8 Cheap Acne Scar Remedies

If you are like most people, you are trying to figure out ways of spending your money more wisely than ever before. Well, this is not always an option when it comes to skin care treatments, especially when acne or scarring is involved. However, today you are in luck because we have provided a list of eight of the cheapest treatments for acne scars ever found. And best of all, they really work!

1. Lemon Juice Massage   

The juice of a fresh lemon or lime applied on your face where scarring is visible will help cleanse the skin and allow for healing to occur. Plus, it will lighten the appearance of the scars.

2. Olive Oil Massage

Pure extra virgin olive oil will help moisturize the skin and it also has anti-inflammatory properties that will help your skin begin to heal on its own as the levels of these properties increase within your skin. Best part, it won’t clog your pores!

3. Ice Massage  

Applying ice to the scars will lessen the swelling and trigger your body’s responses to that area, often times lessening the appearance of scars on most parts of your body.

4. Cucumber Facial

A cucumber paste face mask will lessen the appearance of scarring, taking away most of the dark coloring and helping to moisturize the skin around the scar. The plumper the skin around the scar, the less noticeable the scar will be.

5. Rubbing Tomato On Face

Tomato slices placed all over the face, avoiding the eye area, will help increase the moisture levels in the skin, and will help aid in the healing process of the skin due to the anti-inflammatory properties that tomatoes contain.

6. Honey Mask 

Applying a honey mask daily will help reduce the appearance of any scarring on your face and will also leave you with a healthy, radiant glow. Honey has many natural anti-inflammatory properties as well as a deep moisturizing ingredient naturally found within it, to leave you with more youthful and healthy skin.

 7. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil used twice daily as a moisturizer is a great way to reduce noticeable scars on the skin and will leave your skin with a sweet scent. Plus, if you put it on right before bed, you will get the relaxation effects of the lavender to help put you to sleep...

  8. Egg White Mask 

Egg whites used as a mask on the face will help reduce the appearance of any scarring, remove blackheads, and allow your skin to become tighter and more firm than it was before.

Scar Free Life  

If you use these easy and inexpensive methods to reduce the appearance of scars, remember to keep taking care of your skin when you are done with this type of treatment. The last thing you want to do is go through all of this for a clean and healthy complexion only to start getting more acne as soon as it’s over because of forgetting to take care of your precious skin!

Read More

Cold Sores: why and when to treat them

There are several reasons to treat cold sores including:

• to treat the symptoms to reduce the pain and speed healing
• to prevent transmission to other parts of the body and to others
• to prevent or treat recurrences

Cold sores can be uncomfortable, unsightly and embarrassing for sufferers and they also carry the risk of spreading the herpes virus to other parts of the body or to other people. The virus can be spread by the fingers or items such as cutlery, glasses/cups, water bottles, towels, lipstick, or razors.

Direct contact with the colds sore can spread the virus to others especially through kissing or sexual contact. Even, cuddling and kissing your own children can spread the virus.

Playing sports is another way to spread the virus onto the cheek, other parts of the body or to other players, especially if equipment or showers are shared and if there are cuts or trauma to the skin. This type of herpes is called herpes galaditorium
Sexual contact can transmit or spread the herpes virus to the lips, eyes or genital skin. People who have eczema need to be extra cautious with cold sores as the herpes virus can infect their damaged eczema skin making their condition worse. This is called eczema herpeticum.

When should cold sores be treated?

There are a number of things to consider in the treatment of cold sores. The most important thing is to treat the cold sore at the very first sign or symptom (tingle, itching, redness, small blister) of a cold sore.
It is not too late to treat them after the blisters have formed but the treatment may not be as effective. Treatment should include some practical steps as well as medication (either non-prescription or prescription).

Read More

How can the cold sore diagnosis be confirmed ?

The diagnosis is usually made by the history from the patient combined with the examination of the skin. At times it is difficult to be certain of the diagnosis.

Lab tests can be used to confirm the diagnosis if necessary.
Viral culture is the classical way of making or confirming the diagnosis but this may take 3-7 days, at which point your outbreak is over. Culturing or growing the virus is not easy and sometimes the tests will be negative even when virus is present. Generally a positive result means you have HSV-1.

Newer tests examine the virus under a microscope and give fast reliable results often within an hour of the sample reaching the lab. Cell scrapings from the blister will provide enough of a sample in which the virus can be detected. This test also is able to distinguish between herpes type 1 and 2

The use of serology which measures the antibodies to the herpes virus present in the blood is a way of knowing if the infection is new or a recurrence of the virus.

Read More

Cold sores - What are the risks?

What are the risks to me?

Proper hygiene is important at any time but especially during a cold sore outbreak. It is possible to transfer the virus from the cold sore around the mouth to other areas of the body causing an infection and sore in those places.

The virus may be spread to other locations such as:

• the eye (herpetic keratitis)
• skin that has eczema causing widespread involvement of the skin (eczema herpeticum).

Other risks include:

• the development of rare condition called Erythema multiforme (a short-term inflammatory skin reaction can be minor or severe) that can develop with each outbreak of herpes
• secondary infections with bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus.

What are the risks to others?

It is just as easy to transfer the virus from person to person. This is a much greater risk when the cold sore is actively present on the skin but it is also possible to transfer the virus even when the skin looks normal.

How can I reduce the risk of spreading the virus to others?

1. Avoid kissing or pecking others when the cold sore is present. The lesion is infectious until it becomes completely dry and the crust has fallen off.
2. Avoid performing oral sex
3. Discourage children who have a cold sore from sucking their thumb or fingers
4. Do not share cutlery, cups, glasses, water bottles, towels, razors
5. Wash your hands with hot soapy water after touching your cold sore

Read More

What triggers cold sores?

Most of the time the outbreaks seem to have a life of their own and there is no one factor that appears to have initiated or caused the outbreak. There are a number of factors that are known to cause an outbreak of herpes labialis including:

1. Emotional and physical stress may alter or lower the immune system allowing the virus to awaken or reactivate.
2. Colds or other upper respiratory tract infection may also reactivate the virus. These cold sores are often called fever blisters.
3. Sun (including tanning beds)or wind exposure without protection, especially on the lips, may reduce the immune activity in the skin leading to a recurrence of cold sores.
4. Hormone changes such as those seen during menstruation
5. Local trauma or injury to the skin around the lips including dry cracked lips and injury to the skin following cosmetic surgery, chemical peels or laser therapy

Read More

How do I know that I have a cold sore?

Location of the herpes outbreak

Cold sores are most frequently located on the lips at the place where the lips meet the skin and the mucosa. This is known as the vermilion border.
These herpes outbreaks can also be found occasionally on the cheek, chin and nose. In individuals who have their immune system suppressed by medications or infections such as HIV/AIDS the herpes outbreaks can also appear in the mouth and can sometimes be seen as chronic superficial ulcers.

Has it occurred in the same place before?

Herpes simplex infection is the most common cause of a rash that recurs in the same place or location on the skin. There is another condition that produces a recurring rash in the same location and this is much less common and is called a Fixed drug eruption. This is an allergic reaction that manifests or shows itself only in a small local outbreak whenever the drug is taken.

There are clues that an outbreak is about to appear.

There are symptoms that some people can recognize that indicates that a cold sore is on its way. These are called prodrome or prodromal symptoms.
Some people will experience a sense of tiredness the day before the recurrence of the cold sore. Others feel a tingling, or numbness, or just a feeling of discomfort at the site of the future outbreak. Some will feel subtle tenderness or a sense of localized fullness or swelling in the skin.
It is important to cold sore sufferers to be aware of these symptoms as they allow early intervention or treatment that could abort or shorten the duration of the outbreak.

There is usually a specific cycle of events in the life cycle of a cold sore. This will usually last for 10-14 days.

1. Skin appears normal but there may be localized redness and swelling which is seen in response to the virus multiplying in the skin cells, this is called inflammation
2. Small blisters appear that often seem to join together within a few hours at the site of redness or inflammation. Some of the blisters may look like small red bumps. Usually this area is now very tender.
3. The blisters break and a moist sore can appear, this is the most painful stage.
4. A crust or scab forms over the sore. It is important to keep the sore/scab clean because bacterial infections can occur under the scab. The scabs usually become dry and eventually fall off.
5. The area may stay slightly red for a couple of weeks as the skin finishes healing.

Read More

Why do I have cold sores?

Cold sores are caused by a virus. Once you have been exposed to the virus and infected with the herpes virus you are infected for life. Exposure to the HSV-1 virus and infection commonly occurs in childhood.
It is quite common for a child to become infected from a parent or a sibling. In developing countries about 1/3 of children have been infected by the age of 5 years whereas in the developed western world infection is slightly lower at about 20%.
By the age of 14 more than 70% of children are infected with the HSV-1 virus.
Infection usually occurs when the virus enters through small breaks in the skin possibly at the site of injury or trauma or just small cracks in the skin. The virus then travels along the nerves to reside next to the spine in a location called the dorsal root ganglion.
For various reasons the virus which is normally 'contained' in this location starts to multiply and then travels down the sensory nerves to the skin.
Once in the cells of the skin the virus multiplies, damaging the skin cells causing the blisters that we call a cold sore to develop. This virus infection of the cells (whether a cold sore is visible or not) is always looking for new cells to infect, this process is called viral shedding. 
At this time there are large numbers of herpes particles being shed or released and as a result it is easy to expose or even infect others with the virus.
This is the time when hygiene is extremely important.

Are cold sores common?

About 20-40% of the population will experience cold sores.
The frequency of recurrence is very variable ranging from monthly to a few a year to every few years.

Read More

The Facts About Cold Sores

 Cold sores, or fever blisters, are common among Canadians.
Read the facts about cold sores and the virus that causes them

Fact: Cold sores are caused by a virus

• Cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus. There are two types of this virus and cold sores are usually caused by type 1 (known as HSV-1). The other type of herpes simplex virus, HSV-2, usually causes genital herpes
• In general, we are infected with HSV-1 when we are children; in the majority of these initial (“primary”) infections, there are no symptoms
• Usually, the virus infects our mouths. Some children experience mouth and gum symptoms (“gingivostomatitis”) or a sore throat (“pharyngitis”).

Fact: Cold sores are the result of the virus reactivating in our bodies

• Once HSV-1 has entered our bodies, it never leaves. The virus moves from the mouth to quietly reside (“remain latent”) in the central nervous system.
  
• In approximately one third of people, the virus can “wake up” or reactivate to cause disease
• When reactivation occurs, the virus travels down the nerves to the skin where it may cause blisters (cold sores) around the lips, in the mouth or, in about 10% of cases, on the nose, chin, or cheeks
• Many people who suffer from cold sores are aware in advance that a cold sore is about to break out — they have a tingling or burning feeling, redness, itching, or pain (“prodromal symptoms”) around their lips or mouth
• Cold sore outbreaks may be influenced by stress, menstruation, sunlight, sunburn, fever, or local skin trauma.

Fact: The virus that causes cold sores is infectious

• 30%-60% of children below 10 years of age are infected with HSV-1. They have acquired the virus from family and friends through sharing utensils or toothbrushes, and from kissing
• The virus is transmitted from cold sores and also when there are no symptoms, as it can make copies of itself on the skin in the absence of a blister. This phenomenon is called “asymptomatic shedding”
• By 50 years of age, 80%-90% of us harbour HSV-1 because we have caught it from someone close to us
• HSV-1 can sometimes be transmitted to newborn babies by family members or hospital staff who have cold sores; this can cause a severe disease called neonatal herpes.

Fact: The virus from cold sores can infect other areas of the body

• People can transfer the virus from their cold sores to other areas of the body, such as the eye, skin, or fingers; this is called “autoinoculation”
• Eye infection, in the form of conjunctivitis or keratitis, can happen when you rub the cold sore, then rub your eyes before washing your hands
• Finger infection (“herpetic whitlow”) can occur when a child with cold sores or primary HSV-1 infection sucks his/her fingers
• HSV-1 can infect your genital area if you engage in oral sex with a partner with a cold sore

Fact: Early treatment can help eliminate the cold sore

• Some products can accelerate healing if they are used at the prodromal stage of the cold sore
• Prescription drugs include acyclovir cream or capsules (Zovirax®) and penciclovir cream (Denavir®); also, Health Canada recently approved a one day course of 2 grams valacyclovir caplets (Valtrex®) for prodromal use
• Docosanol cream (Abreva®) can be bought without a prescription
• Frequent hand washing minimizes the risk of transferring the virus to other areas of your body

Read More

What are cold sores?

Cold sores appear as a cluster of small blisters usually on the lips or around the mouth, especially the corners, and occasionally inside the nose. Approximately 20-40% of people will suffer a recurrent outbreak.
Cold sores are caused by Herpes simplex virus-1 infection (HSV-1).

There are two types of HSV infections:

• HSV type 1 is the commonest cause of cold sores.
• HSV type 2 is more common in the genital area but is also responsible for at least 10% of cold sores in adults

The medical term for cold sores is herpes labialis.

Read More

Cold Sores Treatment

Most cold sores will clear up on their own after 7-10 days. Most treatment options are focused on reducing the discomfort and pain associated with cold sores and reducing the length of the outbreak. Some treatment options may even help prevent cold sore blisters from forming.

Non-Prescription Treatments

Topical

• Skin protectants
• Analgesics/anaesthetics
• Abreva (docosanol)
• Lipactin (zinc, heparin)

Oral

• Analgesics

This is non-prescription medication available at your local drug store. Abreva has been clinically proven to reduce both the symptoms (including pain and itching) and the length of the cold sore outbreak. Abreva is most effective is used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Abreva is applied five times a day from the time of the initial symptoms for up to 10 days.

Skin Protectants and Analgesics

• Skin protectants and lip moisturizers with allantoin, dimethicone, cocoa butter, white petrolatum or glycerin provide moisturization to keep the cold sore moist as well as a mechanical barrier to guard the skin and lips from irritants
• Topical analgesics/anaesthetics including benzocaine, lidocaine, benzyl alcohol, camphor, menthol and phenol help provide local pain control and may help reduce the itching.
• Oral analgesics such as ibuprofen and acetominophen also provide temporary relief from the pain

Other Products

Other non-prescription products containing zinc and heparin (Lipactin, topical gel) are also available. This product may help shorten the duration of the cold sore if used early during the outbreak, applied 3-6 times a day for up to 14 days.

Prescription Treatments

Topical

• Zovirax (acyclovir)

Acyclovir Cream/Ointment (Zovirax)

Zovirax has been shown to help reduce cold sore intensity and symptoms (including pain). Zovirax is most effective if used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Zovirax is applied 4-6 times a day for 10 days

Oral

• Famvir (famciclovir)
• Valtrex (valacyclovir)
• Zovirax (acyclovir)

 These drugs work only on the replicating virus so they are most effective if taken in the first few days of an outbreak. There are no controlled studies of these drugs been taken after the first 12 hours of symptoms.

Acylcovir (Zovirax)
Reduces pain and healing time to scab or crust formation but does not appear to affect or reduce progression, size or healing time of the cold sore. Zovirax oral is most effective if used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Zovirax oral dosing is 200mg five times a day for 5 days.

Famciclovir (Famvir)
Reduces the duration, healing time and pain of a cold sore. Currently this drug is only indicated for treatment of recurrent episodes of HSV infections in HIV-infected patients although new indications for the treatment and prevention of cold sores are being explored. Currently, dosing is 500mg twice daily for 7 days.

Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Reduces duration, healing time and pain of a cold sore. Valtrex may help prevent cold sore outbreak if taken during prodromal stage. Most effective if used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Valtrex dosing is 2 grams every 12 hours for two doses.

Read More

Medical Options for Treating Cold Sores

Most cold sores will clear up on their own after 7-10 days. Most treatment options are focused on reducing the discomfort and pain associated with cold sores and reducing the length of the outbreak. Some treatment options may even help prevent cold sore blisters from forming.

Non-Prescription Treatments

Topical

• Skin protectants
• Analgesics/anaesthetics
• Abreva (docosanol)
• Lipactin (zinc, heparin)

Oral

• Analgesics

This is non-prescription medication available at your local drug store. Abreva has been clinically proven to reduce both the symptoms (including pain and itching) and the length of the cold sore outbreak. Abreva is most effective is used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Abreva is applied five times a day from the time of the initial symptoms for up to 10 days.
Skin Protectants and Analgesics

• Skin protectants and lip moisturizers with allantoin, dimethicone, cocoa butter, white petrolatum or glycerin provide moisturization to keep the cold sore moist as well as a mechanical barrier to guard the skin and lips from irritants
• Topical analgesics/anaesthetics including benzocaine, lidocaine, benzyl alcohol, camphor, menthol and phenol help provide local pain control and may help reduce the itching.
• Oral analgesics such as ibuprofen and acetominophen also provide temporary relief from the pain

Other Products

Other non-prescription products containing zinc and heparin (Lipactin, topical gel) are also available. This product may help shorten the duration of the cold sore if used early during the outbreak, applied 3-6 times a day for up to 14 days

Prescription Treatments

Topical

• Denavir® (penciclovir cream)
• Zovirax (acyclovir)

Penciclovir Cream 1%(Denavir®)
Denavir® is a non-greasy cream that works by penetrating the area to block the virus that causes cold sores. It is first topical anti-viral approved in Canada with the indication for cold sores. Denavir® has been found to be most effective when applied during the early signs of a cold sore although it can also be useful in later stages. It helps cold sores heal on average in four and a half days.
Acyclovir Cream/Ointment (Zovirax)
Zovirax has been shown to help reduce cold sore intensity and symptoms (including pain). Zovirax is most effective if used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Zovirax is applied 4-6 times a day for 10 days

Oral

• Famvir (famciclovir)
• Valtrex (valacyclovir)
• Zovirax (acyclovir)

These drugs work only on the replicating virus so they are most effective if taken in the first few days of an outbreak. There are no controlled studies of these drugs been taken after the first 12 hours of symptoms.

Acylcovir (Zovirax)
Reduces pain and healing time to scab or crust formation but does not appear to affect or reduce progression, size or healing time of the cold sore. Zovirax oral is most effective if used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Zovirax oral dosing is 200mg five times a day for 5 days.

Famciclovir (Famvir)
Reduces the duration, healing time and pain of a cold sore. Currently this drug is only indicated for treatment of recurrent episodes of HSV infections in HIV-infected patients although new indications for the treatment and prevention of cold sores are being explored. Currently, dosing is 500mg twice daily for 7 days.

Valacyclovir (Valtrex)
Reduces duration, healing time and pain of a cold sore. Valtrex may help prevent cold sore outbreak if taken during prodromal stage. Most effective if used at the first sign or symptom of a cold sore (prodromal stage). Valtrex dosing is 2 grams every 12 hours for two doses.

Read More

Types Of Acne Scars

Scars caused by acne are much more common than doctors once believed. Most people will have acne scars that are mild. However, some will have scars that look significant even to others. The best approach is prevention and to treat acne right away as sometimes even mild acne can cause scarring. This can minimize the risk of permanent acne scars.There are a number of different looking scars caused by acne.

They Can Be Classified As Follows:

Ice pick scars - Deep pits, that are the most common and a classic sign of acne scarring.
Boxcar scars - Angular scars that usually occur on the temple and cheeks, and can be either superficial or deep, these are similar to chickenpox scars.
Rolling scars - Scars that give the skin a wave-like appearance.

Hypertrophic scars - Thickened, or keloid scars.

In order to get rid of, or minimize acne scarring, a combination of treatments provides the best results for many people.

Treatment Options For Patients With Acne Scars:

The acne scar treatment you and your patient choose should depend on the type of scars he or she has, as well as on the skin type. Most experience has been gained treating facial scars. Generally, scars on the chest and back do not respond as well.

Read More

Topical Agents Used in the Management of Hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is a common and distressing problem caused by various inflammatory skin disorders, such as eczema, allergic contact dermatitis, and irritant contact dermatitis Acne is also a frequent cause. Papulosquamous disorders in general commonly predispose a patient to postinflammatory hyperpigmentation. Melasma is a common form of noninflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Sun exposure often reverses the results of therapy, compromising the lengthy treatment process. Consequently, the first line of therapy for hyperpigmentation is a broad-spectrum sunscreen used in conjunction with a phenolic agent such as a hydroquinone, or with a nonphenolic agent such as tretinoin, azelaic acid, or kojic acid. There are hundreds of sunscreen formulations with different UV absorbing chemicals in various concentrations.¹ The UVB and UVA absorbing chemicals used in the formulation of topical sunscreens include paraaminobenzoic acid-related products, salicylates, cinnamates, benzophenones, zinc oxide, and titanium oxide. Almost all sunscreen products contain a mixture of one or more UVB absorbing chemicals.¹
Hydroquinone and related compounds reduce the production of melanin by their inhibition of the enzyme tyrosinase. Topical corticosteroids also inhibit tyrosinase activity and affect endoplasmic reticulum secretory function of melanocytes. Agents such as salicylic acid and glycolic acid act to remove melanin in the epidermis by their peeling action. Tretinoin, which has a mild peeling effect, acts in a similar manner. It may also inhibit tyrosinase.

Hydroquinone

Hydroquinone, which is a hydroxyphenolic chemical, has been the gold standard for treatment of hyperpigmentation for over 50 years. It acts by inhibiting the enzyme tyrosinase, thereby reducing the conversion of DOPA to melanin. Some of the other possible mechanisms of action are the destruction of melanocytes,degradation of melanosomes, and the inhibition of the synthesis of DNA and RNA.
Hydroquinone can be compounded into 5%-10% concentrations, but at these strengths, may be irritating and unstable. The 2% concentrations of hydroquinone available over the counter in the US and Canada are not as efficacious as the 3% and 4% prescription formulations, as their onset of action is later than with the higher concentrations. Antioxidants, such as vitamin C and retinoids, as well as alpha-hydroxy acids may be used as additives to increase penetration and enhance efficacy. Exogenous ochronosis with the use of hydroquinone has been reported in dark-skinned patients, in particular South African women who frequently use very high concentrations of hydroquinone over large surface areas.³ Although hydroquinone is used extensively in North America, there have only been about 30 reported cases of exogenous ochronosis from hydroquinone use in North America.
Adverse reactions from hydroquinone use include irritant and allergic contact dermatitis, and nail discoloration. Postinflammatory hyperpigmentation may occur from the contact dermatitis. Hypopigmentation of the normal skin surrounding the treated areas may also occur. These usually resolve with the discontinuation of the hydroquinone treatment.²

Other Phenolic Agents

Monobenzone, the monobenzyl ether of hydroquinone, is a special topical phenolic agent, which is indicated only for the final depigmentation of disfiguring vitiligo. It is applied topically to permanently depigment normal skin surrounding vitiliginous areas in patients with disseminated vitiligo (greater than 50% body surface area). The cream is applied in a thin layer, rubbed into the normally pigmented areas two or three times daily. Depigmentation is usually achieved after 6-12 months with 20% monobenzone treatment. It should then be applied only as often as required to maintain depigmentation. Monobenzone cream can produce satellite depigmentation at sites distant from the site of initial application.
N-acetyl-4-cysteaminylphenol (NCAP) is another phenolic agent that is currently being developed and is not yet available in North America. NCAP acts to decrease intracellular glutathione by stimulating pheomelanin rather than eumelanin.⁴ It also inhibits tyrosinase activity, has been found to be more stable, and causes less irritation than hydroquinone. In a retrospective study of 12 patients with melasma using 4% NCAP, 66% showed marked improvement, and 8% showed complete loss of melasma lesions. Changes of melanoderma were evident after 2-4 weeks of daily topical application of NCAP.⁵

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid is a naturally occurring non-phenolic, saturated, nine-carbon dicarboxylic acid. Its use originated from the finding that Pityrosporum species can oxidize unsaturated fatty acids to dicarboxylic acids, which competitively inhibit tyrosinase. Azelaic acid was initially developed as a topical drug with therapeutic effects for the treatment of acne. However, because of its effect on tyrosinase, it has also been used to treat melasma, lentigo maligna and other disorders of hyperpigmention.^2,6 Azelaic acid has been reported to be effective for hypermelanosis caused by physical or photochemical agents, and lentigo maligna melanoma as well as other disorders characterized by abnormal proliferation of melanocytes. Its mechanism of action is to inhibit DNA synthesis and mitochondrial enzymes, thereby inducing direct cytotoxic effects toward the melanocyte.⁶ Topical azelaic acid has no depigmentation effect on normally pigmented skin, freckles, senile lentigines, and nevi. This specificity may be attributed to its selective effects on abnormal melanocytes. Azelaic acid can be used for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation in acne.⁷ Free radicals are believed to contribute to hyperpigmentation, and azelaic acid acts by reducing free radical production.⁸ Azelaic acid 20% is currently available in the US and is only indicated for the treatment of acne, although it has off-label use for hyperpigmentation. In the treatment of melasma, a 24-week study in South America found that a 20% concentration of azelaic acid was equivalent to 2% hydroquinone.⁹ In the Philippines, a study found that 20% azelaic acid was better than 2% hydroquinone.¹⁰

Kojic Acid

Kojic acid (5-hydroxy-2-(hydroxy methyl)-4-pyrone), a naturally occurring hydrophilic fungal derivative evolved from certain species of Acetobacter, Aspergillus and Penicillium, is used in the treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders.¹¹ It acts by inhibiting the production of free tyrosinase with efficacy similar to hydroquinone. In Japan, kojic acid has been increasingly used in skin care products. This is because, until recently, topically applied kojic acid at 1% concentration had not exhibited any sensitizing activity.¹² However, more recent long-term Japanese studies have shown that kojic acid has the potential for causing contact dermatitis and erythema.¹²

Arbutin

Arbutin, which is the b-D-glucopyranoside derivative of hydroquinone, is a naturally occurring plant derived compound that has been used for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.¹³ It is effective in the treatment of disorders of hyperpigmentation characterized by hyperactive melanocytes.¹³ The action of arbutin is dependent on its concentration. Higher concentrations are more efficacious than lower concentrations, but they may also result in a paradoxical hyperpigmentation.¹³ In comparative in vitro studies of various compounds used to improve the appearance of disorders of hyperpigmentation, arbutin was found to be less toxic than hydroquinone. A dose-dependent reduction in tyrosinase activity, as well as melanin content in melanocytes, was also demonstrated.¹⁴

Licorice Extract

Licorice extract is not yet available in North America, but has been used in other parts of the world, particularly in Egypt. Its mechanism of action is similar to that of kojic acid. The main component of the hydrophobic fraction of licorice extract is glabridin, which has an effect on the skin. Studies investigating the inhibitory effects of glabridin on melanogenesis and inflammation have shown that it inhibits tyrosinase activity of melanocytes. No effect on DNA synthesis was detectable.¹⁵

Topical Retinoids

The efficacy of topical tretinoin 0.05-0.1% as monotherapy for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation has been reported.¹⁶ Tretinoin was also used as monotherapy in a study on 38 African- American patients with melasma and 68%-73% of patients improved. In 88% of the patients, moderate side-effects of desquamation and erythema were observed.^17,18 Darker skinned patients who develop a dermatitis from tretinoin may develop postinflammatory hyperpigmentation secondary to the dermatitis.
The mechanism of action of tretinoin in the treatment of melasma is poorly understood. Clinical improvement has been found to be associated with a reduction in epidermal melanin, possibly as a result of the inhibition of tyrosinase by the action of tretinoin.¹⁹
Although tretinoin can be effective as monotherapy for hyperpigmentation and melasma, it requires 20 to 40-week treatment periods. Tretinoin can also be used in conjunction with hydroquinone or other depigmenting agents to improve efficacy. The first published study of combination therapy used tretinoin 0.1%, hydroquinone 5%, and dexamethasone 0.1% for postinflammatory hyperpigmentation.²⁰ Tretinoin was shown to reduce the atrophy of the corticosteroid and facilitated the epidermal penetration of the hydroquinone. The tretinoininduced irritation was reduced by the corticosteroid. The first triple combination topical therapy approved by the US FDA for melasma is a modified formulation comprising fluocinolone acetonide, hydroquinone 4% and tretinoin 0.05%. In studies of patients with melasma, 78% had complete or near clearing after 8 weeks of therapy. Similar results and favorable safety profile were seen in a 12-month study.²¹
In a randomized clinical trial, the efficacy of adapalene 0.1% was found to be comparable to that of tretrinoin 0.05% cream in the treatment of melasma (mainly epidermal type). The results showed fewer side-effects and greater acceptability among patients using adapalene.¹⁹

Conclusion

The treatment of hyperpigmentation disorders can be a long process. The psychosocial impact of these disorders should be taken into consideration. There are several topical treatment options available, the most common of which is hydroquinone. The use of combination therapy and monotherapy with nonphenolic agents is increasingly common. These treatment options are primarily for epidermal disorders ofhyperpigmentation. Dermal disorders of hyperpigmentation are difficult to treat, and have not been effectively managed using currently available therapy.

Read More

How to select a sunscreen

Do you know that some sunscreens can prevent sunburn, reduce your risk of getting skin cancer, and help prevent early signs of skin aging? This infographic tells you how to choose a sunscreen that does all three.

Related resources

    Download a printable version of How to Select a Sunscreen.

Read More

Clindamycin phosphate topical gel

General Information
Clindamycin phosphate topical gel, 1% is a topical antibiotic approved for the treatment of acne vulgaris. This drug belongs to the class of antibiotics known as lincosamides. By inhibiting bacteria protein synthesis at the ribosomal level (the site of protein synthesis), clindamycin is believed to kill bacteria associated with acne.
The term "acne vulgaris" refers to the more common form of acne, consisting of non-inflammatory and mildly inflammatory lesions. The more severe form of acne is characterized by the presence of nodules. Nearly 17 million people in the United States have acne, making it the most common skin disease. Although acne is not a serious health threat, severe acne can lead to disfiguring, permanent scarring, which can be upsetting for people who suffer from the disorder.

Clinical Results
Trial results indicated that clindamycin phosphate gel was more effective than a vehicle gel in the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris. The 12-week, multicenter, randomized, vehicle-controlled trial compared clindamycin phosphate topical gel, 1% once daily to a vehicle gel administered once daily.
The mean percent reduction in lesion counts at the end of treatment was 51% for clindamycin phosphate gel versus 40% for the vehicle gel for inflammatory lesions. For non-inflammatory lesions, the mean percent reduction was 25% for clindamycin phosphate gel and 12% for the vehicle gel. The total mean percent reduction in lesion counts at the end of treatment was 38% for clindamycin phosphate gel and 27% for the vehicle gel.
In a contact sensitization trial, four of the 200 subjects appeared to develop suggestive evidence of allergic contact sensitization to clindamycin phosphate gel. There was no signal for contact sensitization in the clinical trials under normal use conditions.

Side Effects
Adverse reactions associated with the use of clindamycin phosphate gel include itching and peeling skin.
Cases of diarrhea, bloody diarrhea, and colitis have been reported as adverse reactions in subjects treated with oral and parenteral (intravenous) formulations of clindamycin, and have been reported rarely with topical clindamycin. Abdominal pain and gastrointestinal disturbances, as well as gram-negative folliculitis (bacterial infection and inflammation of hair follicles), have also been reported in association with the use of topical formulations of clindamycin.
Mechanism of Action
Although clindamycin phosphate is inactive in vitro, rapid in vitro hydrolysis converts this compound to clindamycin which has antibacterial activity. Clindamycin inhibits bacteria protein synthesis at the ribosomal level by binding to the 50S ribosomal subunit and affecting the process of peptide chain initiation. (from FDA label)

Read More

Non-prescription treatment for acne

Soap and water. Gentle cleansing of the face with soap and water no more than twice a day can remove the excess oils and help the "oily skin" often associated with acne. However, this does not clear up acne that is already present. Avoid aggressive scrubbing, which can injure the skin and cause other skin problems.
Cleansers. There are many cleansers and soaps advertised for treating acne. However, these are unnecessary if the acne is being properly treated and can in fact aggravate acne.
Benzoyl peroxide. For mild acne, you may try, or your doctor may recommend, treatment with a non-prescription medication that contains benzoyl peroxide. It's believed that this compound works by killing the bacteria associated with acne and by preventing dead skin cells clogging pores. It usually takes at least four weeks to work and it may need to be continued once the acne has cleared to help keep acne at bay until you outgrow getting acne. It is available in a wide range of forms: creams, lotions, washes and gels. Benzoyl peroxide can cause dry skin and can bleach fabrics, so take care when applying it. Consider wearing an old T-shirt to bed if you are applying it to your back or chest overnight and using old or white bedclothes if applying to your face.

Read More

7 Secrets that Cured My Acne without Chemicals

All I ever wanted for Christmas was clear skin
Acne and I: inseparable since 7th grade. It requires pages to explain the myriad of treatments, lotions, potions and prescriptions under my belt. Basically, I’ve tried every prescription besides Acutane and birth control pills (and I will never touch those). Everything from drugstore cleansers to $90 serums have graced my medicine cabinet. I’ve even invested in at-home peel chemical peels, a Clarisonic, and laser treatments

1. Oil Cleansing in the Evening

 I was apprehensive about smothering my face with oil, since my face has always been veritable oil slick one hour after I wash it. So it took a big dose of courage to throw out my face wash and try . I love it! It removes all traces of makeup and leaves my skin soft.
Most importantly, my face’s oil production is normalizing. This is because–in conjunction with the facial oil I’ll talk about–it does not need to overcompensate with oil production like it did when I cleansed with soap

2. Honey Cleansing in the Morning

 In the mornings, I wash my face with honey  With slightly dampened fingers, I massage about 1/2 teaspoon of raw honey over my dry face and then rinse. The antibacterial properties of honey work to inhibit breakouts. Additionally, it removes excess oil but leaves skin moisturized.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar Toner

  Mornings and evenings, I spray my face with a mixture of 2/3 alcohol free which hazel and 1/3 raw apple cider vinegar. The apple cider contains gentle exfoliating acids to calm acne and it balances the skin’s pH. It also allows my homemade facial oil to absorb quickly and evenly.

4. Homemade Acne Facial Oil

 Yep, here we are again putting oil on acne. Counterintuitive, no? But it works. It took maybe a week or two of extra oiliness for my skin to adjust, but then it suddenly became way less oily, with less breakouts, too!

My recipe is: 2/3 Jojoba Oil, (which doesn’t clog pores), 1/3 of this Tea Tree and Vitamin E Oil, plus a few drops of rosemary essential oil (which is very antibacterial). I just moisten my face with the toner, warm a few drops of this oil mixture between my fingertips and massage lightly onto my face. As a bonus, it feels like a quick aromatherapy treatment.

5. Honey, Cinnamon and Nutmeg Spot Treatment 

 If you ever visit my house without giving me prior warning, you might just see me walking around with dots of gooey cinnamon on my zits. This is my normal routine ever since discovering that this mask makes a super effective spot treatment.

I mix raw honey with enough cinnamon to form a paste, add some freshly grated nutmeg, and store it in a small container in my bathroom. I’ll leave this spot treatment on for a couple of hours. If you want to use it as a full face mask, leave it on for only 10-15 minutes

6. Baking Soda Exfoliant

 A couple times a week, I mix up a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to my face, chest, and back. I leave it on for a few minutes before my bath or shower. It provides gentle chemical exfoliation to even skin tone, dry up breakouts, and eliminate blackheads. As a bonus, this effective treatment is simple and economical!

7. Acupuncture

 Before starting the GAPS diet, my health was so poor that I rarely got periods. GAPS brought my cycle back, but also delivered intense PMS. I’m talking nausea, headaches, and doubling over in pain from cramps. Desperate for a solution, I gave acupuncture a try. After two months of weekly treatment, my periods are getting better and bette

Read More

Dealing With Adult Acne: Dos And Don’ts

For many people, the words “acne” or “pimples” generally recall uncomfortable memories from their teenage past. But for some, acne is a problem that continues to plague them even in their adult years. It is important to realize that adult acne is different from adolescent acne, and even different forms of treatment. Read on to learn more about adult acne, and ways to prevent taking a stroll down teenage-acne-memory lane.

Adult VS Teen acne

The bare-bones mechanism of acne is the same for both adult and teen acne. Both involve a clogged pore (usually accumulated sweat, dirt, oils and bacteria), which can turn into the familiar blackhead or whitehead. As the bacteria multiply, they inflame the pore and cause painful, more serious cases of acne. Hormones have also shown to play a role in acne formation for both teens and adults
The main difference between adult and teen acne is adult acne appears more on the chin, jawline and neck, as opposed to a more even distribution in teen acne. Also, while teen acne is caused by hormone surges during growth and puberty, adult acne is correlated to general hormone imbalances. Hence, in the adult years, stress or endocrine disorders (such as PCOS) can cause an eruption of spots on the face, even though we have gone through puberty and stopped growing taller. Adult acne can affect adults in their late 20s, 30s, and even well into the 40s. While you can’t really “outgrow” adult acne, there are certainly ways to prevent frequent breakouts.

DOs

    Do consult a dermatologist. Your doctor can correctly diagnose the root of your acne and whether it’s a side effect of another underlying medical condition. A simple blood test can help screen hormone levels.
    Do check your stress levels. One of the most common causes of adult acne is stress, as stress affects hormone levels. Try doing a yoga class, or just take a moment to breathe; it may just prevent that pimple from erupting.
    Do quit smoking. The Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology has performed studies that show a correlation between smoking and postadolescent acne.
    Do eat a healthy diet consisting of low fat, low sugar and refined carbohydrates. Studies have shown low glycemic diets lead to less blemish eruptions in adults, as diets high in sugar may disrupt insulin levels of the body. When in doubt, load up on the veggies and whole grains, and say no to refined and processed foods.
    Do lose weight and exercise. Obesity and excess body fat have been linked to hormone disorders, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, as well as insulin disruption. All these factors may contribute to adult acne eruption.

DON’Ts

    Don’t purchase the same brand of acne facial products as you did when you were a teen. The cause of adult acne is different from adolescent acne, and the treatment most likely will cause adverse effects (such as peeling and excessive dryness) instead of getting rid of the spots.
    Don’t carry over your bad teenage acne habits. It may be tempting to pick at the blemish, but we need to remember that our skin is not as young and regenerative as it used to be, so open wounds and infected pimples will take even longer to heal than before.
    Don’t go to bed without cleaning your face. Clogged pores are the root of all pimples, and since it’s easier to wash a face than dealing with hormonal factors, make this a good habit daily. Consult your dermatologist for a regimen suitable for your adult skin.
    Don’t implement alternative therapies without professional consultation. There are international hormone creams and therapies boasting to have adult acne-curing properties, but they may also have dangerous side effects.
    Don’t hop on the new-age skin treatment bandwagon. Before partaking in any up-and-coming skin treatments promising to banish adult acne, be sure to do thorough research and discuss the risk and benefits with your dermatologist.

Thankfully, there are many acne-friendly cosmetics and concealers than can help an individual in need of a pimple cover up. Look for cosmetic items with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide as active ingredients to treat and hide the pimple. Be sure to also wash your face thoroughly afterwards to minimize clogged pores. Adult acne is manageable and may be prevented altogether with a few simple dos, don’ts, and a handy concealer.

Read More

The Best Acne Treatments of 2013 – The Results Are In!

As you already know, acne is one of the most frustrating skin conditions for a variety of reasons. Pimples and breakouts always seem to form at the worst possible times, and to make things worse, nothing seems to work in getting rid of these skin imperfections. The truth is that breakouts and blemishes are one of the hardest skin problems to treat effectively.

If you’re like most teens or adults suffering from acne, then you’ve probably tried a dozen or more different creams, ointments, and treatments claiming to give you clear and beautiful looking skin. But as you already know, most acne products available fail to live up to expectations, and some may even make the problem worse by leaving you with dry skin or redness.

Why Do Most Acne Products Fail To Work?

The problem with the majority of treatments and creams you can find in your local stores is that they don’t contain the right combination of ingredients to help give you the clear skin you’ve always wanted. If you look at the ingredients on the label for most over the counter acne products, you’ll notice that almost every brand has the same exact ingredients – benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.

We’re not saying that Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic acid don’t work (although some skin types can have side effects).  But if there’s 48 different acne treatments to choose from in your local store, and they all contain the same concentration of ingredients, how can you expect your results to be any better than before?

So, What Treatments Work To Clear Acne For Good?

Your solution to clear skin is to use a product that is effective enough to treat acne at the root cause of the problem, but gentle enough to not harm or irritate your skin more than it already is.

Over the past couple years, our team has reviewed a wide range of acne treatment products on the market to determine which solutions actually work, and which ones are just a big disappointment.  We’ve rated each product on a variety of factors including:

    User Reviews – Are the reviews from users generally positive, or is there a lot of complaints?
    Quality of Ingredients – Does the product contain the typical Salicylic Acid or Benzoyl Peroxide formulation that 90% of acne treatments contain, or does it contain unique ingredients that aren’t found in every other product?
    Company Reputation – Is the treatment manufactured by a reputable and trustworthy company?
    Long Term Results -  Can the product deliver long-term results, or just a quick fix?
    Pricing -  Is it reasonably priced or expensive?

Clear Pores

Rated Best Product For: Getting Rid of Body Acne

Ratings
Acne Treatment Power     94/100
Ingredients Quality     95/100
Customer Service     93/100
Long Term Results     93/100
Overall     94/100

While generally thought of as a facial condition, acne can often spread to the body – particularly the back and chest area. There is a vast range of products out there aimed at treating body acne, but many are ineffective and do not stand up to their claims. To banish body acne for good, the Clearpores Skin Cleansing System is a clear winner.

Its unique 3-step system includes an herbal supplement, made from natural ingredients, which helps to regulate your skin from the inside out. Its ingredients help to regulate the hormones associated with excess sebum production, as well as detoxify the skin to improve its overall health. Step 2 of the Clearpores system is a Deep Facial Wash, which cleanses away bacteria and exfoliates dead skin cells, unblocking pores and restoring the natural pH balance of the skin. The final stage is the Clearpores Protection Cream, which brings moisture and nourishment to the skin, leaving it soft, smooth and protected from future breakouts.

Endorsed by professional herbalists and healthcare practitioners, Clearpores is a trusted acne treatment with no known side effects – suitable for the face and body.

Dermefface FX7

Rated Best Product For:  Treating Acne Scars

Ratings
Acne Scar Treatment Power     96/100
Ingredients Quality     99/100
Company Service     98/100
Long Term Results     93/100
Overall     98/100

For those who have managed to control their acne, sometimes the remaining acne scars can be notoriously difficult to treat. Scars form as part of the body’s natural healing process and, while they may gradually fade over time, some may remain for life. Acne scars on the face can be particularly distressing for sufferers who feel self-conscious about the way the scars affect their overall appearance.

The best product for treating acne scars is undoubtedly Dermefface FX7, a Scar Reduction Therapy from Skinception.

This scientifically-advanced formulation of powerful active ingredients has been proven to diminish the appearance of all types of scars, including acne scars, helping to replace them with smooth, healthy skin. Dermefface FX7 works to fast-track the healing process, encouraging the production of healthy, normal skin cells and sloughing away scarred cells. Its clinically proven active ingredients work in conjunction with the body’s natural regeneration, allowing visible results to be seen in as little as four weeks.

Dermefface FX7 contains Symglucan, which has been proven to accelerate scar healing and reduce the appearance of scars and wrinkles. The formulation also includes Provitamin B5, which is known for its healing and regenerative properties. The active ingredients are combined with fruit extracts to provide a complete Scar Reduction Therapy system. Even deep surgery scars can start to fade within a few months of using Dermefface FX7. The results are amazing – and all without the expense and discomfort of laser surgery.

Read More

How to Treat Dark Circles

For anyone who suffers from dark circles, you know how frustrating they can be. There are a few reasons why some people have them and others don’t.  Age, genetics, and seasonal allergies all contribute to this condition.  Learn how you can decrease your dark circles:

  1-Get Enough Sleep

You may have dark circles if you habitually don’t get enough sleep every night. Turn off any technological device at least an hour before you go to bed at night to allow your brain to detox and for you to relax. It’s clinically proven you will sleep better if you follow this advice… and decrease your under eye circles!

2- Use Two Pillows

Sleep on two pillows at night so your head is propped up a bit. This will stop the blood from building up under your eyes while you sleep. When you wake, apply a cold compress to your eyes for about 5 minutes to constrict the blood vessels. This is a wonderful spa treatment for your eyes…

3-  Wear Eye Cream

Wear an eye cream morning and night, every day. The best eye creams for dark circles are those with caffeine added and light infusing particles to brighten your under eyes. Eye cream with caffeine will also constrict your blood vessels.

  4-Wear Eye Concealer

 

Wear an under eye concealer during the day to brighten your under eye area cosmetically. Don’t get discouraged if you can’t find the perfect match of concealer. Most people’s skin needs to mix two colors together to find their true skin match.

5- Apply Collagen-Building Cream

Try a collagen-building cream which contains retinol and or Vitamin C. Retinol and Vitamin C increase collagen production as well as brightening your skin tone.

6- Allergies

If you suffer from allergies, use allergy medication. This can decrease dark circles quite quickly.

6- Don’t Get Discouraged

There are many treatments and products to try to minimize your dark circles. Don’t get discouraged if none of these seem to be working for you. Visit your dermatologist to rule out any other issues that could be effecting the darkness under your eyes.

Read More