Take Care of your Skin to Avert Acne Problems

Your skin needs lot of pampering and effectual care to make it healthy and glowing. Proper cleansing and moisturizing is a must to avoid various skin problems that are quite common like pimple and acne breakouts, dark circles and wrinkles. Young boys and girls at the time of their puberty are likely to develop facial acne outbursts. Sometimes severe acne problems may cause itching and irritation on the face. Besides the face, you are likely to have acne lesions on your back, neck, scalp and upper arm.

Your skin tends to develop pores that get clogged with dirt and impurities. These pores are popularly called as the blackheads that are one of the primary causes of acne outbreaks. It is therefore highly imperative to treat these blackheads using various facial masks and oil free cleansers to ensure removal of dirt, impurities and dead skin. Clay masks are highly beneficial to get rid of blackheads. Whiteheads also lead to acne formation. In order to treat whiteheads you must preferably use lotions and cleansers that contain salicylic acid or benzyl peroxide that tend to ensure effective cleansing of the face.

Many dermatologists may also provide adequate treatments for acne that can be highly effective and beneficial. Although acne is a skin condition which is more likely to affect the young, yet the grown ups can have these problems too. Adult acne can be an embarrassing condition that may affect your appearance adversely. However, nowadays there are plenty of acne treatments that are widely being provided. Herbal acne treatments are extremely effective that tends to cure acne problems using products made from natural and herbal ingredients. Natural oil extracts are a great way to keep your skin free from acne and other skin problems.

Acne is a serious skin problem that must not be taken casually and effective treatments should be tailored in order to cure such skin problems.

Acids in Skincare Ingredients and How They Affect You

Who would want to put acid on their face?

If you follow trends in skincare and skin products, you most likely have seen numerous references to ‘acids’ – names like, Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Glycolic Acid or Ascorbic Acid to name a few. While the term “acid” may seem harmful or irritating, when used in the proper products and in controlled amounts, it can actually heal and rejuvenate skin – much the same way the acid mantle protects it. The trick in proper skincare is to find the right balance between acid and alkaline maintenance of the skin.

You may not know exactly what these acids do for your skin and how they might help you. Understanding skincare ingredients is key to selecting the right products for your unique skin type and skin concerns.

Acids in Skincare Ingredients and How They Affect You

So, what are all these acid ingredients doing in your skincare and how are they beneficial?  Acids have become tremendously popular as anti-aging ingredients.  Let’s take a look at some of the more common or widely used acids in skincare today.

The Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs)

You may have heard the term “alpha hydroxy acid” whenever skin care is mentioned. Many skin care products today boast that they contain AHAs. Alpha Hydroxy Acids are naturally occurring acids, derived from the sugars in particular plants or fruits. Alpha hydroxy acid can include Glycolic, Citric, Lactic, Malic and Tartaric. These acids, when used correctly, can help to smooth the skin, enhance the effects of other skin rejuvenation treatments, keep problem skin under control, attract moisture to the skin, even texture and complexion of skin and reverse some of the effects of UV damage.

AHAs in skincare products help break up the “glue” that holds dead skin cells to the surface of the skin, exfoliating the epidermis and leaving a silky texture. Removing this external barrier enables partner skincare ingredients to deeper penetrate the skin, making them more effective. Using an AHA product can benefit dull, lifeless or uneven skin tone. AHA products are also great for softening rough elbows, knees, hands and feet.

Each AHA is derived from a different source. While the following AHA derivatives all share a similar molecular structure, they each perform a different function.

Glycolic Acid

Made from natural fruit acids (alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs) glycolic acid helps rejuvenate the skin by encouraging the shedding of old, sun-damaged surface skin cells. Due to its small molecular size, it retains an excellent capability to penetrate skin. Glycolic acid is most often used as a chemical peel in concentrations of 20 to 70% by dermatologists or at-home kits between 10 and 20%.

Once applied, glycolic acid reacts with the upper layer of the epidermis, weakening the binding properties of the lipids that hold the dead skin cells together. This allows the stratum corneum to be exfoliated, exposing live skin cells. Glycolic acid will dramatically improve skin texture and appearance and may also reduce wrinkles, acne scaring and hyperpigmentation. By reducing the surface skin oils, it can also help remove blackheads and other skin impurities.

Citric Acid
A powerful anti-oxidant used for collagen building, and skin bleaching, citric acid exists in a variety of fruits and vegetables, most notably citrus fruits. Lemons and limes have particularly high concentrations of the acid.  A skin rejuvenating AHA, Citric Acid, or Vitamin C, acts as an antioxidant as well as helps stimulate collagen fiber production within the dermis.  Citric acid has astringent and antioxidant properties, and is a natural preservative that helps to adjust the pH of skincare products. Citric acid can also bleach unwanted skin discolorations that accompany the aging process. Some pure Vitamin C powder formulations boast skin rejuvenation and antioxidant properties.

Lactic Acid

Lactic acid comes from sour milk and is an ideal skin softener frequently used by dermatologists to cut through thick, rough skin. It works both as an exfoliator as well as helping to hold water within the skin. Lactic acid may be combined with other AHAs to boost product effectiveness.

Malic Acid

Malic acid, an alpha hydroxy fruit acid, is a natural skin exfoliator. It is commonly used in skin care products to rejuvenate and improve skin conditions. Mandelic acid and malic acid are two alpha hydroxy acids increasingly used in skin care formulations where harsher acids or chemicals may irritate sensitive skin types. Malic acid can be found in apples, grapes, pears and bananas.

AHAs are safe when used with caution and according to directions. The amount of AHA in the product and the pH are the determining factors of a product’s strength and irritation you may experience. Remember, this is still an acid and too much can cause redness, irritation or burns. Medical strength AHAs start at a concentration of 8%. This is the baseline of where truly effective results will be noticeable.

If you use an AHA, pay attention to any reactions you have, and stop using the product immediately if you have any irritation at all. Reintroduce it slowly at lower concentrations or stop using it completely. It may also increase sensitivity to the sun, which increases your chances of skin cancer, so always wear sunscreen, cover your skin, or avoid direct sunlight when possible.

Amino Acids

Amino acid peptides comprise the latest entry into the skin rejuvenation scene. Amino acids are the chemical units or “building blocks” of the body that make up proteins.  Peptides consist of a small number of amino acids linked by a “peptide” bond. These bonds enhance cosmetic suitability and efficacy.

Collagen makes up 75% of our skin. As we age, the collagen- and elastin-producing cells known as fibroblasts, which keep skin tight and youthful, become less abundant and effective. One percent of the skin’s collagen is lost each year after the age of 40. This is where amino acid peptides come in, jump-starting lazy fibroblasts and encouraging new ones to return to the aging dermis.

Skincare treatments that contain amino acid peptides mimic the very end fragments that send out the distress signal to fibroblasts, chemically signaling skin to become firmer by stimulating collagen. Most amino acid peptides offer a non-irritating, non-drying, skin firming option for all skin types. And when formulated with other “friendly” anti-aging agents, can solve many of your skin rejuvenation needs.

Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs)

In cosmetics, the term beta hydroxy acid refers specifically to salicylic acid, which is used in some anti-aging creams and acne treatments. Beta hydroxy acids are simple organic acids found in nature or synthesized in the laboratory. They are somewhat different from alpha hydroxy acids in structure and mode of action. The difference here is called “lipid solubility,” aka a substance’s ability to dissolve in oil.

AHAs are water soluble, meaning they’re able to dissolve in water. BHAs, on the other hand, are lipid soluble, meaning they’re able to fully dissolve in oil (or fat).  This distinction makes BHAs better at penetrating pores. If you have oily skin, frequent blackheads or whiteheads, then products containing BHA will be your best choice. But if breakouts aren’t your big skin problem, and you’re looking for help dealing with sun damage or wrinkles, consider AHAs instead.

Alpha Lipoic Acid:

An antioxidant that is made by the body and is found in every cell It is both fat- and water-soluble. Antioxidants are depleted as they attack free radicals, but evidence suggests alpha-lipoic acid may help regenerate these other antioxidants and make them active again. In one small-scale study, high potency lipoic acid reduced mild-to-moderate wrinkles by up to 50 percent, whereas fine lines have almost disappeared. In another study, lipoic acid significantly improved the appearance of certain types of scars.

If further studies corroborate skin benefits of lipoic acid, it may become one of the mainstays of today’s anti-aging skin care. In fact, lipoic acid will be especially welcome in the family of proven wrinkle fighters because it is less irritating than tretinoin (Retin A, Renova) and hydroxy acids. It can be used, albeit in lower concentrations, in delicate and wrinkle prone area around the eyes.

Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C):

Also known as ascorbic acid, this antioxidant is known to aid cell repair and help to stop free radicals. When use topically, it may help reduce lines and wrinkles, promote healing, aid in the development of collagen, and can even increase your natural sun protection factor (SPF) to decrease sun damage. It is also a free-radical fighting anti-oxidant. It is no wonder that Vitamin C is a primary ingredient used to combat wrinkles and aging skin. Ascorbic Acid (or Vitamin C), is an essential nutrient found mainly in fruits and vegetables. The body requires it to form and maintain bones, blood vessels, and skin.

Used as an antioxidant in its L-ascorbic acid form, it can also have skin lightening effects in certain preparations. Ascorbic acid helps produce collagen, a protein needed to develop and maintain healthy skin and blood vessels. Ascorbic acid also promotes the healing of cuts, abrasions and wounds and helps fight infections. The Vivoderm Anti-Aging Mask and Anti-Acne Mask both contain Ascorbic Acid.

Hyaluronic Acid

A powerful humectant that draws moisture to the skin. Dry, damaged skin with a compromised lipid barrier will flake off more rapidly, resulting in excessive peeling. This can leave the surface of the skin more susceptible to bacterial infections and environmental damage. The added anti-irritation technologies and hyaluronic acid help heal the lipid barrier, improving the health of the skin and minimizing unnecessary, excessive peeling – without sacrificing results.

Sorbic Acid

Some acids may simply be included in your skincare as a preservative to keep the product fresh and to prevent spoiling. Not to be confused with Ascorbic Acid, Sorbic Acid is derived from the berries of the mountain ash tree and is an antimicrobial agent. Sorbic Acid has traditionally been used as a preservative for food and wine due to its ability to prevent spoilage caused by yeasts, fungi and molds, as well as some other bacteria. This unsaturated fatty acid is used primarily in the formulation of facial and eye makeup, skin care and hair products.

Stearic Acid

Stearic acid is the saturated fatty acid or waxy solid used as a hardening agent or lubricant. This acid helps make skincare creams and lotions “spreadable.” This ingredient can be derived from animals or vegetables. Stearic acid can be found in many vegetable fats, such as coconut or cocoa butter.

Even More Acids

As you can see there are many, many types of acids and acid derivatives to be used in skincare. Here are a few other acids you might encounter in your skincare regimens:

• Alum: a chemical compound, usually used in crystal or powder form, it has strong astringent properties and is found in aftershaves, toners, deodorants and depilatory waxes. It is also sometimes applied to cuts to prevent or treat infection.
• Cyclic Acid: A new term for Hyaluronic Acid, a strong hydrating complex that holds 1000 times the water in skin.
• Ellagic Acid: Present in many red fruits and berries. This naturally occurring ingredient helps to inhibit the formation of sun and age spots. Ellagic acid has antioxidant, anti-mutagen and anti-cancer properties.
• Kojic Acid: is primarily used to lighten freckles and other dark spots on the skin.
• Linoleic Acid: Research points to linoleic acid’s anti-inflammatory, acne reductive, and moisture retentive properties when applied topically on the skin. Often referred to it as Vitamin F, it can be found in most vegetable oils such as safflower and grape seed.
• Panthothenic Acid: helps to increase moisture content in the hair and skin.
• Poly Hydroxy Acid: PHAs are really AHAs that do not penetrate quite as deeply into the skin. Gluconolactone and lactobionic acid are two acids that lift tired, dead skin, but because their molecules are larger than the AHAs, they do not penetrate as deeply.
• Salicylic Acid: Made from the bark of the willow tree and classified as a BHA (beta hydroxy acid), it is medically used as an exfolliant and debriding agent and cosmetically used in some chemical peels and to treat many skin disorders, such as acne, dandruff, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis of the skin and scalp.

The Vivoderm Natural Skincare line uses the following acids:  Stearic Acid, Lactic Acid and Sorbic Acid, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C). They can be found in these products:

Body Butter: Stearic Acid, Lactic Acid and Sorbic Acid

Zinc Cream: Stearic Acid  and Sorbic Acid

Anti-Acne Mask + Anti-Aging Mask: Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C),

Facial Cleanser: Sorbic Acid

Intense Moisturizer: Stearic Acid and Sorbic Acid

Anti-Wrinkle Eye Cream: Stearic Acid and Sorbic Acid

Foot Cream: Stearic Acid and Sorbic Acid

Author: Rachelle Dupree

Vivoderm Marketing and Communications

Natural Extracts Can Do Wonders For Your Skin!

Do you know what the natural ways to treat acne are? No, then you, must check this out as reading this will help you to know about best natural treatments for acne. You must be scared to apply harsh chemical substances on your skin as they can be too abrasive on a sensitive skin. This is even right as these acne products contain harmful chemicals that can cause even more severe skin problems.

Since, skin is the most sensitive organ of a human body, so you should preferably use natural acne skin care products to treat your precious skin.

Extract of Olive leaf

Olive leaf tree extracts are considered as the most soothing way to prevent skin breakouts like acne. Due to its antibacterial properties, it works like a magic on skin that fight acne causing bacteria.

Licorice Root Extract and Green Tea Extract

Licorice root consists of anti inflammatory medicinal properties that help in clearing up acne. Similarly, green tea extract provides such benefits that help treating acne without any kind of irritation.

Aloe Vera

This is the most common herb extract used for curing acne due to its natural medicinal properties. This plant works effectively on skin in a gentle way that can enable you in combating all sorts of skin issues. It contains anti-inflammatory properties that not only boost your skin texture but can also be used to get rid of all kinds of blemishes left after pimples.

Tea Tree oil

This is also known as Melaleuca oil that comes in light golden color. It helps in curing acne without drying up the skin and also prevents their reoccurrence. Due to its increasing benefits, this acne treatment can be used for clearing all kinds of blemishes and marks.

These are some of the gentle natural herbs that can be used to cure skin disorders so that you can have a clean and clear skin.

Rejuvenate Your Skin with Best Acne Skin Treatments

Acne is one of the most prominent skin problems today. This particular skin problem is primarily caused by hormonal changes and secretion of excess oil from the sebaceous glands. Your skin is extremely sensitive that needs to be protected from the clogging of pores, pimples, blackheads and whiteheads that eventually lead to skin acne. Effective acne skin treatments are therefore extremely imperative to avoid scars and marks on the skin.

You need to make sure that your skin is not exposed too much to the sun as its UV rays are quite harmful owing to the sensitivity of your skin. Harsh cosmetic materials should be avoided to avert any skin reactions and allergies as these cosmetics tend to contain chemicals that may adversely affect your skin. Natural acne skin treatments are quite effective in healing the skin acne with no side effects or reactions. A solution of milk and garlic is one of the home remedies and DIY acne skin treatments that are easy to use and produce great results. A mixture of sandalwood and turmeric gives a nourishing effect to your skin that exfoliates it and removes the dirt and dead cells.

Fruit acne skin treatments are most rejuvenating and refreshing that tend to provide a soothing effect to your skin. Orange juice, pulp extracts of apple or papaya, lemon juice and banana are extremely effective producing a healthy and glowing skin. One of the most invigorating treatments of skin acne is through the application of basil oil that can be effectively used to treat the problems of blackheads. People whose skin is extremely sensitive should go for herbal acne skin treatments that tend to make use of plant ingredients and various fruits or vegetables to prepare facial masks in order to ensure a complete revitalization of your skin.

Acne skin treatments should be selected according to the skin type in order to ensure the desired results.

Anti-Acne Benefits of Green Tea

What is Tea?

Tea is the common name for the Camellia sinensis plant. It is the agricultural product of the leaves, leaf buds, and internodes (the portion of a plant stem between nodes) of the plant that are prepared and cured by various methods. “Tea” also refers to the aromatic beverage prepared from the cured leaves by combination with hot or boiling water.

Tea is known for its stimulant qualities largely attributed to caffeine. Today, herbal teas are known to have many health benefits, preventing a variety of conditions, from heart disease and cancer, to gum disease, skin aging and weight loss. The major types of tea include black, green, oolong and white, differing by the method of harvesting and processing.

The beneficial properties of tea are attributed to polyphenols. The polyphenols found in tea mainly belong to the subtype called catechins. Polyphenols or catechins are better known as antioxidants that fight free radicals. Free radicals are damaging to skin and body by attacking healthy cells. Green tea has more catechins than black tea; white tea is almost as rich in catechins as green tea but is different in composition and less well studied.

So How Is Green Tea Good For My Skin?

There have been number studies of skin benefits of green tea. One of these studies show protection from skin cancer by demonstrating topical green tea formulations can reduce sun damage.(1) Another fascinating study in 2003 was conducted by Dr. Stephen Hsu of the Medical College of Georgia Department of Oral Biology. His findings determined green tea was able to rejuvenate old skin cells at the end of their life cycle.

A quote from Dr. Hsu’s paper explained, “…we report here for the first time, that at certain concentrations, EGCG or a mixture of the major green tea polyphenols stimulated aged keratinocytes to generate biological energy and to synthesize DNA, possibly for renewed cell division.

Therefore, green tea constituents may be useful topically for promoting skin regeneration, wound healing, or treatment of certain epithelial conditions such as aphthous ulcers, psoriasis, rosacea, and actinic keratoses.” (2) Dr. Hsu went on to comment he was “so surprised” to discover EGCG actually reactivated cells that had migrated toward the surface of the skin to ‘die’.

Green tea appears to manipulate sun damage protection by fighting free radicals and reducing inflammation rather than by blocking UV rays. Therefore, green tea enhances sun protection when used in addition to a sunscreen. To boost sun protection, apply a green tea formula under your sunscreen to elevate the level of sun protection. It is best to combine green tea with zinc oxide-based sunscreens because zinc oxide is chemically inert and should not react with green tea (which some chemical sunscreens might do, especially in sunlight).

Topical green tea is also very beneficial for sensitive skin types by reducing inflammation and irritation in the skin. Wrinkles, skin sag and other signs of aging have been shown to benefit from Green tea. The tea’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory polyphenols slow down signs of premature of aging

Green Tea and Pimples

A green tea and pimples study suggests it to be as good as benzoyl peroxide cream in treating acne conditions with fewer side effects. Scientific research has shown that green tea fights bacteria, inflammation and reduces stress. Perhaps it would be an excellent candidate for treating acne?

In the study, conducted by Dr. Jennifer Gan-Wong from the Memorial Medical Center in the Philippines, 108 participants were divided into two groups. One applied benzoyl peroxide cream and the other green tea extract cream twice daily for 12 weeks. Subjects were examined and photographed each week by dermatologists. The researchers noted the green tea cream seemed to lighten patients’ skin color and improve the overall appearance of their complexion.

The preliminary data suggests that green tea cream causes fewer side effects than benzoyl peroxide. Patients in the green tea group reported fewer cases of dry skin, itching and allergic responses.

Use green tea at home to boost your skins health, appearance and reduce signs of aging by freezing freshly brewed green tea as ice cubes and use them as a toner. Let them start thawing first before applying directly to the face to avoid irritation. You can also drink green tea or take green tea extract in capsules to benefit from the anti oxidant properties. The polyphenols will reach your skin via the bloodstream in sufficient amounts.

Using green tea in your skincare routine has definite proven benefits to slow skin aging, reduce acne and protect your skin from cancer among many others. Just be aware of the products you choose. Like most antioxidants, green tea polyphenols are oxidized and can lose their active constituents when exposed to air.

By Tiffany Oney and Rachelle Dupree

References:

(1) Green Tea Polyphenol Treatment to Human Skin Prevents Formation of Ultraviolet Light B-induced Pyrimidine Dimers in DNA (2000). Santosh K. Katiyar, Anaibelith Perez and Hasan Mukhtar. Clinical Cancer Research Vol. 6, 3864-3869, October 2000.

(2) Green Tea Polyphenols Induce Differentiation and Proliferation in Epidermal Keratinocytes (2003). Stephen Hsu, Wendy B. Bollag, Jill Lewis, Qin Huang,

Baldev Singh, Mohamed Sharawy, Tetsuya Yamamoto, and George Schuster. Journal of Pharmacology And Experimental Therapeutics. First published on March 27, 2003; DOI: 10.1124/jpet.103.049734

Zinc Oxide Skin Care Reduces Acne Breakouts

You may have first seen zinc on a summer day at the beach or your local swimming pool. Lifeguards traditionally use the thick, white cream to cover their nose and cheeks to prevent sunburn. You may have learned then, that it was the strongest sunblock available – it just wasn’t very attractive.

In the eighties, zinc sun protection got a makeover, with bight neon colors. Applying wacky colors all over your face was fun and it blocked out the sun’s rays. Almost completely, and it stayed on - almost too well.

Today, thankfully, formulations have improved and zinc is no longer the eyesore it once was. It does, however, still protect your skin from sun damage and wrinkles and recent findings have shown zinc offers anti-microbial benefits that also reduce acne and breakouts.

So, what exactly is zinc and how does it work?

Zinc is a natural mineral, minced and refined to a fluffy white powder. Zinc becomes Zinc Oxide after the mineral is oxidized. Oxidation allows the mineral to be slightly changed giving it new properties. Zinc Oxide is used widely in cosmetics and natural skin care products and is quickly replacing the use of Titanium Oxide in sunscreens.

Because zinc is completely natural, it is an excellent ingredient to use in natural skin care products and beauty treatments. Before many of its

beneficial properties were known, Zinc Oxide was initially used in cosmetics as a whitening agent to moisturizing lotions, facial creams and most sunscreens.

Zinc Oxide has been the ingredient of choice for sunscreens, sun protection and cosmetics. Zinc Oxide is categorized as a physical sunscreen, therefore SPF labels are not given to the mineral. SPF or sun protected factor only relates to chemical sunscreens. Chemical sunscreens such as PABA and Oxybenzone absorb the suns rays; where as Zinc Oxide actually blocks the rays. While some chemically-based sun protection products include zinc, they can not claim zinc as their primary component and must be labeled as such.

How does Zinc Actually “block” the Sun’s Rays?

Zinc Oxide works much like a diamond to bend (or refract) light. It is the only known element that can block both UVA (aging rays) and UVB (burning rays). Zinc Oxide has been approved and labeled by the FDA as safe for the skin as sun protection. It is important to note that Zinc Oxide is not an organic compound as it has undergone oxidation. Zinc Oxide should be 20 to 25 percent of ingredient in cosmetic or sunscreen to properly inhibit sun damage to the skin and prevent wrinkles from forming. As we all should know by now, one of the primary causes of aging skin and wrinkles, is the sun.

If blocking sun rays, preventing wrinkles and aging skin weren’t enough, pure zinc has also been found to be very effective in the treatment and care of acne prone skin. Zinc regulates production of oil glands and hormone levels, two main triggers of acne. Zinc also helps absorb Vitamin A which promotes healing and fights bacteria. As with any acne treatment results may vary depending on diet and other environmental factors. It is always important to consult a dermatologist prior to any acne treatment. Zinc is commonly used in ointments for diaper rash, minor scrapes and burns, dry scalp and irritated skin.

In addition to the benefits on the skin zinc helps maintain many healthy body functions. Zinc plays a role in strengthening the immune system by assisting white blood cell development, protecting the body form infection. Lack of zinc to the body can result in a week immune system. As zinc plays a vital role in the immune system it is imperative to acquire the proper amount of zinc while pregnant. Zinc helps reduce inflammation and infection. Proper amounts of zinc in a diet have shown to contribute to proper growth, strength, and endurance. Zinc is also involved in stimulating many enzymes which play an essential role in metabolism. Zinc has been found to benefit the inside and outside health of our bodies and can be found in many topical creams, like Vivoderm’s zinc repairing cream, as well as in many nutrient rich foods.

According to the American Zinc Association, zinc seals and protects the skin. “Zinc is essential for healthy skin. As a drying agent and astringent, zinc oxide has been used for generations to soothe diaper rash and relieve itching. And zinc is a natural sun screen, protecting chapped lips and skin from the sun’s harmful rays. Zinc sulfate is effective in treating some cases of acne. And in a water-based solution, zinc sulfate helps remedy cold sores. Zinc also improves healing of wounds, like surgical incisions, burns and other skin irritations. Used as an anti-inflammatory, zinc soothes skin and skin tissue. Poison ivy, sunburn, blisters and gum disease are all improved when treated with zinc. It is even a natural insect repellent. And zinc stimulates the transport of Vitamin A from the liver to the skin, helping to protect body tissue from damage.”

So, remember, if you are interested in protecting your skin from the sun, preventing wrinkles and aging skin and reducing your acne breakouts – zinc might just be the all in one treatment for you. Look on the back of cosmetic and food labels to see if you are getting the benefits of zinc in your diet and beauty routine

Is Gluten Causing Your Acne?

What is gluten and what does it have to with my acne?

Gluten is a special type of protein that is commonly found in rye, wheat, and barley. Therefore, it is found in most types of cereals and in many types of bread. Not all foods from the grain family, however, contain gluten. Examples of grains that do not have gluten include wild rice, corn, buckwheat, millet, amaranth, quinoa, teff, oats, soybeans, and sunflower seeds.

Does it feel like nothing helps with your acne? You eat healthy, you live healthy and you’ve tried everything, but nothing helps. Your acne just won’t budge. You may suffer from gluten sensitivity and it may prevent you from curing acne.  In extreme cases, some people suffer from a disease called celiac disease, which impedes the digestion of gluten. Individuals with celiac disease must eat foods that do not contain gluten in order to prevent illness. If improperly treated, celiac disease can be fatal.

Gluten sensitivity is one of those hidden and hard to detect causes behind many health problems. And something you might not think of in a million years. It also happens to be the reason many acne victims struggle to get clear skin.

If you are badly sensitive to gluten, you could have a perfect diet and live the healthiest life but won’t get clear because of regular exposure to gluten.  To make matters worse, gluten is everywhere. You can find gluten in nearly all processed foods. And even in items you wouldn’t think of, such as lipsticks, shampoos and vitamins.

Gluten - Acne Connection

Acne is a result of blood sugar problems and chronic inflammation. These trigger hormonal reactions that lead to increased sebum production, blocked pores and overgrowth of acne-causing bacteria. For a more detailed explanation, please see: what causes adult acne.

Gluten contributes to acne in two ways.

First, it causes damage to the small intestine, which could lead to nutritional deficiencies and an increased toxic body load (through leaky gut syndrome).

The second link between gluten and acne is inflammation. People with gluten sensitivity cannot digest gluten effectively. As a result they absorb incompletely digested protein molecules. The immune system treats these as invaders. As it attacks these ‘invaders’ the white cells release histamine, which increases inflammation. Inflammation increases insulin resistance in the nearby cells.

Insulin resistance leads to blood sugar problems, which is linked to acne.

As this happens once in a while, the body can deal with it. But most people are exposed to gluten 3 or more times a day. This, coupled with other inflammatory agents, spreads inflammation all over the body. Suddenly cells all over the body start becoming insulin resistant.

First, most people are not aware of their gluten sensitivity. Even fewer are aware of its link to acne and other skin problems. Since gluten lurks in many foods and it’s very easy to get exposed to it — even if you try to avoid it.

For many medical professionals, the dangers of gluten extend to celiac disease and not much further. Celiac disease is clear-cut allergic reaction and as such, is easy to diagnose. Subclinical gluten sensitivity is entirely different. First, most people show no outward signs that could be linked to gluten. Second, the immune system doesn’t produce standard antibodies after gluten exposure. So gluten doesn’t show up in standard allergy tests. Doctors specializing in gluten sensitivities can detect it with special tests [1].

Gluten sensitivity could be the most common food allergy as it is estimated that around 40% of the population is sensitive to gluten. With most food allergies, it’s reasonably easy to avoid exposure. Usually you just have to read the labels carefully. Not so with gluten. Thanks to modern food processing you can find gluten in most processed foods.

Avoid the obvious, such as breads, pastas and pastries, and you’ve cut out the biggest sources. But did you know there can be gluten also in cheese, butter and teriyaki sauce? Many processed foods contain vegetable starches and other additives that may contain gluten. So gluten could be lurking in close to 90% of the items in your local supermarket. Outside of grains, most food products contain only small amounts of gluten, but for people with severe sensitivities even these can make it difficult to cure acne.

As a rule, don’t assume anything. If the food is not raw and fresh fruit or vegetables or does not clearly state gluten-free (wheat-free is not enough), it may contain gluten.

Also be aware that it’s not just the food items that contain gluten. Your toothpaste may contain gluten. Same with your shampoo. And what about that new lipstick you (or your girlfriend) have. That also may contain gluten. Finally even the capsules of your nutritional supplements may contain gluten.

Gluten is one more reason to avoid both processed foods and chemical-based personal care products.

Coping with Gluten Sensitivity and Curing Acne

There are two parts to getting over gluten sensitivity and eventually curing acne. First is to avoid gluten. When you stay away from gluten you avoid triggering the immune system and inflammatory response. Study the resources at the bottom of this page for sources of gluten and see how you can cut them out of your life.

Second is to bring your body back to a state where it’s not so sensitive to gluten anymore. Gluten causes problems because of two reasons:

1) Undigested protein molecules leak from the digestive track into the bloodstream

2) The immune system is ‘on the edge’ because of chronic inflammation

As you heal the digestive tract and bring down the inflammation levels you become less sensitive to gluten. You may never fully get over the gluten sensitivity, but at least it doesn’t trigger such a strong reaction anymore.

Reducing inflammation is the second part in coping with gluten sensitivity and curing acne. A healthy diet and lifestyle are the only viable solutions. Antioxidant supplements may help, but they cannot overcome the harmful effects of an unhealthy diet and lifestyle.

Fighting inflammation is not just about diet. Proper sleep, maintaining a positive attitude (or at least avoiding stress) and steering clear of chemicals and pollutants are equally important. Regular exposure to sunlight also has an anti-inflammatory effect. So if you’ve been struggling with persistent acne that, despite all your efforts to eat and live a healthy life, hasn’t budged, gluten might be the missing piece.

Try a gluten-free diet and the other suggestions in this article for at least one month and see how your skin reacts.

Links for more information on sources of gluten:

(http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gluten…)

(http://www.celiac.com/articles/182/…)

(http://www.celiac.com/articles/181/…)

(http://www.celiac.com/articles/183/…)

(http://gfcf-diet.talkaboutcuringaut…)

Healthy Diet, Healthy Skin

By: Van Le |  The saying “you are what you eat” didn’t happen by accident.  More Americans are realizing that what we put in our bodies dictates how well we think, look and feel.  Eating is the body’s way of obtaining the nutrition and vitamins required in order for the body to function properly.  Consuming the right kind of food can increase our energy level, lead to healthier-looking skin, and boost our self-confidence.  Americans spend billions of dollars each year on beauty products that promise to hide blemishes, cover under-eye circles, and conceal wrinkles; however, these products only temporarily fix what’s on the outside.  In order to have truly healthy skin, we must monitor our food intake and eat food that allows our body to naturally generate that coveted healthy glow.

Water:  Everyone knows that we should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day, but not everyone does.  Seventy percent of the body is comprised of water, which is vital to cellular replenishment..  Water also helps flush bodily toxins and regulate our body temperature.   Try to limit caffeine and alcohol intake, as they can lead to dehydration and cause dull, dry skin.  If you think water is too plain, try adding lemon slices or cucumber for a hint of taste.

Low-fat dairy products:  Milk, low-fat yogurt, and low-fat cheese all contain vitamin A, a key ingredient in most anti-aging, anti-acne and anti-wrinkle products.  Vitamin A strengthens the skin, helps repair and restoration processes and prevents wrinkles.  The recent frozen yogurt craze has helped increase consumption of dairy products, however, it is important to remember that a cup of yogurt topped with candy, caramel, and other processed sugary treats can be counterproductive.  Instead, choose healthier fresh fruit toppings such as blueberries and strawberries.

Antioxidants: Fruits like berries and pomegranates are filled with antioxidants, which have been proven to protect the skin against UV damage such as wrinkles and dark spots.  They also protect the skin from free radicals, which are organic molecules responsible for tissue damage and aging.  According to antioxidantskincare.org, “when free radicals attack healthy skin cells, they cause the cell to decay,” which can lead to cancer, cardiovascular disease and speed up aging.  Antioxidants neutralize the production of free radicals.

Omega 3:  Walnuts, flaxseeds and salmon contain essential fatty acids that prevent harmful substances from entering cells.  They help regulate cell functions and maintain skin elasticity, leading to soft and healthy skin.  A diet filled with omega 3 will result in radiant skin, stronger hair and overall good health.  Our bodies cannot produce omega 3, therefore, it is important to add omega 3 to our diet.

Whole grain:  Wheat products such as bread, pasta, and cereal contain plenty of vitamin B, which can even out skin tone and help the skin maintain moisture.  Whole grain products help replace dead skin by stimulating cell growth on the epidermis, the skin’s outer layer.  Increase your consumption of whole grains by replacing white bread, pasta and bagels with wheat products.  Most likely, you won’t even taste the difference.

Makeup can create the illusion of healthy skin, but true healthy skin starts and ends with a proper diet.  A healthy diet is an essential way to achieve not only radiant skin, but also a radiant lifestyle.

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

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

Complementary and Alternative Health Practices

By: Van Le  | Complementary and Alternative Practices towards a Healthy Lifestyle. Over the last century, doctors and researchers in the Western world have made several medical breakthroughs and significant discoveries in the fight against terminal diseases.  Such discoveries are key milestones towards finding the cure for diseases such as cancer and other illnesses, however, the idea of using complementary and alternative medicines, remedies, and holistic therapy to help manage a natural, healthier lifestyle is gaining popularity in the Western world.

Complementary and alternative medicine consists of practices that do not follow the norm of conventional medicine; complementary medicine is used in conjunction with conventional medicine, while alternative medicine is used in place of conventional treatment.  Some examples of complementary and alternative medicine include acupuncture, meditation/visualization, and the use of natural products.

Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a complementary medicine technique, is the practice of inserting tiny needles into very specific parts of the body to relieve pain and discomforts associated with conventional treatments.  According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), it is the oldest healing practice in the world, and works by restoring the body’s balance (ying and yang.)  Acupuncture is most popular for its ability to relieve pain and aches, but the idea of “cosmetic acupuncture” is also gaining attention as a less-drastic alternative to cosmetic surgeries.

It has been reported that those who undergo cosmetic acupuncture experience vibrant skin tone, reduced and finer wrinkles, and firmer skin.  A study in The Journal of Clinical Acupuncture states that 90% of cosmetic acupuncture patients experience notable improvement in their skin quality.  As with any medical procedure, acupuncture carries risks, and when considering an acupuncture treatment, it is important to examine the creditability and equipment of the practitioner.

Meditation/Visualization
Meditation is a complementary technique used to escape from the stress of our hectic lifestyles and reach a profound state of relaxation and calmness.

There are several types of meditation, including yoga and tai-chi.  Yoga consists of molding the body into postures, using controlled breathing, and focusing on the moment to escape from the day’s stress.  Tai-chi started as a form of martial arts but has transformed into a healing practice.  Those who practice tai-chi move their bodies slowly and mindfully while focusing on their breathing.  According to the Associated Press, tai-chi helps build a stronger immune system, which can help the body fight against shingles, a skin condition that cause rashes.  Visualization, also known as mental imagery, is a technique in which the mind focuses on a specific image.  Cancer patients sometimes use this technique to envision their bodies fighting off the disease.  Visualization can be used by anyone to relieve stress from a busy day.

Use of natural products
The popularity of natural products has increased exponentially in the last few years due to its ability to generate healthy skin from the inside out.  Products that contain natural ingredients as opposed to harsh chemicals are logically better for the body and skin.  From a diet filled with healthy choices to using natural skincare products, there are several ways to generate a healthy, more fulfilling lifestyle.  By choosing blueberries over Botox, you can achieve longer-lasting and healthier results.  Switch to an all-natural line of skin care products to give your skin a break from the preservatives and lab-generated chemicals that can wreak havoc years down the road.

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

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

What Does A Dermatologist Do?

Dermatologist – is a physician, who has acquired a Dermatology degree from the established medical academic institution and specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders. Dermatologists also study the structure and functions of the skin, and the relationship between skin pathologies and malfunctions of other organs of the body.

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The need for dermatology training in the world is acute - approximately 3 billion people living in more than 100 countries lack basic care for their skin diseases. For the most part, skin diseases in the world can be diagnosed and effectively treated by simple and inexpensive means. What is needed is the trained personnel to provide skilled and knowledgeable patient care – professional dermatologists.

Trained dermatologists usually combine several activities - seeing patients in public hospital clinics and/or in private practices, acting as consultants to other specialists, teaching, and delving into clinical or basic research.

Dermatologists must have expertise in basic sciences including microbiology, pathology, biochemistry, physics and physiology. Although many skin diseases are isolated, a significant portion of skin symptoms reflect a more generalized disease that affects other organs. Hence, a dermatologist is required to have a working knowledge of basic surgery, rheumatology (many rheumatic diseases can feature skin symptoms), neurology (the “neurocutaneous syndromes”, such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis) and endocrinology.

They must be familiar with all the other medical specialties because of their consultant work and because skin diseases are often associated with internal conditions.

When you come to see a doctor:

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1. Medical history - is the first step of any contact with a doctor. In order to classify a cutaneous eruption, a dermatologist will ask detailed questions on the duration and temporal pattern of skin problems, itching or pain, relations to food intake, sunlight, over-the-counter creams and clothing. When an underlying disease is suspected, a more detailed history of related symptoms might be elicited.

2. Physical examination - is generally under bright light and involves the whole body. At this stage, the doctor may apply Wood’s light, which may aid in diagnosing types of mycosis, or a dermatoscope, which enlarges a suspected lesion and may help differentiating lesions, e.g. between a nevus from melanoma. A morphological classification of dermatological lesions is critical to being able to diagnosis dermatological disorders.

3. Taking analysis - culture or Gram staining of suspected infectious lesions may identify a pathogen and help direct therapy. If the diagnosis is uncertain, or cutaneous malignancy is suspected, a small punch-hole biopsy can be taken under local anesthetic, to be examined by a specialist of histopathology.

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