Don’t Make These Acne Treatment Mistakes

Acne Treatment Mistakes

If you suffer from acne (and nearly 50 million Americans do), you have probably been bombarded with all sorts of acne

treatment solutions : from face washes to creams, gels, masks, medication, laser solutions and the lists goes on.

It is no wonder that finding the right acne treatment is a baffling experience.

However, what not to do is just as important as what to do and here is a top eight list compiled by dermatologists (courtesy of Wed MD), of common mistakes when it comes to treating acne.

The Top Eight Common Acne Treatment Mistakes:

1) Not giving the treatment time to work – It takes usually from 2-6 weeks for an acne treatment to work and sometimes, your skin will get worse before it gets better. Give the product one month’s trial to give it a chance to work.

2) Trying too many products in one go – We want the acne to preferably disappear over night and when they don’t clear in a matter of days, we immediately move onto the next product. “They also add one product to another. Sometimes the products can cause irritation of the skin and add further insult to the owner,” Barbara R. Reed, MD, a dermatology professor at the University of Colorado Hospital in Denver says.

3) Thinking acne is a result of dirt – which we then try to “remedy” by over scrubbing and over cleaning. Scrubbing will only irritate the skin more as it can compromise the skin’s protective barrier. Instead wash gently with a PH balanced non irritating wash.

4) Choosing the wrong product – Go for non-comedogenic face cleansers and watch out for oil based products that could clog pores. Other ingredients to look out for are : isopropyl palmitate, isopropyl myristate, butyl stearate, isopropyl isostearate, decyl oleate, isostearyl neopentanoate, isocetyl stearate, myristle myristate, cocoa butter, acetylated lanolin, and D & C red dyes. They could be found in moisturizers, sun screens and cosmetics so look out for them.

5) Picking at the acne yourself – Looking at the pimples ten times a day will not make them heal faster. Nor will picking at them with your fingers which could make the lesions more infected. Either have them extracted professionally or give time for your acne products to work.

6) Not seeing a dermatologist – Dermatologists can diagnose, treat and give prescribed medication to treat acne. It is important to understand and treat your acne with the right medication at an early stage to prevent them from getting worse, or from scarring your face. Seek help before it gets out of hand.

7) Over using or under using the prescribed acne medication – Piling it on will not necessarily make it better faster, whilst not using the medication when you should will also undermine the cure. The key is consistency and to target all acne prone areas.

8. Stopping the acne medication too soon – Just as it takes 2-6 weeks for the acne to clear up, it will take that long for it to come back. Don’t stop cold turkey. Instead, decrease use gradually for example from twice a day to once a day, then once every other day to two, three times a week and keep an eye out for any re-occurrences.

Remember to give your acne treatment time to do its work and be patient!

Know What Type Of Acne Scar

You Have for Best Acne Treatment

Knowing what type of acne scars you have and getting to know all the best options available on the market, (and there are increasingly more options to choose from), will help you to get rid of acne scars effectively and efficiently.

Some options are more expensive than others such as laser surgery and dermabrasion, but other more natural or less intrusive methods are also available. It is a matter of doing research, and trying different products and methods to find out what works best for you as an individual.

Different Types of Acne Scars:

Macules

Macules aren’t real scars. They are reddish in color and are not raised or pitted. Rather they are the end stage of inflamed acne lesions that have left their mark for a longer period. Macules might last up to 6 months after the lesion has disappeared, but will eventually fade and disappear. 

Post-Inflammatory Pigmentation is another discoloration of skin that healed acne lesions might leave behind. More common in darker-skinned people, these marks may last for up to 18 months, especially if paired with too much sun exposure.

Ice Pick Scars

Ice Pick Scars are acne scars that look sharp, deep pitted and narrow. Imagine the indentation left behind by an ice pick and that is what it looks like. These types of scars are deep, reaching the subcutaneous layer of the skin making them difficult to erase with just skin resurfacing treatments.

Box Car Scars

Box Car Scars are circular indentations that look as if they have been sunk into the skin vertically. Larger and sometimes more obvious, they will also need more advance surgical procedures to remove.

Rolling Scars

Rolling Scars as its name suggests are wave-like raised irregularities on the skin’s surface, due to its tethering of skin to the subcutaneous tissue below. Rolling scars can be a small or can "roll" along the skin in a line.

Hypertrophic Scars

Hypertrophic Scars are raised scars that reveal themselves with a pinkish or reddish tone. They look tender to the touch and often leave the impression that the skin has been bruised.

As mentioned above there are many available procedures on the market to treat acne and acne scars. Keep in mind though that there are no guarantees, and what works for one person may not work for you.

Talk to your dermatologist. He or she will have all the latest information on hand and together with understanding you and your particular problem, a long term plan for acne scar removal and an acne solution plan can be drawn up to suit you.

Vitamin and Mineral Supplements

Treating Acne from the Inside

In the last post Eat Right to Get Rid of Acne, we looked at all the essential vitamins one should take to help prevent and fight acne and acne scars.

Here we will continue to look at other minerals and natural supplements that are crucial to clear and acne free skin.

A good multi vitamin for women and one for men are crucial to ensure you get the necessary supplements to fight acne.

Insert code number MlC376 for a discount on supplements recommended.

(Note: As with all vitamin and mineral consumption, please consult your doctor before taking them. This is a guide only and does not serve in any way, shape or form as medical advise)

Zinc

What it does for the skin:

Zinc plays an important role in cell division, cell growth, repair and wound healing. It can help prevent acne, and regulate the activity of oil glands. It also plays a role in collagen formation and promotes a healthy immune system.

Deficiency could lead to acne, slow wound healing, skin lesions, hair loss, infertility, weak nails with white spots and a loss of taste and smell.

What food has this mineral?

Oysters, lamb, milk, beans, pumpkin seeds, sardines, mushrooms, seafood, whole grains and brewer’s yeast.

Caution:

Do not take more than 100mg per day as it would suppress rather than enhance the immune system. However, many multi vitamins has only a minimal 10-15mg of zinc per recommended dosage; should you require more to begin with, here is one with 50mg.

Potassium

What it does for the skin:

Potassium works with sodium to normalize heart beat and regulate the body’s water balance. It is important for a healthy nervous system and proper muscle function.

Deficiency could lead to acne, excessively dry skin, salt retention, insomnia, excessive thirst, glucose intolerance and high cholesterol.

What food has this mineral?

White potato, dairy products such as yogurt, dried apricots, winter squash, fruits such as bananas and oranges, brown rice, dates, figs, nuts, garlic and wheat bran.

Caution:

Taking laxatives, smoking, excessive caffeine consumption and stress will diminish potassium levels.

Chromium

What it does for the skin:

This trace mineral has the ability to work with insulin in the metabolism of sugar. It is vital in the synthesis of fats, proteins and cholesterol. Sugar imbalances in the body could affect the skin.

Deficiency can lead to glucose intolerance, fatigue and arteriosclerosis.

Note: Take Chromium Picolate for best results

What food has this mineral?

Broccoli, brewer’s yeast, ham, grape juice, cheese, liver, corn, eggs, whole grains and beer.

Caution:

Exceeded the recommended amount can lead to dermatitis, liver and kidney problems.

Essential Fatty Acids(EFAs)

What it does for the skin:

The body cannot manufacture EFAs, and needs to be consumed. Contrary to belief, our body needs oils to function properly, it just needs to be the correct kind. EFAs balances our hormones, and is needed for our immune, nervous and endocrine systems. It is beneficial for eczema and dermatitis; it improves hair and skin condition and helps rebuild new cells.

There are two main types of EFAs :

Omega-3 : Contains alpha-linolenic and eicosapentaenoic acid found in deep water fish such as salmon and some vegetable oils such as walnut and flaxseed.

Omega-6 : linoleic and gamma-linolenic acids found primarily in raw seeds and nuts. Unsaturated oils such as grapeseed oil, primrose oil, borage oil and  and sesame oil are all good sources.

It is best to take a supplement of all the EFAs combined.

What food has these oils?

Salmon, mackerel, sardines, flaxseed, and oils recommended above.

Caution:

Heat destroys EFAs. In some cases, heat can make the oils into free radicals and harm the body. Trans-fatty acids, found commonly in margarine, is not beneficial to the body.

Acidophiles

What it does for the skin:

Acidophiles is a friendly bacteria that has anti fungal and detoxifying properties. People suffering from candida and acne (often the two are interlinked) will benefit from taking acidophiles. It will aid in the digestion of proteins and enhance the absorption of nutrients.

Deficiency will result in acne, constipation, bloating, gas and candida.

What food has these cultures?

Low fat yogurt containing live cultures such as lactobacillus acidophilus is best. There are also acidophilus suplements that can be taken.

Caution:

Frozen yogurt, flavored and full fat yogurt are to be avoided for sugar and fat content.

Garlic

Garlic contains allicin, an effective natural antibiotic that is the equivalent of 1% penicillin. For the longest time, garlic has been used to treat wounds and infections, and has been proved to be a potent immune system stimulant.

Garlic can also help those with yeast infection, candida and other fungal infections.

A more social form of odourless garlic can be taken in capsule form, but it is also effective fresh or cooked.

Eat Right to Get Rid of Acne

In the last post, we looked at ten tips on how to take care of the inside of your body, so that it will be reflected on the outside, ie: on your skin.

If you need to view acne diet again, click on the link.

This post will go a little deeper into vitamins and their food groups that will help prevent acne breakouts either directly or indirectly, (for example: if you have bad digestion or are depressed, it will affect your skin). This is a long term acne solution plan, so make sure you are eating all the right food.

(Note: As with all vitamin and mineral consumption, please consult your doctor before taking them. This is a guide only and does not serve in any way, shape or form as medical advise)

Vitamin A

What it does for the skin:

Known as the “skin vitamin”, it is needed to repair and maintain epithelial tissue, which is what the skin and mucous membranes are composed of. There are two types of vitamin A: Preformed vitamin A which is a compound called retinol (hence the Retin-A acne treatments), and is part of the retinoid family; and Provitamin A, which is beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps combat premature aging of the skin.

Deficiency can lead to acne, skin disorders, dry hair and skin, poor growth, fatigue, insomnia and fertility problems.

What food has this vitamin?

Liver, egg yokes, butter, carrots, broccoli, cantaloupes, apricots, kale, garlic, fish liver oil, sweet potatoes, water cress, pumpkin, papayas, yellow squash and red peppers.

Caution:

Do NOT take more than the recommended dose of 10,000 international units per day, especially if you are pregnant, as an excessive dosage is toxic to the body.

Vitamin B Complex

It is best to take a B complex rather than each B vitamin separately as they all work as a team.  Together, they look after the nervous system, skin, hair, mouth, eyes, brain, the digestive system and can also alleviate depression and anxiety. Pretty impressive team!

B1 Thiamine

What it does for the skin:

Breaks down carbohydrates into glucose which in turn, fuels the brain and nervous system.

Deficiency could cause constipation, gastrointestinal imbalances, degenerate aging of the body and general weakness.

What food has this vitamin?

Whole grain, wheat germ, brewer’s yeast, sunflower seeds, ham, pork, brown rice, egg yolks, peanuts, dried prunes, fish and green leafy vegetables.

Caution:

Excessive alcohol, a high carbohydrate diet and old age increases the need for thiamine.

B2 Riboflavin

What it does for the skin:

Riboflavin facilitates oxygenation of skin tissue; it is also responsible for cell respiration and growth, for red cell formation and antibody production.

Deficiency could cause dermatitis, skin lesions, mouth sores, and hair loss.

What food has this vitamin?

Cheese, yogurt, spinach, meat, whole grains, fish, avocado, mushrooms, egg yolks and green leafy vegetables.

Caution:

Do not exceed recommended dose as it could lead to eye problems such as cataracts. Alcohol, antibiotics, oral contraception and hard exercising would also destroy the body’s Riboflavin.

B3 Niacin (Niacinamide, Nicotinic Acid)

What it does for the skin:

Niacin works together with Thiamine and Riboflavine in the metabolism of carbs. It is needed for our circulation, cell tissue growth and for healthy skin.

Deficiency would lead to a disease called Pellagra that starts with a reddish rash when the skin is exposed to the sun. It could also bring on skin eruptions, inflammation, halitosis, indigestion and diarrhea.

What food has this vitamin?

Fish such as Mackerel and Swordfish, poultry, meat, potatoes, tomatoes, whole wheat products, cheese, milk and eggs.

Caution:

Niacin can cause a slight flushing when taken and should be taken with a doctor’s recommendation for people with gout, diabetes, and liver diseases. Do not exceed recommended dose as it could damage your liver long term.

B5 Pantothenic Acid

What it does for the skin:

This vitamin is required by all cells of the body and aids in the production of adrenal hormones. Dubbed an “anti-stress” vitamin, it is responsible for increasing stamina and combating depression.

Deficiency in this vitamin can cause nausea, migraines and tiredness.

What food has this vitamin?

Beef, brewer’s yeast, nuts, saltwater fish, eggs and green vegetables.

B6 Pyridoxine

What it does for the skin:

Pyridoxine is an immune booster and promotes red blood cell formation. It also help build body tissue and aids in the metabolism of fat. It also plays an important role in normal cellular growth, and is instrumental in fighting off a toxic chemical called homocysteine.

Deficiency in this vitamin could cause dry flaky skin, anemia, sores on the mouth, oily skin, gum inflammation, slow wound healing, stunted growth and hair loss.

What food has this vitamin?

Brewer’s yeast, chicken, fish, peas, walnuts, wheat germ, carrots, cabbage, soybeans, bananas, beans and corn.

Caution:

Excessive dosage could lead to severe neurological damage. Diuretics and oral contraception will also diminish this vitamin in your body.

B12 Cyanocobalamin

What it does for the skin:

Cyanocobalamin together with folic acid helps to regulate red blood cells, and aids in the body’s absorption of iron. Not enough of this vitamin and you will find yourself anemic. It is also responsible for cell formation and for cell longevity which is why it is an essential vitamin for the elderly.

Deficiency could lead to memory loss, constipation, depression, drowsiness, moodiness and hallucinations.

What food has this vitamin?

Dairy products, meat, seafood, eggs and soya products.

Caution:

If you are taking medication for gout, or drugs that are anticoagulant, consult your doctor first.

Biotin

What it does for the skin:

Biotin is essential for the absorption of vitamin C and in helping the function of other B vitamins. It aids the metabolism of carbs, fats and proteins and plays an important role in having healthy skin and hair.

Deficiency can lead to eczema, hair loss, red patchy scales on the skin, inflammation of the skin, thin splitting nails and in infants, cradle cap, a dry scaly skin condition found on the scalp.

What food has this vitamin?

Fruit, nuts, brewer’s yeast, cauliflower, whole grains, soybeans, peanut butter and eggs.

Caution:

Biotin diminishes in your body if you are taking antibiotics. Cut down also on diet drinks and foods containing saccharin.

Folacin (Folic Acid)

What it does for the skin:

Folic Acid is important in the formation of red blood cells, healthy cell division and regulating the levels of the toxic chemical homocysteine. It is essential for a healthy normal pregnancy and to avoid birth defects.

Deficiency could lead to anemia, tiredness, graying hair, insomnia and birth defects. Low levels of folic acid has also been found in women with cervical cancer.

What food has this vitamin?

Fresh fruits and raw vegetables, lentils, split peas, barley, bran, peanuts, spinach, banana, lamb, oranges, tuna, wheat germ, root vegetables, cheese and brown rice.

Caution:

Do not take excessive amounts over a long period. Oral contraception and alcohol increases the need for folic acid.

Inositol

What it does for the skin:

A calming vitamin, inositol is vital in preventing hair loss and in helping to lower cholesterol.

Deficiency could lead to hair loss, skin eruptions, constipation, anxiety, depression and moodiness.

What food has this vitamin?

Brewer’s Yeast, fruits, vegetables, milk, whole grains and lean meats.

Caution:

Cut down on your caffeine consumption as it destroys this vitamin.

Vitamin C

What it does for the skin:

Vitamin C is an antioxidant (fights free radicals) and a master immune boosting nutrient. One of the least toxic vitamins (you can take 10g or more per day), it is responsible for tissue growth and repair, and protects against infections and bruising. It also promotes healing and is essential in the formation of collagen. Since collagen is a major component of scar tissue, it is very important in the healing process.

Vitamin C together with vitamin A & E make an unbeatable trio against free radicals.

Deficiency could lead to poor wound healing, bleeding gum, infections, colds and lethargy.

Note: Take the most effective Ester C form of vitamin C.

What food has this vitamin?

Oranges, mangoes, cantaloupe and honeydew melons, apricots, papayas, berries such as strawberries, broccoli, red peppers, tomatoes, watercress, kale and kiwifruit.

Caution:

Some people may find that with large doses of vitamin C, they may experience diarrhea, skin rashes and excessive urination. Smokers will find their vitamin C level seriously diminished. Pregnant women should not take more than 5,000 milligrams a day.

Vitamin E

What it does for the skin:

Vitamin E is a powerful fat based antioxidant that protects cell membranes. This vitamin is responsible for healthy skin and hair; it also improves circulation, promotes natural blood clotting and healing, repairs tissues and can reduce some types of scarring. It also fights cell damage that contributes to premature aging and age spots on the skin.

Deficiency can lead to nerve damage, some types of cancer, infertility and damaged red blood cells.

Note: Take natural (d-alpha-tocopherol) rather than synthetic forms (dl-alpha-tocopherol) of vitamin E as it is more potent, and the body utilizes it much better.

It is also best taken with vitamin A, C and the mineral Zinc for maximum effect.

What food has this vitamin:

Vegetable oils (cold pressed such as olive oil), corn oil, peanut oil, whole grain, wheatgerm, nuts, oatmeal, brown rice, cornmeal, sweet potatoes, avocado, peanut butter, mayonnaise, eggs, organ meats and soybeans.

Caution:

Consult your doctor if you are taking blood thinning drugs, have diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart and thyroid problems.

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It is worth taking a good quality multi supplement (multi vitamins for women and multi vitamins for men) to combat (or prevent) acne problems.

Enter the code MlC376 for a discount on the links above.