I remove blackheads?

Blackheads and Pimples

The prime cause of blackheads and pimples is usually not the make-up but the cleansing routine. You must be very thorough when removing make-up at the end of the day. Make sure to use a three step skin care routine (cleanse, tone, moisturize). Never be tempted to go to sleep without cleansing your face. Deep cleansing your face will prevent your pores from becoming clogged which enable bacteria to grow, causing blackheads and breakouts.

   
How do I cover up acne while treating it?

Treat acne without anyone knowing!

We all get blemishes at some point or another. For those of us that are penny conscious, some over the counter treatments are just as good as those costly ones. To cover up acne and treat it at the same time, try using an acne care that comes in different shades for all skin tones - it will act as a treatment while covering like a concealer! Put a small amount on finger and dab on blemish, do not overdue! You don't want to see a "cover-spot" on your face. Blend by dabbing over pimple lightly. Only use 2-3 times daily and remember to cleanse, tone, and moisturize twice a day to keep skin in great condition.

   
How to I minimize large pores?

Decreasing the appearance of large pores

The best way to get rid of large pores is to begin a three step cleansing skin care routine. First, cleanse with either a Cleansing Cream or Cleansing gel that will remove the dirt, dead skin cells and make-up that are inside and on top of your pores. The second, and very important step in the reduction of pore size is to use a Toner without Alcohol. Follow this step with a moisturizer with Vitamins A and E. These ingredients promote healing and are especially good for people prone to acne. Once a week after you cleanse, do a treatment exfoliator. Follow the exfoliator with a good Toner and Moisturizer.

   
What causes adult acne?

Acne Doesn't Discriminate

You're not a teenager anymore so why do you still have acne? Research has proven that hormones and stress can trigger acne at any age—this is the most common cause of breakouts. And, while the bacterias that cause both juvenile and adult acne are the same, the conditions can vary drastically. Adult acne usually occurs on normal or combination skin or even dry and/or sensitive skin, rather than the on extremely oily skin (usually the skin type to host breakouts in teenagers). However, whether you're a teenager in high school or a middle-aged mother, you still want an effective treatment for your skin condition. Use a three step skin care regime (cleanse, tone, moisturize) twice daily and remember to use products that are alcohol free.

   
How do I choose skin care products if I have acne?

Acne & Choosing Skin Care Products

Contrary to what your grandma might say, acne is not caused by a dirty face. So, vigorous washing and scrubbing will not clear up your skin. It just might make it worse.

What will help is gentle washing twice a day with a mild cleanser, such as Exuviance, made by NeoStrata. As any doctor will tell you, the way to beat acne is with appropriate acne products and good skin care.

Doctors also recommend cosmetics and toiletries that do not clog pores. Read the label when buying products to use on your skin or hair. Makeup, sunscreen and toiletries that are not likely to cause acne state that they are “noncomedogenic” right on the product.

Previously available only through a physician, NeoStrata's Exuviance advanced line of skin care is made especially for people with sensitive skin. Formulated with soothing, protecting ingredients (antioxidants, botanicals, vitamins and sunscreens) these products are highly moisturizing and exceptionally gentle.

When fighting acne, it's so important not to become impatient. Give acne products enough time to do their job. To stem the frustration and uncertainty of waiting, ask a dermatologist or pharmacist how much time a certain product needs to work. That way you'll know when to expect to see a clearer face. You don't want to stop using the product before you see results. As a rule of thumb, it takes 6 to 8 weeks before you begin to see improvement.

Another old wife's tale says that sun tanning clears acne. No, it only masks it. It's best to avoid excess exposure to sunlight and not to use tanning booths or sun lamps, especially if using acne treatments. Besides promoting acne, tanning increases the risk of developing melanoma and other skin cancers.

If you have acne, avoid sunburn. Protect your skin by wearing sunscreen, such as Exuviance Ultra Light Daily Sunscreen SPF 29.

Sometimes Granny's right, but if you want effective help fighting acne, contact a dermatologist, who'll most likely recommend a program of prescription medication combined with routine use of quality skin care products.

   
Where did B. Kamins products come from?

The Wonders of Maple Serum and B. Kamins Skin Care

If you've ever been to Canada in the winter you know how harsh the season can be. The air is frigid and dry and can be damaging to the skin. One winter, while fishing in Northern Canada, a chemist named Ben Kamins took notice of something very curious—the sturdy maple trees surrounding the fishing lake appeared to be the only vegetation that survived the winter elements. On a hunch Kamins began studies immediately.

What he found was that the serum within the trees was rich in life-sustaining resources such as antioxidants, minerals, polysaccharides, alpha-hydroxy acids and preservatives. In addition, the serum had a high moisture content and was not greasy, making it the perfect material from which to make skin care products. Soon after these findings B. Kamins skin care products were born. And, all consumers can buy with confidence as these natural products are dermatologist recommended and are not ever tested on animals.

   
Where are acne problem areas?

Where Did That Blemish Come From?

It's happened to the best of us, we've gone to sleep with clear skin and woken up with a horrible blemish. Ever wonder where those pesky pimples come from? A pimple forms when a type of oil called sebum, that lubricates the hair and skin, clogs the pores. As a result an infection occurs and red irritations form. Acne is most common in teenagers, especially during puberty (during this time the hormones become overactive and the skin creates excessive amounts of sebum). However, it can and will affect people of all ages. Before investing in acne care, identify your problem areas. The most common problem area is called the T-zone and it consists of the chin, nose, and forehead. These areas contain the most oil-producing glands and therefore are prone to breakouts. Every person's skin is different and trouble spots will vary. Once you have identified yours, invest in some quality skin care products.

   
What's so great about Skinceuticals?

Improve the Elasticity and Skin Tone in Your Face

Don't you wish that you could drastically improve the elasticity and skin tone of your face? Use products that are an advanced in topical vitamin-C mixtures which noticeably improve elasticity. Each day we subject our skin to harsh elements such as sunlight, smoke, and pollution in the air—all things that cause oxy radicals to develop in the skin. Oxy radicals damage the collagen layer of the skin and, as a result, wrinkles and lines form (this is often called photoaging).

   
What about acne problems?

Acne Problems

Treating acne with proper skin care is as important as concealing. Use an oil-free makeup, preferably a foundation powder that will cover well. You can touch up during the day if you get shiny. As for treatment, use a foaming cleanser, a toner, and moisturizing gel to keep skin hydrated with water instead of oil. Remember to stick with products that are alcohol free as this tends to lead to irritated skin.

   
How do I use Murad Acne Complex?

Murad Acne Complex

In a recent study over 90% of Murad Acne Complex users noted a decrease in acne after only four weeks of use. How can you argue with results like that? By following a daily routine you too can see similar results. The products should be used twice a day as follows:

First thing in the morning:

  • Begin by cleansing with the Clarifying Cleanser then pat your face dry with a towel—do not rub dry.
  • Rub on a dime-sized amount of Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel
  • Apply Skin Perfecting Lotion.
  • Use a small amount of the Acne Spot Treatment directly applying directly to any blemish. (Only use on blemished individually; do not apply to entire face.)

Before bed:
  • Begin by cleansing with the Clarifying Cleanser then pat your face dry with a towel—do not rub dry.
  • Rub on a dime-sized amount of Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel
  • Apply Skin Perfecting Lotion.
  • Use a small amount of the Acne Spot Treatment directly applying directly to any blemish. (Only use on blemished individually; do not apply to entire face.)

* For the first 2 weeks only apply the Exfoliating Acne Treatment Gel once a day.

   
I have a question about acne, it sounds horrible but I have terrible skin on my back. It's all red and splotchy. I can't wear halter necks, string tops or anything. I've tried lotions and exfoliating. I eat really healthy and I'm only 16, but it's ruining everything.

Body Acne Treatments

Acne on your back is probably caused somewhat by hormones. If you are a teenager and your hormones are most likely imbalanced. You could try an acne cleanser like Neutrogena or Clearasil. Do not exfoliate with harsh products or items like a loafa, this will only irritate your skin causing more skin problems and blemishes.

Try wearing clothes made of material that lets your skin breath like linen or cotton.

For big problem areas you can try spot treatments that contain salicylic acid, which will dry out the blemish and diminish it within a couple of days. If you feel your acne problem is out of control you should consult a dermatologist for more solutions.

   
Why do I have dry skin AND acne?

How to solve dry skin and breakouts

When we see or feel blemishes our initial response is to pick at it or scrub our faces till it comes off...wrong. Picking at blemishes will only cause a huge red dot on your face and can lead to scarring. Try using an exfoliator. Only use an exfoliator (for facial use only) once or twice a week. This will remove dead skin cells and prevent further skin damage. However, overuse of exfoliators actually can irritate your skin and cause it to create an "oil barrier" to "protect" the skin from any other irritation.

   
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