POSITIVES
Clinically proven ingredients.
Tackles both internal and external causes of acne.
3 part system comprises topical products and a daily supplement.
Effective yet gentle enough to not cause any skin irritation or dryness.
Supplement available separately.
Save money with their acne care bundles.
Money back guarantee.

NEGATIVES
Only available on line.
Premium product – premium price.
Supplement not suitable for vegans.

SUMMARY
A cleverly formulated 3 part acne care system that comprises a facial wash, facial protection cream, and a daily supplement that tackles acne breakouts from within.

Suitable for both men and women, Clearpores is one of the best selling products of its type. With a global fanbase user testimonials from both men and women across the world are extremely positive. Check offers from official website

As someone who experienced acne well into adulthood, I am speaking from personal experience when I tell you that the Clearpores system is the real deal. – Christina Jacobson

**EDITORS CHOICE**
HIGHY RECOMMENDED

Rating 9.1/10

You can order Clearpores directly from the official website. The makers ship orders globally and offer an industry busting money back guarantee on all orders. You can order the supplement as a stand alone product or take advantage of the huge savings available when you buy the acne treatment complete system.

What Is Clearpores?
A three part dedicated acne care system that tackles breakouts both topically and from inside the body

In Depth Clearpores Review

We all want to have clear healthy looking skin, unfortunately many of us do suffer from spots, blemishes and other skin breakouts.

With acne affecting millions of people globally, the search is on for an effective, yet gentle and safe treatment that will reduce these breakouts without causing unwanted dryness and skin irritation.

We believe that we have found one such product – called Clearpores, it is a multi product acne treatment that has become one of the best selling products of its type.

This review takes an in-depth look at, its formulas, effects and benefits.

Clearpores is one of the worlds leading acne care products.

Made in the USA by reputable health and beauty supplement manufacturers Leading Edge Health.

It is one of their flagship products in a range that covers virtually all aspects of skin care and our general health.

Nobody likes acne, wether it’s an isolated spot or pimple or a widespread breakout on the face (forehead), back or chest.

Fortunately the Clearpores system is here and on hand to help users by gently cleansing the skin.

It deep cleans the pores, removing any trapped dirt and bacteria that cause these unwanted breakouts.

This in-depth product review takes a look at the three part system, we look at the formulas and speak to some of the users to find out just why they love the product so much.

The Products In The Range

Clearpores is a three part acne treatment system. It is made up of two topically applied skin treatments that clear the pores and nourish the skin.

These are joined by a daily supplement that tackles the root causes of acne from the inside.

(1) The first product that we are looking at is the daily supplement.

This works internally to help correct delicate hormone imbalances.

It also helps to reduce the effect of common problems such as stress, digestion problems and the effect of toxins in the environment.

(2)The second is the deep facial wash.

This has been formulated to deep clean the skin, getting deep into the pores, clearing the trapped dirt, bacteria and excess oil that triggers unwanted breakouts.

(3)The final part of the system is the protection cream.

The cream forms a gentle yet effective protective barrier that helps ward off any dirt and pollution in the environment, while allowing the skin to breathe.

This help the skin to become healthier and much clearer.

Clearpores Daily Supplement

Developed with the help of esteemed skin care specialists, the daily supplement has been formulated to help tackle the root causes of acne breakouts from within.

It’s well documented that breakouts can be caused by internal factors including hormonal imbalances, poor diet, stress, as well as free radicals caused by exposure to environmental toxins.

What the daily supplement does it to help rebalance any irregularities and help the body to flush out any harmful toxins. It is designed to be taken in the long term to maintain the effects.

The Formula:

• Dandelion Root – A recognized herbal diuretic that helps to tackle inflammation and soothe digestive problems
• Burdock Root – Known to be effective as a blood purifier, its also great at helping to expel toxins. This helps to provide clearer, acne free skin
• Aloe Vera – another proven detoxifier that helps to sooth the skin and calm inflammation
• Yellow Dock Root – Working alongside dandelion root and burdock root to help purify the blood, clearing any toxins.
• Echinacea – stimulates the bodies natural immune system, boosting the fight against acne causing bacteria
• Red Clover – mimics the effects of estrogen. This help to reduce the production of sebum, the skins natural oil that traps dirt and bacteria inside the pores.
• Sarsaparilla Root – A traditional detoxifying ingredient that has anti inflammatory properties. This help to soothe skin redness and reduce the appearance of acne breakouts. Works well with aloe vera.
• Licorice root – Antibacterial, anti inflammatory and reduces production of androgen hormones that can overstimulate sebum production. Works well alongside red clover.
• Turmeric – Part of the ginger family that has proven anti inflammatory properties.
• Atlantic Kelp -High in key minerals that improve metabolism and boost skin healing
• Cayenne – Stimulates blood flow and reduces clogged pores
• Cottonseed Oil – Aids absorption of the key ingredients as it passes through the digestive system

Clearpores Deep Facial Wash

A water based facial wash that has been developed to help deep clean the skin, getting down deep into the pores to remove any trapped dirt and bacteria.

Its key ingredient is salicylic acid which helps to exfoliate the skin, removing dead skin cells and trapped dirt.

It contains some decent botanical ingredients but it does also contain a form of alcohol which could be slightly drying for some users in particular those with very sensitive skin.

Note – from my own experiences I didn’t find that it was too harsh at all

It provides lovely, soft and foamy deep facial cleanse leaving the skin feeling fresh and clean.

Heres the full list of ingredients in the facial wash:

Water, Glycerin, Glyceryl Stearate, PEG-100 Stearate, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Xantham Gum, Linum Usitatissimum (linseed) Seed Extract, Ulmaria (Meadowsweet) Root Extract, SD alcohol 40, Farnesol, Polysorbate 60, Cyclopentasiloxane, Salicylic Acid (beta hydroxy acid, abbreviated BHA) , Sclerotium Gum, Disodium EDTA, BHT, Calcium Aluminum Borosilicate, Retinyl Palmitate, Tocopheryl Acetate, Polysorbate 20, Capryloyl Glycine, Phospholipids, Methylparaben, Propylparaben, Bisabolol.

Clearpores Facial Protection Cream

Helps to protect the skin and keep it looking healthy and keeping it clear.

Containing some key ingredients that work alongside the facial wash to deep clean and protect the skin, removing any trapped bacteria from the pores and help to prevent further outbreaks.

The protection cream does not contain any fragrances and is easily absorbed into the skin.

It is also oil free!

Here is a full list of its ingredients:

Water, Isoproply Palmitate, Propylene Glycol, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Alcohol, Glyceryl Stearate, Stearath-21, Dimethicone, Soy Lecithin, C13-14 Isoparaffin, Ceteth-10 Phosphate, Steareth-2, Thioctic Acid, Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Citric Acid, Diazolidinyl Urea, Laureth-7, Methylparaben, Disodium EDTA, Propylparaben.

How To Use Clearpores

The daily supplement should be taken daily.

The recommended serving is 2 capsules per day.

The facial wash and the clearpores protection cream should be used twice daily, morning and evening.

The manufacturers do recommend that you wait for 15 minutes after cleaning before applying the cream.

I must say however that I have read testimonials from users who do not bother waiting and they have not encountered any issues.

Clearpores Testimonials and Customer Comments

Being established for many years, Clearpores has built up a huge global fanbase.

Customers are worldwide with the United States, Canada, the UK and Australia having the biggest customer base.

The 60 day risk free promise ensures customers can the try the products without fear of wasting their money.

Here are some reports and reviews from some verified buyers courtesy of official website:

I Saw Results On My Back In Two Weeks. Yes, I Couldn’t Believe It Either.

JJ, Miami

My name is Dorothy and I have suffered from acne for over twelve years. My acne covered my back, chest and face. I have taken Accutane, antibiotics, and numerous internal natural supplements with no relief. I have tried topical antibiotics, retina and many other topical creams from the dermatologist as well as natural health stores.  The side effects of Accutane are horrendous. Not to mention the potential for severe damage to your liver. I’ve experienced no relief from any of these products. It actually got much worse than I currently was at the time. I also tried microdermabrasion several times and was lead to believe this would help my acne as well as reduce my scarring. However, I ended up with severe bleeding and oozing from my last treatment with a trained professional in a dermatologist office. Not only did it not work but it made my scarring far worse. I was due to get married and was extremely upset due to the acne on my face and body. My fiancé decided he was going to spend time researching acne and treatments. I found Clear Pores® and this system convinced me.

Dorothy – Houston

Another Testimonial

I found Clear Pores and this system convinced me.

My name is Jo. I am 28 years old, but my skin looked like that of a thirteen year old going through puberty. I tried a number of different products, which I bought in drug stores or supermarket. But either they didn’t work or they really dried up my skin so much that it became inflamed and very painful to the touch. I researched on the Internet and learned a lot about the ingredients used in such products and their side effects. Through this I found ClearPores® and this system convinced me. I bought the recommended 3 months supply but after 2 months all my blemishes had already disappeared. I experienced no side effects either. Now I am still using ClearPores® as an occasional spot treatment and my skin is still spot free!

Jo – La Jolla

Where To Buy, Prices and Bundles

Clearpores is available to order online directly from the official website.

You can choose from several bundles and you can also buy just the supplement on its own.

A bottle of the herbal supplement on its own ( 60 capsules) will cost you $50.95

If you want to try the whole treatment system you can buy choose from several bundles:

If you have body acne, you can buy a months supply of each product ( the makers supply a body wash instead of the facial wash) – this will cost you $69.95

For facial breakouts you can buy months supply of the facial wash, cream and supplement also for $ 69.95

If you want to treat the whole body, you can buy a bundle that contains all items including a bonus product – this will cost you $98.95.

Cash Back Guarantee

The makers are so confident in their product and how it will unblock pores and clear your skin that they offer a lengthy cash back guarantee to all users.

They simply ask you to try it for 60 days as directed.

If after this time you are unhappy with the results you can return any empty bottles for a full refund.

Clearpores Review Summary

Nobody likes to have spots or blemishes, they always tend to appear just when you do not need them, when you are going to an event, a meeting or simply going out socialising.

It doesn’t matter of its an occasional problem or you are suffering with poor skin on regular basis, the dedicated treatment system provided by clear pores will make a huge difference to your appearance and your self confidence .

It is scientifically developed, loved my tens of thousands of users worldwide just like YOU, its safe, gentle and it really works!

The post Clearpores Review – Skin Cleansing System from SkinCeption appeared first on Skin Care Advice.

It may not be a commonly known fact, but a process known as “face mapping” can determine the type and cause of your acne.

Forehead Acne: Its Causes, How To Treat and Prevent Further Outbreaks

Acne affects tens of millions of people worldwide. It is just as likely to affect men as it is women – it doesn’t discriminate. There are many different types.

Acne on the forehead is one of the most noticeable areas it can affect.

It may not be a commonly known fact, but a process known as “face mapping” can determine the type and cause of your acne.

For instance acne breakouts on your chin and around the jaw line, are usually caused by hormonal changes.

A breakout on your cheek, could well have been caused by bacteria on your mobile phone being transferred to your skin as you talk.

This article looks at the causes of acne breakouts of your forehead and the options available to treat them.

Recommended Reading: An acne system that is better than drugstore / over the counter treatments?. Find out why Clearpores is a product you must try

Causes Of Forehead Acne

Here is a rundown of main causes of forehead acne:

1. Hormonal changes
2. Poor hygiene
3. Over use of cosmetics
4. Medication
5. Poor diet

Most cases of acne are caused by the pores becoming blocked with a mixture of dead skin cells and the skins natural oil – sebum. 

This causes bacteria to develop within the pores which then causes the appearance of spots, lumps, bumps and those nasty red pustules. 

Whether it’s on your face, or you suffer from bacne, acne on your chest or the subject of this article, the forehead, the arrival of acne can really have a detrimental effect on your appearance and self confidence.

There are some other factors that can cause forehead acne.

This can include hormonal changes ( the monthly cycle, pregnancy and even the menopause), poor hygiene, using cosmetic products that irritate the skin.

Even some medicinal drugs such as steroids can all be attributed to acne breakouts in some people.

Some common comedogenic cosmetic products have been known to increase blocked pores, leading to increase acne breakouts.

It can also be caused by hormonal changes or imbalances in the body.

Washing the skin regularly is essential, yet you would be surprised at how many people do not cleanse their face daily.

Lifestyle factors can also influence forehead acne, the main one being our diet. Eating foods high on the glyecmic index are particularly bad for the skin.

Forehead acne has a number of other causes:

Hair and Haircare Products

A common case of acne is also the most overlooked. Its the physical contact between your skin and certain chemicals that can trigger your breakouts.

Hair treatments, shampoos, conditioners, treatment oils and the like can play havoc with our skin, largely because of their ability to block our pores.

You will know if hair products are to blame for your acne breakouts because these tend to appear on the forehead. Also the neck where the hair touches it, and down your back if you have long hair.

Stopping Forehead Acne Being Caused By Your Hair Products

It’s actually quite an easy fix, make a change to the products that you use, look for those that contain more natural ingredients .

Avoiding shampoos free from parabens are a good place to start.

Also, get into the habit of washing your face after you have washed your hair to make sure that any residual hair product has been washed away.

The natural oils in your hair can also be key cause of forehead acne.

If you are prone to oily hair, the oil can transfer to your forehead, causing the pores to clog and those horrible little pimples to appear.

To avoid this, try and keep your hair away from your face, in particular the forehead as much as possible. Do away with a fringe or tie the hair up so its not making contact with the face.

Clothing, Hats and Scarves

Just as the hair care products that we use can contribute to acne breakouts, so can our choices of clothes and accessories. 

We are talking hats, hair bands, hair scarves here, they can all cause breakouts through contact with both our hair and our skin. 

They can help transfer oil, dirt and bacteria from our hair onto the skin – this is particularly so in those with sensitive skin.

Hats and scarves can also cause us to get hot and sweat. This too can cause our pores to block, especially in women who wear makeup.

The simple thing to do is to try not wearing any hat or hair accessories that come into contact with your forehead or other parts of your skin for a couple of weeks. 

If the breakouts subside, you know the cause.

Touching Your Forehead With Your Hands

Touching your skin isn’t really linked to acne on any area of the face, but its still a key reason why so many people get forehead acne.

Its a bad habit in general, but one thats very hard to stop doing, this again is particularly important if you have sensitive, acne prone skin. 

Our hands can have all manner of bacteria and dirt on them, which can easily transferred to you forehead simply by touch. 

This can spread easily throughout the pores and can ultimately be the cause of some quite nasty breakouts.

The right precautions can really help reduce the risk.

Obviously the first thing to say is to stop touching your face, but that is nigh impossible, it’s something that most of us do subconsciously many times a day. 

So the next best thing is to wash our hands regularly. Use hot water and wash for at least 20 seconds to ensure that any dirt and residual bacteria is washed away. 

If you are out and cannot wash your hands anywhere, then carry a good antibacterial gel with you at all times.

Puberty

Many (but not all) suffers of forehead acne are going through puberty. It is at that time that the skins natural oil, (Sebum) increases its production. 

On your face there is a so called T-Zone, a line across your forehead horizontally and a vertical area down though the centre parts of the face.

It is this area that is particularly prone to excess sebum (oil) production. During puberty the key is to use products that reduce and control sebum production.

The Food That You Eat

There has been a long running debate between scientists as to wether the foods that we eat can actually cause or aggravate acne breakouts.

Although research is continuing it has been determined that those on a poor diet are more likely to see can develop not just on their forehead, but all over the body.

Highly glycemic foods, along with dairy products have been linked to increased acne breakouts.

To help, try and reduce as many of these types of foods and increase the amount of fresh fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.

Try some alternatives to cows milk too, there are a large number of nut and plant based options available.

Also try and get a good level of antioxidants into your body ( found in foods and other supplements) as they are essential to having clearer skin

Stress And Anxiety

Stress has long been associated with acne, the we are stressed or anxious our body releases a hormone called cortisol ( the stress hormone).

This is known to trigger an increase in sebum production which as we now know can cause pores to become blocked.

Treating Your Forehead Acne

If you have done everything else, changed your diet, your haircare products and kept your hair off the forehead, then a good over the counter treatment (OTC) is usually the next thing to try.

They are usually quite inexpensive and can be bough both online and in good drug stores.

Look for one that contains salicylic acid as its a very effective ingredient. It’s also simple to use too.

In most cases, just put some of the treatment onto the effected area and leave over nigh. In the morning simply wash as you would normally.

Make sure that you wash your face and forehead twice a day, and always use a good moisturiser after cleansing. NEVER EVER go to bed with your makeup still on.

Should I Squeeze My Forehead Acne?

It’s never a good idea to squeeze any spot or pimple, what you are doing is potentially spreading the dirt and bacteria into other pores, so this could cause infection.

Also forcibly bursting any spot could leave an acne scar.

To treat a solitary spot, simply apply a spot treatment directly to it.

How To Get Rid Of Acne On Your Forehead – Conclusion

Forehead Acne breakouts can be caused by a variety of reasons, the food we eat, the clothes and accessories that we wear and of course our diet. 

Most acne breakouts on the forehead are easily treatable with minimal fuss.

Mina Mansell

If you have tried everything in this article and you still have the problem after a few weeks then its best to consult with your doctor or dermatologist.

They will be able to advise you on a more intensive treatment plan. 

reference articles:

• Acne Vulgaris, StatPearls, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459173/
• Effective over-the-counter acne treatments. Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, US National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health.
  https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18786494

The post ForeHead Acne – How to Get Rid of Acne on Your Forehead? appeared first on Skin Care Advice.

Acne can appear in a number of different forms, each with their own symptoms and appearance. They can also be separated into two types – inflammatory and noninflammatory acne. Each type of acne has different treatments too, so it’s essential that you know what you are dealing with.

What Type Of Acne Do I Have, And How Can I Treat It?

Acne affects approximately 80% of young adults – Using the US as a classic example there are around 40-50 million Americans (1) suffering with acne at any given time.

Common forms of acne can be recognised as:

• Blackeads
• Whiteheads
• Pimples ( Also referred to as Pustules)
• Papules
• Cysts
• Nodules

Depending on the type that you have, your treatment could vary. Its absolutely essential to identify and then use the correct treatment for your type of acne (2). 

Doing so can reduce the risk of longer term complications, scarring and dark spots.

Blemishes can usually be associated with one of two categories, this is determined by wether they cause the surrounding skin to become inflamed.

Let’s look at the types and their relative differences.

Recommended Article: What foods should you avoid that could make your acne worse?

Non-Inflammatory Acne

The most common forms of noninflammatory acne are whiteheads and blackheads. They are very unlikely to cause any inflammation or become painful. Common areas are the face and forehead.

Whiteheads

The correct term for these are Closed Comedones.

Usually white in colour (but can be skin coloured too). The centre is usually white with a reddish coloured halo surrounding it. They can ocassionaly be found with a hair coming out of the centre and sometimes appearing to be trapped within a larger blemish.

They are caused when dirt, oil and bacteria becomes trapped inside a closed pore or hair follicle.

The skin surrounding a whitehead may often be tight or wrinkled, especially in the case of larger cases. The good news is that whiteheads do not generally cause any scarring.

Blackheads

AKA Open Comedones, these appear as smallish black or dark brown coloured spots, usually around the nose and chin. They sometimes having a slightly raised appearance.

The surrounding skin is usually normal and its quite normal for the centre of the blackhead to appear darker than the edges. 

The black colour does not come from dirt, its the trapped oil and bacteria that has been oxidised as it gets near to the open surface of the skin

How To Treat Noninflammatory Acne

Cases of non inflammatory acne tend to respond well to over the counter treatments including creams, toners, gels and moisturisers.

The following ingredients are known to be effective in the treatment of blackheads and whiteheads.

• Salicylic acid
• Sulfur
• Resorcinol
• Benzoyl Peroxide – With this, use sparingly as it can really dry the skin, cause irritation and also will stain clothing.

Some lifestyle changes can also help, try to do the following –

• Wash the face with lukewarm water and soap twice a day
• Wash the entire body every 2 days
• Eat a sensible diet, ditching ready meals, fast food and those high in sugar
• Drink lots of water
• Don’t over expose the sun to the sun
• Wear a good quality sunscreen.

One thing to stress, you should never pop or squeeze these kinds of blemishes.

Doing so can make the situation worse and cause Cysts, Scarring, Nodules, Pitting and Skin Discolouration.

Inflammatory Types Of Acne

Acne blemishes that cause inflammation include:

• Pustules
• Papules
• Nodules
• Cysts

They vary in severity

Mild forms Of Inflammatory Acne

Papules

These can be identified as bumps under the skins surface. usually solid to the touch, pinkie colour and raised. Usually the surrounding skin is red and slightly swollen

Papules do not have a visible centre ( like whiteheads) and they do not have the widened appearance associated with blackheads

They develop when black or whiteheads became irritated, affecting the surrounding skin ultimately causing inflammation and swelling.

Pustules

( aka pimples) – Large tender bumps with  clearly visible circular centre.

The centre is filled with a yellow or white pus cause by a collection of immune cells and bacteria. The base of the bump has a red or pink base. 

Typically Pustules look like a larger, inflamed version of a whitehead. These are most commonly found on the chest and back.

Treating Mild Forms Of Inflammatory Acne

You can use some over the counter treatments to try and reduce the appearance of this type of acne.

Using products with benzoyl peroxide can be quite effective but as we mentioned above just use with care.

It can be very harsh on the skin, causing extreme dryness and it can also stain your clothes.

You can also try:

Washing the infected area with cool water and soap, making sure that your hands are very clean. An alternative is to wash gently using a clean facecloth twice a day.

Apply a warm cloth or compress to the skin, you can buy these in pharmacies and they can help draw infected, trapped skin cells, dirt and oil to the surface.

Use a product contains Salicylic acid to help remove dead skin cells and trapped dirt.

Moderate and Severe Forms Of Inflammatory Acne

Nodules

These are hard, inflamed and painful lumps that are located deep into the skin. the look like larger papule but have no visible centre. 

They develop when the skins cells and tissues become damaged by clogged pores deep beneath the surface.

They are a severe form of acne , and are known to cause scarring and/or discolouration.

Cysts

Very large painful lumps that are soft to the touch. 

They are usually white or red in colour and are filled with pus. 

They tend develop far deeper into the skin than nodules, and are regretfully the MOST Severe type of acne breakout.

Cysts can cause skin complications including acne scarring.

Treating Moderate to Severe Forms Of Inflammatory Acne

It’s very unlikely that you can successfully treat these types of severe breakouts at home, you will probably need to seek the assistance of a consultant dermatologist or other specialist doctor.

They can provide a number of treatments (3) that include:

• Topical corticosteroids
• Antibiotics including doxycycline, amoxicillin and tetracycline
• Oral Contraceptives
• Steroid Injections
• Systemic Retinoids such as isotretinoin
• Chemical Peels
• Photodynamic Therapy
• Clinical drainage of large cysts

Sources

1. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/tips#causes
2. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/acne/
3. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/acne/skin-care/tips#treatment

The post The Different Types Of Acne – What Can You Do To Treat It? appeared first on Skin Care Advice.

You Are What You Eat – Foods That Can Cause Acne Breakouts

The link between acne breakouts and our diet has been a controversial subject but scientific research (1) has determined a definite link between the foods that we eat and acne breakouts.

This article looks at 7 particular food stuffs that have been shown to aggravate acne breakouts and also demonstrates just how important the role that diet plays when you are trying to get clearer skin.

There are many different types of acne that can breakout on many areas of the body with the face, chest and back being the most common.

Recommended article: Beautiful skin starts on the inside. Acne is triggered by many factors – find out why Clearpores is better than most over the counter treatments.

1.Refined Sugars And Grains

It’s been recognised that people who suffer with acne tend to on average consume more refined carbohydrates than those with no acne.

Refined carbohydrates include foods like, white bread, crackers, cereals, white pasta, rice and noodles.

Natural sweeteners such as honey, agave, cane sugars and maple, along with sodas and sugar rich drinks are also root causes of those unsightly pimples and spots.

A clinical study (2) discovered that those who eat foods high in add sugars had a 30% higher risk of developing acne.

Those who regularly eat cakes and pastries for instance were some 20% more at risk.

This increased risk is due to the way that refined sugars react with our blood sugar and insulin levels.

When absorbed into the bloodstream they cause our blood sugar levels to rise, as a direct result our insulin levels also increase to try and remove the sugars from our blood, pushing them into our cells.

The issue is that elevated insulin levels are not good for anybody who has acne. Insulin increases the activity of androgen hormones and directly increases the hormone IGF-1 ( Insulin like growth factor 1). (3)

This aggravates acne breakouts by effectively boosting skin activity, encouraging excess sebum oil to be produced. This can collect in and get trapped in the pores alongside dead skin cells and can often become inflamed and infected.

Foods that are low glycemic (4) ( in other words, those that do not increase blood sugar levels) have been linked to a reduction in acne symptoms.

Foods high in refined carbohydrates will boost blood sugar levels, raise insulin production and could cause acne breakouts

2. Dairy Products

Numerous studies have determined a direct link between milk based products and severe acne breakouts in teenagers (5). They found that younger adults who eat milk or ice cream on a regular basis were more likely to develop acne (6)

The focus so far on these studies has not yet looked at the actual cause and effect of dairy products, just that one does cause the other.

The actual way that milk and associated foods can cause acne is not yet full understood, but there are some possible explanations.

Milk has been shown to increase insulin production which can worsen acne breakouts (7). Cows milk also contains amino acids that stimulate production of IGF-1 by the liver – this hormone has also been linked to the appearance of acne.

The actual reason why it occurs is subject to continued research, but it is recognised that dairy products can make acne worse

3. Fast Foods

A diet high in calories, fat and refined carbohydrates is strongly associated with acne breakouts. Fast foods including fried chicken, burgers, hot dogs, fries as well as milkshakes and sodas may well increase the risk of acne.

In China a study (8) involving 5000 teenagers saw that a diet that included mainly fast food increased the risk of developing acne by up to 43%. 

A similar study held in Turkey saw that eating burgers and sausages regularly increased the risk of an acne breakout by 24%.

The reason for this is not yet clear, but researchers (9) believe that a diet packed with fast foods alters gene expression and changes our hormone levels in such a way that acne is made worse.

Eating fast food regularly has been linked with increased acne breakouts, it does need further research, but it’s pretty apparent that anybody who lives on takeaway food is more at risk of having a severe breakout.

4. Omega-6 Fat Rich Foods

Diets that are high in Omega-6 fatty acids are linked to severe acne breakouts (10) this is particularly prevalent in those who eat a western type diet. 

This could be because these types of diets usually contain large amounts of corn and soy oils.

On the flip side, Omega-3 rich foods like fish and certain nuts can redress the balance.

An excess of these fatty acids can cause an imbalance that cause an inflammatory state in the body which is linked to acne breakouts.

Supplementing with Omega-3 fatty acids has also been used to reduce inflammation so its use could have an acne suppressing effect. (11)

Diets that are high in fatty acids such as Omega-6 and those low in Omega-3 can cause inflammation, can possibly make acne worse

5. Chocolate

We are sorry to say, but chocolate has been linked to acne for many decades, but in truth, no real consensus has been reached. (12)

There have been  number of studies looking into this fact, and some surveys have linked eating chocolate with increased acne breakouts.

One study looked a group of adults who eat 25 grams of 99% pure dark chocolate daily for 2 weeks saw a noticeable increase in acne lesions. 

These findings were echoed in another double blind study where a group of adults were given an unspecified amount of 100% cocoa powder daily. They too reported an increase in acne lesions when compared to a placebo group (13).

It’s not known just why chocolate could make acne worse, but one study did show that eating chocolate caused a change in the response of the immune system to the acne causing bacteria.

Research shows a defined link between eating chocolate and the development of acne, but the actual reasons why is still undetermined.

6. Whey Protein Powder

Popular with athletes and bodybuilders. This is sourced from milk, and is a powerful source of certain amino acids including leucine and glutamine. (14)

They help the skin cells to grow more quickly and divide faster.

This can stimulate the production of higher levels of insulin which has been directly linked to increased acne breakouts

There have been a number of studies carried out on male athletes that showed a direct link between whey protein consumption and increase acne breakouts.

Similar studies have shown comparable results (15) (16)

There is limited data that suggest that taking Whey Protein Powder may cause an increase in acne breakouts, but more in-depth research is needed

Foods That Cause Reactions/Allergies

Many of us have allergies to certain foods and those that do not ‘agree’ with us for one reason or another.

Eating these can cause our body to become inflamed in response to these triggers. 

With acne being an inflammatory condition, it is thought that anti inflammatory drugs such as corticosteroids can be an effective treatment for acne.

Foods sensitivity occurs when our body reacts against a foodstuff after mistaking it for a threat and launches an immunity attack against it. 

This causes high levels of pro-inflammatory molecules to circulate in our blood stream, which can aggravate acne and trigger breakouts

It’s worth taking the effort to try an identify any foods that could cause any reactions or sensitivity. 

Try stopping any foods that you might think are causing your problems (17) and then slowly add them back into your diet one at a time to see what and if any reactions occur.

A good idea is to keep a food log, this will give you the chance to highlight any foods or food groups that can cause you problems and make your acne worse.

Foods that cause any sensitivity or reactions can increase the bodies inflammatory responses which can lead to acne breakouts.

Sources

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23438493/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22070422/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14527633/
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22678562/
5. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15692464/
6. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27422392/
7. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15578035/
8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20337811/
9. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23614736/
10. (10)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10617969/
11. (11)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23206895/
12. (12)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23438493/
13. (13)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24847404/
14. (14)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25567907/
15. (15)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28326292/
16. (16)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28326292/
17. (17)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26030116/

The post Foods That Can Make Your Acne Worse appeared first on Skin Care Advice.

Acne On Your Chest? Heres How To Get Rid Of It

An Acne breakout on your chest may not concern you as much as it does when spots appear on your face or forehead.

If you want to wear a low cut top through the hot summer months the presence of red, angry pimples on your chest can really effect your self confidence.

With many acne treatments being prepared for use on your face, nose and chin and maybe your back, the fact is that if you are prone to acne caused by hormones (1) or excessively oily skin, there is every possibility that you could see it appearing on your chest too.

Acne breakouts on the chest can take the form of:

• Cysts
• Blackheads
• Pustules
• Whiteheads
• Pimples.

Recommended article: Find out which acne system is considered best in class read more

Here are 7 Ways That Can Help You Stop Breakouts Of Chest Acne And Treat Them When They Appear.

1. Get In The Shower Daily

Showering daily is essential in the fight against chest acne, Regular showers help to remove the dirt, bacteria, oil and bacteria that block and inflame your pores.

This should be done daily, not just in the hotter months, and also its been shown that best results are achieved when the shower is warm, but not HOT. 

Also its better to finish off with cold water (Brrrr!) to close down the pores after the shower.

2. Choose A Good Acne Fighting Body Wash

Chest acne responds really well to products containing salicylic acid. Its a really effective ingredient found in some of the better ace treatments that helps to clear chest acne.

2. Use A Non-Comedogenic Body Lotion After Showering

This is absolutely crucial when selecting a skin product ( like a lotion) that is going to remain on the skin throughout the day.

‘Non Comedogenic’ generally means that the product does not block the pores. 

When used on your chest, a non-comedogenic body lotion works to provide the skin with much needed hydration without doing anything that could cause acne breakouts. 

You can get some lotions that contain salicylic acid that will help towards clearing any breakouts on your chest.

Just an additional point – if you are prone to chest acne, avoid any fragrances that could irritate your skin.

4. Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate

Your skin follows a regular cycle of skin cell birth, death and rejuvenation. When the skin cells die, they are naturally forced towards the skins surface to make way for the new cells. 

They are not however, always shed naturally, and in cases of chest acne breakouts can be caused by these dead skin cells sitting in and blocking the pores trapping dirt and the natural oil sebum, and allowing for the development of the acne causing bacteria.

Exfoliating once a week can help alleviate this problem, it removes the dead skin cells so thy cannot cause any clogging. 

Your skin will also feel smoother too. 

Remember though, don’t exfoliate more than once a week as if it’s done too much it can irritate the skin and even cause blemishes.

5. Use Spot Treatments

Spot treatments are a great way of treating isolated breakouts on your chest. They are usually effective at reducing inflammation, calming red irritated skin and shrinking spots and pimples.

There are some great over the counter spot treatments out there.

Many contain either salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide which are both very effective at treating chest acne.

Out of the two we would recommend salicylic acid as benzoyl peroxide can be a bit too harsh on some skin, it can also bleach your clothing.

Too much salicylic acid can however be toxic to the skin, so use both with caution and limit it to just the affected areas.

If you have never used either product before, it’s recommended that you put a small amount on your skin on one small area as a patch test and leave for 24 hrs just to check for any adverse reactions before proceeding with any treatment.

There are some more natural treatments that you can use at home, here are 4 that you could try:

Tea Tree Oil

Widely used in many skin treatments, it has been shown in studies (2) that when applied at 5% strength it can actually be more effective that benzoyl peroxide. 

You do have to be patient however with this and other natural products as they do tend to work slower than stronger chemical based treatments.

There is a wealth of products out there containing tea tree oil. They can be found in various forms including wipes, topical oils and gels. 

You can also use it sparingly in its natural form.

Charcoal Or Mud

Masks made containing mud or charcoal can work really well when applied to the chest to clear spots and pimples. 

They work by drawing out the impurities in the pores. 

An added benefit is that they can help leave your skin feeling soft and smooth too.

Honey and Cinnamon

We all love them in our foods, but they are both also very good at helping to fight chest acne breakouts.

Honey in its raw state (Manuka honey is great) is good at fighting bacterial and Cinnamon has some recognised antimicrobial properties. 

When used together they can reduce both the bacteria and inflammation that combine to cause acne breakouts.

To make you own remedy at home, mix a couple of tablespoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to form a paste. 

Apply to the affected area and leave for 30 minutes before rinsing off (you can also use this as an overnight spot treatment).

Change Your Laundry Detergent

Keeping clothes clean is a must when tackling chest acne. 

The problem is that some detergent used when you wash your clothes can actually aggravate an acne breakout. 

Avoid any products high in fragrances, dyes or in fact anything that could irritate your skin and cause a breakout.

6. Avoid Tight Clothes Or Those That Do Not Breathe

It’s well documented that clothes that do not allow your skin to breathe or are too tight can can irritate the skin by making the wearers sweat and trap dirt and bacteria in the pores. 

Nylon, Wool and material like spandex look great but are the main culprits.

Choose clothes made from breathable fabrics or even better, simple cotton.

7. Drink Plenty Of Water

What ever you do from the outside, you also need to take care of your skin from within. 

That means that you have to avoid any foods that can trigger breakouts, and instead try and fill your diet with foods that can help reduce breakouts and drink plenty of water to keep your skin fully hydrated, and looking plump. 

Not only that it helps to flush out any toxins that can cause skin irritation.

Also, aim to drink 8 glasses of water per day and avoid high sugar drinks such as sodas.

Remember This When Treating Chest Acne

Most acne treatments can take around 8-10 weeks to get to work, this is because the skin follows a natural renewal cycle. 

So if you don’t see your spots clear up quickly, do not panic, it’s quite natural for treatments to take a while to work.

Naturally, if you have been using products for 3 months or so and are still experiencing serious skin problems it might be time to consult a skin specialist. 

Dermatologists can help advice on other treatments for chest acne.

They might prescribe antibiotics or even the birth control pill for women with persistent chest acne

1. https://www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/hormonal-acne
2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/acne/expert-answers/natural-acne-treatment/FAQ-20057915

The post How Can I Get Rid Of Acne On My Chest? appeared first on Skin Care Advice.

What Causes Back Acne?

Having acne on your face is bad enough, but at least you can try and do something about that, you can conceal breakouts with concealers or makeup.

But what do you do when your back and shoulders explode in a myriad of spots, bumps and pimples?

Dealing with back acne ( AKA bacne) is much more of a challenging scenario for the majority of us. 

If you are a fan of low backed dresses or vest tops, you are less likely to want to wear them. It’s important to try and understand the reasons why our backs can have break outs. 

Once we know why they happen, we can then try to understand how to treat the breakouts when they occur.

Recommended reading: Suitable for both men and women, the Clearpores acne system is one of the best selling complete acne treatments on the market.

There are three key factors (1) that contribute to to back acne.

These are:

These can all combine to create a build up of acne on any part of our body, it is our back and chest that is particularly prone to skin problems. 

Acne occurs when the levels of certain hormones increase, it can cause the glands in our skin to increase production of sebum, a natural skin oil produced in our sebaceous glands. 

This excess oil becomes trapped in our skin pores along with dead skin cells.

We shed dead skin cells almost constantly, this causes the acne bacteria to develop in the pores making them infected which leads to the appearance of spots, and pimples.

The fact is that our skin on our back is thicker than most parts of our body, and therefore the risk of getting blocked pores is very high.

Another factor to be aware of is that the upper part of our body has many more sebaceous oil glands per square inch than the lower parts of the body.

These two factors combined create the perfect scenario for the development of back acne.

How Long Does Back Acne Last ?

Back acne can be treated, and most treatments can clear the majority of cases within 4-8 weeks.

There are also some lifestyle changes that you can make to both reduce the outbreaks and speed their healing

What Is Back Acne A Sign Of ?

Back acne is completely different to the acne that appears on your face. Although both are caused by trapped bacteria in the pores leading to inflammation and infection. 

“Having back acne could also be telling you something about your health and lifestyle.”

Simple Genetics

You might be genetically programmed to have skin problems. Experts tell us that in most cases, it’s not your fault that you have acne. 

Studies have shown that some people can be more prone to breakouts than others. If this is the case, you can make some lifestyle and dietary changes to try and make your skin healthier. 

It might take time to work out what triggers your breakouts, but at least you should be aware that you are not doing anything wrong per se.

Your Love Of Tight Fitting Clothes

Wearing tight clothes looks great, but what you may not know is that it can cause a whole host of health problems, the list is quite long from UTI’s right through to back acne. 

Tight clothing can reduce the chances of having healthy skin, as it can stop sweat evaporating, preventing the skin from breathing efficiently, which leads to clogged pores.

To find out if your back acne is being aggravated by your clothing choices, try to stop wearing tight clothes for a week, if your breakouts subside, then you know the cause. 

It also proves that your back acne isn’t caused by anything more serious. 

If you don’t want to give up on your tight clothing, remember that breathability is essential. Look for clothes made from fabrics that allow your skin to breath.

Wash Your Bed Sheets More Regularly

Most of us spend over a third of our lives in bed, but its essential to make sure that your bed is your sanctuary and not a hazard to your health and skin.

Bed sheets can be a haven for bacteria. Dirt and oils from your skin can collect on them, and if allowed to build up can increase the risk of acne breakouts, eczema and other problems such as allergies. 

It’s quite shocking really that most people do not wash their sheets regularly, they should be washed every seven days. 

You Might Be Staying In Your Clothes Too Long

If you go to a dance class or yoga, its often tempting to straight from the studio to the local coffee shop for brunch.

Try to schedule in an extra but of time to have a shower and change your clothes.

Remaining in sweaty clothes (2) for extended periods of time allows acne causing bacteria to multiply on the skin.

Its not just acne too, your sweaty clothing could also be responsible for a weakened immunity, and unpleasant things like yeast infections too

Hormones

A major cause of back acne, if your acne does not clear up after you have changed your clothes and starting washing your sheets more regularly then it might be the time to discuss your hormone levels with your doctor.

Men who have back acne can aggravate the problem by taking testosterone supplements or anabolic steroids. Women with problems such as polycystic ovaries can also experience breakouts all over their backs.

How Can You Get Rid Of Back Acne Scars?

A difficult subject, especially in those who have darker skin. If you have scars caused by back acne its probably best to consult with a skin specialist.

Acne scars can take many forms, the most common is called PIH (Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation) This is a very common post back acne issue that falls under the classification of scarring.

As the skin starts to heal, both collagen and the skins natural pigment (melanin) become more active.

The pigment can reproduce in excess amounts being stimulated by inflammation leaving odd coloured patches and scarring where the acne was before.

There are some effective treatments that can work really well to reduce the appearance of acne scarring.

Laser treatments are known to be effective, but treatment costs can be restrictive being upwards of $630 (£500) per course of treatment.

Micro needling can also work, but there have been cases, especially in people with darker skin where they are left with odd coloured patches. 

There are of course a number of over the counter treatments that can help to improve the skins suppleness in and around the scarred area, but there are limits as to what they can do.

How Do You Treat Back Acne At Home?

There are a lot of things that you can do to treat your back acne at home. Here are a few:

Shower After Your Workouts

Allowing dirt and sweat to remain on you skin after a lengthy workouts can be a major cause of back acne.

Shower and change your clothes as quickly as possible after a workout and wash those sweaty clothes everytime.

If for any reason you are unable to get into the shower straight after workout, you could try wiping the skin down with pads containing salicylic or glycolic acid.

These can be effective in the short term, but the key is to have a shower as soon as you can after working out.

Exfoliate

Exfoliating with a good exfoliating product will help to reduce dead skin that can clog your skin, causing those annoying breakouts. 

Look for ingredients including salicylic acid for maximum effects.

Tie Long Hair Back

Long hair can add oil and dirt to the skin on your back, increasing the build up and making bacne worse. 

Wash hair regularly, and tie it up into a ponytail or bun while working out.

When washing your hair, try to avoid letting shampoo or conditioner from running down and sitting on your back for long periods of time as these can in some cases contribute to clogged pores

Try Using Tea Tree Oil

Tea Tree oil is a very popular treatment in Australia, it has been used to treat numerous skin conditions for years. There are many products out there that contain it, including lotions, cleansers and moisturising creams.

Studies have shown that it may help to reduce the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts.

Protect Your Skin From The Sun

Using sunscreen is essential to maintaining healthy, clear skin. Just beware of what you are using, as heavy, greasy products can block the pores. 

Look for oil free products which are light on the skin

You Are What You Eat

A diet that is full of unhealthy foods can trigger back acne breakouts.

Those high on the Glycemic Index (GI) which cause fast increase in blood sugar levels are known to make acne breakouts worse. 

White foods, such as bread, pasta and rice, along with white potatoes are some the worse foods for causing acne breakouts

Try to increase your intake of the following:

• Whole foods, 
• grains
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Lean meats and other sources of protein

Can I Get Rid Of Back Acne Permanently ?

The answer to this question is ‘Possibly’ 

It really depends on what triggers your back acne breakouts, if it is caused by a genetic problem, its going to be rather difficult to eradicate it completely.

If your back acne is caused by your diet or lifestyle, then a few small changes as detailed above can make a huge difference to your breakouts.

If you continue to apply these changes, potentially remove back acne from your life completely.

Severe cases of back acne have been seen to respond to treatments involving 5-10% benzoyl peroxide body wash.  

It’s not for everyone as it can be little harsh on the skin, so it’s not really suitable for sensitive skin. 

It aggressively kills the bacteria that causes those unwanted breakouts. 

Just be aware, it can stain your towels and clothing, so make sure that you rinse your skin thoroughly once you have finished using.

It is advisable to protect your bed linen, wear a light cotton, preferably white tee shirt to bed.

Getting Rid Of Back Acne – Summary

There is no doubt that back acne is a treatable condition for most if not all cases.

The first thing that you need to try and do is to discover the root cause of the problem.

The majority of cases can be cleared up by simple lifestyle and dietary changes as detailed this article. 

If you do suffer from persistent back acne you might need the help of either over the counter treatments ( These usually come in the form of creams, and lotion.) 

If your condition persists or gets worse, you may need to engage the services of a skin care expert or go to your doctor and ask to be referred to a dermatologist.

Treatments that are known to be very effective can use a wide range of ingredients, some natural and others chemical based. 

Back Acne Ingredients

Here are few effective ingredients that you should look for when choosing treatments:

• Azelaic acid (3)
• Salicylic Acid
• Glycolic acid
• Tea Tree Oil
• Green Tea
• Passion Flower
• Licorice Root
• Aloe Vera (4)
• Sulfer
• Benzoyl peroxide
• Sage Extract (5)

We couldn’t finish this article without giving you a list of ingredients that you really should avoid. 

These are known to cause damage to the skin, they can also make the problem far, far worse.

• Parabens
• Phthalates
• Triclosan
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
• Gluten
• Synthetic fragrances and colors

We are also advocates of no-animal testing too, so would strongly recommend that you avoid anything that uses animal testing in its development.

Top FAQ’s

Sources

1. https://www.verywellhealth.com/back-acne-and-body-acne-15483
2. https://www.bustle.com/articles/153287-11-gross-things-that-happen-if-you-leave-on-sweaty-clothes
3. http://archderm.ama-assn.org/cgi/doi/10.1001/archderm.142.8.1047
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321273
5. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17713873

The post Why Do I Have Back Acne? What Can Be Done To Get Rid of Bacne? appeared first on Skin Care Advice.

Is It Acne Or Rosacea? How To Find Out Whats Effecting Your Skin.

Two of the most common skin conditions out there are Acne and Rosacea, they are also two of the most difficult to treat, in particularly when they are mistaken for each other.

Before you are able to treat your skin condition, you need to determine what you are treating.

If you are not 100% sure what those red lumps and marks on your skin are, its really important to find out what you are dealing with before starting to treat them. 

If you have any doubts as to whether those red lumps, bumps and marks are Acne or Rosacea, heres a few hints and tips to help you find out:

Study Your Red Marks And Bumps

Rosacea is commonly thought to be associated with a red flushing on the skin. 

It can also cause red bumps on the skin.

This is the most common type of Rosacea, called papulopustular or type 2 rosacea (1) its often the most uncomfortable form, with painful red bumps that resemble acne.

So How Can You Tell The Difference Between Acne and Rosacea?

The main difference between Acne and Rosacea is the presence of Comedones, a classic sign of acne.

Comedones can be both closed or open, they are in effect blocked pores that are not inflamed, painful or swollen.

Open comedones are in effect blackheads, namely open pores that are filled with a black residue. 

Closed comedones on the other hand are blocked pores, filled with a white residue (AKA whiteheads).

If you have  lots of comedones, it’s very likely that you are dealing with a variety of Acne.

It gets harder to determine when you have inflamed bumps on your skin, commonly called pustules, nodules, cysts or papules,  they can both be a feature of Acne and Rosacea.

Inflammatory Acne is a classic example, excess bacteria trapped in the comedones can cause them to swell, turning them into a larger red, pus filled cysts. 

With Rosacea, the ever present inflammatory response commonly linked to the condition can generate swollen red lumps that can easily be confused for Acne.

What Causes Your Breakouts?

If after looking at your lumps and bumps are still confused, another way to try and determine other its rosacea or acne is by identifying the triggers that set of your breakouts.

So – When and where do your bumps appear?

Rosacea for instance varies from person to person, but its is usually set of by exposure to sunlight, cold, heat, stress, anxiety, spicy foods, hot drinks and alcohol (2).

Rosacea can also accompany sensitive skin, and as such can be brought on by using harsh skin treatments such as strong acne treatments, certain retinoids and acids.

Acne is usually triggered by hormonal fluctuations.

This is the main reason why ( especially in women) that it usually rears its head during times such as puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and believe it or not the menopause.

Acne and Medications

It can also be attributed to certain medications, this can include birth control pills, IUD’s, certain steroids and also certain medications, in particular those used to treat bipolar disorders.

This is the strange thing about Acne as some people find that it gets better with hormonal treatments such as the birth control pill in women and testosterone treatments in men.

Age can play a huge part too. Acne usually occurs in puberty and through early adulthood, where as Rosacea doesn’t usually appear until we are in our 30’s. 

The position of our breakouts can also help identify the problem. 

Acne can appear virtually anywhere on your face or body, where as Rosacea tends to be seen mainly on the central parts of your face.

The nose in particular, but also your cheeks, chin and forehead.

One easy guide to remember is this – Rosacea is usually brought on my external sources, where as Acne is usually caused by internal health issues.

If you develop red patches and lumps after being outside in the cold or windy weather or maybe after taking a hot bath or drinking a hot drink, then its probably rosacea. 

If the breakout occurs at certain times of the month or during periods of stress, then it’s more than likely to be Acne.

Obviously no guide is 100% accurate and if you have any doubts, its always best to consult your doctor, who might suggest a visit to a dermatologist to get an accurate diagnosis of your problem.

Some Treatments Can Be Used To Treat Both Acne and Rocasea

It’s not uncommon to have symptoms of both problems that can make choosing an effective treatment harder.

Many dermatologists will suggest using treatments that can easily be used for either, so do not be surprised of your doctor gives you an acne treatment when you are sure you have Rosacea.

One example is Azelaic acid, its commonly found in both prescription and OTC treatments, despite it being an acid, its pretty gentle, and doesn’t cause too much irritation to the skin.

Some people find that retinoids and benzoyl peroxide work well, while others find that these can be irritating and can (especially at first) cause symptoms to become worse.

Antibiotics are also commonly used to treat both, largely because they not only kill the bacteria that causes acne, they can also reduce the inflammation linked to rosacea. 

Most common types of antibiotics include:

• Clindamycin
• Metronidazole
• Doxycycline

The first two are usually given in topical forms, where as the latter is taken orally. Sufferers of both acne and rosacea can also benefit from using treatments that include sodium sulfacetamide or sulfer (3)

The other way to try and treat the problems is to manage your flare ups by making changes in your behaviour to minimise exposure to the triggers that set them off.

A dermatologist can help you asses these triggers and can usually offer some guidance into minimising their effects. 

They can often recommend gentle skin care products that are far less likely to cause any irritation to the skin.

There is a wide range of products out there that can treat both products, some are natural over the counter treatments and others are drug based prescription products. 

Its recommended that you work with your doctor or dermatologist to ensure a correct diagnosis and prepare the best treatment plan for you.

Remember It Takes Time So You Need To Be Patient

One thing to be aware of is that there is no overnight cure to either of these conditions, some treatments will appear to make the problem worse before it gets better. 

The main culprits of this are topic retinoids and benzoyl peroxide, they are really effective, but do usually make the flare ups worse before they improve.

Always stick with a treatment for at least 12 weeks to give them time to have effect, naturally if your skin becomes worse, then discuss with your doctor before making any changes.

To sum up, it’s largely about identifying what your problem is and if possible the triggers responsible for the flare ups. 

Once you have identified the problem (4) and decided on a course of treatment, stick with it, be positive  and keep an open mind.

Acne or Rosacea Summary

1. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rosacea
2. https://www.self.com/story/rosacea-triggers-holidays
3. https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/rosacea/treatment/acne-like
4. https://www.rosacea.org/blog/2013/november/acne-or-rosacea-a-case-of-mistaken-identity

The post Do I Have Acne Or Rosacea – What is the Difference? appeared first on Skin Care Advice.