Article Archive For Month : June 2014

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Acne Scar Removal and Treatment

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Several different <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-scar-removal-and-treatment.html">acne scarring treatments</a> are available. These work to help the scarred area return to a more 'normal' appearance because most acne scars, like any type of scarring, can almost never be permanently removed. 
 
The available <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">acne scars treatment</a> options differ considerably in their approach and what's right for a person will depend on several factors including the type and extent of scarring involved, an evaluation of how the scarring is impacting the person's livelihood and the individual's budget. It's always advisable to thoroughly discuss treatment options with a dermatologist before making a decision. 
 
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Causes of Acne Scars</h4>
 
As with all scarring, acne scars result from tissue damage. When tissue is damaged, the body reacts by initiating the repair process and taking steps to protect against infection. Collagen is something the body sends to the damaged area but sometimes the body produces too much. When this happens, the excess collagen builds up into a fibrous mass that ends up becoming a smooth and firm acne scar with an irregular shape. Acne scars also result when tissue is lost and this is actually the more common reason scars develop. Many different types of scarring exist within this latter category including the well-known 'ice-pick' scar, depressed scars, soft scars, atrophic macules and others. 
 
<h4>
Acne Scars Treatment Options</h4>
 
Injecting collagen into the scar site is an effective method for most people however it's one that'll need to be repeated regularly, about every 3 – 6 months. Once injected under the skin, the collagen puffs out the scar area, making the scar less noticeable. 
 
A similar process involves using a person's own body fat. This treatment option is called autologus fat transfer. Basically, fat is taken from another part of the body and injected into the acne scar, causing it to fill out. This option also does need to be repeated, although less frequently, because the fat will begin to absorb back into the skin. 
 
Dermabrasion is a common treatment method for most types of acne scarring. It's done under local anesthesia. In this procedure, a thin layer of surface skin is removed using a fraise or a brush set on high speed. Removing the surface layer can actually remove some shallow scarring at the surface and it can lessen the depth of deeper scarring. Microdermabrasion also removes the surface skin but does so using crystals of aluminum oxide that pass through a vacuum. 
 
Laser treatment is another acne scar treatment option. Lasers of various intensity and wavelength are aimed at the scarring with the goal of changing a scar's shape. Depending on the scar, permanent results can sometimes be achieved. Again, multiple treatments may be necessary. 
 
Other <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-scar-removal-and-treatment.html">acne scars treatment options</a> are available including skin grafting and skin surgery, but these extreme procedures are reserved primarily for deep scarring or extreme situations.</div>

Several different acne scarring treatments are available. These work to help the scarred area return to a more 'normal' appearance because most acne scars, like any type of scarring, can almost never be permanently removed. The available acne scars…

Acne Scars - Treatment and Prevention

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Most people with mild or moderate acne will recover from the condition without serious scarring. In cases of severe acne, however, scarring is almost inevitable. But don't give up hope, new <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">acne treatments</a> can minimize scarring and existing scars can be removed with a variety of techniques. 
 
Most pimples leave behind a discolored patch of skin. This is not really a scar and will usually clear up by itself within one year. Marks or skin defects that remain longer than one year are considered to be scars and can be treated. 
 
<h4>
Preventing Scars</h4>
 
Acne <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-scars-treatment-and-prevention.html">scars can be prevented</a> through a program of active treatment and self-control. One of the worst things you can do to pimples is to pick them. Some people try to squeeze or remove blackheads or whiteheads but this is the worst thing that you can do. Not only will the bacteria which causes acne spread, the skin can be damaged which leads to permanent scarring. 
 
Mild cases of acne can usually be self treated with over-the-counter medications but more severe cases should be treated by a dermatologist. The doctor can prescribe oral medications as well as topical ointments for use on the skin. In some cases, the doctor will also physically remove blackheads or whiteheads and lance and drain pus filled nodules. The dermatologist uses surgical instruments which have been sterilized, so these procedures should never be attempted at home. 
 
Pimples form on the skin because of the presence of bacteria. The bacteria damages and inflames the skin. Once the acne has cleared up, the skin may appear discolored -- this is part of the natural healing process, and the discolorment will disappear after a period of time. 
 
This healing process can be sped up with the use of medications like Retin-A, Renova, and Alpha-Hydroxy Acids. Sunshine can damage the skin and thereby delay the healing process, so sunscreens should always be worn outside. 
 
Above all, avoid picking scabs that may form over old acne lesions. Scabs are a necessary part of the healing process and picking them off unnecessarily exposes the skin which extends the time necessary for scars to heal. 
 
<h4>
Treating Scars</h4>
 
Existing <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-scars-treatment-and-prevention.html">scars left over from acne can be treated</a> in a number of ways. If scars are not too severe, a chemical peel can be applied to the skin. This effectively removes the microscopic top layer of the skin allowing the cells underneath to rejuvenate. 
 
More severe scarring can be treated with lasers or dermabrasion. Lasers remove the damaged layer of skin and tighten the skin underneath to raise the depression caused by the scar. The process can be mildly painful so the dermatologist may use an anesthetic to numb the pain. The healing process after laser treatment takes about 3 to 10 days. 
 
Dermabrasion removes scars by actually scraping away the surface of the skin where the scarring occurs. During the healing process a new layer of skin is formed to replace the scarring. Both dermabrasion and laser treatments can cause the skin to turn red, but this discolorment will disappear after several months.</div>

Most people with mild or moderate acne will recover from the condition without serious scarring. In cases of severe acne, however, scarring is almost inevitable. But don't give up hope, new acne treatments can minimize scarring and existing scars ca…

Herbal Remedies and Natural Treatments for Acne

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If someone could figure out a way to prevent acne, that person would be very wealthy because people all over the world would stand in line to buy the solution. But so far, the <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">way to prevent acne</a> remains a mystery. 
 
While ointments, soaps and lotions remain by far the most popular acne treatment options, perhaps hundreds of companies in business right now are offering <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/herbal-remedies-and-natural-acne-treatments.html">herbal remedies for acne</a> and <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/herbal-remedies-and-natural-acne-treatments.html">natural acne treatments</a>. Do these products work? 
 
The manufacturers of these products claim they do. They offer plenty of testimonials from satisfied customers but they come up short on scientific data. And unfortunately, there aren't any governing bodies in charge of validating their health-related claims. Does this lack of legislative oversight make a product good or bad? The answer depends on whom you ask and what you believe. 
 
But this much is certain. In earlier times, as far back in time as there is record, civilizations relied entirely on herbal and natural remedies to treat every ailment. They had to because the neighborhood pharmacy, with its manufactured treatments for every ailment ever documented, is a very recent development. 
 
Throughout the centuries, civilizations ate only the foods that came from the earth or that they raised on their farms. Life was more difficult and life spans were definitely shorter but these people overall were very healthy. Why? Many believe the reason for this better state of health is because they did not fill their bodies with processed ingredients, harsh pesticides and other potentially dangerous combinations of chemicals. 
 
So how do you decide whether herbal remedies and natural <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">treatments for acne</a> are effective? The only thing you really can do is research this issue. Find out which herbs and natural ingredients have been shown to be effective in treating acne and then find skin care products that include them. Then try these products for yourself and measure your own results. 
 
For example, dermatologists typically recommend antibiotics because bacteria are a main cause of acne. But did you know that several natural products have shown promise in fighting bacteria? Echinacea and Tea Tree oil are two of the more common natural remedies for acne. A dermatologist may be able to give you more information on herbal remedies and natural treatments for acne and if yours won't, it might be time to find someone who will. 
 
If you're willing to look, you'll find plenty of clay masks, facial peels and gentle abrasives made from all-natural ingredients. If you take time to find a reputable company and to also read the ingredients label, you'll find plenty of <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/herbal-remedies-and-natural-acne-treatments.html">natural options for treating your acne</a>.</div>

If someone could figure out a way to prevent acne, that person would be very wealthy because people all over the world would stand in line to buy the solution. But so far, the way to prevent acne remains a mystery. While ointments, soaps and lotion…

Treating Acne with Laser or Surgery

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If you suffer with persistent acne or more severe acne you will probably seek out the services of a dermatologist who will help discuss the different treatments currently available including <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/treating-acne-with-laser-or-surgery.html">treating acne with laser therapy or acne surgery</a>. 
 
If <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">treating your acne</a> with laser therapy or surgery is something you're considering, it's important to fully evaluate each of the processes, including the number of required treatments, the associated costs and the potential side effects of the treatment. It's also important that you select a process that is designed to deal with reducing the presence of acne - not acne scarring. It does get confusing. 
 
Using Laser to Treat Acne 
 
Laser treatments involve the use of varying wavelengths that are aimed directly at the impacted area. The wavelengths pulsate against the skin and work to destroy overly-large sebaceous glands and acne lesions. Lasers help to reduce the inflammation and redness that surrounds acne lesions. Laser treatments also remove the damaged outer layers of skin so that new cell growth can be initiated. The laser technician will vary the intensity of the laser as required to effectively treat the area. This is a desirable acne treatment method because it has few side effects. It's simple, only slightly uncomfortable and doesn't involve the use of messy creams or potentially dangerous prescription drugs. 
 
There is considerable debate surrounding the effectiveness of laser treatments for acne. It has been shown to be effective at improving the skin's appearance, even after just one treatment. As with most of the available acne treatments, there are side effects. Some patients do experience red, burned skin after treatment that can last for weeks. The appearance of the skin can be uneven if the laser is applied inconsistently. Also, individuals with dark-colored skin can end up with skin discoloration after laser treatments. 
 
Acne Surgery 
 
Acne surgery involves making an incision into the affected area and draining the clogged matter. The process for blackheads and whiteheads doesn't actually involve surgery, but is often performed by a nurse, esthetician or dermatologist. They'll use a small, pointed blade to first open the comedone and then gently work the material out using a comedone extractor. 
 
Severe acne cysts can be drained and removed by a procedure known as excisional surgery. This process is much more involved than that which is described above or even the at-home method of 'popping zits'. The procedure needs to be performed in a sterile environment using sterilized instruments to reduce the risk of spreading bacterial infection and should only be performed by a person with proper training. If deep acne cysts are not carefully extracted, they can develop into a serious infection and result in severe acne scarring. Because of the increased likelihood for acne surgery to produce acne scarring, this <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">acne treatment method </a>isn't as popular as it used to be.</div>

If you suffer with persistent acne or more severe acne you will probably seek out the services of a dermatologist who will help discuss the different treatments currently available including treating acne with laser therapy or acne surgery. If trea…

Acne Treatment - Seeing a Dermatologist

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Even though mild acne isn't a serious condition it is a <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-treatment-seeing-dermatologist.html">good idea to see a dermatologist</a> if your skin breaks out. You can receive valuable information about the cause of acne as well as learning about the options for treatment. In addition, there is a condition called keratosis pilaris that is sometimes confused with acne, so seeing a dermatologist can determine which condition you actually have so that you are not wasting time with inappropriate treatments. 
 
Mild conditions of acne can be effectively treated with over-the-counter medications but more severe cases need the attention of a doctor. Acne can cause physical as well as emotional suffering and can lead to permanent scarring if not properly treated. When acne is not responding to over-the-counter medications you should <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-treatment-seeing-dermatologist.html">consult with a dermatologist</a> for treatment. 
 
It is a good idea to prepare for your first consultation by writing down as much information about your acne as possible. The doctor will want to know the background -- how long you have had acne, what form it takes (blackheads, whiteheads, lesions etc.) and what you have done to treat it. You may also be asked if your parents or siblings had acne and how severe it was for them. 
 
Since the acne treatment may include oral medications you should be prepared to tell the doctor if you are allergic to certain medicines. Girls may be asked to describe their menstrual period and boys may need to say how often they shave. 
 
The dermatologist may offer a <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">choice of acne treatments</a> so knowing a bit about the various options can help you make an informed decision. Antibiotics are used to kill the bacteria that cause acne. Antibiotics can be given orally or in a lotion that is applied to the skin. Severe cases may require the use of both forms. 
 
Topical treatments include benzoyl peroxide and retinoic acid. These are usually prescribed in gel form and may cause dryness or reddening of the skin. 
 
In severe cases of acne physical treatments may be recommended. These include the removal of blackheads and whiteheads and the drainage of cysts. 
 
No matter which form of treatment you decide on it is important to follow directions given by the doctor. Don't take more or less of a medication than prescribed. If your acne clears up, continue treatment until advised otherwise, otherwise it may come back. 
 
Always be informed about your condition and get the information you require. Write down questions as you think of them so that you can ask your doctor at your next consultation. Common questions include: 
 
• What kind of treatment is best for me? 
• How soon will I start to see results? 
• How long will the treatment last? 
• Are there any side effects? 
• How should I care for my skin? 
• Can I use makeup? 
• How can I prevent acne scars? 
 
Treatment for severe acne may continue for some time. Each time you see your doctor take the opportunity to clear up any questions or concerns you have about acne or your treatment. Try to become as well-informed as possible so that you can participate fully in your <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">acne treatment</a>. </div>

Even though mild acne isn't a serious condition it is a good idea to see a dermatologist if your skin breaks out. You can receive valuable information about the cause of acne as well as learning about the options for treatment. In addition, there is…

Acne Treatment - Prescription Medication

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Many people try to treat acne conditions on their own without consulting a doctor. However, it is always a good idea to check with a dermatologist when you notice any kind of unusual skin condition. Even if it turns out to be acne, the doctor can give you valuable <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">information and advice about how to treat acne</a>. 
 
Mild and moderate conditions of acne can often be treated with over-the-counter medications, but severe cases should be treated by a dermatologist and prescription medicine. Even if the acne is moderate, a prescription medicine may be more effective than what is available over-the-counter. 
 
There are two types of <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-treatment-prescription-medication.html">prescription acne medications</a> : Oral and Topical. Antibiotics are often used to fight acne, and they can be taken orally or as a lotion. Topical prescription medications may include ingredients such as zinc or retinoids. 
 
Antibiotics 
The most common antibiotic used for treating acne is tetracycline. It is used to kill the bacteria responsible for acne and also reduces inflammation. Antibiotic treatment may take several weeks or even months to be effective and must continue even after the acne has cleared up. A common side effect associated with tetracycline is increased sensitivity to sun light resulting in bad sunburns if the patient stays in the sun too long. Other side effects include upset stomach, dizziness, and hives. 
 
Women taking tetracycline can suffer from increased incidences of vaginal yeast. Pregnant women and children under the age of 12 cannot take tetracycline because it discolors growing teeth. 
 
Ointments 
Antibiotic ointments have fewer complications than oral antibiotics. They are effective in killing bacteria which cause acne, and when used in conjunction with other topical treatments like benzoyl peroxide the bacteria may not develop resistance to the antibiotics. 
 
Retinoids 
Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and can be applied directly on the skin in the form of lotions or creams. Topical retinoid medications are useful for treating blackheads and whiteheads by helping to open clogged pores. A common side effect of topical retinoids is dry skin. 
 
Oral retinoids can be used for more severe forms of acne which don't respond to other treatments. Oral retinoids cause the upper layer of the skin to peel thereby opening pores. They also cause the body to produce less sebum – the substance which causes oily skin. 
 
A number of serious side effects are associated with oral retinoids. They can cause birth defects if mothers are taking them when pregnant, so females must use two forms of birth control if they are under retinoid treatment. They can also cause liver damage and depression, so regular medical attention is needed to make sure the patient is not being adversely affected by retinoid treatment. 
 
Other medications 
Birth control pills are sometimes effective in treating acne in women. They change hormone levels in the body and can <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">reduce the acne</a> causing effects of testosterone. Zinc is a relatively new treatment that is effective in some cases. Always discuss with your dermatologist for the most effective treatment for your particular case.</div>

Many people try to treat acne conditions on their own without consulting a doctor. However, it is always a good idea to check with a dermatologist when you notice any kind of unusual skin condition. Even if it turns out to be acne, the doctor can gi…

Acne Treatment - Over the Counter Topical Medications

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There are many types of <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/acne-treatment-over-counter-topical.html">over-the-counter treatments for acne</a>. Most people, when first faced with an acne condition, usually go to the local pharmacy and buy an over-the-counter medication on the basis of recommendations from their friends or perhaps even television ads. It's always a good idea, however, to consult with a doctor before using any kind of over-the-counter medication. Even though acne is a fairly benign condition, a doctor can advise on the best course of treatment and also offers suggestions based on your particular kind of acne. 
 
Because of the large number of products available for <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">treating acne</a>, it can be difficult to decide which one to try. Depending on advice from your friends is not too reliable, because what works for one person may not work for another. It's best if you have some background knowledge about the active ingredients in various acne medications, so you can make a better informed choice about which medication to try. 
 
One of the most popular ingredients in acne treatments is benzoyl peroxide. It is found in gels and ointments and works by combating the bacteria which causes pimples. It is also useful for removing dead skin cells that accumulate on the surface of the skin. It is these dead skin cells which combine with sebum to create blackheads and whiteheads. 
 
Benzoyl peroxide has been proven to be safe and effective in combating lesions. It can be used after acne has cleared up to keep the skin free from acne causing bacteria. The only side effect associated with this ingredient is dry skin, and this can be avoided by decreasing the frequency that it is applied on the skin. It can also bleach hair and clothing, so care must be taken when applying it. 
 
Another popular ingredient in acne medications is salicylic acid. This prevents acne by clearing up dead skin cells which are accumulating too quickly and clogging the pores. Products which contain salicylic acid should continue to be used after the skin has cleared up to prevent future outbreaks of acne. The only side effects associated with salicylic acid are dry, irritated skin. 
 
Other ingredients you may see in <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">acne medications</a> include resorcinol and sulphur. Resorcinol causes the top layer of skin to peel -- including the dead skin cells which clog the pores. It is often combined with sulphur. It is not known how sulphur affects acne conditions, but it has been used effectively for more than 50 years. Sulphur is often combined with other ingredients besides resorcinol like salicylate acid and benzoyl peroxide. It is not usually used by itself because of its strong, unpleasant odor. 
 
Of all these ingredients used for combating acne, benzoyl peroxide is probably the most versatile. It can be used in cleansing liquids or bars, as well as lotion, cream, and gels which are applied directly on the skin. The cleansing products are usually used once or twice a day, while the creams and lotions can be used as needed. They should be applied on the skin around the acne as well as the pimples themselves for most effectiveness. You must avoid getting benzoyl peroxide in the eyes, mouth or nose as it will cause irritation or inflammation.</div>

There are many types of over-the-counter treatments for acne. Most people, when first faced with an acne condition, usually go to the local pharmacy and buy an over-the-counter medication on the basis of recommendations from their friends or perhaps…

Types of Acne

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There are many <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/types-of-acne.html">types of acne</a>. It ranges from mild to severe and can be found on various parts of the body. Mild acne can usually be self treated, but severe cases are best left to health professionals like dermatologists. 
 
The most common type of acne is Acne Vulgaris which literally means 'common acne.' This type of acne can cause blackheads, whiteheads, papules, pustules, nodules and cysts. 
 
Blackheads 
Blackheads occur in partially blocked pores. Sebum (the substance which causes oily skin), dead cells, and bacteria are slowly draining to the surface of the skin and the black color is caused by the pigments in the skin being exposed to air. Blackheads can take a long time to clear up. 
 
Whiteheads 
Unlike blackheads, whiteheads are contained beneath the surface of the skin. They are caused by completely blocked pores which trap the sebum, dead cells, and bacteria. 
 
Papules 
These are small red bumps on the skin. They are tender and cause irritation, but it is important not to touch them or squeeze them. Doing so may cause scarring. 
 
Pustules 
Pustules are what most people call pimples or zits. They appear as a red circle with a white or yellow center. 
 
Nodules 
These are much larger than other forms of acne. They are hard lumps underneath the surface of the skin which can be painful and last for several months. This type of acne is particularly vulnerable to scarring, so it is advisable to have it treated by a dermatologist. 
 
Cysts 
Cysts are similar to nodules except that they are filled with pus. They are painful and likely to scar if untreated. Like nodules, they should be treated by a dermatologist. 
 
Acne Conglobata 
This is a relatively rare form of acne vulgaris but it is extremely disfiguring and can cause severe psychological as well as physical suffering. Large lesions form on the face, chest, back, buttocks, upper arms, and thighs and can be accompanied by numerous blackheads. It causes damage to the skin and permanent scarring. It is more common in males than females, and the condition can persist for several years. 
 
Acne Fulminans 
This is a sudden appearance of Acne Conglobata accompanied with a fever and aching of the joints. It is usually treated with oral steroids. 
 
Gram-Negative Folliculitis 
This condition may be caused by long-term treatment of acne with antibiotics. It is a bacterial infection which causes pustules and cysts. 
 
Pyoderma Faciale 
This type of acne only affects females usually between the ages of 20 and 40. It causes large painful pustules, nodules and cysts on the face and may leave permanent scarring. It most often occurs in women who have never experienced acne before and usually clears up within a year. 
 
Acne Rosacea 
This form of acne usually affects people over the age of 30. It causes a red rash on the cheeks, forehead, nose, and chin. There may also be pimples and other skin blemishes. It occurs more often in females than males, although men often have more severe symptoms. It is a different form of acne than Acne Vulgaris and <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">treatment</a> is different for the two types.</div>

There are many types of acne. It ranges from mild to severe and can be found on various parts of the body. Mild acne can usually be self treated, but severe cases are best left to health professionals like dermatologists. The most common type of acn…

10 Common Acne Myths

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Scientific knowledge about acne is gradually clearing up some of the misconceptions surrounding this condition, but there are many myths that persist. Here are some <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/2014/06/10-common-acne-myths.html">common acne myths</a>. 
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Acne is caused by poor hygiene. 
This belief may have arisen because of the skin infections associated with acne. However, lack of cleanliness is not the reason for outbreaks of acne. The mixture of sebum and dead cells which cause acne is situated beneath the surface of the skin where it is impossible to clean it away. However, gentle cleansing with soap and water once or twice a day will keep the skin as healthy as possible. Be careful not to scrub too hard, however, as this may make acne worse. 
 
Acne is caused by certain foods. 
There is a long-standing belief that eating chocolate will cause the face to break out in pimples. There is no scientific evidence for this -- studies have shown no statistically significant relationship between eating chocolate and acne. The same holds true of other foods associated like potato chips and sugar. It is true, however, that eating too much of these foods is unhealthy, and you wish to keep as healthy as possible at all times and especially if afflicted with acne. Limiting chocolate and sugar consumption is always a good idea. 
 
Even though chocolate and french fries do not cause acne, there are some foods which do seem to aggravate it. There seems to be a relationship between milk and acne, and foods high in iodine also seem to cause pimples. Iodine is found in seafood, so those with acne may be advised not to eat too much seafood. 
 
Acne is related to sex. 
At various times we heard that masturbation or celibacy causes pimples. There is no evidence for this. There is a link between sexual activity and hormone production, however, but the relationship between sex and the production of sebum (the oily substance which combines with dead skin cells to cause acne) is unclear. Anger and stress also affect hormone levels. 
 
Acne has to run its course. 
There are many <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">treatments available for acne</a>, so those who are suffering from the discomfort and embarrassment that acne causes can find relief by consulting with a dermatologist or using over-the-counter medicine. 
 
Acne is only a teenage condition. 
It is true that most adolescents have acne, but it also affects some adults. Acne will usually clear up by time one enters their early 20s, but some people experience acne for the first time when they are in their 30s or 40s. 
 
Acne only affects appearance. 
Acne is a skin condition which can also cause psychological distress. Those with severe acne are especially vulnerable to feelings of depression and low self-image. There is a strong link between severe acne conditions and social withdrawal. 
 
Popping pimples is the best way to get rid of them. 
In fact, popping pimples may aggravate acne by spreading the bacteria which is causing it. Popping can also lead to scarring which in severe cases can be permanent. 
 
Sunbathing is good for acne. 
Exposure to the sun has the effect of drying out excess oils, so it does in fact have a short-term effect of improving acne. However, the skin quickly becomes accustomed to sun exposure so no long-term benefit is gained. Sun exposure may also damage the skin and increase the chance of skin cancer. 
 
Makeup causes acne. 
Some makeup can clog the pores which is bad for the health of the skin. Cosmetics labelled "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic" are safe to use and some brands may include ingredients which can treat acne. 
 
The more acne medicine the better. 
Some people believe that if their acne gets worse they should use more medicine. Excess use of acne ointments, however, may irritate the skin, and oral medicines can be dangerous when taken in large quantities. Always follow the directions for the <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">acne medications</a>.</div>

Scientific knowledge about acne is gradually clearing up some of the misconceptions surrounding this condition, but there are many myths that persist. Here are some common acne myths. Acne is caused by poor hygiene. This belief may have arisen becau…

What Causes Acne

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Acne is not fully understood, but we do know some of the biology behind it. The main culprit is the excess production of an oily substance called sebum whose function is to keep skin and hair lubricated and supple. During adolescence, the body often produces excess amounts of sebum. The sebum combines with naturally occurring dead skin cells to block hair follicles which prevents the sebum from escaping. 
 
The resulting block up of oil beneath the surface of the skin provides an ideal environment for bacteria. The bacteria multiply and the skin area becomes red and inflamed resulting in what is commonly called a pimple. 
 
The excess production of sebum is caused by the male hormone testosterone. Testosterone is present in both males and females, but during puberty, the body changes the way it reacts to the presence of testosterone. It is this abnormal reaction, characteristically appearing during adolescence, that causes the skin (especially on the face and upper torso) to become excessively oily. By the early 20s, the body usually normalizes its reaction to testosterone and acne clears up. 
 
<a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">Acne</a> seems to be partly hereditary, but we don't know exactly why some people are affected by it and others are not. Some of the factors which seem to aggravate acne conditions include stress, diet, skin irritation, certain medications, and hormonal activities such as menstrual cycles. 
 
Medications that are associated with acne include anabolic steroids used for bodybuilding, lithium, barbiturates, halogens, and androgens. Dietary links seem to be mostly related to skim milk products. Many people associate food like chocolate and fast food with pimples, but there is no statistical evidence that this type of food causes or aggravates acne. 
 
Recently, scientific attention has been focusing on the possibility that narrowing hair follicles could be at least partially to blame for acne. The hair follicles may become restricted due to several possible causes including excessive shedding of cells within the follicle, abnormal cell binding, or water retention which causes the skin to swell. The narrower hair follicles prevent dead cells from being expelled from the body, causing an excessive buildup underneath the skin, which combined with sebum creates the conditions for acne. 
 
Many people are tempted to pop or <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">squeeze their pimples</a>, but this may only serve to spread the bacteria to the surrounding skin area making the condition even worse than before. Popping pimples may also lead to scarring which in severe cases can be permanent. 
 
Simply touching the face can also make acne become worse. It is a difficult habit to overcome -- most of us touch our faces repeatedly throughout the day. The problem for acne sufferers is that the hands also contain oils and bacteria which will exacerbate acne symptoms. In fact, all objects that come into contact with the face must be clean. This includes eyeglasses and telephone handsets. 
 
Hair (especially long hair) also comes into contact with our faces so it is important to keep hair clean and oil free. Clothing accessories like headbands or hats should be avoided or used as little as possible.</div>

Acne is not fully understood, but we do know some of the biology behind it. The main culprit is the excess production of an oily substance called sebum whose function is to keep skin and hair lubricated and supple. During adolescence, the body often…

What is Acne

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Acne is a common skin condition that most often appears during the teenage years. Commonly <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">known as pimples</a>, acne usually appears on the face but can also happen on other parts of the body such as the back, shoulders, neck and chest. Even though most teenagers experience acne at some point, it is a condition which can also affect adults. <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">Acne</a> is universal -- it affects males and females almost equally -- and occurs in every race. 
 
The proper name for acne is <a href="http://complex-acne.blogspot.com/">Acne Vulgaris</a>. It is characterized by lesions that break out on the skin. The lesions can be whiteheads, blackheads, or cysts which form because of clogged pores. It is most commonly seen during puberty, because it is at this time that the body produces an abundant supply of an oily substance called sebum. Sebum is needed to keep the hair and a skin soft and lubricated, but during puberty the body produces more sebum than is needed. This excess can clog pores and leave the skin feeling oily. 
 
Another change that occurs during puberty is the excess production of follicle cells. The dying cells can quickly build up and combine together with sebum to form whiteheads. This mixture of oil and dead cells creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which results in redness and swelling in the afflicted area resulting in pimples. 
 
Acne is an extremely common condition that affects about 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24. One quarter of these people have acne on other parts of the body besides the face -- most commonly the back and neck areas. 40% of acne sufferers seek medical attention because of the severity of their breakouts. 
 
The most common area for pimples to appear is the so-called 'T zone' of the face. This includes the forehead, the nose, and the chin, although acne may also appear on the cheeks and other parts of the face. The second most common area for acne is the back, followed by the neck, the chest, and the shoulders. 
 
By the time they are in their 20s, most people's acne has cleared up. However, it may still persist throughout the adult years in some people. Some people even experience acne for the first time when they are adults. Slightly more boys than girls suffer from the condition. 
 
Acne can be a problem for many people because it affects appearance and self image. Since teenagers are particularly vulnerable concerning their self-image, acne can cause feelings of depression and reduced self-confidence. It may cause some to withdraw from social interactions and cause feelings of anger and frustration. 
 
Thankfully, there are many modern treatments for acne. The first line of defence is keeping the skin clean and oil free. This can be done by gentle washing with soap and water twice a day, particularly after activities which cause perspiration. There are also a wide variety of medical treatments available for acne, both prescribed and over-the-counter. 
 
Severe acne conditions can be treated by a dermatologist. The doctor can prescribe ointments which are used directly on the skin as well as drugs like antibiotics which combat the bacteria which causes pimples. A dermatologist can also give valuable advice about diet and lifestyle changes which may help in combating acne.</div>

Acne is a common skin condition that most often appears during the teenage years. Commonly known as pimples, acne usually appears on the face but can also happen on other parts of the body such as the back, shoulders, neck and chest. Even though mos…