Accutane by prescription

Accutane is one of the oldest, and among the most effective, prescription medications for the treatment of moderate to severe acne. It is used on cystic and other advanced forms and has been used safely by millions for that purpose. But it does have some potential side effects and risks.

Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid taking isotretinoin. Several studies have suggested that it can produce birth defects. It’s a synthetic molecule, a retinoid similar to Vitamin A, available in pill form. As such, it can be abused. Normal dosage is once or twice per day for 4-5 months.

It works to reduce oil production, unclog pores and kill the bacteria that contribute to acne. It can also cause headache, excessive skin dryness, diarrhea and other problems. However, like all side effects, everyone is affected differently. That’s one of the major reasons it’s important to see a professional regularly during the course of treatment.

Oral Antibiotics by prescription

Acne is caused, in part, by a bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). So, the disease can be combated, in part, by taking antibiotics. Like all powerful antibiotics some care is necessary when using these.

Tetracycline (or its derivatives, doxycycline and minocycline) is one of the most commonly used. Both forms have been in use for many years and can substantially reduce inflammatory acne. Normal dosage is 5-10 grams per day at first, though it’s reduced as treatment progresses. Treatments may take several months. It, too, though carries some risk. Some patients’ skin becomes sensitive to the sun during treatment.

Erythromycin is another common treatment for acne. It’s a broad spectrum antibiotic and can kill Propionibacterium acnes effectively. Like any powerful antibiotic, though, it can sometimes cause gastrointestinal irritation. That’s a major reason it’s a prescription drug.

Topical Treatments by prescription

Some topical antibiotics can attack the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria directly through the surface of the skin. They’re typically used to treat less severe cases of acne. They may even be used in cases of acne vulgaris, a mild form.

A number of retinoids are sometimes prescribed. They may be the same compound used in over the counter medications, but in dosages high enough to warrant or require a prescription. Adapalene is a gel or cream that is usually effective within two or three months. It can cause minor skin dryness and irritation. It helps unclog pores. Tretinoin is a natural retinoid that has similar effects.

Anyone who has tried over the counter medications or treatments and not received satisfactory results has many other options. Nearly all acne can be successfully treated. Get a professional diagnosis to explore your options.

Adult Acne

Although less common than adult female acne, adult male acne can continue well after your teenage years. The cause of acne in men can vary but unlike adult female acne which is often related to menstruation, pregnancy or even menopause, male acne is often caused by non-hormonal factors that can be resolved easily.

Types of Adult Acne

Acne Vulgaris- Acne vulgaris is a common skin condition usually suffered by teenagers and is characterized by areas of the skin, often the face becoming covered with blackheads and whiteheads, pimples and papules. Over time this can result in scaring. While the acne you suffered as a teenager may have lessened over the years it has remained persistent. If this is you, it may simply be that your teenage acne has stuck around as your body has failed to fight off the acne causing bacteria propionibacterium acnes or P. acnes for short. The most logical solution would be to take antibiotics as these can kill off the acne causing bacteria once and for all. Antibiotics commonly taken to rid people of acne include clindamycin, tetracyclines, erythromycin and minocycline.

Acne Mechanica – Acne mechanica is a form of acne often seen on athletes and tends to occur underneath clothing. It is caused by irritation to the skin as a result of sweat and friction. This friction can be caused by sports equipment or clothing, helmets or belts rubbing against the skin. Wearing sweat absorbing materials and opting for softer clothing which is less harsh on the skin can make a real difference and can prevent this form of acne from appearing.

Anabolic Steroids – Acne has become increasingly common amongst body builders due to the widespread use of anabolic steroids. These powerful drugs increase the level of the male hormone testosterone. Testosterone when produced in excessive amounts can cause the oil glands to go into overdrive producing an excessive amount of oil in the skin which can clog the pores resulting in blackheads, whiteheads and cystic acne. If you take anabolic steroids, reducing or avoiding them altogether can lead to a significant reduction in these skin problems and reduce the other health problems associated with the misuse of anabolic steroids.

To find out more about male acne and female acne check out the authors site who provides researched advice on acne and other health issues.

Adult Acne is a common skin disease. It often manifests itself by inflammation in the skin, erupting in lesions and is characterized by pimples on the face, chest, and back. Acne is an inflammatory skin condition resulting in clogged pores, blackheads, and pimples. Not surprisingly acne can be triggered by hormones, excessive oil, and bacteria. It is the most common skin disorder among Americans affecting approximately 80 percent of the population. It is definitely the leading skin disorder affecting both men and women and adults and teenagers on a global scale, but is most common in teenagers and young adults.

Pimples form when the follicle is invaded by the P. acnes bacteria. Adult Acne Pimples can also occur when a clogged pore becomes infected by bacteria causing a red, raised bump to appear on the skin. Pimples can have a pus filled top, which is the body’s way of reacting to a bacterial infection. Whether you call them pimples, zits, or acne, lots of young teens find skin problems confusing and upsetting.

Treatments to get rid of Adult acne are almost the same as that of face acne. Let’s discuss few of the methods available to treat body skin breakouts. Acne treatments involve getting to the root of the problem starting with killing bacteria, minimizing the amount of oil or sebum being produced and exfoliating debris and dead skin cells from the surface layers of the dermis. Acne medications can involve oral and topical products.

Many times, scars left behind by acne and pimples disappear on their own but at times these scars can be more difficult to alleviate than treating the acne itself. Some people get pimples on the scalp that may take a few weeks to clear up. This type of pimple is known as acne necrotica miliaris, and seems to flourish during times of high stress or when the scalp is oilier than normal.

Oily skin causing Adult Acne requires more attention and care for both men and women. http://www.homebizxplosion.com/products/acne2.html

If Adult acne is a problem that you should look at a solution for right now and these ideas should help you out

Dermatologists always recommend certain things to do when you have acne. One is to cleanse your face with a mild cleanser twice a day. Next is to exfoliate at night to remove the dead skin cells. Most dermatologists recommend a product with benzoyl peroxide to kill the external bacteria on the skin. You also apply this twice a day.

There are also some things that you can do along with the traditional treatment for acne that are a natural acne cure and will give you more relief from the symptoms of common acne. They are meant to complement your present acne treatment methods, not replace them.

1. Drink lots of water. This may not seem like a natural acne cure but is very important, but it is. Water flushes the bacteria that causes acne out of your system. Try it for a better complexion.

2. Eat more fruits and vegetables. The amino acids in these foods produce good skin oils and is a good natural acne cure. Your skin will be more vibrant.

3. Do not use harsh soaps and alcohol based products to cleanse your face. They can dry out your pores and leave you worse off. Instead you can use a dermatologically approved cleanser and water.

4. Ice can be used to lessen the redness and irritation of pimples. This should be done soon after the outbreak for best results. Then cleanse your face with a light cleanser and water. Apply some cornstarch or baking soda mixed with water to the irritated area. This will soothe it, and draw out the infection to give you relief.

5. Raw, peeled potatoes can be used to lessen the redness of outbreaks and clean the skin. Just rub the flat side of a peeled potato on your face.

The best thing about these natural acne cure is that they do not cost you much money, if any at all. These little known secrets could be what it takes to keep you acne free. It is best to do them on a consistent basis so your acne does not return.

You can expect to see a noticeable change in the condition of your skin for the better in about ten days after you start using a natural acne cure. You now have some very good ways to help yourself fight your acne problem that you can use right away.

About the Author

Eliminate acne with our 12 page free report at: http://www.acneskincontrol.com/

Acne lesions occur mostly on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. It is the most common skin disease. Although acne is not a serious health threat, severe acne can lead to disfiguring and permanent scarring.

Women actually have more and different issues than men with acne.

How does acne affect women?

Most young women and men will have at least a few pimples over the course of their lives. But acne seems to affect men and women in different ways. Young men are more likely to have a more serious form of acne. Acne in young women tends to be more random and linked to hormone changes, such as the menstrual cycle.

As women get older, acne often gets better. But some women have acne for many years. Some women even get acne for the first time at age 30 or 40.

For many women, acne can be an upsetting illness. Women may have feelings of depression, poor body image, or low self-esteem. But you don’t have to wait to outgrow acne or to let it run its course. Today, almost every case of acne can be resolved. Acne also can, sometimes, be prevented. Talk with your doctor or dermatologist (a doctor who specializes in treating skin problems) about how you can help prevent acne and if treatment would help you.

To find out about the the Acne No More Book read my review.

What are the different types of acne lesions?

* Comedo (whiteheads or blackheads) or papules. The comedo is the basic acne lesion, which is a plugged pore. If the plugged pore stays under the skin, it’s called a closed comedo and forms a white bump or whitehead. Blackheads are comedos that open up and appear blackish on the surface of the skin. This black color is not due to dirt, but because the air reacts with the excess oil.

* Pustules or pimples. Pustules or pimples are acne lesions that contain pus and are red at the base.
* Nodules. These are more serious acne lesions. They lodge deeper in the skin, are painful, and can cause scarring.
* Cysts. Like nodules, these lesions are deep within in the skin, are painful, and are filled with pus, and can cause scarring.

Many things can trigger acne in women:
* Hormone changes during puberty. During puberty, girls have an increase in male sex hormones called androgens. This increase causes the glands to get larger and make more sebum.
* Hormone changes as an adult. The menstrual cycle is one of the most common acne triggers.

Acne lesions tend to form a few days before the cycle begins and go away after the cycle is completed. Other hormone changes, such as pregnancy and menopause, improve acne in some women. But some women have worse acne during these times. Stopping use of birth control pills can play a role as well.

* Medicines. Certain medicines, such as those used to treat epilepsy and types of depression.
* Make-up.
* Pressure or friction on the skin. Friction caused by bike helmets or backpacks can make acne worse
* Family history. If other people in your family have acne, there is a greater chance you will have it.

Does poor hygiene cause acne?

It is a myth that women get acne because they don’t wash enough. Too much washing or scrubbing the skin harshly can make acne worse. And washing away surface oils doesn’t do much to prevent or cure acne, because it forms under the skin. The best way to clean the face is to gently wash it twice a day with a mild soap or cleanser. Be careful to remove make-up without harsh scrubbing.

Can stress cause acne?
Stress does not cause acne. But, acne may be a side effect of some medicines used to treat stress or depression. And in some cases, the social and emotional impact of acne lesions causes stress. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns.

Can eating chocolate or greasy foods cause acne?
While many women feel that eating chocolate or greasy foods causes acne, experts have not found a link between the diet and acne. Foods seem to have little effect on acne in most people. But, it’s important to eat a healthy diet for good health.

How is mild acne treated?
There are many treatments for mild acne. Mild acne can consist of whiteheads, blackheads and small pustules. At home, you can wash your face twice per day with warm water and a gentle cleanser or soap. Your doctor may suggest you also try an over-the-counter lotion or cream. These medicines may make your skin dry if you use them too much. Be sure to follow the directions.

If these medicines dont work, your doctor may prescribe a cream or lotion with benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, salicylic acid, or sulfur.

* Benzoyl peroxide works to reduce oil made by the glands.
* Resorcinol, salicylic acid, and sulfur help breakdown whiteheads and blackheads.

If your acne does not get better after six to eight weeks, talk with your doctor about changing your treatment.

Can more serious forms of acne be treated?

Yes. Work with your doctor to find the best treatment for you.

Moderate to moderately severe acne. This type of acne consists of several whiteheads, blackheads, papules and pustules that cover the face and/or other parts of the body. It can be treated with antibiotic lotions or gels, as well as retinoic acid. Retinoic acid is an altered form of vitamin A. It helps prevent whiteheads and blackheads. Your doctor may also prescribe an antibiotic pill, such as erythromycin. If you take birth control pills to prevent pregnancy, antibiotics can affect how well they work. Be sure to use a second method of birth control with the pill, such as a condom. Retinoic acid and antibiotic pills can make the skin sensitive to the sun. So, wear sunscreen and stay in the shade while using them.

Severe acne. Severe acne consists of deep cysts, redness, swelling, extreme damage to the skin and scarring. You should see a dermatologist to care for this type of acne. Scarring can be prevented with appropriate treatments. Your dermatologist can prescribe oral antibiotics and oral contraceptives. Large inflamed cysts can be treated with an injection of a drug that lessens the redness, swelling, and irritation, and promotes healing.

Your dermatologist may prescribe Accutane, if other treatments have not worked. This is a strong medicine that can help prevent scarring and treat active disease. But, Accutane also can cause birth defects. It is important that you are not pregnant and do not plan to get pregnant while taking this medicine. You must use two methods of birth control at the same time. This is done for one month before treatment begins, during treatment, and for a full month after stopping the drug. Talk with your dermatologist about when it’s safe to get pregnant. Other side effects of this drug may include dry eyes, itching, mood changes, and changes in the blood and liver. You and your dermatologist can decide whether this medicine is right for you based on the pros and cons. Use any prescribed medicine exactly as you are advised. Taking more medicine than you are supposed to take may make acne or your general health worse. Ask your doctor what to do if you miss a dose.

Some large cysts do not respond to medication and may need to be drained or removed. Your dermatologist is the only person who should drain or remove these. You should never try to drain or remove your acne by squeezing or picking. This can lead to infection, worsen your acne, and cause scarring.

Overall, if you dont see a change in your skin in six to eight weeks, talk with your doctor about your treatment plan.

Can birth control pills help treat acne?

For women who break out mainly around their menstrual cycle, some birth control pills can help. Research shows that these pills can clear acne by slowing down overactive oil glands in the skin. Sometimes, birth control pills are used along with a drug called spironolactone to treat acne in adult females. This medication lowers levels of the hormone androgen in the body. Androgen stimulates the skins oil glands. Side effects of this drug include irregular menstruation, breast tenderness, headache and fatigue. Spironolactone is not appropriate therapy for all patients.
When is surgery used for acne scarring?

If you have scarring, your dermatologist may suggest surgery to help heal acne lesions and remove scarring. A laser can reshape scar tissue and reduce redness. Dermabrasion is a type of surgery that can remove surface scars and reduce the depth of deep scars. Another option is to transfer fat from one part of the body to the face. In some cases, a single treatment can help scarring. But for lasting results, several are often needed. There are also topical treatments for acne scarring.

Photodynamic therapy is a new acne treatment. It begins with light microdermabrasion. This is used to remove dead skin cells on the faces surface. Then, an acid is put on the skin for 30 to 60 minutes. After this period, the acid is taken off. Lastly, the skin is treated with a laser. This treatment is still being researched, but seems to give positive long-term results.
How can I help prevent acne and acne scars?

You can help prevent acne flare-ups and scars by taking good care of your skin:

1. Clean your skin gently with a mild soap or cleanser twice a day?once in the morning and once at night. You should also gently clean the skin after heavy exercise. Avoid strong soaps and rough scrub pads. Harsh scrubbing of the skin may make acne worse. Wash your entire face from under the jaw to the hairline and rinse thoroughly. Remove make-up gently with a mild soap and water. Ask your doctor before using an astringent.

2. Wash your hair on a regular basis. If your hair is oily, you may want to wash it more often.

3. Do not squeeze or pick at acne lesions. This can cause acne scars.

4. Avoid getting sunburned. Many medicines used to treat acne can make you more prone to sunburn. Many people think that the sun helps acne, because the redness from sunburn may make acne lesions less visible. But, too much sun can also increase your risk of skin cancer and early aging of the skin. When you’re going to be outside, use sunscreen of at least SPF 15. Also, try to stay in the shade as much as you can.

5. Choose make-up and hair care products that are non-comedogenic or non-acnegenic. These products have been made in a way that they don’t cause acne. You may also want to use products that are oil-free.

6. Avoid things that rub the skin as much as you can, such as backpacks and sports equipment.

7. Talk with your doctor about what treatment methods can help your acne. Take your medicines as prescribed. Be sure to tell your doctor if you think medicines you take for other health problems make your acne worse.

Is rosacea the same as acne?

Rosacea (ro-ZAY-she-ah) is a common skin problem often called adult acne. Faired skinned and menopausal women are more likely to have rosacea. Rosacea also seems to run in families. It causes redness in the center parts of the face and pimples. Blood vessels under the skin of the face may enlarge and show through the skin as small red lines. The skin may be swollen and feel warm.

Women with rosacea don’t have the same lesions as seen with common acne. They may have flushing of the face, when they are hot, drink alcohol or hot drinks, or eat spicy foods. This flushing causes the face to appear red. In the most severe form, this redness does not go away. The eyes may become swollen and nodules in the skin may be painful.

You can help keep rosacea under control by keeping a record of things that cause it to flare up. Try to avoid or limit these triggers as much as you can. Antibiotic lotions or gels can also help. Sometimes, you may need to take antibiotic pills. Your dermatologist may treat you with laser surgery. If you think you have rosacea, talk with your doctor about these treatments.

You might be able to reduce the flare-ups of body acne in the following ways:

• Treatment for body acne and facial acne cannot be considered as the same. Monitor your diet regularly and if your body acne is severe enough to warrant sensitivity tests by your doctor, follow through to find the ingredient or ingredients that lead to acne formation.

• Enhance the amount of fruits, vegetables, seeds and nuts in your diet. These will naturally help you to ward off acne attacks because of their vitamin and mineral content. Reducing body acne is a tricky problem but the solution is sometimes very simple.

• It’s prudent to wear loose clothing to enable your body to breathe and not become too oily. Too much oil on the body surface translates into torturous acne!

• Long hair can be beautiful but it also has potential to inflame body acne. Clean your hair regularly so that when it comes in contact with the body it doesn’t lead to the formation of acne.

• In today’s fast-paced life your worst enemy is stress. It can cause numerous problems, including body acne. If you want to know how to reduce body acne the answer lies in decreasing the amount of stress. Take time off to relax and de-stress yourself.

Body acne reduction can be emolliated in commercial creams and lotions, as well. These have three major components, which help in combating acne namely, benzoyl peroxide, glycolic acid and salicylic acid. They unclog pores, decrease the amount of oil formation and help to avert acne.

If you want herbal remedies, there are many creams available which have different herbs in them that act as antibiotics and also reduce skin inflammation. Many of these contain neem, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, dandelion root and/or honeysuckle (these can quite often be found in health food stores). Herbal body scrubs open up pores and clean out oil and debris to allow your skin to “breath”. Apricot pit is a common ingredient in these. There are oral antibiotics, too, which include vitamins A, B2, B3 and E. These can be of real help in the treatment of body acne.

The key to reducing body acne may lie in your general health and hygiene, however. Just get into the habit of cleaning your body regularly with antibacterial scrub and taking off sweaty clothes without rubbing or irritating your skin. Get the right amount of sleep, relax and take it easy. It’s always sensible to consult a doctor before you take any medication for body acne. There are always advancements in medicine and alternative discoveries that may improve your chances of leaving body acne behind!

At the American Academy of Dermatology’s Summer Academy Meeting 2008 in Chicago, dermatologist Valerie D. Callender, MD, FAAD, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at Howard University College of Medicine in Washington, D.C., discussed the importance of early intervention in treating acne and rosacea in patients with skin of color.

“As we become a more diverse population with lots of different skin types and tones, we also are seeing an increase in skin concerns that, while not new, are affecting more and more people with darker skin,” said Dr. Callender. “Even skinconditions like acne and rosacea can create pigmentation problems in these patients, which can be very hard to treat.

However, these problems can be improved by seeing a dermatologist who is trained to properly diagnose these conditions and to carefully consider a patient’s potential risk of skin irritation.” Dr. Callender explained that people with skin of color have diverse ethnic backgrounds, which is why there is such a wide range of skin types. Those with pigmented skin include African-Americans, Asians, Hispanics/Latinos, Middle Easterners, and Native Indians.

Acne – Early and Aggressive Management is Key

While acne is considered the most common skin condition in the United States, there is no cure for this bothersome condition and problems can remain long after the pimples and pustules have cleared — particularly in darker-skinned patients. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (commonly referred to as dark spots or blemishes) is a concern for these acne patients, as the irritation the skin experiences from acne lesions can leave their mark in the form of long-lasting skin discoloration.

Topical retinoids, which Dr. Callender considers the mainstay of treatment in acne patients of color, have been shown effective in clearing acne lesions while also reducing the occurrence of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Tretinoin, tazarotene and adapalene are three commonly prescribed topical retinoids that Dr. Callender recommends for her patients. She explained that combining one of these topical retinoids with other effective acne medications — such as a benzoyl peroxide and oral antibiotic combinations — can enhance results.

“One combination topical retinoid containing tretinoin and clindamycin works great for darker-skinned acne patients because clindamycin reduces the inflammation of acne lesions,” said Dr. Callender. “Your dermatologist can determine the best treatment regimen based on your skin type and severity of acne.” In addition, chemical peels and microdermabrasion can be used for acne and resulting pigmentation problems. For example, Dr. Callender noted that chemical peels containing salicylic acid penetrate into the follicle where acne starts and unclogs the follicle — leading to an improvement in acne.

Dr. Callender cautioned that these procedures should only be performed by a dermatologist or another qualified physician since these procedures could actually harm the skin if performed improperly. Fractional laser resurfacing also has been found to be safe for treating acne scars in patients of color. However, Dr. Callender recommended that microdermabrasion and chemical peels should be tried before fractional laser resurfacing for treating superficial acne scars.

Rosacea – Proper Diagnosis is Important First Step

Rosacea, the chronic skin disease characterized by redness, flushing and prominent blood vessels of the face, is thought to be more common in people of European descent, particularly those of Celtic origin. However, Dr. Callender pointed out that rosacea can occur in people of all skin types. “Traditionally, rosacea has been overlooked and underreported in patients of color,” said Dr. Callender. “In fact, while there are 14 million Americans affected by rosacea, the incidence of the condition in skin of color has not been reported. To address this lack of epidemiological data, a multi-center study looking at the incidence of rosacea in this population is being initiated.

We think the data will show that rosacea is clearly an equal-opportunity condition that should not be overlooked in skin of color.” One problem associated with rosacea in patients of color is post-inflammatory hypopigmentation, or lightening of the skin, that can occur simultaneously with redness. In some cases, these patients also may experience post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or darkening of the skin. Dr. Callender also noted that rosacea is often misdiagnosed in patients of color, as clinicians may mistake the signs and symptoms of the condition for lupus — a systemic, autoimmune condition that commonly occurs as a “butterfly rash” involving the face.

“Dermatologists can recognize the nuances that distinguish rosacea from lupus in skin of color, which is why it is very important for patients to see a dermatologist for the proper diagnosis and treatment,” explained Dr. Callender. “Some medications prescribed for lupus, such as prednisone, can make rosacea worse, so a misdiagnosis can really delay the road to recovery.”

Rosacea triggers, such as sunlight, heat or high temperatures, certain beverages, stress, and spicy foods, are the same for patients of all skin types. Since the skin is so sensitive in rosacea patients, Dr. Callender advised patients — including those with skin of color — to practice proper sun protection year-round, including applying broad-spectrum (UVA and UVB) sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. “Sun protection is very important for everyone, and patients of color with acne or rosacea need to properly protect themselves from the sun because these conditions make their skin so sensitive,” said Dr. Callender.

“I recommend that my patients look for sunscreens that contain micronized zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, as they are physical filters and less irritating to the skin.” For more information on acne and rosacea, visit http://www.skincarephysicians.com, a Web site developed by dermatologists that provides patients with up-to-date information on the treatment and management of conditions of the skin, hair and nails. Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations.

With a membership of more than 15,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails. For more information, contact the Academy at 1-888-462-DERM (3376) or http://www.aad.org. SOURCE American Academy of Dermatology

Here’s a news flash … some of the most basic differences between men and women are no more than skin deep. Now, with the launch of a revolutionary new skin care product, each gender will be able to address these differences and protect themselves from acne in a way they have never been able to do before.

CTRL acne treatment is the world’s first gender-specific, topical, non-prescription acne treatment. This special two-step system uses a carefully-adjusted proprietary formula and a unique combination of natural ingredients to attack and prevent acne at its root cause. CTRL acne treatment is uniquely designed in two formulas, CTRL acne treatment for Her and CTRL acne treatment for Him, with each product created to address the specific design and structure of the skin it is treating.

“It’s amazing, when you look at the many and fundamental differences between men’s and women’s skin. Up until now, ordinary acne products treat acne with the exact same approach without consideration to these differences in male and female skin,” said Brian Jennings, Founder and CEO of Videsante. “CTRL acne treatment is designed to take those differences into account and provide a safe, healthy, comprehensive approach that can erase not only the appearance of acne but treat the root causes of it as well.”

The science behind CTRL acne treatment is based on the four factors that trigger acne. These include hyperkeratinization, sebum production, infection and inflammation. The CTRL acne treatment product uses Videsante’s proprietary 5 alpha Phyto-Technology(TM), featuring patented ingredients that attack the root source of acne by reducing oil and sebum production in the skin. At the same time, CTRL acne treatment products also deliver a series of prebiotic complexes that are designed to kill P. acne bacteria deep in the pores without damaging other important skin-balancing bacteria. CTRL acne treatment uses Salicylic Acid to clear away dead skin cells and other debris and infuses lipid-rich ceramides into the skin to reduce blemishes and redness, leaving skin smooth and rejuvenated.

Perhaps most amazing is that all this carefully calculated science is accomplished with two simple treatments per day and without the hassle or cost of seeing a dermatologist.

CTRL acne treatment for Her and CTRL acne treatment for Him were created to address the fact that all skin is most certainly NOT created equal. Here are some crucial differences:

* Female skin is more delicate and prone to irritation because female skin is 25% thinner than male skin, which means the surface is that much more delicate and prone to irritation
* Male skin is higher pH leading to increases in bacteria growth
* Female skin has a lower pH and more acidic skin surface requiring a more balanced product
* Male skin has more androgen sensitive receptors near the surface, which can put oil production into overdrive and overwhelm unsuspecting pores
* Female skin is affected by estrogen and progesterone levels while male skin is affected by testosterone
* Differences in lifestyle mean the male skin is at more risk for skin surface debris from sweat, dirt and pore-blocking oils

CTRL acne treatment has the added bonus of not only benefiting the skin itself but the bodies it wraps around. Innovative new technologies allow CTRL acne treatment to deliver maximum effectiveness without using the irritating and potentially dangerous ingredients found in so many personal care products. These include parabens, also known as environmental estrogens, which are found in many of today’s widely used acne treatments, liquid hand soaps, moisturizers, deodorants and more. Parabens, while designed to prevent the growth of bacteria within a container, have received increasing scrutiny from consumer advocacy groups and scientists alike in recent years. One reason is their ability and tendency to mimic the body’s natural estrogen, with potentially harmful long-term health effects.

“While our partners in the field of research continue to do their due diligence on the effects of parabens on humans,” said Jennings, “we are delighted to be able to offer our customers an option that takes the worry off of the table and gives them not only relief from their acne symptoms, but peace of mind as well.”

When it’s the beginning of October, teens and tweens are “faced” with a problem. It affects 85 percent of all teenagers, making it the prevalent problem of adolescence.

“Everyone gets it, but I have a lot of friends who have it worse than I do,” said 12-year-old Johnathan Trent of Valparaiso.

“The best thing to do is to wash your face as much as you can and watch what you eat.”

But according to Dr. Hilary Baldwin, dermatologist and president of the American Acne and Rosacea Society, lifestyle changes and new products can help young people reduce acne.

“This is one of the worst times of the year, because once you hit October, students have been dealing with the stress of the first month of back to school, and the result is acne breaking out,” she said.

Baldwin said ideally, the best hope is to stop problems before they start. She cites stress as a factor that sets off specific chemical and hormonal reactions in the body.

Some scientific evidence shows people who are “acne-prone” may experience increased oil production in pores. Along with the shedding of skin cells in the pore, and the presence of a bacteria called P.acnes, the ingredients help create acne.

“We have many more options today than were available to us to help patients 20 years ago,” Baldwin said.

“Ultimately, we want to kill the bacteria that develops under the skin to cause acne to form.”

One of the newest products, available by prescription, Dr. Baldwin recommends is from Coria Laboratories called Atralin Gel, which is prized not only because it contains benzoyl peroxide but also a patented combination of ingredients to hydrate the skin, reducing irritation.

As for over-the-counter options, a product with proven results is Neutrogena Rapid Clear Acne Eliminating Spot Gel, which contains ingredients clinically proven to clear congested pores.

Baldwin tells her young patients they shouldn’t blame their parents for bad skin, since acne is not “inherited.”

“There are so many studies and research in this subject, but much of it still remains inconclusive,” she said.

“Something we do know and are closely following, is why there are few or no cases of acne reported in undeveloped countries, and that’s where studies of lifestyle and diet are becoming increasingly important.”

Acne 101

There are two types of acne: noninflammatory and inflammatory.

Noninflammatory acne consists of whiteheads (closed comedo) and blackheads (open comedo). Inflammatory acne has four types of lesions: papules; pustules; nodules (cysts or pock marks); and acne conglobata.

Whiteheads occur when the plugged follicle stays below the skin, and appears as a small whitish bump.

When the plugged follicle pushes through the surface of the skin, it is called a blackhead. The plug’s dark appearance is not due to a build-up of dirt, but rather is a collection of melanin (the skin’s dark pigment).

Simple Acne – The most mild form of inflammatory acne is the papule, which is a small pinkish bump that is usually tender to the touch.

Worse Acne – Pustules, like papules, are round lesions with a red base and whitish center. Pustules do not commonly contain large amounts of bacteria. Instead the inflammation is caused by chemical irritations from substances such as fatty free acids.

Worst Acne – Large and painful, nodules are inflamed and pus-filled lesions lodged deep in the skin. Nodules are the most severe form of acne lesions, and may persist for weeks or months, their contents hardening into cysts. These often leave deep scars.

Inflamed Acne – Acne conglobata is a rare and serious form of inflammatory acne that develops primarily on the back, chest or buttocks. The pustules and nodules usually are accompanied by a severe bacterial infection.

About 85 percent of all teenagers develop acne. It is estimated that 1 in 4 adults between 25 and 44 experience acne, and nearly half of all adult women experience mild to moderate acne.

Astringent cleansers help prevent acne, because they reduce oiliness of the skin and pores.

Topical medication including benzoyl peroxide are usual types of antibiotics applied to the affected areas. Topical antibacterials, however, are not generally considered to be as effective as oral medication, especially for more severe acne cases.
The strongest oral medication available to treat acne is called Accutane, which must be taken under a dermatologist’s supervision. While Accutane can make a dramatic difference, the drug can produce side effects including depression, liver damage and birth defects if taken during pregnancy.

Acne is the most widespread skin condition in the world.

Scientists have found a component of mother’s milk called lauric acid, which also occurs in coconut oil, that can help reduce irritation and spots.

They hope a breast milk acne cure made with the naturally-occurring acid will avoid side effects including redness and burning caused by conventional antibiotic treatments.

Breast milk acne cure? How? Lauric acid in mother’s breast milk could help irritation and spots in teenagers and young adults

Around three-quarters of teenagers and young adults are affected by mild to moderate inflammatory acne, with some patients suffering depression and even attempting suicide.

The condition is caused by overactive oil-producing glands, which trap oil in pores where normally harmless bacteria causes inflammation.

A breast milk acne cure cream undergoing clinical trials uses tiny gold particles to carry lauric acid into pores where it can fight bacteria.

Dissaya Pornpattananangkul, a postgraduate student at the University of California, who developed the breast milk acne cure treatment, said: ‘It’s a good feeling to know that I have a chance to develop a drug that could help people with acne.’

Acne conditions are usually associated with adolescence but can affect sufferers throughout their adult lives.

Acne affects 85 percent of young people ages 12 to 24, and 25 percent will end up with permanent scars. There are many treatments available both over the counter and by prescription to treat this skin disorder, and each one is associated with varying degrees of success and side effects. One natural approach that has proven helpful in some recent studies is green tea.

Green tea lotion for acne

A University of Miami study published in the April 2009 issue of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology reported on the use of 2% green tea lotion in 20 patients who had mild to moderate acne vulgaris. The participants applied the lotion twice daily for six weeks.
At the end of the study, the mean total number of lesions had declined from 24 before treatment to 10, for a reduction of 58 percent. The severity of the lesions also declined by 39 percent.

In another study completed in 2008 and published in the Saudi Medical Journal, researchers compared the use of 2% green tea lotion with 5% zinc sulphate solution, which is frequently used to treat acne. Forty patients ages 13 to 27 used either green tea lotion or zinc sulphate solution twice daily for two months. By the end of the study, the patients who had used green tea lotion experienced a statistically significant reduction in acne lesions compared with the patients who had used zinc sulphate.

In an anecdotal study, researchers compared 3% green tea lotion and 4% benzoyl peroxide (a common treatment for acne) in patients who had acne. They found that both treatments offered similar improvement, yet the green tea did not cause the dryness and irritation associated with benzoyl peroxide.

Using green tea for acne

Applying green tea lotion to acne vulgaris lesions twice daily appears to be effective for people who have acne. Credit for the benefits are given to the high antioxidant levels in green tea, especially the catechins, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which also have antibacterial properties.

Don’t stop with just the lotion, however. Many people find that applying cooled, steeped green tea bags can offer relief, reducing inflammation and redness, and helping kill bacteria on the skin.

After you steep the green tea bags, many experts recommend drinking the tea, as much as six to eight cups daily. Utilizing green tea both topically and internally can improve treatment results.