Stubborn body acne

Hair Follicles and Oil Production

The back, shoulders and neck area are the areas that are most prone to breakouts of acne. The reason that pimples and blackheads occur across the neck line is because of the increased production of oil and the higher level of follicles that grow on the neck line. The natural oils from the hair also contribute to the growth of body acne.

Friction From Clothing

Over 65% of body acne is caused by the combination of sweat and friction. If you love your sports then your body has a greater chance of developing some form of pimples and zits.

The worst zits are those that breakout in areas where it is hard to stop friction and chaffing from occurring - this would include along the waist line and your inner thigh. These body zits tend to be the most sensitive and the biggest in size and color variation.

The solution:

First thing you need to do to help reduce and eliminate body acne is to protect your skin by wearing the right clothing and gear that will help keep you dry. Look for moisture wicking garments that are comfortable and allow for lots of movement.

Second, the moment that you are done get out of those sweaty, dirty clothes and head for the showers. Do Not have a hot shower as this will open your pores but have a warm shower. Start by washing your hair first and once that task is done then you can safely wash your body.

For more information, visit guidetoclearskin.com

ACNE TIPS AND ACNE MYTHS

Almost everybody experiences acne at one point in their life. And almost everybody perpetuates a myth about acne that is incorrect. The biggest myth that has been passed down generation by generation is that acne is caused by eating junk food, more specifically chocolate.

If you have heard this one and have believed this myth then you need to keep reading as we debunk these stubborn myths and give you tips on how to effectively ward off acne and acne breakouts.

Myth: Junk food causes acne breakouts. False - food does not cause your skin to breakout in pimples and zits.

Tip: When showering, wash and shampoo your hair first and then begin to clean your face and body. The hot water opens up your pores and the shampoo and conditioner will leave a residue on your skin that may promote the breakout of acne on both your face and on your back if not properly rinsed away.

Tip: For Guys: After shaving make sure your rinse your face with cold water to help close the pores and to help reduce the inflammation/irritation from shaving.

Tip: No matter how hired you are, do not go to bed without washing off your makeup. Leaving make-up on over night will contribute to clogging your skins pores with unwanted oils and chemicals.

Tip: Most acne that occurs on the lower face and neck area is a direct result of bacteria. Our hands are filthy, and covered in germs and bacteria.

Most people are unaware of how many time they rest their chin in their hands, or prop themselves up with their hands throughout the day. If you can make a conscious effort to reduce the amount of time you spend placing your hands on your face you will definitely see less breakouts and blemishes in those areas.

Myth: Acne is only common to teens. False - Acne affects men, women, and teens of all ages, from all walks of life.

Tip: To prevent acne during the summer heat, we suggest you wear little or no make-up, and that you wash your face in cool water with a very mild soap as your skin will be more sensitive.

We are recommend that you use a very mild conditioner to keep your skin from drying out and peeling which often happens in the summer.

Tip: We recommend that you wear loose clothing that does not rub or irritate the skin. For times when you are playing sports or just being more physical we suggest wearing specially designed clothing that wicks the moisture away from your body keeping you cool and dry. And shower right after any physical activity so that your body has little time to absorb the oils and perspiration

For more information, visit Guidetoclearskin.com

In the 'Tween of Things

While acne or dry, flaky skin may not seem like anything that should worry a 10-year old, these skin conditions are quickly becoming the domain of young children. Because young teenagers are still facing some of their most formative growing years, approaching skincare for this age group must be thoughtful and carefully selected. Before skin problems such as acne or dryness have a chance to impact on a young child's skin, take control of them with smart, caring skincare geared towards young skin.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Amie, a Teenager's Best Friend

Boots.com has announced that it is to be the exclusive online stockist of Amie, a skincare range formulated specifically for teenage skin using natural formulations and 100% recyclable packaging. Created by a mother for her daughter, Amie is an innovative new range of natural skincare created purely for young skin.

Fiona Parkhouse was inspired by her daughter's struggle to find an effective, affordable, natural and attractive skincare range, free from the chemicals traditionally used in teen skincare.

"I wanted something that would respect her still child-perfect skin but deal with the changes that puberty was starting to bring such as increased oiliness and occasional break-outs. I didn't want her using strong, medicated products. I wanted a natural skincare range that would be gentle yet effective. Amie, meaning "friend" in French, is the result."

The range also encourages young women to adopt healthy skincare habits. The UK's leading teen dermatologist, Dr, Susan Mayou said, "Skin problems are very common and although the patients I see are generally healthy, it can have a profound effect on their self-esteem. Natural, non-irritating ingredients are important in skin care for teenagers. At their age, skin is still sensitive and easily irritated whilst also prone to breakouts."

For more information, visit boots.com

Skincare from Nature: Pumpkin Enzymes and Skin Care Products

Packed with beneficial vitamins, minerals and enzymes, pumpkin has lately been used in moisturizers, cleansers and most especially--enzyme peels. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Purify with Pumpkin" finds that from exfoliating to anti-aging to helping heal acne, pumpkin enzymes pull triple-duty to keep the skin healthy and vibrant.

Enzyme Envy: How do the enzymes in pumpkin work? Similar to an alpha-hydroxy acid, they dissolve the dead skin cells that line the epidermis, or top layer of skin, which can cause a dull or lackluster appearance if not exfoliated away. In addition, the enzymes in pumpkin encourage new cell turnover and growth, making this treatment especially effective for acneic or aging skin.

Pumpkin also features a high percentage of vitamin A and beta carotene, giving the fruit its distinctive orange color, and also providing anti-aging and anti-oxidant benefits to the skin when applied topically. Even more exciting, pumpkin products are safe for use by all skin types.
Pumpkin Treatments: Reach for treatment products that also incorporate the exceptional anti-oxidant properties of this colorful gourd. Dry skin will remain hydrated and protected all day with a day cream containing pumpkin. And don't forget the eyes. Pumpkin and peptides found in hydrating eye treatments will keep the skin supple while combating fine lines and dark circles.

Finally, for a full-body treat, try a pumpkin scented body wash or exfoliating scrub for smooth and hydrated skin all over. So much more than merely fruit, pumpkin is a versatile, safe and effective skincare ingredient that offers benefits to all skin types, and all areas of the body.

Investigate this scrumptious fruit for a sweet skincare treat!

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Skincare for Children and Teens: Address Skin Care Concerns Early On

While acne or dry, flaky skin may not seem like anything that should worry a 10-year old, these skin conditions are quickly becoming the domain of young children. Early onset puberty, hormones in food, and an increase in stress all have more than a few unfortunate side effects. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "In the 'Tween of Things" approaches skincare for this age group with thoughtful and carefully selected options to ward off unwelcome blemishes and dryness.

A spot a day: Rather than blitzing pre-adolescent blemishes with harsh acids or scrubs, instead reach for a gentle cleansing system that will normalize awakening oil glands and treat existing blemishes, while at the same time, not overwhelm your young teen with too many steps. A great start for all ages (and for a lifetime of great skin) is to initiate a cleansing routine. Start with a mild gel cleanser. Keeping the face clean of dirt and pollution is a smart step for all teens, and, one of the easiest. For those small bumps or blemishes that are starting to pop up, try a spot treatment with botanicals acne fighters. Encourage pre-teens to wash their face at least once a day, and discourage them from picking or popping at blemishes.

Mind the moisture: After skin has been cleansed, moisturizer is the next step.

Don't forget about the boys: A 2000 study by the British Journal of Dermatology suggests that teenagers with acne suffered from reduced self-esteem, lowered self confidence and body-image issues. These psychological effects can impact boys as well as girls so be certain to introduce young teen boys to good skincare, as well.

Best for stress: Heightened social pressure to fit-in, extra long school days and intense amounts of homework and extra-curricular activities all pile up quickly on the shoulders of a young person, potentially causing stress and anxiety.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Proactiv Skin Care Works, But Sensiclear Even Better

Acne can be a frustrating condition, especially for those unsure about how to choose between the many acne treatment programs currently on the market. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Proactiv works great…but SensiClear even better," investigates the pros and cons of Proactiv, and offers information about a new system called SensiClear.

Acne basics

One of the biggest factors contributing to acne is an inconsistent shedding of dead skin cells.

These skin cells build up and mix with sebum, a natural skin moisturizer produced by the body, and block the opening of facial pores. When a pore is plugged, it creates a perfect breeding ground to trap oil and bacteria, causing blemishes and inflammation.

When it comes to acne treatment, it's crucial to balance the skin and prevent blemishes before they appear. The best way to manage acne is to eliminate the environment where acne breeds by clearing dead skin cells and excess oil from the skin's surface using products that fight bacteria and exfoliate. If left untreated, acne can cause facial scarring.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

A New Frontier in Skin Care

Jan Marini Skin Research,Inc. recently announced the launch of Age Intervention Transitions, an extraordinary new technology that addresses common female transitional issues such as stubborn adult acne as well as fine lines and wrinkles, coarse skin texture and discoloration.

Age Intervention Transitions' unique formula resolves or minimizes acne breakouts while dramatically improving the appearance of follicle size, fine lines, rough facial texture and that nasty leftover acne discoloration.

Age Intervention Transitions benefits:

-- Resolves or minimizes stubborn resistant adult acne
-- Resurfaces skin texture for a more refined, polished and radiant look
-- Improves the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
-- Significantly and rapidly lessens leftover acne discoloration for a
brighter, more even-toned appearance


For more information, visit janmarini.com

Recent Studies Suggest Popular ``Diet Pill'' Reduces Acne Breakouts

As crazy as it sounds, recent studies conducted at Stanford and Wake Forest Schools of Medicine suggest there's a connection between stubborn stress-related belly bulge, unsightly acne flare-ups and the so-called "Belly Fat" pill, Relacore(R)... and that link is stress. By now we've all heard that stress increases cortisol (the stress hormone) and cortisol increases "belly fat." Well, now it seems that stress also increases both the frequency and the severity of acne breakouts.

While this may be terrible news for millions of us who seem to be stressed-out even on the best of days, it turns out to be great news for the Carter-Reed Company. You see, Carter-Reed makes Relacore, the anti-stress feel-good pill that has become America's #1 selling "Belly Fat" pill because of the connection between stress and abdominal fat. In fact, Carter-Reed is seeing a huge spike in sales as more people understand that controlling stress will not only help reduce "belly bulge" but can also help lessen the frequency and severity of acne breakouts.

So if you're looking for America's newest and most surprising weapon in the fight against stress-related acne flare-ups, don't look in the skin care section of your local pharmacy. You'll have to go to the diet section to find Relacore... America's #1 selling "Belly Fat" pill and a "must have" addition in your quest for clear, flawless skin.

New Site Offers Natural and Organic Skin Care Products and Valuable Information

SkinCarePretty.com was recently launched to give consumers easy access to premium natural and organic skin care products. The innovative Website also shares free skin care basics, skin care tips and other information to help people of all skin types take proper care of their skin.

Skin Care Pretty was designed to fill a major void among consumers. Many people suffer needlessly from acne and other skin conditions, but don't realize there are simple skin care regimens that can bring about dramatic changes.

To help users master the basics of skin care, Skin Care Pretty offers short articles in an easy-to-understand format, along with an array of organic and natural skin care solutions. There are skin care products for almost every situation, including acne, anti-aging, sensitive skin, dry skin, oily skin, and make up care. Some of the products are quite exotic, such as virgin coconut oil, tamanu oil, wrinkle serum, cellulite-firming lotion, and even scrubs and masks containing volcanic ash.

For more information, visit skincarepretty.com

"The Acne Index"

Even though most of the population has had to deal with acne at some point in their lives, facts about acne are still misunderstood. Where does acne come from, and what are the best treatment plans for the varying types and degrees of this skin problem? Skincare-News.com now provides a series of articles related to acne, titled "The Acne Index."

Acne Basics

Many people don't realize that blemishes and breakouts can happen to anyone at any age, not just adolescents, and for a variety of reasons. Not so long ago, anyone suffering with acne would most likely have had few treatment options beyond a visit to the dermatologist. Luckily for us all, skincare products of today have alternatives to address every aspect of this pesky skin condition. Learn about the fundamentals of acne: how it starts, where it comes from, why it appears and how to treat it.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Newest Skin Care Solutions for Scars and Blemishes

Acne can cause a host of changes in the skin and, leave behind a few parting gifts: scars or hyper-pigmentation. But can these marks ever be vanquished?

What are acne scars? According to Skin Care: Beyond the Basics, (acne) scars form when "the skin, in a desperate attempt to heal itself, produces lots of collagen to try to compensate for the lack of normal skin functioning." The result can be anything from a red spot or macule, to a raised scar to the typical 'pit' scarring commonly seen with more aggressive forms of acne. And, certain factors can affect how acne scars will fade: age of the scar, depth, intensity and to a certain extent-pigmentation of the skin.

One of the most commonly used, over-the-counter products to fade scars is hydroquinone. Sold at a 2% solution, hydroquinone is a chemical that suppresses melanin production in the skin, allowing the scar or hyperpigmentation left behind to fade back to a normal skin tone.

Herbal-based skin lighteners are perfect for those individuals who want to address hyperpigmentation, yet can't use hydroquinone.

In-patient, doctor-administered treatments for reducing acne scars are another option.

Non-ablative laser resurfacing uses a laser to smooth damaged skin.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Winter is Here: Tips to Prevent Acne and 'Dry Skin Blues'

When the weather outside is "frightful," better begin preparing for the "dry skin season," especially if you suffer from acne.

• Think soft and smooth when choosing scarves and coats with high collars. Wool and rough materials irritate facial and neck skin. This in turn can precipitate bouts of acne.

• Regular use of a moisturizer is important, even for acne-prone skin. Use an "acne-friendly" moisturizer, but a moisturizer is definitely a must.

• Drink plenty of water to help keep your skin properly hydrated. Hydrated skin can help fight off cold weather dryness, thus reducing dead skin cell formation that leads to bouts of acne.

• Cut back on the use of acne creams, gels, and liquids if your skin feels dry, tight, or uncomfortable. Most acne products contain drying agents. Dry, cold weather will typically increase the drying effect of these products.

• Don't pick or squeeze pimples. Squeezing blemishes or whiteheads can lead to infections or scarring. It almost always makes the acne you have worse.

• Don't go to bed with makeup on. It can clog your pores and lead to breakouts.

• Shower as soon as possible after exercising since sweat combined with skin oils can trap dirt and bacteria in your pores. Bacteria trapped in pores is the primary cause of acne.

• Soft pillowcases and towels are "skin friendly" and reduce the chances of irritating sensitive skin.

For more information, visit OurHealthNetwork.com

The New Skincare Diet: Vitamin-Rich Skin Care Foods

For anyone who assumes that all diets have to be about denial and portion control, a skincare diet may seem surprising.

The smart first step to any new diet is identifying the habits of one's current routine that are not healthy, and the same is true of a skincare diet. This includes over-consumption of coffee, diet soda, and processed foods, or not eating enough fresh fruits and vegetables. Believe it or not, a diet consisting mainly of processed foods is as bad for the skin as it is for the health. In order for the skin to function optimally, it is important to consume foods rich in vitamins, minerals and botanical ingredients.

Vitamin A, a potent free-radical scavenger, helps the skin heal from wounds, and in the manufacture of new skin tissue. Deficiencies in Vitamin A can lead to dry skin or hair, acne, night blindness and possibly even respiratory infections.

The next vitamin, Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), is probably one of the most well known vitamins, universally acknowledged as critical to good health and well being.

CoEnzymeQ10 is a vitamin-like substance sometimes called ubiquinone because it is present in every cell of the body.

The second most abundant element on the earth, Silicon is needed for the formation of collagen and connective tissue, calcium absorption and the healthy growth of hair, skin and nails.

Zinc helps prevent acne and regulate oil production in the skin, as well as promotes collagen production and the healing of wounds.

Finally, one of the most essential elements to the body is also essential to any skincare diet as well-EFA's, or essential fatty acids. All cells need essential fatty acids; they assist with cell rejuvenation and formation, reduce blood pressure, improve the texture of hair and skin, minimize the risk of blood clots, lower cholesterol and are beneficial in the treatment of the skin diseases eczema and psoriasis. Omega 3's are mainly found in fresh deepwater fish and fish oils, as well as canola, walnut and flaxseed oil and are extremely beneficial to the heart. Omega 6's are found in unsaturated vegetable oils: grapeseed, borage, primrose, and sesame, as well as raw nuts, legumes and seeds and are very beneficial in treating skin disorders of all kinds including: acne, blemishes, dryness, blotchiness and sensitivity.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Choosing Skin Care Cleansers for Acne

As unbelievable as it sounds, acne affects about 17 million Americans. Skincare-News.com's latest article, "Spot the Difference: Cleansers for Acne," compares the active ingredients in various cleansers designed to treat acne, and how to choose between them.

Sebum is the body's natural moisturizing factor and in a normal or dry skin type, the presence of sebum on the skin rarely leads to breakouts. However, in an oily skin, the body tends to produce too much sebum, which can lead to an increase in breakouts, as well as leave the skin with a characteristic shine. One of the most important steps in acne treatment is getting rid of dead skin cells, which can be accomplished using several types of cleansers.

One of the most effective types of cleansers for acne is one that contains salicylic acid. Salicylic acid, also known as a Beta-Hydroxy acid, helps keep the skin clear by normalizing the shedding of dead skin cells, which is often inconsistent in skin that is acne prone or oily.

Another excellent ingredient for acne is glycolic acid, an alpha-hydroxy acid that gently refines the texture of the skin by dissolving dead skin cells in order to reveal new, healthy skin. When used to treat acne, glycolic acid may help prevent breakouts by accelerating the shedding of dead skin cells before they have the chance to mingle with excess oil and dirt on the skin.

Many skincare companies are adding another interesting ingredient to acne cleansers: triclosan.

Triclosan is a powerful anti-bacterial agent often found in hand-washes or sanitizers. When applied topically, triclosan kills the bacteria that cause acne, thereby preventing further breakouts.

When using a new acne cleanser, it is important to pay close attention to the skin, noticing signs like dryness or a tight feeling after washing. It may be necessary to reduce frequency to once per day or every other day. It is also crucial to be patient when starting any sort of new skincare routine, especially when it comes to problems like acne. For long-term maintenance of acne, it will be necessary to continue using an effective product on a regular basis, not just a week or two.

For more information, visit skincare-news.com

Stress Makes Teen Acne Worse

The largest study ever conducted on acne and stress levels confirms what many have suspected for years: Stress can make acne worse among teenagers.

Researchers found teenagers who were under high levels of stress were 23% more likely to have increased acne severity.

Stress has long been thought to aggravate acne, but researchers say this is the first large-scale study to confirm the relationship and look at possible explanations.

For more information, visit medicine.net.

Though the cause of acne is largely unknown, stress and diet - infamous greasy foods and sneaky sugary sweets – have been implicated in wrecking blemi

Though the cause of acne is largely unknown, stress and diet - infamous greasy foods and sneaky sugary sweets – have been implicated in wrecking blemish havoc on our clear skin. Though research has yet to confirm these theories, many proponents of yoga and alternative skin treatments recommend a change in diet and a reduction in stress for beautiful glowing skin.

Others have also suggested tea tree oil and homeopathic remedies.

The skin is essentially a window into your internal health. It’s the largest organ of the body and reflects what is happening internally. So, whatever you put into your body is definitely going to show. Processed foods are one such example: Unclear skin – plagued by pimples, rashes, or a dull look – can occur from eating processed foods, which overburden the liver. As a result, the liver, intestines, and kidneys need the skin’s help in elimination and hence the condition of your not-so-clear face. Consequently, it’s crucial to cut out processed foods!

Some remedies for treating acne are Belladonna, Calendula, Hepar sulphur, Kali bromatum, and silicea. Little research exists on the effectiveness of these alternative treatments, though some swear by them. All and all, there are many theories and natural treatments out there, just make sure to distinguish the good from the quacks.

For more information, visit healthcentral.com

Treatment for Acne

Doctors suggest the following to clear up mild acne:

* Get a nonprescription acne medicine and apply regularly. Over-the-counter drugs containing sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, are all effective for treating mild acne.

* Use ordinary hygiene on affected areas, washing your face once or twice daily with your usual soap or cleanser. Deodorant soaps may be used, but they are of no particular value for acne.

* Do not scrub or use a loofa. Friction makes acne worse.

* Do not pick or squeeze. This may worsen scarring.

If home treatments do not work, acne can be treated effectively by your dermatologist. Options may include:

* Topical treatments such as retinoids (tretinoin, tazarotene, or adapalene) or antibiotics (benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin)

* Oral antibiotics

* Hormonal medications like oral contraceptives


* In severe cases, an oral medication called isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed. This is extremely effective, but side effects may include severe birth defects, changes in blood fats and cholesterols, and mood changes. Because of these side effects, Accutane is usually used only for patients with severe acne, or, in patients who have failed all other treatments.

As with most diseases, acne responds best if treatment is begun early in the course of the disease. Treating your acne before it becomes severe may also help to reduce permanent scarring.

Treatment for Acne

Doctors suggest the following to clear up mild acne:
* Get a nonprescription acne medicine and apply regularly. Over-the-counter drugs containing sulfur, resorcinol, salicylic acid, and benzoyl peroxide, are all effective for treating mild acne.

* Use ordinary hygiene on affected areas, washing your face once or twice daily with your usual soap or cleanser. Deodorant soaps may be used, but they are of no particular value for acne.

* Do not scrub or use a loofa. Friction makes acne worse.

* Do not pick or squeeze. This may worsen scarring.

If home treatments do not work, acne can be treated effectively by your dermatologist. Options may include:

* Topical treatments such as retinoids (tretinoin, tazarotene, or adapalene) or antibiotics (benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin)

* Oral antibiotics

* Hormonal medications like oral contraceptives

* In severe cases, an oral medication called isotretinoin (Accutane) may be prescribed. This is extremely effective, but side effects may include severe birth defects, changes in blood fats and cholesterols, and mood changes. Because of these side effects, Accutane is usually used only for patients with severe acne, or, in patients who have failed all other treatments.

As with most diseases, acne responds best if treatment is begun early in the course of the disease. Treating your acne before it becomes severe may also help to reduce permanent scarring.

For more information, visit healthcentral.com

Vitamins and Skincare

While many of us are quick to grab a cream or ointment in our haste to make acne go away, there are treatments available that many people are not aware of.

It's no secret that taking a multi-vitamin on a daily basis is good for the entire body, but there are acne-specific vitamins and minerals that can be taken to help clear the skin of blemishes as well. They are not miracle cures for acne and they need to be taken with care and caution.

Always consult with a doctor before beginning to take any supplement.

There are many dietary supplements that may help strengthen and protect the skin from the bacteria that cause acne, but a few of the most effective are: vitamins A, C, E, biotin, zinc and silicon. Not only can each of these supplements be taken individually to help with acne, they can also be combined for a synergistic affect.

Vitamin A supports new cell growth and also helps regulate sebum production in the skin.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), found in oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes is another acne buster that is easy to add into the diet.

Vitamin E, another major anti-oxidant which helps combat acne, is also a super-potent scavenger of free radicals.

Biotin, a B vitamin, is also necessary for healthy hair and skin, and aids in cell growth and fatty acid production.

Minerals are also important supplements to include in an acne-blasting skincare diet, especially zinc and silicon.

For more information,visit skincare-news.com