Natural Acne Scar Treatments

The unfair fact is that adult acne will affect 25 percent of men and 50 percent of women in their adult lives. We know that identifying hormonal changes as the main cause of adult acne aren’t entirely proven. There isn’t just one cause. Acne in adult women can be linked to cosmetic use, some hair products and can frequently be brought on by the hormonal fluctuations associated with pregnancy. Certain types of prescription medications can also cause adult acne. Some strains of acne, such as Acne vulgaris, don’t typically show up in adults until midlife. Adult acne also forms differently, whereas adolescent acne begins on the forehead and cheek area, adult acne tends to show more on the chin, jaw line and neck.

With all this new adult acne erupting (pardon the pun) more than before, natural acne and scar treatments are gaining more acceptance as consumers want to make healthier more sustainable choices for their skincare.

Your skin has an amazing natural ability to regenerate itself and a new layer of skin growth will generally cover any scarring, but in the rare cases where this does not occur then a more advanced scar treatment is in order. Always consult with your doctor or dermatologist before beginning any facial treatments to be sure you are not causing further damage.

A healthy, well-balanced diet plays a large role in helping your body and skin to regenerate itself to its optimal condition. Many dermatologists recommend a diet high in natural minerals. These minerals are to maintain the health of the skin cells, which in turn should prevent a further outbreak of acne and repair damaged tissue. Diets, which include plenty of green vegetables, un-cooked vegetables such as carrots, spinach and cucumbers, have also helped many to maintain smooth, blemish-free skin. The idea is to try to create a new fresh layer of skin so that the scars reduced or eradicated.

Are you drinking enough water?

By consuming a regular amount of water daily, you can improve the look of your skin. The average human body is comprised of 60 percent water. Drinking more water, instead of sugar-laden sodas or energy drinks will keep the skin moist and smooth; it will also clear away the dead skin cells, flush toxins and aid in the regeneration of new skin cells. Mixing water with natural ingredients like citrus, fruit or vegetable juices, can also be helpful to exfoliate the skin.

With a proper nutritious diet, vitamins and plenty of water, most see results within a few months. It can take up to a year for acne scars to heal completely. Acne scars do not show up overnight and removing them can take the same amount of time if not more. It takes patience, but with the proper motivation for beautiful, glowing skin, it will be well worth the wait.

Study Shows Diet Can Cause Acne

Many of us have suffered from acne at one point or another in our lives, most commonly during our teen years.  In the United States, 85% of teenagers and 20% of all adults suffer from acne, according to acne-resources.org.  Recently, studies have suggested that Westernized lifestyle choices, such as diet, can play a major role in the occurrence of acne.   A national study led in 2002 by a team at Colorado State University (1) indicated acne is a skin condition that is prevalent in fully modernized Western societies, but a rare occurrence in many non-Western societies where dietary habits “are virtually uninfluenced by Western foods.”  We all know that hormones, bacteria, and genetics are all contributing factors, and there are several creams, lotions and cleansers available on the market to treat acne pimples.  However, new theories suggest that what we put in our bodies is just as important as the topical products we use.

Studies have shown that a low glycemic diet not only improves the symptoms of acne, but also offers other significant health benefits.  Researchers at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology in Australia conducted a study in which they found that those who followed a low-glycemic diet not only had less acne lesions, but also lower weight, lower Body Mass Index, and increased insulin sensitivity.  The glycemic index measures how different carbohydrates raise our blood sugar levels after consumption. The faster the food breaks down during digestion, the lower the GI count will be.  Similarly, food that breaks down quickly will have a higher GI count.  Foods with GI index of 55 or less are good for the body and skin, since they contain more complex carbohydrates and release sugar directly into the bloodstream at a slower rate.  As a result, insulin demand decreases, along with acne breakouts.  Insulin leads to acne by releasing other hormones that increases the amount of sweat and sebum.  When mixed with excess oil or dry skin cells, it provides a thriving ground for acne.  High levels of insulin can also cause high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.

Foods with low GI indexes include broccoli, mushroom, fettuccini, and spaghetti.  Cake, soft drinks, white bread and potatoes are examples of foods that are on the opposite end of the chart, with GI indexes of 70 or higher.  A healthy, low-glycemic  diet does not have to be bland.  Instead of processed food, opt for those with more whole grains, such as wheat bread and wheat pasta.  (You probably won’t event taste the difference.)  Also, combine lean proteins like chicken breast, salmon and turkey with plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.  String the meat and vegetables together on a skewer stick and throw on the grill for a healthy, summery feast.

Although diet alone will not clear up acne, it can lead to a healthier lifestyle.  Combined with a proper skincare regimen and the right products, acne can be manageable.

(1)    http://www.news.colostate.edu/Release/1531

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare you can also link to http://herbalfacialskincare.com

Everyday Skincare to Prevent Acne Breakouts

By Van Le | Beauty may only be skin deep, but having a great complexion makes life a lot more pleasant. The key to having great skin is finding a skin care regimen that tailors to your skin’s individual needs, and following this regimen daily. It does not have to be complex and complicated—in fact, simpler is better since you will need to follow the same steps twice a day.

The first step is to do your homework. Determine what your skin type is, and find a product line that works well for you. There are many resources you can use either online or through your local library to help you determine your skin type. Look for published works by dermatologists or skincare experts who have created their own skin typing quizzes or online calculators such as this one: http://www.biobalance4women.com/skin_type.html. There are even sunscreen and UV calculators to help you find the best sun protection for your skin type. A product that works perfectly for your friend or sister may not produce the same results for you. Luckily, most products now specify which skin type it works best for. Also, there are several herbal skin care lines on the market whose products contain all-natural ingredients that work well with most skin types. When experimenting with new products, keep track of those that are effective and more importantly, those that irritate your skin so you can stay away from other products that contain similar ingredients. Ultimately, creating and maintaining a great complexion comes down to three simple steps: cleanse, tone, moisturize.

Cleanse

Finding a cleanser that works well for your skin is the foundation of having great skin. Some prefer to use a heavier cream cleanser during the winter months and a lighter cleanser through the summer, while others use the same product year-round. Wash your face twice a day, massaging the cleanser in a circular motion to remove dirt and excess oil, which can clog your pores. Proper cleansing at night also removes all traces of makeup and allows your skin to breath freely. Remember to change your pillow cover regularly, since the dirt and pollutants can transfer to your face while you are sleeping.

Tone

Even after washing your face with a cleanser, some traces of dirt and stubborn makeup may remain on your skin. A toner will completely remove any leftover dirt or residue left by the cleanser, reducing the chances of infections. Some cleansers may change the skin’s pH, and a toner will help bring the skin back to the proper level. Toners are also excellent in prepping the skin for the next step, moisturizing. Dip a cotton ball into your favorite toner and apply across the surface of the face, being careful not to get too close to the eyes.

Moisturize

Moisturizing daily will help the skin stay hydrated and produce a healthy glow. Lack of moisture can lead to wrinkles, fine lines, and can produce premature signs of aging. A moisturizer will restore the skin of all the natural oil stripped throughout the day and during the cleansing and toning process. The right moisturizer depends on your individual skin type, and will help your skin produce a natural glow.

Weekly, bi-weekly and monthly skin care products and processes such as masks, peels and facials are great to help revamp and rejuvenate your skin; however, a great complexion starts and ends with a proper daily skincare regimen.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare you can also link to http://herbalfacialskincare.com

Dry, Sensitive Skin Options

Treatment Options for Dry, Sensitive Skin

If you suffer from dry, cracked or sensitive skin – skin that easily reacts to chemicals and temperature fluctuations – then keeping your skin hydrated is essential. If you live in a humid climate where natural moisture is more prevalent, then you are halfway there to better skin. On the flip side, if you live in a high-altitude or desert climate, artificially creating humidity in your home may be the second best option. Since many of us can’t just pick up and move to a new seaside location, using a humidifier in your home or bedroom while you sleep can do wonders for your dry, cracked skin.

While drinking more water will help hydrate your skin to a degree, it isn’t the cure-all for sensitive skin issues. However, the water you use to bathe is very important. Bathing with hard water (which contains increased amounts of calcium) can contribute to dryness and redness. Reverse osmosis water filters will help convert hard water to soft water, if it fits in your budget, it could be a consideration. Water temperature also matters. Dermatologists warm that very hot water temperatures, such as 104 degrees F, can dry out your skin and lead to redness. Gentle hydrotherapy, meaning moderate temperatures with little fluctuations are best for your skin type.

When choosing a special spa treatment, do so with care. Be wise in selecting spa and beauty treatments like exfoliating massages, loofahs, acid-peel facials, and hot steam rooms, which can all strip oils from sensitive, dry skin. Scalding temperatures, intense treatments, running from hot saunas into wintry snow is good for those with resilient skin – not for you. For those with especially sensitive skin, even perfumed bath oils and massage products can be irritating. Aromatherapy massages may be counterproductive if the oils used cause any form of burning or redness. Even getting a manicure or pedicure can cause hyper-reactions when the acetones in nail polishes and removers are irritating.

If you have had serious reactions to spa treatments in the past and need a gentler alternative, consider thalassotherapy. Thalassotherapy was developed in seaside towns in Brittany, France during the 19th century. Based on the belief that the properties of seawater have beneficial effects upon the pores of the skin, trace elements of magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium, and iodide found in seawater are believed to be absorbed through the skin. The therapy is applied in various forms, as either showers of warmed seawater, application of marine mud or of algae paste or the inhalation of sea fog. Spas make hot seawater and provide mud and seaweed wrapping services.

Very popular throughout Europe, thalassotherapy treatments are used for relaxation, stress management, muscle and skin restoration, and to fight cellulite. If you cannot afford the actual spa treatments, home products containing seaweed or algae can also be effective in hydrating dry, sensitive skin.
Another great option to provide more oil distribution to dry skin is massage. Massage is also great for eczema. A recent dermatological study at the University of Miami showed that children with severe dry skin were treated with moisturizer and massage therapy improved more compared to those who were not massaged and were treated with moisturizer alone.

So these are simply guidelines to use when choosing products and treatments to help alleviate your dry skin conditions. As with all hydrotherapy treatments, it is important to limit your immersion in the water to less than one hour so as not to impair the skin barrier. And when purchasing products, always be sure to read the ingredient list for potential irritants.

Using Green Tea and Zinc to Heal Acne

By Van Le | The popularity of green tea in the skincare industry has skyrocketed over the last decade. It’s more than just a fad, as the benefits of green tea are well documented due to extensive research. Tea was used in ancient times as a natural stimulant, since it contains caffeine. Today, people drink green tea as a natural way to promote overall good health, but it is especially popular in the skincare industry, where it is a key component in the efforts to slow down the signs of aging.

Green tea contains high amounts of polyphenols, which protects the skin from damage caused by free radicals and other harmful toxins. Compared to black and white tea, green tea contains the highest amount of polyphenol, and contains anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticarcinogenic properties. Its anti-inflammatory nature makes it a versatile herbal ingredient used to fight acne. The antioxidant qualities help prevent premature signs of aging, and the anticarcinogenic characteristics are a major component in the efforts to find a cure for cancer.

The anti-inflammatory properties of green tea make it an effective herbal treatment against symptoms of acne. A 2003 study carried out by Dr. Jennifer Gan-Wong of Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines suggest that green tea cream is just as effective as benzoyl peroxide cream, but does not expose the skin to harsh chemicals and preservatives, according to skincell.org. It also helps detoxify the body and reduces skin inflammation, which decreases the occurrences of outbreaks.

Green tea is also indispensable as an anti-oxidant because it contains high amounts of catechins, a substance that fights against free radicals, which are harmful to cells and tissues. Catechin is especially effective in neutralizing free radicals caused by excessive exposure to UV rays.

Although green tea extracts alone cannot replace the protection provided by sunscreen, it can enhance sunscreen’s effectiveness. Simply add green tea extract to zinc oxide products, such as Vivoderm’s Zinc Cream. Using zinc oxide cream instead of a store-bought sunscreen product is recommended because zinc will not react to the green tea extracts.

Anti-oxidants found in green tea help delay the skin cell aging process and heal stressed skin. Green tea promotes healthy skin by rejuvenating skin cells and reviving the skin growth cycle. The skin is produced in the deepest of three layers, and as it ages, it moves closer to the surface, where it can develop wrinkles and fine lines. An article published in the Natural Food Merchandiser magazine states that research done by Dr. Stephen Hsu, a professor at Medical College of Georgia suggests that green tea can accelerate the skin cell production process.

Whether as an ingredient in your natural skincare products or added to your zinc oxide cream, the health benefits of green tea are plenty.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare and facemasks, you can also link to http://naturalfacialskincare.net

How to Properly Cleanse Your Face

By Van Le | Washing our face may be the simplest daily routine we can perform for a healthy complexion, but it is often a neglected subject when it comes to discussing skincare. As children, “washing your face” means to simply splash water on our skin for a few seconds. However, as our skin matures, it requires more attention and a proper routine, since properly cleansing our face daily is truly the foundation for fabulous skin. Essentially, the purpose of washing our face is to remove dirt and excess oil, unclog pores, and allow our skin to breath freely. At the same time, it removes dead layers of outer skin to make room for younger, healthier skin. Here are a few tips for properly washing your face.

First, thoroughly wash your hands with warm water. Grease, dirt and grime can transfer from the hands to the face by touch; therefore, it is important to get rid of any leftover residue before touching your face.

Second, wet the face and use a gentle cleanser to wash away the dirt, impurities and pollutants. Try an herbal product that contains natural ingredients and vitamins, such as Vivoderm’s facial cleanser. Infused with skin-friendly herbs such as vitamin A, vitamin E, Aloe vera, rosemary and chamomile extract, it leaves the skin clean and hydrated. It can also be used to remove eye makeup, since it is a gentle product.

Vivoderm’s line of skincare products contains no harsh chemicals or preservatives that can irritate the skin. Apply the cleanser to your face, use your middle and ring fingers to massage the product in a circular motion, moving upward from the chin to forehead. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, especially around delicate areas such as the eyes.

Rinse your face with plenty of luke-warm water to wash away the cleanser along with any dirt and oil. It is especially important to use warm water since hot water can cause capillaries under the skin to burst, while cold water won’t completely remove impurities on the skin. Make sure you wash along the hairline and neck, since soap residue around these areas can irritate the skin and cause more problems.

Next, pat your face dry with a clean towel. Never rub your face since it could cause irritations, and always use a clean towel. A dirty towel will just transfer dirt and pollutants back onto your face, defeating the purpose. Then, use an alcohol-free toner to bring your skin to the proper pH. Vivoderm offers an all-natural toner that helps sooth the skin.

Finish off by applying a moisturizer that replaces the essential oils that have just been washed away. Vivoderm’s intense moisturizer contains a cocktail of natural herbs that helps the skin maintain a healthy glow.

Cleanse your face in the morning and night, but no more than twice a day, since excessive washing can strip the skin of essential oils. By following these steps, clear, healthy skin is simple and easy.

Van Le is a staff writer for the CSU Daily Titan and writing intern for Vivoderm Laboratories in Los Angeles, California. She is currently pursuing a Journalism degree at California State University, Fullerton.

For the latest findings on natural skincare and facemasks, you can also link to http://www.bestskincareforme.com