From the category archives:

Acne

Acne Over The Counter Products

by doctor July 24, 2009

Used to treat mild, moderate and severe acne, the effectiveness of over-the-counter medications lies in the product’s active ingredient(s). Not all active ingredients work the same way. The active ingredient benzoyl peroxide reduces P. acnes(bacteria); whereas, salicylic acid helps correct abnormal skin shedding. For lesions to clear, the product(s) must be effective against the factor(s) [...]

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Physical Procedures for Treating Acne

by doctor July 23, 2009

A Dermatologist will occasionally use procedures to help clear acne. These methods, which are described below, should be performed by a dermatologist or other health care practitioner. Trying these at home can lead to infection, worsening of the acne and scarring. Chemical PeelsLight chemical peels of glycolic acid and other chemical agents are used by [...]

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7 Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Acne Treatment

by doctor July 22, 2009

Good skin care plays an important role in treating acne. Following these skin care guidelines—unless your dermatologist instructs otherwise—can help improve treatment results: Do NOT pop, squeeze or pick at acne. This can make acne worse by spreading inflammation. With medical treatment, removing lesions is rarely necessary; however, when comedo removal is needed, it should [...]

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Acne Q & A Part II

by doctor July 18, 2009

Would using my medication more frequently than prescribed speed up the clearing of my acne?No–always use your medication exactly as your dermatologist instructed. Using topical medications more often than prescribed may actually induce more irritation of the skin, redness and follicular plugging, which can delay clearing time. If oral medications are taken more frequently than [...]

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Acne Q & A Part I

by doctor July 16, 2009

What role does diet play in acne?Acne is not caused by food. Following a strict diet will not clear your skin. While some people feel that their acne is aggravated by certain foods, particularly chocolate, colas, peanuts, shellfish and some fatty foods, there is no scientific evidence that suggests food causes or influences acne. Avoid [...]

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Causes of Acne

by doctor July 14, 2009

What causes acne?The causes of acne are linked to the changes that take place as young people mature from childhood to adolescence (puberty). The hormones that cause physical maturation also cause the sebaceous (oil) glands of the skin to produce more sebum (oil). The hormones with the greatest effect on sebaceous glands are androgens (male [...]

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