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Thursday 30 October 2014

How to Treat Baby Acne

Parents of newborns are sometimes surprised to find that their baby's face is covered in pimples. While the rough texture may not be what you envisioned before your child was born, acne is a common problem in babies, and one that usually clears up in the first few weeks of life.
This early form of baby acne is called neonatal acne and it does not require any treatment. The pimples do not bother your baby, and they will probably soon be gone. Parents should gently clean their newborn's sensitive skin as normal, without trying to scrub, squeeze, or pick at the spots.
Some babies, however continue having an acne problem well beyond the first weeks of life. This is called infantile acne, and it can affect both babies and toddlers. Infantile acne can be more severe than the neonatal form, and it can last for a short time, or hang around until around three years of age.
Baby acne looks a lot like the form everyone else gets. The baby will have red, raised bumps and pus-filled spots on his face or trunk. Newborn babies also frequently have spots called milia on their faces at birth. These small, firm, white bumps are not acne, and they will eventually go away.
If infantile acne persists, your child's doctor may prescribe a mild benzoyl peroxide gel that can be rubbed on the spots. Although benzoyl peroxide is commonly found in acne products, you need to see your doctor to get a prescription for a gel that is safe for a baby's sensitive skin. You should not try to experiment with over the counter products yourself.
In some cases, a doctor will prescribe an antibiotic to treat infantile acne. Antibiotics are sometimes used as a baby acne treatment mainly because they decrease the amount of pimple-causing bacteria on the skin. Very rarely, a fungus can contribute to severe acne, and this would require an antifungal medication. In extreme cases, a pediatric dermatologist may prescribe stronger drugs to treat baby acne.
Very rarely, a hormonal problem can cause a young child to have pimples. Baby acne is certainly common, and it is not likely that a hormonal problem is to blame in most cases, but if your child is showing any other signs of early puberty your doctor will want to check for an underlying condition.
Sensitive newborn skin frequently has imperfections, but following normal baby skin care advice is usually all that is needed. Wash the skin gently with warm water and pat it dry. If your baby has severe acne that doesn't clear up within the first three months, your doctor can help you get to the root of the problem and prescribe any necessary treatments.

The Secrets to Beating Acne in Adolescents

Acne is a disorder involving sebaceous glands and hair follicles. It results from the clogging of sebaceous glands leading to the formation of pimples and cysts. The condition usually begins with the onset of puberty. During puberty the androgens also called male sex hormones are produced in high numbers leading to sebaceous glands becoming over active which results in sebum being produced in high proportions. Acne is one of the most common problems in adolescent teens affecting nearly seventeen million people in the United States. Oil is produced by sebaceous glands, called sebum, which travel to the skin surface through hair follicles gets trapped when skin cells block the follicles. This results in the development of skin bacteria which in turn results in swelling of the skin called acne. If the hair follicles are partially blocked it results in blackheads. If the follicles are completely blocked they result in whiteheads. If plugged follicles are not treated they ultimately burst causing the oil, bacteria and skin cells to spill all over the skin resulting in irritation and formation of pimples. Acne can be shallow or deep depending on the nature of skin and amount of oil produced. There are various reasons why acne forms. Rising hormone levels due to puberty, intake of drugs which contain lithium, barbiturates and corticosteroids, to excess grease and oil in the scalp, due to cooking oil and use of some cosmetics can all be reasons that acne forms. An acne problem can also be inherited. Acne can form at any place of the body but it is most common in the areas where there sebaceous glands are present in high proportions like the face, chest, shoulders, neck and upper back. The symptoms may differ from person to person but commonly seen symptoms are: formation of blackheads, whiteheads, lesions filled with pus and which are very painful and lastly nodules. There are lots of acne treatments available today. It is best to consult with a doctor as the doctor can best decide which specific treatment you need based on: the extent of acne problem, age, medical history, overall health, tolerance to specific medications and procedures, expectations and what you prefer. Treatment of acne is classified into topical and systemic drug therapies which are given based on extent of severity. The doctor may recommend a combination of both the for acne treatment. Topical medication is nothing but creams, gels, lotions and solutions. Some of the examples of topical medication are: - Benzoyl Peroxide which kills the Propionibacterium Acnes bacteria - Antibiotics helps in stopping or slowing down the growth of the bacteria and also reduces inflammation -Tretinoin which helps in stopping the formation of new acne lesions -Adapalene which reduces formation of comedo Systemic drug therapies involve prescription of systemic antibiotics primarily for the treatment of acne problem which is moderate to severe in nature. For teenagers with severe acne problem a drug is prescribed which shrinks down the sebaceous glands that produce oil. The results are pretty good and almost ninety percent of the adolescents have success with this oral drug.

Skin Facial at Home

Tone Skin
Toning the skin isn't necessary, but it can tighten the pores and help to dry up pimples, just make sure to pick a toner that is non-alcoholic so that it won't be too drying. After rinsing and pat drying your face, soak a cotton ball in toner and rub onto your face, making sure to avoid the eye area.
Steam
Steaming your skin is the one of the best way to really clear pores of gunk and to bring pimples to a head, but you have to be careful not to burn yourself. You can use hot water from the tap, but if you choose to boil it, let the water sit for at least five minutes because the heat can damage you're the small capillaries in your skin. Pour the water into a large bowl and sit in front of it (about 6-8 inches away) with a bath towel placed over your head. Allow the steam to penetrate your pores for 5 minutes.
Mask
Your skin is now prepped for a mask which will firm your skin, tighten your pores, and create a healthy complexion. If you have dry skin, choose a moisturizing mask or one that can peel off, but if you have oily or acne prone skin, use a clay mask. Make sure that your face is completely dry before applying. Keep it on for 15 minutes without moving your face the entire time, before peeling or washing off.
Moisturize
After completing these steps your skin should look radiant, but in order to maintain that glow moisturizing it absolutely essential even if you have oily skin, since it's one of the best ways to nourish it. If your skin is dry choose a thick and creamy moisturizer.
If your skin is acne prone choose one with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide to help treat pimples, and if you have oily skin just choose a light formula or a gel moisturizer. No matter what skin type you have always make sure to choose a moisturizer that reads oil-free or non-comedogenic on the label, so that it won't clog pores or cause breakouts.

How to Give Yourself a Facial at Home

If you don't want to spend lots of money going to a spa, or you just want to maintain your skin in between appointments, here's how to give yourself a facial at home.
Cleanse Your Skin
In order to give yourself a good facial you have to start with clean skin. Pick a cleanser that is designed to be used on your face (no bar soaps or body washes), and one that is specifically designed for your skin type. If you have oily skin your skin can handle a clear or gel type cleanser, but if you have dry or sensitive skin use a creamier one.
If you're wearing makeup around your eyes use an eye makeup remover or petroleum jelly to break the makeup down. Then splash your face with water a few times or until it's saturated, then add a drop of cleanser to the palm of one of your hands, rub it between both then apply to your face. Rub using a circular motion with your fingertips until you've worked it in. Wait about ten seconds before you rinse it off so that the cleanser has time to break down the oil on your face, then rinse.
Scrub Up
After cleansing your face, the next step is to exfoliate. This is because as you age your dead skin cells take a longer time to turn over then they used to, creating a dull complexion. Exfoliation helps your skin out and will give you brighter, healthier glow.
It's important to choose a scrub that is suitable for your skin. If your skin is dry or you don't want to use a granular scrub on it, choose a scrub that has fruit enzymes. It will slough off your dead skin without damaging your fresh skin cells. If you choose to buy a granular scrub, make sure it's has smaller beads and has a gentle formula. Or you can just make a scrub with a bit of water and sugar from your cabinet, just don't scrub too hard.

Get Rid of Chicken Pox Itching

How long am I contagious with Chicken Pox?
From the day that the fever develops is the beginning of being contagious. Once all of the chicken pox bumps have crusted over, the child is no longer contagious. Remember to check for new bumps to appear during the first seven days of breakout.
Chicken Pox Home Remedies
Catnip Tea with a hint of molasses or honey will bring down the fever. This can be used with multiple sicknesses other than just for chicken pox.
Ginger added to a warm/cool bathwater will help the itching. Take as many baths as needed. If you have younger children, give them their favorite bath toys.
Aveeno has a wonderful line of itch free products. Finding itch relief can be difficult with chicken pox. Aveeno products are wonderful to have on hand.
Honey will relief itching and help to heal the chicken pox within a few days. Just take a little honey and smear on the chicken pox bumps.
Chicken Noodle Soup can give vital nutrients and vitamins when you are feeling sick. A wonderful chicken noodle soup is: fresh carrots, potatoes, cooked chicken, chicken broth, and any other veggies you love. Let this simmer for a couple of hours and you have homemade chicken noodle soup.
Vitamin E Oil can be used to rub on the chicken pox bumps. The vitamin E has natural healing powers that will help the chicken pox bumps to not scar.
Witch Hazel can also help the itching caused from chicken pox. To make a Witch Hazel mixture, take one cup of witch hazel and one cup of water. Mix the two and apply to the skin. Don't be afraid to lavish this mixture on the skin. The witch hazel can be applied as often as needed. Once you apply the witch hazel and water, let dry.
Herbal Tea can be not only relaxing to children who've been infected with chicken pox but it also can relieve the itching. Try chamomile, basil, or lemon balm with a touch of lemon, honey, and cinnamon. The healing properties will help the itching and help heal the chicken pox.

Chicken Pox Home Remedy

Chicken Pox is that dreaded sickness. Once you know of someone who has it, you wait patiently to discover if your family was affected. Once those little red dots start appearing, you know for certain. Chicken Pox has hit your family.
There are Chicken Pox Home Remedies that can be used to not only help the swelling but ensure that the rest of your family doesn't also get chicken pox. Because of how contagious chicken pox is,
Is Chicken Pox Contagious?
Chicken Pox is not only contagious but it is a viral infection that is easily transmitted from one person to the next. The contagious cycle of chicken pox really doesn't begin until the pox begins. Many people do not realize they've been infected until the signs of chicken pox show themselves.
What is Chicken Pox?
Chicken Pox is a viral infection that usually affects children although adults can catch chicken pox. If adults catch chicken pox, their symptoms are usually more severe than those chicken pox symptoms of children.
What are symptoms of Chicken Pox?
Several symptoms of chicken pox are fever, scratching, itching, loss of appetite, and generally just not feeling good. Finding a good remedy for chicken pox becomes vital as symptoms can be extreme. Ones the pimples began to appear, the itching and misery really begins. These pimples are filled with fluid and will crust over which looks different from a normal pimple. These eruptions can occur all over the body.
How to know if I have Chicken Pox?
Chicken Pox bumps look different from insect bites. If it is chicken pox, more bumps will continue to appear of the next few days. By the fifth day, the first bumps that appeared will start to look crusted over. You will also start to see no more new bumps. By this point, you can have quite a few bumps. As a child, I had over 400 pox pimples all over my body which was miserable from start to finish.
If you are unsure a particular bump could be chicken pox, try the following technique. Draw a line around the bump and wait a day or two. If the bump crusts over and more bumps appear, you could possibly have chicken pox.
How long will I have Chicken Pox?
Chicken Pox generally runs for about 2 weeks. Of course, if you have kids and they all catch chicken pox at different times, you will probably feel like you are never getting rid of chicken pox but don't despair. The chicken pox will not last forever!

How to Get Rid of Acne Naturally

Are you breaking out with severe acne and don't know what to do? One of the most crucial times for getting acne for some reason is summer, because you sweat more and your pores are open. What can you do to help your acne? The best way to help anyone with acne is to start using an organic acne product or make your own. Yes, some of the acne products in the stores today like Acne Dry Spot, Derma Clear, and Proactiv work extremely well, but these products don't have enough of the right essentials your skin needs in order to clear up your skin and the acne.
Acne can be very annoying, painful, and really ugly to the point where, we feel so self-conscious of what our face looks like that we try to cover it up with foundation, powder, concealer, or even toothpaste thinking it will hide it.
When it comes to acne I am one of the lucky ones who only get a pimple maybe once every few months, but when I get that pimple it's always a blind one that I can't squeeze unless I want an infection. This normally happens when I get my period. So now I am stressed about my monthly and this darn pimple that just seems to get bigger. Through out the years I have learned some really neat tricks on getting rid of those monster pimples that may surprise a few of you.
How to help acne tip #1- If you have a blind pimple that wont come to a head please do not try to pop it. Take a hot compress place it directly on the pimple. Leave it there for 5 minutes. Then close up your pores with a cool rinse. Now mix up a tablespoon of Wine, 4 drops of lavender oil, and ½ tablespoon of green clay.
The wine will help draw the redness out from the blind pimple, lavender oil will help dry up the pimple and decrease the sebum, and the green clay will tighten up your skin and close your pores. Apply this directly onto the pimple. Leave this on for 30 minutes. Rinse off with warm water to get the residue off. Then apply a cold rinse.
How to help acne tip #2- For regular pimples mix 1 tablespoon of honey, ¼ teaspoon of sugar, and 3 drops of lavender oil. The honey will fight the bacteria that's causing the pimple, lavender will dry up the pimple, and the sugar will deep clean your skin. Mix the 3 ingredients in a small bowl. Then take a wash rag and glob some of this mixture onto it. Place this directly onto the pimple leave it on for 20 minutes. Rinse this off with warm water followed by a cool rinse.
Help to help acne tip #3- Toothpaste works great on all types of pimples/acne, but toothpaste only dries the pimple up it doesn't deep clean the pores or tighten up the skin. If you want to cure your pimple with toothpaste add 2 drop of lavender, and ¼ teaspoon of green clay to the toothpaste mixture. Place a hot rag on top leave on for 20 minutes. Rinse off with warm water followed by a cool rinse.
Other natural ways of getting rid a pimple are using a ripe tomato, lemon mixed with witch hazel, lemon juice mixed with cinnamon, crushed fresh garlic, and a ripe papaya placed directly onto the pimple.

Acne Myths

Acne is contagious
No one knows how this myth got started, but rumor has it that fathers would tell this to their daughters to keep them away from boys with acne. Apparently these fathers thought acne was caused by poor hygiene. Acne is absolutely, positively not contagious. You can't get it from anyone and you can't give it to anyone.
Tanning clears up acne
Tanning may darken your skin and temporarily mask the redness of acne; but it does nothing more than that. While it's beneficial to obtain 20 minutes of sunlight each day in order to obtain your vitamin D; too much sun increases your risk of developing wrinkles and even skin cancer. And, if you're thinking about tanning beds, nix that idea. There is growing concern that tanning beds increase your risk of developing skin cancer.
Using more medicine will heal acne faster
Wrong! When it comes to acne medicine, adhere to the saying "less is more." Using too much medicine can lead to dry, irritated skin. It can also lead to physical problems. When you apply ointment to the skin, it is absorbed by your entire body. It's filtered through the liver and kidneys. Using too much medicine can overtax these organs and cause unpleasant and even dangerous side effects. Always follow directions when using acne treatments and never use more than the prescribed amount.
Cosmetics must be avoided if you have acne
This is partially true and partially false. Certain types of cosmetics have been linked to acne and include foundation, night creams, and moisturizers composed of vegetable oil and oleic acid. If you want to use cosmetics just be certain to select products that are labeled "noncomedogenic" or "nonacnegenic." Oftentimes, health food stores will carry all-natural cosmetics; some of which are specifically formulated for people with acne.
It is safe to stop acne medication once acne has cleared
You should always consult with your doctor or dermatologist about discontinuing your medication. Acne flare-ups can occur if you stop taking your medication to soon, or if you change the dose. Certain medications require a "weening" period, which means the dosage should gradually be reduced. Complications can arise when quickly stopping some acne medications.

Common Acne Myths

Acne is the most common skin disease in the United States. It affects nearly 20 million teens and one in every twenty adults. There is a tremendous amount of misinformation that confuses people about the real causes of acne. In order to clear the confusion, let's take a look at some of the most common acne myths.
Acne is caused by what you eat
Although some individuals notice their skin breaks out after consuming greasy foods, soda, and chocolate, these outbreaks are generally related to food allergies, not acne. Extensive studies have been conducted on acne and none have found a connection between diet and acne. Acne is caused by an overproduction of sebum (oil) and obstruction of the pores. It is not caused by food.
Acne is caused by poor hygiene
Acne is not caused by poor hygiene; however, it is important to keep skin pores clear of dirt to prevent bacteria from infecting the skin. Oftentimes, people who believe this myth cleanse their skin vigorously and frequently, which can make acne worse. Experts recommend gently washing the face twice a day with special oil absorbing micro-fiber facial clothes or with mild soap.
Popping pimples is the best way to manage acne
STOP and step away from the mirror! Nothing could be further from the truth. In fact, picking or popping your pimples can lead to a nasty infection, or possibly even permanent scarring. As difficult as it might be let them pop on their own and they'll heal much faster.
Only teenagers get acne
People of all ages can get acne. As early as birth, infants can have mild acne on their faces. Adolescent acne usually develops when puberty begins and adult acne develops between the ages of 20 and 50. Most people eventually outgrow acne; however, in women it may last until menopause.
Oily skin is the main cause of pimples
Acne is not caused by oily skin. For reasons no one completely understands, follicles (or pores) sometimes become blocked with sebum (oil). The cells that line the hair follicle fail to make their way to the skin's surface, where they can be washed away. Instead these cells build up, mix with sebum and bacteria, and form a plug. Acne originates from the faulty hair follicle cells that don't get washed away, not the oil.

Steps for Men to Keep a Smooth Face

With competition being as rough as it has ever been in the job market, just about any way you can set yourself apart will work to your advantage. Yet, with life being so rough, having a smooth and professional looking face can only help you, whether it is in finding a job or just to look less scruffy. With this in mind, here are  steps for men to attain that clean, smooth face.
Soap up your face in the shower daily.
One of the trickiest parts of keeping your face smooth is the consistency it requires. However, this is essential to keeping up your appearance. Your shower does not have to take long and can be as short as 5 minutes. Just make sure you use that 5 minutes effectively and use warm water to wash your face for the best effect. Soaps such as Dove and Neutrogena have also proven reliable for keeping clean. This is the very foundation of men's skincare.
Get rid of acne and pimples.
This may sound easier than it is, but once again, consistency plays a deciding factor. Although that shower is a great first step, if you get dirty or sweaty during the day, take a few minutes to clean up your face. According to one New York Times health piece this will cause current blemishes to fade and reduce the likeliness of new acne and pimples popping up. Following this step ensures less man acne.
Feel free to use a facial scrub.
Although some men may associate facial scrubs as being a beauty product for women, this is not entirely true. Both genders can get plenty of mileage out of this product. Facial scrubs work to peel away dead skin and bring forth new healthier skin. As such, older men may find a facial scrub particularly effective.
Avoid alcohol and oils.
While having a drink and using oil to cook can be fun, avoid getting it on your face. Alcohol can irritate human skin, even though some incorrectly believe it does the exact opposite. Other products that are either oily or greasy can likewise turn your smooth face into a bumpy patch.
Shave daily with a disposable razor.
Once you follow these tips all you need to do is remove all that messy hair daily. Shaving plays a vital role in this area of men's skincare. A disposable razor can be more effective than one of those permanent more pricey kinds as you open it factory sealed. This means you do not have to remove the previous hair and oil residue you left on the razor last time you shaved. Remember just because it looks clean, does not make it so.

Acne Treatments

Despite the fact that there seems to be a plethora of acne products that solely target teenage acne, there are actually quite a number of products that are aimed at adult acne as well. The two that I recommend the most are  Solution 3-Step System in the extra strength formula and  Acne Complex Kit.
This recommendation comes from many years of trying out various products from different brands, ranging from over-the-counter products from drug stores and department stores, and prescription medications. None of them seemed to get me the results I wanted - even after using  for over 4 years. It was not until  came out with their extra strength formula, consisting of 7% benzoyl peroxide as the active ingredient, that I actually saw continuing results of less acne.
Unfortunately though, that was not enough for someone who suffers from oily skin and severe acne. What made the difference was using the  Acne Complex Kit simultaneously.
Haven't you ever heard the saying that your skin/hair/body will get used to the same products and will no longer become effective if you use only one kind for years? Well if you haven't, there you go. It's true. It appeared for a while that my skin became used to  and consequently lost the effect of clearing my acne, since I used it for over 4 years.
My skin seemed to get used to the 2.5% benzoyl peroxide that the normal formula of  contained and my pimples appeared to have gotten immune to that medication. But the extra strength formula that I had started to use about 6 months ago gave my pimples a wake up call and the more potent 7% formula immediately began to clear my skin. And to make sure they do not get use to the extra strength  as they did with the regular  formula, I began using  Acne Complex Kit as well.  Acne Complex Kit contains salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinol to effectively treat acne.
Hence the combination of active ingredients found in these two separate product lines allows my skin to get the benefits of the most effective ingredients that treat acne.
It is also reassuring to know that both were created by well-known, experienced dermatologists that have gone on to develop their own line of successful skincare products. Both lines of products have also received great reviews and testimonials, and both are fairly affordable and fairly easily attainable. Solution in the extra strength formula is available through the catalog only (the regular formula and other products are available online and at kiosks in local malls) and Murad Acne Complex Kit and other products are available at most beauty stores and online as well.
My current skin care routine consists of cleansing, toning, and moisturizing with the Acne Complex Kit in the morning and cleansing, toning, and moisturizing with extra strength formula in the evening and as cliche as it sounds, my skin has never looked better.
Sure, I still have pimples and my skin is not flawless, but it is the most smooth it has been since I hit puberty. But it is important to remember that not all skin react the same way to the same products so the effects of the products will vary from one person to another.

Acne Home Remedy Treatment Tips

There are a lot of ways to get rid of acne in a safe and natural way at home. Some treatments have worked while others need some more assistance or other products to work. The type of treatment and its success depend upon your skin type and acne type, but here are some home remedies that are likely to work for you.
Eat less oily and sweet foods. If you want to improve your acne-prone areas avoid greasy and sugar foods which make you sweat and sticky. If you are what you eat then eating oils and sweets makes your skin oily and sticky which helps bacteria and dirt to stick to pores.
Always drink plenty of water and fruit juices. It's important to drink at least 60 ounces of water each day. Some of that can be in juices which help to get rid of acne and boost your immune system to help fight further acne infections. The best acne fighting juices are orange, grapefruit, pomegranate, apple, pear, guava, and pineapple.
Wash your face daily with a mild cleansing soap. Wash at least once a day to get rid of excess oil and dirt. Make sure to pat, not rub, dry with a clean towel and wash your hands before cleaning your face.
Apply a mixture of cucumber, coriander, and mint to your acne areas. This mixture is a great all natural remedy for clearing acne. If you do get a pimple mix a small amount of honey and unsweetened yogurt to the pimple.
Treat pimples as soon as they appear. Don't wait, and don't pop them. Use a pimple cream or mix yogurt and honey and apply generously. Catching pimples as soon as they appear reduces inflammation which reduces the chance of another pimple nearby. It also prevents the pimple from popping and spreading the bacteria to other pores to cause more pimples.
Eat more fruits and vegetables in your diet and take a multi vitamin. Even if you think you are getting enough nutrition take a multivitamin. You cannot get 100% of your vitamins and minerals from eating alone, and a healthy body is the key to healthy skin. If you body is healthy inside it is better able to heal acne prone skin outside.

Birth Control Pills and Acne Prevention

("Birth Control Pills - A Suitable and Safe Method for Treating Acne") As mentioned above, more than 80% of patients in one study had noticeable improvement in their acne, so don't give up hope if you don't see results right away.
Remember to take them regularly, at the same time every day or as otherwise instructed by your doctor. And keep using your topical treatments as well (creams, pads, etc.) because they may work in conjunction with the birth control pills. Just be sure to clear anything not over the counter with your doctor, to make sure there are no drug interactions or increased risks from the combination.
There are some negative side effects that need to be considered before taking the pill, including weight gain, breast cysts, blood clots, headaches, fatigue and abdominal pain.
("Reducing Acne with Birth Control Pills") Melasma (hyperpigmentation or brownish blotches), may also appear on the skin. ("Fighting Pimples with the Pill")These blotches are sometimes called the "mask of pregnancy" and can be minimized by watching your exposure to the sun and experimenting with different fading creams that are available over the counter.
If this is a real concern for you, a dermatologist can also prescribe certain creams for fading. Birth control pills can also cause blood clots, heart attacks or strokes, so read the warning labels carefully (especially if you are a smoker) and discuss any concerns with your health care provider.
Please be aware also that some birth control pills can lead to depression and/or suicidal thoughts. If you are prone to or diagnosed with depression, or if you have a history of depression in your family, you may want to consider an alternative (topical) form of acne prevention. Also, please don't take birth control pills if you are male.

The Pill and Your Pimples

If you are a woman having a problem with acne and don't seem to be able to find anything topical that helps you, you may want to consider birth control pills. Adult women and teenage girls whose acne has resisted treatment with antibiotics and topical treatments may want to consider hormonal therapy in the form of the birth control pill (a combination of estrogen and progestin taken orally). ("Fighting Pimples with the Pill") Here's how it works.
For some women, treatment resistant acne is caused by excessive production of hormones called androgens. Some progestins (one of the hormones in the pill, see above) have effects that can be androgenic (meaning they act like male hormones, such as testosterone), while some can be anti-androgenic (meaning they block the production of androgens or block androgen receptors, which allow your body to absorb and use the androgen).
("Acne Treatment - Birth Control Pills and Other Hormone Therapy") For fighting pimples, the pills that produce little or no androgens seem to work the best. (Id.) When the amount of male hormones in your body is suppressed, the amount of oil produced by your sebaceous glands (the glands that produce the oil that causes your acne) is reduced, thereby lessening the chance of pimple-causing pore blockages.
("Oral Contraceptives") A doctor will be able to review this information with you in more detail and answer any questions you may have. This article does not constitute or replace medical advice, it is meant only to provide you with some information that you will hopefully find helpful in fighting acne.
In 1997 the FDA approved low-dose birth control pills to be used for acne control. In more than 80% of the patients who used Ortho Tri-Cyclen (one brand of birth control pills) for acne control, there was a notable improvement in acne. ("Reducing Acne with Birth Control Pills") Ortho Tri-Cyclen helps to treat acne by reducing the output of hormone glands.
Estro-Step is also approved by the FDA, as well as YAZ and Alesse. Your doctor can recommend the right brand for your needs after discussions with you regarding your concerns and objectives. This article is not meant to recommend any brand or form of birth control pills for actual birth control, only for helping you with your acne! If your main interest in birth control pills concerns actual birth control, this article does not address that aspect of these medications.
It may take a while (sometimes three months or longer) for you to see an improvement in your acne once you start taking birth control pills. And it is not unusual for acne to get worse before it gets better, so hang in there.

Treat Common Skin Problems with Home Remedies

Skin care is not just a beauty concept, but a health concept. This can be understood by the types of skin that one has. If the skin is not cared for properly and neglected it suffers from premature aging and becomes dull and blemished. Regular consumption of milk, honey and yogurt are good nourishment for the skin and prevents premature aging.
Some common skin problems and remedies for preventing and curing them follow.
Acne and Pimples
It happens so due to the excessive intake of alcohol, tea, and coffee, spicy, oily and fried foods.
Stress, tension, pollution and chemicals are also among the major cause and result in acne, boils, pimples and rashes.
Remedies
A paste made from one teaspoon each of sandalwood powder and turmeric mixed with milk, is very good. A paste of nutmeg and water is also beneficial.
Half a cup of Aloe Vera pulp can be taken internally (Do not take internally if pregnant) or applied externally to the skin. Dosage: Twice a day.
Before going to bed, was the face thoroughly and then apply a paste of 1 Tsp. coriander juice mixed with a pinch of turmeric powder.
For pimples, apply a paste made from one teaspoon of cumin seeds. Remove after one hour.
A paste of fresh fenugreek leaves, applied and washed off with warm water before going to bed prevents pimples.
Pigmentation
Excessive exposure to the sun, irregular eating, sleeping habits and consumption of foods and drinks are responsible for Pigmentation.
Remedies
Grind five almonds and mix with 1 teaspoon of fresh cream and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply this paste to the face and neck. Leave on for about fifteen minutes.
Apply papaya juice, or mashed papaya, to the affected areas.
Grind equal amounts of sesame seeds and turmeric in a small quantity of
Water Apply to the face or discolored skin.
Make a paste from basil (tulsi) leaves and water to use on the affected skin.
Premature Aging
It's a natural ongoing process and beyond human limit to control it.
Aging causes dryness and wrinkling of the skin. Factors like excessive thinking, stress, tension, over work, strain, irregular sleeping and eating habits and cold or dry foods enhance aging. Foods containing artificial flavors, colors, preservatives and chemicals also fasten aging.
Remedies
Massage the face with ghee, almond oil or coconut oil before going to bed.
Use grated cucumber in a face pack.
Apply fresh aloe Vera gel to the skin.

Common Causes of Acne in Newborns

Don't be surprised if your beautiful newborn baby has developed pimples also known as baby acne when they are born or within the first few weeks of birth. It is very common to see pimples on your newborn baby and it is completely harmless. There are three types of baby acne: neonatal acne, milia, and infantile acne.
If you notice your newborn baby with little red pimples, or whiteheads on the cheeks, chin, forehead or back, this baby acne is commonly known as neonatal acne. There are hormones in the womb that occurs during pregnancy, which are transferred to the newborn baby through the placenta that causes the neonatal acne.
Boys are more likely to get baby acne than girls. There is no treatment for neonatal acne and it will clear up on its own. If you see your newborn baby crying or fussing, the baby acne may start to look worse. Your newborn baby can have neonatal acne on their skin for a few weeks or it can even last several months.
If you are concerned about your baby's complexion or it doesn't clear up within three month, you should consult your baby's doctor. To treat your baby acne, you should always wash your newborn baby's face with warm water two or three times a day. You should only pat your newborn baby's face dry, do not rub. Never try to squeeze the baby acne or you can cause more irritation, an infection, and even scarring.
Infantile acne is another form of pimples that is very similar to neonatal acne, but doesn't develop until three months of age or even later. Lingering hormones passed on from the mother mainly causes infantile acne. You may see your baby develop yellow papules, comedones, or pustules that develop on the nose and cheeks.
Infantile acne should be treated the same as the treatment of the neonatal acne by washing your newborn baby's face with warm water two or three times a day, pat dry, and do not try to squeeze the infantile acne. Infantile acne will last until your baby is twelve months of age, but in some cases, it can last up to three years.
Milia is another form of baby acne that is rarely seen at birth. According to Webmd, one in two newborns will develop milia. You will notice tiny white bumps on your newborn babies’ cheeks, nose, and chin. A newborn baby can develop milia when dead skin causes blockage of the oil glands near the surface of your baby's skin.
According to Healthcare Topics, milia is often occurs with the warming of the baby by an incubator, occlusive dressings, clothing, or fever. There is no need for treatment for baby milia and the bumps will disappear as the baby's glands begin to open up and the dead skin is sloughed off and the bumps will disappears.

Do Peanuts Cause Acne Breakouts?

First of all let me put out this disclaimer: I am not a medical doctor, dermatologist, scientist or any type of researcher. I am simply a person who suffers with adult acne. And through a totally unscientific, unplanned experiment I came to the conclusion that peanuts can cause acne.
All my life I have heard medical professionals dispute the fact that certain foods can trigger acne, I never knew if I should believe these professionals, or go with my gut feeling that certain foods were triggering my acne.
When I turned forty, I was determined to stop this cycle of acne. I had tried every acne treatment and beauty product with minimal success. I was tired of the psychological damage my acne was having on my life. So I went to see an esthetician and started monthly chemical peels.
These peels are expensive, and it took a few months to see improvements, but for the first time since childhood my pimples were under control.
But then my husband came home with a bag of peanuts. I hadn't had peanuts in the shell for a long time. They looked absolutely irresistible!
For about a week I snacked on these peanuts. I had them in-between meals as a quick snack, and I also sat down with a bowl full of peanuts each night as I watched TV. After all, peanuts are a healthy snack, right?
The following week my face started to feel differently. When I looked in the mirror I could see the oil starting to accumulate on my nose. Then the dreaded pimples started to emerge. By the end of the week I was suffering from a full-blown acne attack.
I had forgotten what it was like to have my face hurt from acne. I had forgotten how humiliating it was to be seen in public when acne had taken over my face. I knew people were wondering, "What happened to her face?"
It was then that it dawned on me. It had to be the peanuts. All of my acne symptoms started after eating peanuts on a daily basis.
So I immediately quit eating the peanuts. I was no longer tempted to grab a few peanuts in-between meals or have them as an after-dinner snack.
I saw the improvement in my skin almost immediately. The inflammation in my face was down and my face began to heal. It took about a week for the acne to subside, and another week for the pimples to disappear. Unfortunately it left a few acne scars which will take a while to fade.
Since then my face is back to being under control. I continue to get monthly chemical peels and I expect I will still have some hormonal break outs each month. But nothing compared to that week when peanuts triggered one of my worst acne breakouts ever.
Is it possible that I have a peanut allergy? Yes it is. But maybe you do too. A Naturopathic Doctor told me that many people are allergic to peanuts- not because of the actual peanut - but because peanuts grow underground and get moldy. It may be the mold that people are reacting to. And peanuts are found in many products including peanut butter and anything cooked in peanut oil.
So while my experience does not qualify as a scientific experiment, it's good enough for me to realize I need to stay away from peanuts. And at this point in my life I'm willing to give up anything that would cause that awful acne cycle to start up again.

The disease from my parents

One of the most difficult things to comprehend for me was being told that I need to be more clean (by my doctor). Hidradenitis Suppurativa is not caused by being dirty- that's a fact. I feel there is something special about the inverted areas of skin that we just don't know yet. My (rural) doctors have proven to be quite ignorant on the subject of HS.
We do know that opportunistic infection does occur, however most lesions are sterile. Few HS lesions contain significant bacteria or virus. In my opinion, the lesions grow as a result of the body's response to stress- at least that's the recurring theme in all of the conversations I've had with other HS sufferers. Some people with HS sweat more than others and some do not. I propose my excessing sweating under stress aggravates my HS.
Many HS patients are affected by other (sometimes auto-immune) diseases, such as Crohn's Disease, PCOS, Diabetes and Acne among others. There is an ongoing debate in the medical community about whether HS is an auto-immune or an immuno-deficiency disease. No one will argue that we need more information. More research needs to be done.
My HS is familial- I inherited the disease from my parents. My brothers and sisters have it as well, in varying degrees. I assure you, there is no amount of cleanliness that will prevent a lesion from presenting itself. I have always been a "clean freak," as my loved ones say. My siblings and I are good productive members of society but a disease like this can undermine self-esteem.
My hope is that anyone with HS (Hidradenitis Suppurativa) can learn to live with the disease without self loathing. The best thing to do for yourself is to love yourself unconditionally. Another tip: try to live as stress-free as possible, since stress is a known trigger for this disease. Exercise and eat well so that you feel well. Finally, try to connect with people who have HS. Emotional support from friends always makes coping easier. I have been researching this disease for the last ten years and have made more progress in the last three than ever. I would love to hear from others about their HS and strategies that work.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa - A Hidden Illness

Hidradenitis Suppurativa is a skin condition, also commonly known as "Acne Inversa." The glands in the inverted areas of skin (armpits, groin, behind the knee and under the breast), the perineum, the neck, behind the ears and various other locations are affected by painful, recurring lesions that begin as "pimples," but eventually drain puss and progress to tunneling under the skin. There are three stages of HS.
Stage I consists of a history of acne and sometimes boils and cysts during the teen years. Some do not get into Stage I until 20 years of age. I got my first boil at 9 years of age. During stage I these lesions are diagnosed as "pimples." Doctors see pimples and prescribe benzoil peroxide, in one of its many over the counter forms.
Stage II presents with multiple "cysts," which may or may not drain pus
Doctors told me to use warm compresses (also known as balneotherapy), and assured me they would go away. They did not go away. I had to have both my armpits drained at various times in my early twenties. In my late twenties, lesions began to present themselves in my groin and inner thigh. They seem to begin as pimples, but never go away. The lesions progress to dark purple coloration and scarring begins to take place.
Stage III shows signs of tunneling under the skin. A network of subcutaneous puss tunnels ails the victim. In this stage, lancing or draining is no longer an option. Large areas of skin will be removed from the affected areas, called skin grafting. Hospitalization for the procedure is definite.
HS is a "hidden" illness because it occurs in the most private areas of the body. Our private areas are usually covered, therefore, no one sees our disease. Because our private areas are affected, we have less of a desire to share this condition with anyone, even our own doctor. This inhibition cannot keep us hurting, silent or control our health if we don't allow it. There is no shame in coping with a disease you obtained through no fault of your own!

Acne Facts & Fiction

It's hard to go through life without catching wind of a superstition, myth, or old wives' tale- especially when it comes your body. Among the number one offenders when it comes to bodily care and function myths- acne. Pimples and blemishes have been subject to countless hear-says, bathroom rumors, and they-says. Just what are some of the most outlandish myths to acne?
Have you ever been told that French fries, fried chicken, or salty potato chips are the root cause of your acne? If so, you were lied to. This is possibly the most widely believed of the acne myths. Scientists have found no correlation between diet and acne. Eating greasy, salty, or fatty foods does not lead to outbreaks of acne. What is true is that a lack nutrition can lead to unhealthy skin- though this doesn't apply directly to pimples and the like.
Another old wives' tale that follows acne around is that it is a catch-able disease. During the first half of 20th century, and likely before it, it was not uncommon for parents to disapprove of their child's date due to acne outbreaks. There was a fear that physical contact would result in the spread of a virus-like strand of acne. To this day there is still a social stigma regarding acne-carrying peers- despite the fact that it is not a transferable condition.
Amid a sea of reasonable fears and myths surrounding acne, there are certain one's that fall under the irrational banner. One popular misconception is that certain races are immune to acne entirely. This falsehood was born from the fact that certain skin tones are much more kind in concealing blemishes and pimples. The reality of it is, any person can be afflicted with acne regardless of race.
The most unfair of stigmas that follows acne is this- it is caused by poor hygiene. The problem with this myth is that it perpetuates a negative stereotype in regards to those that have unnaturally frequent and severe outbreaks of acne. Whether it take place at the school yard, daycare, park, or even at your work station- an abundance of acne gives the potentially false impression that you neglect your hygiene.
The fact is- poor hygiene has no effect on pimples and blemishes. The opposite, in reality, is the case. By over-washing and drying your skin, you irritate it and cause more damaging outbreaks. Lightly washing your face and other afflicted areas to remove dust, dead skin, and natural oils should suffice in basic body care for those fearful of acne. Interestingly, one popular acne hear-say in particular happens to be true. Toothpaste happens to be something of a fast-acting miracle cream for getting rid of pimples!

Popping a Pimple

What should you do when a pimple unpleasantly protrudes from your face? Many would most probably resort to popping it than leaving it and waiting until it heals. But popping pimples can worsen your acne and possibly aggravate the infection.
On the other hand, if you go for a professional facial treatment, the painful extraction of pimples is always part of its process. So, what should one do on this situation?
First, let's look into what happens during professional acne facial.
The treatment generally starts by having the face thoroughly cleaned. What's usually used are skincare products intended to treat acne.
Afterwards, a scrub mask would be put on the face and would be steamed for about fifteen minutes. And then, the skin would be massaged with a scrub to remove dirt that's mainly the cause of acne. Once this is completed, the scrub is rinsed off by using a wet sponge.
Basically, that's the main procedure when you go through a facial. But if you're not comfortable with this going through a professional facial, you can also do it on your own. However, it's important to do it properly.
If you're going to do it at home, you must prepare a bowl with boiled water, a scrub mask, warm water, a pimple extractor, antiseptic, and a kaolin or mud mask.
Start by stooping or leaning over the bowl with boiled water. Your face should be about 10 inches from the water's surface. This is done to open the pores of your skin. And, it's best to do this for at least 15 minutes.
After that, gently massage your face with a scrub mask. And just like in a professional facial, rinse off the scrub mask with a wet sponge and warm water.
Once your face is thoroughly cleaned, the next thing to do would be the extraction of pimples. Get your pimple extractor; make sure you disinfect this well. The sharp end must be sterilized by fire. Its ring should be pressed on the skin to extract loosened blackheads. The sharp end is used to pierce ripe pimples.
Now, only the pimples filled with pus should be popped. Pierce the side of the pimple. Then, using your fingers, squeeze out the pus until some blood comes out. And then, quickly apply antiseptic over it.
Once this strenuous procedure is completed, the mud mask can now be applied on your face. And, lastly, after you rinse off the mask, put antiseptic again over the pierced pimples.
Doing this could probably save you time and money. But if you're still not confident on doing this on your own, you can ask a friend to help you or consult a dermatologist first.

Why Does My Newborn Baby Have Pimples?

Many new parents may thinking that they will not have to worry about pimples until their new baby is into his teens, when suddenly, your beautiful newborn's skin suddenly breaks out in red bumps.
What happened to that soft, baby skin? As distressing as it may be, baby acne is common, and nothing to fret over, occurring in roughly 20 percent of newborns, and young infants. But, why, you may ask? Why does my baby have pimples, or baby acne? Well, it is a little gift that you gave him soon before his birth.
Some of your maternal hormones crossed the placenta and into your newborn's body. These maternal hormones help in various ways, one of which is helping your baby's lung mature prior to birth. However, those same helpful, maternal hormones are still present when your baby is born, and they are the culprit behind baby acne and pimples.
Some babies are born with the red, acne like bumps, but it is more likely that baby acne and pimples will begin at around age 4 to 6 weeks, or just when the new grandparents are coming to visit, and you have your baby's first professional pictures planned to be taken.
The start of baby acne also seems to coincide with the period of time that your newborn may be fussiest, as his digestive system matures. Isn't being a new parent fun?
Baby acne is most likely to present as red bumps, and even whiteheads, on a baby's cheeks. However, in some babies, the acne is also found on the forehead and chin area. Crying will make baby acne look worse, and if it is present on your baby's chin, drooling may also make it look worse, and angrier.
What can you do if your baby develops pimples, or baby acne? The best thing to do is to wash your baby's face with warm water once a day. There is no need for soap, but if you choose to, use an extremely mild, unscented, soap. Do not use any lotions, creams, or oils on your baby's pimples as this may make the situation worse, and the pimples will take longer to disappear.
Baby acne is very much a wait it out condition. It is most likely that your baby's acne, or pimples will have totally disappeared by the time she is 4 to 6 months of age. While baby acne isn't pretty, it also isn't anything to worry about. If your baby's pimples are not gone by age 6 months, see your doctor. Relax and you will quickly learn to look past the pimples and see the true beauty that is your baby. Before you know it, they will be long gone.

Easy Steps to Make Pimples Disappear

Make Pimples Disappear
Never fails. Your face is at the center of your sister's wedding, a first date, a small introduction in front of 100 people and a bright red pimple appears its ugly head. Can you make it less visible? Take these steps to eliminate the pimple forever!
Degree of difficulty: Easy
Instructions
Acne facial cleanser
Toothpaste
Astringent
Over the-counter acne medication
Ice cubes
Keep your face clean
Wash your face with a cleanser for rashes and acne. Don't clean excessively with a cloth or sponge, as it may aggravate further rupture. Wash your face gently. When finished, use an astringent to remove the last of it, the oil and dirt. When possible, do not sleep with makeup because this will contribute to future outbreaks.
Medicated cream for acne works great
A product with salicylic acid can be very effective in reducing defects and shorten the life of the pimple. Use twice a day, but if you have irritation to the skin, decrease the use to once a day. You can also find acne manager moisturizers at your home pharmacy to help fight parchedness.
Toothpaste can be used for spots and redness. Once your face is clean, apply a small amount of toothpaste to the rest area and let it dry overnight. Reduced swelling and inflammation will be noticed the next day.
Ice will reduce redness
An ice pack or an ice cube on the pimple can help reduce swelling. Keep the skin clean and use the ice for several minutes. If no improvement is noted, apply ice for a longer time period.
Reduce stress and eat healthy whenever possible
Stress and poor diet may be factors that contribute to breakouts. Cut down on junk food and eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains in your diet. Stressed? Try to sleep for a full night and make time for exercise, meditation and other relaxation activities.

Ways to Reduce Pimples

Your skin can also be affected by the types of clothing that you wear such as tight-fitting underwear . Clothes that are made from polyester and nylon are not good for your skin as they tend to create friction which in turn causes pimples. You should wear clothes that are made from absorbent materials and natural fibers.
As with all pimples, make sure that you do not squeeze them as you will only make them worse.
Cleanse you butt area 2 or 3 times a day by using a mild odorless soap or an acne cleanser that does not contain any harsh chemicals. Take your time when you do this and make sure that you do a thorough job.
You can also apply ointments that are rich in benzyl peroxide or salicylic acid to the affected butt area as they will help to dry up the acne. Other steps that you can take is to make sure to eat a healthy diet and to drink plenty of water and this will also help to clear up your pimple problem.
It will take some time before you are ready to wear your thong on the beach, but your butt pimples will get better and you will be able to resume your normal life once again without having to worry about your appearance.
I hope that you found this information useful and if you would like more information on ways to live healthy, then please visit my eating healthy web site where you will find great information to help you live a long and healthy life.

Ways to Reduce Your Amount of Butt Pimples

One of the most embarrassing things that can happen to you in life is to have an explosion of acne on your butt . This can be a disgusting experience and as they say a real pain in your life especially if you are in a situation where you have to shower with others . This can hurt your self-confidence and lower your self-esteem.
The good news is that if you are one of the individuals who are suffering from this problem, there are some simple tips that you can follow to help you get rid of these nasty butt pimples and put your mind at ease.
Acne affects many areas of your body such as the thighs, forearms, stomach and your buttocks . The butt area is one of the most sensitive areas of all. The pimples usually appear as small red spots and they progressively get worse by growing larger and this compounds the annoyance and embarrassment as a lot of your time is spent worrying about this condition and what you are going to do about it to resolve the problem.
Your first step should be to make an appointment with a Dermatologist. He will do a complete examination on you to determine the main cause of the pimples on your buttocks. He is a professional and you can put your mind to rest that he will find the problem. Do not try to fix this problem yourself by trying soaps, creams or other miracle treatments as they will fail most of the time and all you will accomplish is to waste your time and money.
There are other options that you can look at that may help your problem. Take a close look at the types of soap, laundry detergent and beauty products that you are using as some of these products can lead to skin inflammation. It is a known fact that each of us sweat and this along with dirt build-up on your skin can lead to outbreaks of acne. Make sure to buy soap that is hypoallergenic as this will clean your skin without drying it out and it is great for sensitive skin.