Getting Serious About Acne: How Do Chemical Peels Work?

It's expected to dream of having smooth, clear and healthy skin. Some are so eager to achieve that dream skin that they are more than willing to go for almost anything, to the extent of doing more harm than good. This especially goes for people who believe that their acne condition is now hopeless.
Deeper Look at a Chemical Peel Procedure
Acne can be cured by medications but that does not end the problem, sometimes there are painful reminders of the past. Although having rid of acne seems good enough, it would be better to rid of everything that goes with it - blemishes, roughness and scars. That is where chemical peels come in. It is a non-surgical cosmetic procedure which literally peels off the top layers of the skin to reveal regenerated and improved skin.
The skin, fortunately, is constantly regenerating. That means, old layers are shed off to be replaced by new cells. Chemical peels work by speeding up the shedding of the skin thus making regeneration take place faster. Scars, like those caused by acne depending on severity of skin damage, may not only improve but completely eliminated as well.
Types of Chemical Peels
Just the word chemical and second thoughts quickly come to mind on whether to take the risk and undergo the procedure. Chemical peels have been used for quite some time now. In fact it is a highly popular way to improve the texture and look of the skin.
Depending on a patient's needs and preference, there are several types of chemical peels to choose from. Each type varies on how deep they penetrate into the skin layers and promote peeling and exfoliation. The six main types are:

• Alpha hydroxyl acid Peel (AHA) is the mildest and widely used of all chemical peels since it is mostly made from natural components. It works by exfoliating the skin, loosening, and eventually removing the layer of dead cells on the skin surface. It usually takes longer to see results given that it is a mild chemical peel.
• Beta hydroxyl acid Peel (BHA) has become more popular and seen to be used increasingly for chemical peel treatments instead of AHA peels. This has shown to work deeper into the skin, control oil and remove dead skin cells better than AHA peels. Salicylic acid is a very good example of BHA.
• Retinoic peel is a procedure which must be performed by a qualified professional in the clinic. This is a deep peel and usually done along with a Jessner peel. It is very effective in eliminating scars, wrinkles and uneven spots.
• Jessner peel is a solution of lactic acid and 14% salicylic acid in resorcinol with an ethyl alcohol base. "Skin over peel" is a very rare possibility when using a Jessner peel because the ingredients used are in very small percentages.
• Phenol Peel is considered the strongest type of peel. It is also the type that delivers the most satisfying results. It is readily the peel recommended to treat various scars, deep wrinkles and aged skin. Although it delivers results, it will take time for the skin to recover as it works deeper into the skin surface. It also increases the risk of hyper-pigmentation.
• Tricholoroacetic Peel is the type that stands between the AHA and the Phenol peels. It generally produces results for almost all skin types. It delivers moderate skin peeling, improvement of uneven skin tone, and fine wrinkles.

What to Expect with a Chemical Peel?
Just how chemical peels improve the skin is extensive. That is why many people opt to go with these procedures. It's a faster and generally safer way to a smooth and beautiful skin. However, there are things to consider before deciding to undergo any of these procedures.
Chemical peeling works painfully well. Yes, it is quite effective but very uncomfortable. Depending on the strength of the chemical and the length of time the skin has been exposed, the more pain it will cause. Recovery takes a longer time; the deeper the peel, the longer it will take to heal. This will only be temporary though, and with care coupled with patience, it will definitely make every pinch and burn worth smoother, clearer and more beautiful skin.
It's very important to follow the after-care procedures because the skin is very vulnerable to irritants right after a chemical peel. Cleanse and moisturize the skin often. Avoid going out in the sun and use a good sunscreen if you really have to.

Important Reasons To Use Natural Acne Treatments

Natural acne treatments offer sufferers an effective and safe way to treat their problem skin.
Some people are interested in finding a natural treatment because other products containing harsh chemicals do not work for them. Sometimes these products do more damage than good and can leave the skin in worse shape than just the acne alone. There are several negative side effects associated with some of these chemical solutions while natural treatments are safe to use. For many people, a natural product is the best option.
What Makes a Treatment Natural?
All ingredients in a natural remedy occur in nature. There are no synthetic ingredients made by man included in the formula. The product may contain any type of natural substance that is nontoxic. The body will accept these natural products and use the ingredients readily to treat the problem. The body is less tolerant of chemicals because they are foreign to the environment and can cause irritation in some cases.
What Products are Available?
Consumers have a number of options when shopping for natural remedies for acne. Each product has its own unique characteristics. Consumers must be sure to research any product before beginning any type of treatment. Many of these products contain various proteins, natural acids and vitamins. Zinc is a common ingredient in solutions for treating acne. Chromium is another ingredient that has proven effective. Some products contain more than one of these ingredients in various concentrations. Some products will target one of the two main causes of acne while others will effectively fight both.
What are the Various Causes of Acne?
Effective treatment depends on the underlying cause of acne. Without knowing the cause, it is difficult to find a cure. Bacteria on the skin can lead to infection. Many treatments will target the bacteria, eliminate the irritation and get rid of acne. In some people, this accumulation of bacteria occurs because the skin is producing too much oil. When the oil glands secrete excess oil, the skin becomes a breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Some formulas inhibit the production of oil to reduce the amount of bacteria living on the skin. This will eventually lead to clear skin.
Every individual is different and will have varying reactions to acne treatments. If the first treatment does not work, there is no need to give up. There are alternatives that may be effective. Products containing natural ingredients offer acne sufferers a good chance of getting rid of this unsightly skin problem without risking the negative side effects noted with other harsher treatments currently on the market. Each individual must try various treatments until he or she finds the product that works best for them. Consumers should always follow manufacturer directions when using any acne treatment.

Natural Body Acne Treatment

Curing acne on your body is very different to clearing up your face and neck. You have to take a radically different approach to getting rid of spots that pop up on your chest, back, or anywhere else. In this little guide to natural body acne treatment you are going to learn how to cure body acne with holistic, natural remedies. Don't expect the normal hype or nonsense from this article- today you are going to learn some of the most important steps you can take for naturally treating body acne.
The key thing to remember with body acne is that the skin on areas such as your back and chest is much thicker and more resilient than on your face and neck. The consequences of this are twofold; firstly, you can use more 'aggressive' treatment methods. Secondly, you are more likely to experience cystic spots, or very stubborn pimples on your body than on your face. For the longest time, for example, my face was clear but my back still had quite bad spots. However, I could also use more potent treatment methods to get my body clear of acne.
It is very important to keep your body clean and hygienic when trying to get rid of body acne. This is particularly the case if you are prone to sweating, live in a humid area, or do lots of exercise. You need to be judicious with showering and cleaning sweat and dirt off your body, in order that it does not build up and lead to further spots.
As far as an effective natural body acne treatment is concerned, one of the best methods you can use is to mix aloe vera and lemon juice into a spritzer bottle, then apply it to your skin after it is cleaned. Do this consistently for a few weeks and you will see good results. The secret here is consistency; you will never see any good results if you try for a little while and then give up. Good things come to those who wait, and this is especially true when dealing with acne treatment.
You can also be more aggressive with exfoliation, so don't be afraid to use an over-the-counter exfoliant (or make your own) and use it at least once every few days. You could also consider using a loofah instead. Don't scrub your skin until it is sore, but definitely consider exfoliating regularly.
Naturally treating body acne is not as difficult as it might first seem, simply because you can be more 'forceful' with your skin. At the same time, don't neglect to treat your acne from the inside out, so you clear your skin up permanentl

The Best Drug-Free Acne Treatment Solutions

Acne is a a very common skin condition that typically lasts for a year or two of a person's life, usually during adolescence. Most people have experienced some form of acne at some point point in time. Although much more common in teenagers, acne can occur at any time throughout a person's life, and certain individuals deal with the condition long after they have reached adulthood. This often leads to an endless search for a product or drug that will stop the acne once and for all.
Acne is a condition resulting from excess oil in the skin, and it eventually leads to inflammation and unsightly pimples or other skin blemishes. Outbreaks generally occur on the face and neck, and in certain cases, such outbreaks can result in serious scars.
There are numerous alternative and natural acne treatments available for those who wish to avoid traditional acne creams or prescription medication. While it is not necessarily considered a treatment, analyzing one's diet is a good place to start, as a poor diet often contributes considerably to acne outbreaks. Avoiding prepackaged and processed food is a wise action for anyone to take, but for acne sufferers, a diet that avoids processed foods should be followed religiously. Fried and foods and food that is high in fat will contribute to the oils that cause acne. However, healthy oils such as Omega 3s will not. Healthy oils are found in avocados and a variety of fish such as sardines and salmon.
A healthy diet also helps a person's body to process food efficiently. Another vital part of following a good diet is consuming an adequate amount of water on a regular basis. Many people fail to drink enough water, which results in dehydration and a slow digestive system. Both these conditions can contribute to acne outbreaks. Drinking up to ten glasses of water a day will assist one's body to cleanse itself of the toxins and oils that may contribute to outbreaks of acne.
Another alternative acne remedy that offers potential benefits is the addition of certain vitamins to one's diet. Supplements can be found at health food stores or vitamin shops in the form of tablets or liquids. However, one must be careful when adding any new supplement to his or her diet, as high levels of certain vitamins can be harmful. Vitamin A is helpful in fighting acne; however, too much vitamin A can result in serious health repercussions. For this reason it is wise to consult a doctor before starting Vitamin A supplements. Zinc can also alleviate certain acne symptoms by reducing inflammation and helping the immune system to protect against infection. Zinc is found in eggs, seafood and liver.
Overall, a healthy diet is the best defense against acne breakouts, especially for those who are looking for drug-free acne treatment solutions. It is wise to invest in a book or online guide that outlines a healthy diet for acne sufferers. Many times, this simple change in one's overall eating habits is enough to alleviate the majority of the symptoms experienced by acne sufferers regardless of their age.

The Most Common Antibiotic For Acne

Acne that fails topical antibiotics usually requires treatment with oral antibiotics. Over the past 30 years, the most common oral antibiotics used to treat acne have been erythromycin, tetracycline, doxycycline, and minocycline.
Doxycycline has proven to be effective in treating acne, particularly in cases of moderate to severe acne. Doxycycline, like other antibiotics, treats acne by affecting the growth of bacteria that is involved with acne infections. It works by preventing bacteria from producing proteins that are essential to them. Doxycycline also works to treat acne by controlling inflammatory reactions in the body.
Doxycycline is given in doses ranging from 50 milligrams twice a day to 100 milligrams once or twice a day. It may also be prescribed to be taken as 75 milligrams once or twice a day. Doxycycline is well absorbed and may be taken with food. Taking it with food will make you less likely to get an upset stomach.
According to the recent research, treatment with subantimicrobial dose doxycycline (20-mg tablets taken twice daily) can significantly reduce the number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions in persons with moderate acne. At such dose, doxycycline has no detectable antimicrobial effect on the skin flora, and does not contribute to increase in antibiotic resistance.
It is available in generic formulations as well as brand names (e.g. Doryx, Vibramycin). It is somewhat less expensive than minocycline. Doxycycline has better tolerability than other tetracyclines It lacks the potential for serious side effects sometimes seen with minocycline (such as lupus-like syndrome, serum sickness like reaction (SSLR) and secondary intracranial hypertension).
The disadvantage of doxycycline is that it is the most phototoxic among the tetracyclines. You should be advised about sun protection if you're prescribed this medication. Also, the use of doxycycline can be complicated by esophageal injury. Be sure to drink enough fluids along with doxycycline to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration.
Doxycycline is contraindicated for pregnant women and children under the age of 8.