Some Answers To Your Questions

Vitamin D Questions and Answers:

What about fish oil?  It doesn’t contain vitamin D (with the exception of Cod Liver Oil), but since we’re talking about supplements, does fish oil break people out like some people say?

I can’t imagine a reason why fish oil would break people out.  Before agriculture came about, humans ate much higher amounts of omega-3 fats in their diets.  Omega-3s are an extremely natural part of the human diet.  I would urge people who think that fish oil is breaking them out to remain open minded and look for other variables that might be the culprit.  Supplementing with fish oil, or eating a diet rich in wild fish is a healthy lifestyle, and in my research seems to point toward a potentially positive impact on acne.

Why is acne localized mostly on the face?

We have many more sebaceous follicles on the face than elsewhere on our bodies. Acne generates within these follicles.  The only place where we do not have sebaceous follicles is on the palms of our hands and soles of our feet, which is why it is impossible to get acne in those areas.

Maybe eating grains causes acne?

Humans have only been subsisting on agriculture for about 5,000 years.  We evolved as a species for hundreds of thousands of years prior to that, and ate very little or no grains. Studying a possible diet and acne link is interesting, but eliminating grains in one’s diet is almost impossible for any modern human.  We tried it here on Acne.org a few years ago, and out of 25 of us who attempted to eliminate grains entirely, only one or two of us managed to even come close, and in the end, we all ended up quitting.  It really is that hard.

What do you think of SMT_D002?

For those of you who are not familiar with it, SMT_D002 is an oral drug which its owners claimed may reduce sebum much like Accutane without the side effects.  This sort of claim sounds intriguing, but the drug appears to have only been entered into a small Phase 1 trial (18 subjects), and its owners have since dropped it in lieu of possibly developing a topical medication instead.  Of all the new drugs which show initial promise in treating a disease, an extremely small percentage make it through trials and to market.  At this point, I don’t know if it is worth much of our time keeping up with this one in particular, especially since the company has put it effectively on hold.

New Moisturizer Questions and Answers:

What are your recommendations about using the AHA+ as an overall moisturizer?

The AHA+ is still a great moisturizer to use from time to time, even if you are now using the new Acne.org Moisturizer.  I still recommend using the AHA+ 2-3 evenings a week if you desire, but it is not mandatory.  It will improve skin tone and still provides extra insurance that your skin will appear smoother if you have an important event coming up.  Also, even though it is now approaching winter, remember that AHA will make you more sensitive to the sun, and it is still important to stay aware of this.

Do you still recommend adding jojoba oil to the new moisturizer?

I made certain that the new moisturizer has the same percentage of jojoba oil as the previous moisturizer.  Thus it is perfectly fine to continue adding a few drops of jojoba oil into the new moisturizer each time you apply it if you would like.  If you use a full two pumps of the new moisturizer, which I very highly recommend that you do, you may not require the additional jojoba.  If you still need more flakiness control, however, feel free to add jojoba into the mix.

I need a good eye cream.  Is it safe to use the new moisturizer under the eyes?

Absolutely, with this one caveat:  Anything that goes over benzoyl peroxide can bring the benzoyl peroxide along with it.  If you have sensitive skin around the eyes, be careful not to let this happen during application.

How does the new moisturizer work on oily skin?

It seems to work brilliantly on people with oily skin.  This makes sense because it contains jojoba oil and is specifically designed not to leave sheen on the skin.  Feel free to ask people on the messageboards or look through the reviews of the new moisturizer.

How do I know if I have the old version of the moisturizer or the new one?

The old one is white.  The new one is yellow due to licochalcone, the licorice root extract which is in the new formula.

Irritation Page Questions and Answers:

What about tissues that contain lotion?  Can they break you out?

Great question.  I did a search and it appears that the lotion contained in these tissues may be suspect.  At times they contain emollients such as isopropyl palmitate, which impart a silky feel to the skin, but which also present as top offenders in comedogenicity studies.  Other brands sometimes contain less offensive but still questionable ingredients such as shea butter.  I think it may be best to stay away from tissues with lotion until we get more feedback from Acne.org users on whether they do indeed break people out.  If you have used these types of tissues, please post your experience on the boards.  In the meantime, I’ll be sure to add this information to the irritation page.





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Weleda Everon Face Balm: The Answer to Extreme Weather Condition Skin Problems?

The Weleda Everon Face Balm is formulated to protect the skin of the face from extreme weather conditions. According to the maker of the facial balm, the product is designed to soothe and protect the skin from various environmental factors such as cold air during the winter and harsh sunlight and strong winds.

The facial balm is said to moisturize the skin and prevent it from drying from environment-related stress. It is marketed as a formula made from natural ingredients that help nourish the skin without fear of adverse reactions that can sometimes be caused by artificial ingredients.

"Living in the East coast, I'm used to the harsh winter weather, however, it's never done any justice on my sensitive skin. I also have acne prone skin...I started using this and love it! This keeps my skin soft and helps heal any chapped/pealing skin I already have!"

Excerpt from a customer review on totalbeauty.com

"Living in Arizona, I was experiencing extremely dry skin around my eye area - tight, dry and irritating skin. I picked the Facial Balm up and started using it along with a cleanser for dry skin...The product has a light, non-greasy, healthy feel to it...weeks later my complexion is more clear than it has ever been (adult acne) and healthy looking."

Excerpt from a customer review on buzzillions.com

"This is my HG facial moisturizer. I have really sensitive, acne-prone, yet dry skin (I'm 30) and I've been searching everywhere for the perfect moisturizer...Just as neutral and natural as jojoba oil. Highly recommended! Does not cause acne and has a nice really light scent."

Excerpt from a customer review on makeupalley.com

"...I needed something to protect my skin from cold. I thought this would be perfect, but it turned out to be very heavy...Still for someone with dryer skin this would be perfect."

Excerpt from a customer review on makeupalley.com

This has received mostly positive reviews from users. However, a handful of consumers have reported that it did not work for them. Those who claimed that the product was not effective did admit that the facial balm might work on others. As we see it, it's a product not for everybody. Based on the reviews we've gathered, the Weleda face balm is effective on really dry skin, but not on ordinary or sensitive skin types. The good thing is we didn't get any report that the product caused adverse reactions.

Not for everybody. However, we do recommend it to people who frequent places with extreme weather conditions or to those who spend a lot of time outdoors. We still suggest caution before using it despite the absence of adverse reaction reports. It is better to try it one small amount at a time or visit a dermatologist's office to have your skin assessed and ask a skin expert whether the product is suitable for you.


Weleda is a company that specializes in developing and selling complementary medicine, nutritional supplements and cosmetics. The Weleda Group is located in Arlesheim, Switzerland, although various associated companies can be found around the world, with the largest located in Germany.

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ClearPores

A laboratory created the ClearPores Skin Cleansing System. The laboratory used the latest in scientific advancements to create the system. At the company website, they state that it is “recommended by American doctors and a European herbalist”.

ClearPores is a 3 step process, it includes:
* A herbal supplement
* A body/facial protection cream
* A cleansing system for the skin

Acne is fought on the inside and outside with the three step system. A person using the product will have shine free skin, as well as be free of blemishes, white heads, black heads and spots too. There will also be a reduction in swelling, scarring and redness associated with acne.

The beginning of the process is to cleanse the skin with a Deep Facial Wash and/or a Deep Body Wash. When a person uses these products, they specifically attack bacteria that can cause acne. The washes work to reduce blemishes, remove excess sebum, unclog the pores by allowing the skin to shed old cells, eliminate white heads, eliminate black heads and helps the skin to heal with the special blend of nutrients. The washes contain 2%Salicylic Acid and 1% SD Alcohol 40, as well as being oil free.

Then there is the ClearPores Facial and/or Body Protection Cream. These products are used to stop the skin from drying out. They also hep to promote clear pores, add moisture to the skin and protect the skin from bacteria and sweat. The Facial Protection Cream has 2% Salicylic Acid. The Body Protection Cream has 1.5% Salicylic Acid. Also, the body cream does have green tea in it, but all the other ingredients are made from a laboratory.

Lastly, there is the ClearPores Skin Herbal Supplement. This is 100% natural ingredients. It includes aloe era, red clover, kelp and dandelion root. The website states that these ingredients will work to “fight the acne bacteria where it grows”, as well as rebuild cells and reduce swelling, scarring and inflammation associated with acne

ClearPores offers three products to fight and fix all the problems, unlike other products out there. ClearPores has been endorsed by doctors and their site offers 24 hour support as well. Plus, there is a 90 day refund policy as well.

The ingredients are very good, however people should know that the active ingredient, which is salicylic acid, can irritate sensitive skin. However, besides that the treatment is recommended and very effective.

For the best deals we recommend buying ClearPores from their official website here: www.clearpores.com


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Revitol Skin Care for Acne: Does the Acnezine Kit Really Work?

The Revitol skin care system for acne is comprised of the Acnezine supplement in capsule form and the Acne Moisturizing Cr?me. According to Revitol, the acne kit is not just an acne treatment, it is also an entire skin care system made from natural ingredients. The products have been said to be effective, not only in getting rid of existing pimples, but also in preventing future skin outbreaks.

The Revitol acne skin care system is recommended for both adults and teenagers. They work by working internally, providing antioxidants that cleanse the system and get rid of acne-causing bacteria.

"I've had acne for decades. I was red and scarred...I was resigned to having ugly skin until my friend said to try Acnezine. It was unbelievable! After all these years, my acne has cleared up, and even the scars are starting to look better."

Excerpt from a customer review on easyacneremedy.com

"Both my self and my daughter have been using this combination for the last 4 months and it has worked well for the both of us. She has been fighting with the adolescent acne for years now and finally we are seeing improvements."

Excerpt from a customer review on amazon.com

"I used to be so embarrassed about all my pimples that I had no social life at all...I noticed my brother looking a lot better than I did...So I asked him what happened and he said that he started taking Acnezine. I figured if it worked for him, maybe it could work for me. And it did!"

Excerpt from a customer review on squidoo.com

"I have been taking it (Acnezine) for about 5 weeks now, the only result I have found is Worse Acne! I would think it would be getting better by now."


Excerpt from a customer review on skinmorphy.com

Majority of the feedback we've gathered have given this product a thumbs-up. Although there are some who complained that it did not work for them, these complaints are very few. The Revitol acne treatment kit is actually one of the top-rated natural acne solutions being offered in the market, if consumer and expert reviews are to be believed. Another good thing about it is that it is made from natural ingredients.

We recommend this product, although not for severe acne. As stated in the manufacturer's Web site, it is ideal for mild to moderate acne. The natural ingredients also sold us out on this one.

The Acnezine Acne Kit is from Revitol. The company's customer service unit is located in Burbank, California.

Acnezine skin antioxidant - 

Ester C, Vitamin E (dl-alpha tocopherol), Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hci), Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin), Vitamin B1 (thiamine), Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), Aloe vera powder, Alpha lipoic acid, Bioperine standardized extract, Collagen type II (from chicken), CoQ10, Curcumin C3 complex, Hylauronic acidOther ingredients:Vegetable capsule (Hydroxypropyl cellulose)

Acne Moisturizing Cr?me -


The capsule should be taken once a day before a meal, while the facial cream can be used one to three times a day by applying a thin layer on affected areas after cleaning the face
$79.90


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ZenMed DermaCleanse

When looking for a natural acne treatment, Zenmed offers a holistic product that addresses both the internal and external causes of acne. Using a variety of lotions, complimented with an oral supplement, this natural system will clear your skin and help prevent future flare-ups.

DermaCleanse, by Zenmed, has been designed specifically for people suffering with acne.

Zenmed makes a large variety of natural skin treatments including: A Scar and Hyperpigmentation Treatment, Acne Rosacea Skin Support System, Body Acne Treatment Program and several other skin related products. They also have a line of products to treat hemorrhoids, dermatitis and eczema.

The DermaCleanse System by Zenmed contains the following items:

Zenmed Facial Cleansing Gel


For proper removal of oil and dirt this cleansing gel contains anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that balance your skin and helps prevent future flare ups of acne. The balanced oils allow skin to build up its natural defenses.

DermaCleanse Acne Gel


The Zenmed Acne Gel will cleanse the skin, help promote healing and reduce the potential for scarring.

DermaCleanse Dietary Supplement by Zenmed


A unique holistic blend of dandelion, gardenia, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, neem, burdock and chamomile are the base of this supplement. This is a carefully blended formula using Chinese, Ayurvedic and other natural healing products to attack acne internally.

Zenmed Seburn Regulation Moisturizer


This moisturizer helps the skin to maintain its delicate balance while soothing the affected areas and providing relief. It is a combination of vegetable glycerin, Vitamins A, E and B5, aloe and essence of rose.

Ingredient in the Zenmed Facial Cleansing Gel include sage, balm mint, chamomile, rosemary, organic aloe vera gel, vitamin C, rose oil, tangerine, lavender, and geranium.

Ingredients in the Zenmed DermaCleanse Acne Gel include salicylic acid, witch hazel, and vitamin B5.

The Zenmed Capsules attack acne internally and contains a unique blend of Chinese, Ayurvedic, and natural actives.

The oil-free Zenmed Sebum Regulation Moisturizer uses vitamins A, B5 and E, rose essence, aloe vera, and vegetable glycerin.


DermaCleanse uses Chinese, Ayurvedic and holistic therapies to treat acne. This powerful combination will help your skin look young and fresh as well as heal acne that has already occurred.

Within a few weeks of continual use, you will see the dramatic effects DermaCleanse will have on your skin. Zenmed’s powerful combination of natural ingredients will effectively combat your acne. With the additional power of witch hazel and salicylic acid, your pores will remain clear and your skin will look younger and feel soft and supple.




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Can Chocolate Really Cause Acne?

It is a common knowledge that chocolate intake is usually associated with acne formation.  But is this really true?  Can chocolates really cause a pimple outbreak?

Acne vulgaris or pimple outbreak is a common skin problem among adolescents.  However, according to study published in March 2009 by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, this common skin problem seen in adolescents usually resolve once adulthood is reached.

In a study published by the International Journal of Dermatology in March 2009, it has been mentioned that chocolate is not a proven cause of acne formation not because this statement is really true but because there is still insufficient basis to conclude its relationship with this skin health problem.  Furthermore, there is still no existing study that is unbiased and perfectly designed to prove its positive effect to pimple outbreak.

And so, because of this inconclusive evidence regarding the association of chocolate intake with acne formation, avoiding them is still the wisest thing to do to prevent acne formation. Don’t just eat too much of this sweet treat until sufficient evidence is presented to prove its claimed innocence regarding acne formation. Who knows, common folks might be right after all.


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The Latest Most Common Factors Linked to Acne in Women

While most factors associated with acne formation are avoidable, some appear to be beyond a woman’s control according to a recent article published by Medline Plus.

The top in the list of factors associated with acne formation is the change in the hormonal levels during puberty.  This factor is one problem being faced by most women regarding pimple outbreak.  However, according to a study published in March 2009 by the Journal of Investigative Dermatology, this problem seems to gradually disappear once adulthood is reached.

The second most common factor for pimple outbreak is the hormonal changes associated with the menstrual cycle.  Though there is still insufficient data regarding this problem, it has been a word of mouth among laymen that acne is most often noted during the days right before the start of the menstrual period.  However, the explanation for this phenomenon is yet to be seen.

The third most frequently associated factor for acne vulgaris or severe acne the regular use of makeup.  This may be true particularly among women with very sensitive skin.  Thus hypoallergenic cosmetics should be used to avoid this skin problem.  A short trip to your dermatologist can also be a great help to totally eliminate this problem.


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Severe Acne

The most common acne medications prescribed by doctors for severe acne is antibiotics which are usually taken over a course of many years, and when that doesn’t work sufferers of severe acne are prescribed the extremely dangerous drug Accutane, often seen as the last resort. And when that doesn’t work, well, there’s really nothing left for them to prescribe.

Dermotologists and doctors have come up with various names for severe acne with a corresponding set of drugs, including the following:
Acne conglobata,Acne fulminans,Gram negative folliculitis,Nodulocystic acne.

Whichever category you think your acne falls in, the fact of the matter is severe acne is severe acne and there’s only one safe way to get rid of acne permanently. Remember that the generations before us didn’t have pharmacies, dermatologists or the Internet to help with their health problems – they relied on natural remedies.

“Water the roots and not the leaves”

This ancient saying in Chinese Medicine says that we must treat the cause (the root) and the symptoms (the leaves) will resolve themselves. But, if the symptoms (acne) are suppressed, then one day those annoying symptoms will resurface, but this time as a more serious illness. The Chinese and the Indians have known this for thousands of years. Their healing systems have always been focused on supporting nature instead of fighting it.

It becomes apparent that the only way to treat severe acne is to begin by educating yourself about the fundamental difference between symptoms and causes of acne no matter how severe it is. Learning this difference is your first step towards healthy acne free skin.

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Best Acne Treatments Contain Natural Ingredients

Some of the best acne treatments contain natural ingredients to help cure the skin and detoxify your body from within.

Zenmed Derma Cleanse is a solution for all skin types. It promises a clearer complexion if you use the gentle cleanser, the medicated acne treatment and the herbal detoxifier supplement. The supplement should be taken with the meals, three times a day and helps in rejuvenating the skin and providing the nourishment needed to stay healthy. The herbal ingredients can control the androgen levels in the skin. Some of the specific ingredients to this formula are neem, honeysuckle, chaste tree, forsythia, red dahilia, and gardenia.

ClearPores includes a deep facial wash, an acne treatment cream and an herbal supplement that can address the root causes of acne. The herbal supplement helps with regulating hormones, promoting detoxification and maintaining healthy blood circulation. Some of the ingredients are dandelion root, red clover, licorice root, atlantic kelp and cotton seed oil.

Exposed Acne Treatment combines science and nature to address the four leading causes of acne. The facial cleanser, the clearing tonic and the acne treatment serums, for day and night can all offer not just treatment but also protection against recurring acne.

By cleansing the skin and detoxifying it, killing bacteria that causes acne, removing the dead skin cells and getting rid of excess oil on the face, the products can heal the skin without drying it. The natural pH of the skin is restored and antioxidants present in the formula protect skin cells from free radicals. By gently exfoliating the skin, new cells are encouraged to grow. Sage extract, aloe vera, salicylic acid and green tea extract can soothe any inflammation and promote healing. The passion fruit is an added ingredient that provides Vitamin A.


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Skin Clearing Tips For Acne

There are a variety of reasons why people develop acne. Hormonal changes are sometimes the main cause, while stress and sleep can also be an important factor triggering acne. Excessive oils and chemicals in cosmetic products or certain drugs are other factors that can cause acne
.
However, the major factor is genetics. People may inherit the skin characteristics that make them more susceptible to develop acne. In case you are one of these people you should know that there are several methods of treating acne. One is using benzoyl peroxide, which is considered by most dermatologists as the most effective over-the-counter product for acne treatment.

Washing your skin too vigorously might cause skin dryness instead of unplugging oil ducts. You should wash using a mild soap that is suited to your skin type. Instead of oil-based cosmetics, you should use water-based products.

Massaging your face gently can enhance blood pressure but avoid scrubbing your face or over-washing it in order to avoid irritation or roughness to the skin.

Food has not been proven to be a major factor in acne but you should avoid spicy foods or acidic reactive foods such as tomatoes, lemonade, oranges. Avoid reprocessed and junk food after a break of acne and eat only healthy food for at least a week. Avoid extended exposure to any agents that cause skin damage, including sun exposure.

Research on skin conditions such as acne has provided a lot of new information in the past decade and there are more treatment options today. New topical products such as retinoids derived from Vitamin A have been developed and they help with unplugging follicles. There are combination treatments that include a topical antimicrobial or an antibiotic to complement the effects of retinoids.


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Acne Problems May Raise Suicide Risk

People who have received treatment for severe acne may be at higher risk of committing suicide, according to a study published recently by Swedish researchers. The depression was linked more to the skin condition than to the drugs used for treatment according to researchers at the Karolinska Insitutite. They have studied data for 6,000 people that were prescribed the drug Isotretinoin between 1980 and 1989.

Isotretinoin is also sold as Accutane, Roaccutane, Decutan, Clarus and a few other names. It has been the common medication prescribed to treat cases of serious acne since the 1980s.

However, scientists consider that the mental health problems of patients suffering from severe acne were the most probable explanations for the higher suicide risk and not the drug treatment itself.

Severe acne should not be considered a trivial condition according to the Swedish researchers. Although acne related suicide attempts are rare, patients might feel depressed even if their acne improve after treatment if they do not experience major improvements in their social lives.


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Acne Scar Treatment

Acne scar treatment varies according to the size and shape of the scars. There are four categories of acne scars: ice pick scars, boxed scars, rolling scars and hypertrophic scars. Ice pick scars are the most frequent, such scars are v-shaped, deep and pointed.

Some specialist acne scar treatments can address all these types. Topical lotions, supplementation with vitamins and laser treatments are the most common solutions. New treatments use natural ingredients that can both reduce the appearance of scars and treat the skin on a deeper level.

Skin creams are topical treatments and can be effective for a large variety of acne scars. Acne creams are the preferred treatment for many people due to their ease of administration at home. By using a topical cream, your skin becomes smoother and tight and the effects of scars are diminished.
Home made remedies include applying cucumber and tomato juice to your face. The antioxidants provided by the tomato juice and the soothing effect of cucumber combine to heal your skin. Tea tree oil is one other ingredient that has proven efficient. It has antibiotic effects and can keep additional outbreaks of acne under control.

Micro-dermabrasion is another type of treatment that is not usually administered by a doctor, but is offered by skin clinics and salons
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Scar removal can be also done with laser treatments. The downside of these options is that they are quite expensive as they are not covered by insurance, being considered cosmetic treatments. More sessions are needed and they are quite invasive. Laser treatments involve a short burst of light directed at the face to smooth the imperfections caused by the scars.


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Teenage Acne

Teenage acne also called ‘acne vulgaris’ is a condition of the skin that shows up in the form of blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or cysts. The face, neck, shoulders, upper back, and chest is usually affected.

Oil glands also know as sebaceous glands are located deep in the skin and are responsible for keeping hair follicles and skin well lubricated. The rate at which oil glands produce oil depends on a male hormone called androgen. Females also have these hormones but in fewer quantities than males do. During times of increased stress or hormonal disturbances (such as puberty) the amount of androgens circulating around the body are elevated and this causes the oil glands to produce more oil than is needed causing the skin to erupt with hormonal acne.

A well known androgen hormone is called testosterone. After puberty, boys produce 10 times as much androgen as girls. Therefore, more boys tend to develop more severe cases of teenage acne but that does not mean that some girls won’t develop a severe case of teenage acne.

It’s important to remember that Acne is not a disease nor can it be cured. You must also understand that acne is sign of a deeper problem within your body causing an overproduction of oils that get trapped inside pores as the body tries to eliminate them.

Don’t spend your teenage years wasting money on all sorts of cosmetic products that claim to cure acne and constantly trying to wash away the greasiness won’t work either. Instead discover how to safely restore balance to your body’s hormonal system through good diet and stress management techniques. By doing so, you’ll also be protecting yourself against a whole range of hormone related disorders later on in life.

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