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Bed bugs are reddish brown, small, oval-shaped, flat and wingless insect that feed on human blood at night. Bed bugs are considered nocturnal insects since they are in their most active in the middle of the night.

Bed bugs are speading fast in households, hotels, motels, busses, cabs, and train stations. They are spreading so fast that you now wonder, how many eggs do bed bugs lie?

Bed bugs, just like any insect, reproduce pretty fast. And eggs that they lie are many too. How many eggs do bed bugs lie, you now ask? Before we answer how many eggs do bed bugs lie, let us try to know how bed bugs behave.

Bed bugs feed on human blood. There are some species that feed on both bats and humans. So if your attic has bats, there is a chance that your house is infested with bugs. If you treat your attic of bats habitation, you can thereafter easily treat the bed bugs infestation.

Bed bugs come from eggs. They become nymphs after they are hatched from their eggs.

How many eggs do bed bugs lie? A female bed bug can lay from three hundred (300) eggs a year to one thousand eggs (1,000) in its lifetime! A female bed bug can lie one to three eggs a day after mating. These bed bug eggs are hatched in about ten days.

A bed bugs life is long. They may even last more than a year and a half without feeding. Imagine that! Bed bug eggs can survive on any surfaces, but prefers wood, cloth or paper more than plastics and metals, while the nymps can survive for six months without feeding.

Where are the possible places that a female bed bug will lie her eggs? Bed bugs will lie its eggs in small and thin crevices to protect the eggs from harm. Femal bed bugs hide their eggs under the mattresses, on the headboard crevices, under the creases on the nightstand right beside the bed, inside the bedrooms‘ wallpaper and other wooden furniture within the area.

How many eggs do bed bugs lie will determine the degree of infestation. A mattress full of bed bug eggs means hundreds of female bed bugs are around laying eggs everywhere, and bed bug eggs are being hatched everyday.

If we exterminate the bed bugs, we should also exterminate bed bug eggs. If these bed bug eggs will be left untouched, they will hatch and become either a male bed bug or a female bed bug that can reproduce thousands of eggs. If thousands of female bed bugs are present in your home, you won’t know anymore how many eggs do bed bugs lie.

** How to search for bed bug eggs.

Bed bug eggs are easy to spot. They resembles termite eggs. But unlike termite eggs, bed bug eggs reside beside a reddish brown stain and has an offensive, sweet-like odor, a bit musty in fact. The reddish brown stain is fecal or bed bug excrement. Only bed bugs have that kind of excrement pattern. The bed bug odor on the other hand comes from the scent glands of bed bugs. They release the scent for mating and it also serves as a territorial boundary.

Bed bug eggs should not be pulped or crushed. Bed bug eggs should be killed through use of insecticides. If you will just crush these bed bug eggs, some eggs may not be squashed and they will have the chance to reproduce another generation of bed bugs in your home.

Find the best insect killer spray. Use those that are specifically for bed bugs extermination. Bed bug eggs and nymps will die along with their adult company with the anti bed bug chemical spray. Although many say that these bed bug chemical killers are not that effective to get rid of bed bugs, they are still the best alternative to manual bed bugs extermination (crushing and pulping adult bed bugs and eggs to bits) and the best replacement for DDT. DDT has been used during the 1940’s to 1950’s to kill all sorts of insects in the US. Although they were successful in getting rid of pests with DDT, DDT is now banned in the States and other countries because of its harmful effects to humans.

Getting rid of bed bugs can be a tiring and tedious task. Because bed bugs are really annoying, people who live with bed bugs in their homes, desperately find and adopt measures to eliminate bed bugs.

So the question is persistent, just like their subjects—bed bugs. So how do you get rid of bed bugs?

The easy step

The easiest step would also fall to be the most stupid. This means will only require your utmost patience and perseverance.

You will have to look out and capture bed bugs when they come out of their habitats. That would mean, you will have to stay up all night because bed bugs usually come out and hunt food in the wee hours of the night. That is the time they feel their hosts will be more vulnerable.

Bed bugs can be pretty smart. But their smart behaviors are only products of their desire to survive. They come out of night because they can be sensitive to light. Instincts are instilled at them that light means danger.

Surely, during daytime, their exposure would only give them more risks. It is because however tiny they are, they can still be spotted in broad daylight.

So the easiest step would be to look out and capture bed bugs, one by one. After capturing them, squash them so they will not survive. Pretty gross. But hey, bed bugs are so tiny, blood and viscera squirming out of their tiny bodies will tend to be unnoticeable.

The dangerous way

If there is an easy yet stupid way, there is the efficient, yet sure and deadly way to get rid of bed bugs. This is through using insecticides or pesticides.

There are three groups of pesticides available in the market for the sole purpose of exterminating unwanted bed bugs. Look at them closely.

One, pesticides can be in the form of insecticidal dusts. These group of pesticides are characterized by the existence or presence of ground or pulverized glass and silica powder. Hence, they are dust.

The dust attacks bed bugs by destroying their outermost waxy protective coats. These coats are like coating that make up the skin of bed bugs. They serve as helmets.

Insecticidal dusts have chemicals with them. Once the bed bugs’ protective coats are ruined, the chemicals will set in and poison or dry out the bed bugs’ systems.

Second, there are contact insecticides. Contact insecticides are pesticides that should be applied to infested areas or surfaces. You will find that this group is very effective in getting rid of bed bugs.

But they also pose downsides. For one, contact insecticides are repellant in nature. Meaning, they stink so effectively to the insects’ senses, that they can easily sense presence of insecticides.

That characteristic of contact insecticides makes it less effective. Since it is repellant, it is not sure and guaranteed that bed bugs will be gotten rid of. They simply may avoid contact with applied surfaces. Hence, they will try to find another more conducive habitat.

Third and last group will be the insect growth regulators. This group is aimed at getting rid of bed bugs while they still are in early stages.

IGRs will attack or poison young bed bugs, or their eggs. By doing that, it is guaranty that no new generation will spurt out. The only problem and mess the complainant will have to deal with are the adult bed bugs.

Use of IGRs as pesticides can be effective, yet so much time and patience is required. As the saying goes, this measure is ‘slowly but surely.’

The most effective and safest way

If you are smart and practical at the same time, you will resort to seeking professional help as you aim to finally get rid of bed bugs.

Pest control experts and companies are overflowing in your locality, just lie how bed bugs’ population is overflowing in your bed and room.

Pest control experts know what to do to get rid of bed bugs effectively. They are more familiar to the proper chemicals and pesticides. That is why risks of poisoning yourself and your house mates can be ruled out.

Getting rid of bed bugs can be easy, if you only know how to. The safest and most effective way is to contact pest exterminators, and pronto! You can get rid of your unlikely bed mates.

Bed bugs have been eradicated on the soil of the United States right after World War I because of the widespread use of DDT (which is now banned for use). But bed bugs are making a comeback. And it may reach your own household if you checked-in in a bed bug infested motel or hotel.

— Hotel Infestations

Hotel bed bugs are not uncommon. In fact, hotel and motels are the perfect place for hotel bed bugs transmission. Immigrants that had lived in a country and place with bed bugs infestation are suspected to be the people who brings back bed bugs in the US through their luggages. And of course, it is in motels, bed-and-breakfasts, and hotels that immigrants and international travellers stay and unpack their luggages with bed bugs hitchhikers.

Once hotel bed bugs infested a single room, these hotel bed bugs crawl on to the next room, create a new colony, and then crawl to another room, and then create another colony.

People have their wrong notion about hotel bed bugs; they thought that hotel bed bugs infest only those hotels and motels that are filthy. This is totally untrue. Hotel bed bugs do not dwell on a place because they are filthy (like cockroaches or rats) but because they are attracted to carbon monoxide (which humans exhale) and their human hosts from where hotel bed bugs withdraws blood from.

So, this means that even ritzy and posh hotels may have hotel bed bugs.

** Common location of hotel bed bugs infestations

Hotel bed bugs are reddish brown, oval shaped (like appleseeds), and are very flat which allow them to hide and lay eggs in tiny crevices. A small crack or hole can harbor hotel bed bugs.

Hotel bed bugs are nocturnal insects. They feed during the night and are generally more active an hour before dawn. Some hotel bed bugs feed during daytime, especially those who haven’t fed for a few months. An adult hotel bed bug may last eighteen (18) months without feeding. Their regular feeding cycle (when a host is present) is five to ten days.

If you want to check out the hotel for hotel bed bugs, go to places where a human being might stay, such as in bed, sofa, chairs, carpets, and furniture nearest to the bed. Check the crevices of these furniture including the mattress interiors and seams and bed frames.

The edge of a bed mattress and under it, are often the breeding ground of hotel bed bugs.

** Telltale signs of hotel bed bugs infestation

– Heavy infestation have the offensive, sweet, musty scent.

– Edges of upholstery or mattresses have brownish dark lines. These are the excrements of hotel bed bugs.

– You feel itchy an hour after you stayed on the bed and even after you left the bed

– Hotel bed bug bites are more itchy than mosquito bites and the itch lasts for hours.

** Size of hotel bed bugs infestations

If you have seen one or two crawling hotel bed bugs, this is an indication that the infestation might be heavy. Hotel bed bugs are rarely seen. But the moment you see hotel bed bugs crawling near you, it means that there are many adult hotel bed bugs and they are fighting over a single host.

— How to avoid hotel bed bugs hitchhikers?

Hotel bed bugs are like hitchhikers, they will hide on your luggages and they will start breeding on your home.

To avoid hotel bed bugs hitchhikers on your luggage try these following tips:

– Buy a non-gel type insect spray. Gel type don’t last and may not kill hotel bed bugs. The night before you leave your hotel room, spray on a non-gel insect killer on your luggage bag. Be sure you have removed your clothes and other things first. Don’t put your clothes on the bed.

Wipe the bath tub dry and put your things there. Hotel bed bugs won’t try to breed on bath tub crevices since people don’t usually stay there.

– Check your items one by one before you pack them. Check for any moving, appleseeds sized hotel bed bugs. They are visible from the naked eye.

A good night’s sleep might become next to impossible if one is constantly being bitten by bed bugs.

Bed bugs have been a problem for many centuries dating as far back as medieval times and classical Greek, as these have been documented in various writings. Sleeping on an infested bed is one thing but being bitten is another. While a bed bug bite is painless and has an extremely low chance of transmitting diseases, people with such problems are mostly ashamed about their dilemma.

Many believe that a bedbug infestation is detrimental to a relationship and can cause psychological strain. Outside of mental anguish, bed bugs can cause physical harm. The question now is how do you treat bed bugs and their bites.

Just bite it

Bed bug bites initially appear as large read wheals that eventually become a red mark. The mark can last for as lost as five days. The mark is also made in orderly way unlike the random pattern of mosquito bites.

Characteristics of bed bug bites

– Irritation, inflammation and destruction of the local tissue

– Allergic reactions that can happen immediately or delayed

– Orderly pattern of marks

Bed bugs bites cannot transmit harmful diseases and their medical significance is only limited to itching and inflammation. The immediate treatment for the affected part is by washing it with soap and water. Scratching is strongly advised, as this will surely lead to infection and possibly require more advanced medical aid. Treating the area with ice or possibly special herbs is also recommended, as these will help speed up the healing process.

Where’s the Herb

Herbal treatments are primarily used to control infections, stop itching or pain. In addition, these are used to improve symptoms, correct imbalance, boost the immune system, and increase energy. The body needs to be strengthened for better health and quality of life.

Chinese herbs are advantageous because they can be used in combo with other herbs depending on the status of the bed bug bite. Herbal treatments used with optimized herbal combination are highly effective to treat the illness and address the symptoms. Below are some herbs that can be used to treat bed bug bites.

Plantain- also known as the band-aid plant, ribwort and pig’s ear. This herb is a common weed of parks, driveways and playgrounds. The five parallel veins that run on each leaf distinguish this herb from others. A broad leaf plantain can has a tall seed head and long thin leaves, while a narrow leaf plantain has a small flower head that looks similar to flying saucer and long thin leaves. A considerable number of Plantago species have leaves and seeds that used food or treatment for bed bug bites.

Mud- this is the simplest and oldest poultice. A bed bug bite can be treated with powdered white clay that should be mixed herb tea. Clay can be stores anytime and will not likely contain fungal spores. Bed bug or other insect bites that cause severe itching or pain should be administered with bland starchy substances such as arrowroot powder, graded potato and mallow root or finely ground grains such as oatmeal or rice.

Fresh-herb poultices- these are slightly more complicated to prepare that other herbs. A person must first chew it then apply the substance to the bed bug bite. For maximum effect, the poultice can be placed in an adhesive bandage or large leaf to keep it in place. Some examples of the poultice include:

– Plantium

– wild geranium (Geranium maculatum)

– comfrey (Symphytum uplandica x)

– yellow dock (Rumex species)

– wild mallow (Malva neglecta)

– chickweed (Stellaria media)

The best herbal leaves are those that come from willow, maple, oak or hazel. The herbs need to be recognized properly before they are chewed. The most recognizable and safest to chew of all herbs are oak and Maple. Leaves that are either slick or shiny should be avoided if one is uncertain about what herb should be used for the treatment. If the leaf is extremely bitter upon chewing it is advisable to spit it out immediately.

Herbs are the ancient medicines used by our ancestors to treat common aliments.

Through the years, herbs have also evolved and though the advent of modern medicine is so advanced, herbs still continue to find their ways to get into modern medicine.

There are a variety of herbs and there are certain herb types for certain types of medical problems.

The Chinese are the most popular advocates of medicinal plants or herbs. They have been using herbs to treat ailments since time immemorial.

Herbs as insecticides

Though there are several herbs that are used as insecticides, no particular herb is identified to curtail the proliferation of bed bugs.

It can be noted though, that herbs are the principal souces of ingredients or chemical extracts. These herb extracts are turned into ingredients of our modern day pesticides and insecticides.

Aside from that use, there are no other uses of herbs for pest control nowadays.

Though, there must be, and for sure several herbs will have the property and ability to drive bed bugs away, herbs are limited in this area.

That means, no particular herb is named or identified directly aginst bed bugs. They will always have to go or be integrated into peticides for that purpose.

Pest control, herbs and bed bugs

To get rid of bed bugs, pest control firms use certain chemicals in the form of pesticides or insecticides. Take note that these pesticides and insecticides do contain herb extracts.

Because the chemicals and herb extracts contained in these bug killers are so harsh and deadly, it is advised that you leave the handling to them. In other words, let the pest control experts have it their way.

You have your own profession so do not mess with other people’s professions. Pest control personnel know what they are doing because they have been doing it for so long.

Trust them and let them do their job, Take the side step, and only get in when they tell you.

Pest control experts will also inform you how to handle the furniture or things that may contain residual form of pesticides. Listen very carefully to instructions. Neglect them if you want to be exterminated and poisoned yourself.

Focusing on pesticides

There are three main groups of pesticides that have herb extracts available through pest control shops in the market. These are for exterminating unwanted bed bugs.

First, pesticides from herbs can be in the form of insecticidal dusts. These pesticides are characterized by the existence or presence of ground or pulverized glass and silica powder mixed with chemicals or herb extracts. Hence, they are dust.

The dust attacks bed bugs by destroying their external waxy protective coats. These coats are like coating making up the skin of bed bugs. They serve as helmet-like structures.

Insecticidal dusts have chemicals with them. Once the bed bugs’ protective coats are ruined, the chemicals will set in and poison or dry out the bed bugs’ systems.

Second, pesticides can be contact insecticides. Contact insecticides are those that should be applied to suspiciously infested areas or surfaces. You will find that this is very effective in getting rid of bed bugs.

But they also have downsides. For one, contact insecticides are repellant in nature—they stink so effectively that insects’ senses can easily sense presence of insecticides. br>

That attribute of contact insecticides makes it less effective. Since it is repellant, it is not sure and guaranteed that bed bugs will be gotten rid of. They simply may avoid contact with applied furniture or surfaces. Hence, they will try to find or transfer to more conducive habitat.

Third and last group will be the insect growth regulators. This group is aimed at getting rid of bed bugs while they still are in early stages.

IGRs will attack or poison young bed bugs, or their eggs. By doing that, it is guaranty that no new generation will spurt out. The only problem and mess the complainant will have to deal with are the adult bed bugs.

Use of IGRs as pesticides can be effective, yet so much time and patience is required. As the saying goes, this measure is ‘slowly but surely.

Bed bug bites are so itchy. Some people are even have allergies to the saliva that a bed bug injects on the skin before it sucks in blood to feed. Children and adult alike could not say good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite especially if bed bugs are all over your house!

So, how would you know if your house is infested and you can safely say to your family members good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite?

Check for bed bugs symptoms. Don’t assume that the intense scratching that your children do are due to mosquito bites. Inspect your house for posible bed bugs infestation so you can say at night good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite.

— Skin Symptoms To Note To Detect Possible Bed Bug Infestation

For the past few mornings, you have notice that your kid has swollen insect bites at the arms and shoulders. The bites are oval shaped and are seemed to be in line. Your kid looked drowsy. It seemed your kid didn’t have a good night sleep. Oh, it is not a good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite night for your kid. Check his mattress to inspect for bed bugs infestation.

Some people don’t react to the bed bugs‘ saliva that is injected onto the skin before the blood feeding starts. The saliva contains anesthetics, which prevents pain during piercing of the skin, and anticoagulant to keep the blood from clotting. But some people, especially the younger ones, react to these natural chemicals. Children feel discomfort in their sleep. Some are even have allergies to these natural chemicals. Oh, it will never be a good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite night for them.

What are the common allergic reactions? One is development of itchy and swollen large wheals, often the size of less than a centimeter. Thick wheals subside and become red spots that can last for days.

Infection may arise when children scratch these itchy wheals. Children can’t control the scratching, especially that bed bug bites are more itchy than mosquitoes or dust mites bites. There are reports that when these wheals get infected due to scratching, bullous eruptions occur.

Some individuals develop anxiety, stress, and insomnia due to bed bugs infestation. They didn’t have a good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite night.

— Hiding Places of Bed Bugs

People always aspire of having a good night sleep and say every night to their household members good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite. A good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite night for every American is a night of comfort, night of uninterrupted sleep, and night without mosquitoes, dust mites, and bed bugs.

So, in order to have a good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite night, learn the hiding places of bed bugs and exterminate them.

Bed bugs are small, oval-shaped, reddish brown, flat insect that can live in almost any crevice where a warm-blooded mammal usually stays. Their breeding place are usually in the bedroom and the living room where people sleeps and stay longer than an hour. Bed bugs want to be near to their source of food.

Once you see a single bed bug on your dress, on your comforter or couch, it undoubtedly means that your house is 100% bed bugs infested. And this also confirm your suspicion since you can’t have a good night sleep tight and don’t let the bed bugs bite night.

Seams of mattresses, head boards, wooden furniture and wooden bedside table are the first few places that you should look at. If you notice a reddish brown stain on these places, you need to look for an exterminator to treat your house for bed bugs. This also means that you have to throw your bed and your comfy couch.

Yes, even your favorite couch, you must throw it away. Bed bugs can survive for eighteen (18) months, that’s 1 1/2 years, without feeding. Bed bugs in your bed foam and springs can escape insecticide. A single female bed bug survivor can lay 300 eggs and this is means another infestation in your household.

Bed bugs are creepy little wingless creatures that thrive in the dark spots and tiny holes or crevices in your room.

Though they may be too tiny, their appearance will definitely not scare you or turn you off. If seen by the naked eye, they will appear just like tiny spots that move slowly or crawl around.

Signs of bed bugs’ presence in your room

There are a number of signs or indications that will tell you or confirm your suspicion that there are bed bugs in your place. In general, be observant for any sign of tiny, wingless creatures that creep and crawl across your room, your bed, the floor, the wall or the ceiling.

Bed bugs feed on their hot-blooded hosts by piercing through the victims’ skin and sucking blood. Bed bugs are like vampires that feed on blood to be able to survive.

That is why the excretion of bed bugs is also red in color. This will help you determine if your room is infested by bed bugs. Excretion from bed bugs, or pee or crap from them, are usually red or dark red in color and has stinky smell.

Another sign that there are bed bugs in your bed is when you find several red and swollen spots all over your body when you wake up in the morning. Bed bugs’ bites are like mosquito bites in the sense that they are itchy, red and really uncomforting.

There might also be bed bugs in your room when there are small, tiny or miniscule holes and cracks on the floor, the walls, the ceiling, furniture or even your bed.

Getting rid of bed bugs

After determining or confirming the presence of bed bugs in your room or bed, the sure thing you will have to figure out is how to get rid of the pests.

Getting rid of bed bugs will definitely be hard and demanding task. The activity will require your utmost attention and will also demand a little lump sum from your pocket.

But anything goes, for sure, you will opt and try to cross heaven and hell just to bring back the natural comfort of home, your sanctuary.

To get rid of bed bugs, you will have to first make a concrete and definite plan or strategy. Planning is a sure thing you do when you do something.

There are a number of potent pesticides and insecticides in the market that are designed and formulated to get rid of bed bugs. Unlike medicines that come in prescriptions, insecticides and pesticides are not prescribed by anyone.

It means, any store or shop that distributes such substances are allowed to dispose pesticides and insecticides to anyone, disregarding the real purpose behind the purchase.

That may sound easy and appealing, but there are dangers along with it. For one, pesticides and insecticides are really harsh and poisonous. Some pesticides are in the form of sprays or aerosols that make them more dangerous.

Inhaling or smelling several such pesticides may already pose imminent danger to a victim. Insects are very resilient especially to such substances so chemical factories have to really make sure that the formulation for each pesticide is really harsh and potent.

Though, anyone can purchase pesticides and insecticides, it would still be more advisable if you get rid of bed bugs the safer way.

Surely, the most certain and effective, not to mention the wisest, way to get rid of bed bugs is to seek help of professional pest control experts.

Getting rid of bed bugs is a very tedious and risky activity so why not leave the job to people who can do or accomplish them well.

Pest control experts and companies have invested in knowledge, training and equipment that will ensure the success of every operation pest control they will take in.

The civil law requires all house owners and apartment operators to coordinate with such experts regularly so every pest living in their areas can be gotten rid of and controlled.

When the process of getting rid of bed bugs is on the way, make sure to notify and inform all the individuals who can be potentially affected, like your family, your housemates and your nearest neighbors.

Get rid of bed bugs. But be sure to do it effectively, practically and safely.

Bed bugs have been exterminated from the US soil sometime in 1940’s and the 1950’s. The use of DDT has been succesful in eradicating these pests. However, international travelling and immigration have brought back to the US the exterminated, blook sucking pests. And establishments that are said to be the bed bugs exchange centers are: One, busses, two, trains, three, cabs, four, airplanes, and five, hotel rooms, six, motels and breakfast-inns.

Don’t you notice that the places where you can see bed bugs from and out of your clothes are transportation carriage and the place where travellers stay for the night? Right. Bed bugs are travellers and hitchhikers. You must know the ways on how to get the bed bugs out of your clothes when you get into these places.

You cannot get bed bugs out of your clothes simply by avoiding the mentioned hotspots. These places are unavoidable. They are part of our lives. But if you want to keep your house clean and free from bed bugs infestation, check out these Tips on How to Get the Bed bugs Out of Your Clothes.

** Simple Tips on How to Get the Bed Bugs Out of Your Clothes

Tip # 1: In a hotel, you can get bed bugs out of your clothes if you shake off your clean and used clothes for bed bugs the night before you check out. Having bed bugs in your things or clothes does not mean that you are filthy and stinking. Bed bugs do not stay on a certain area or place because it is clean or filthy. They stay in a place because they are attracted to carbon monoxide, of which humans exhale, and they feed on human blood.

Tip # 2: To get the bed bugs out of your clothes, you must make sure that the suitcase on which you will encase it is bed bugs free. Even if you shake your clothes just to get bed bugs out of your clothes, it won’t do good since the very suitcase that will carry your clothes with has bed bugs inside.

The night before you leave your hotel, remove any items that you have and the clothes inside your suitcase. Buy a water based insect killer and spray on the insecticide around the suitcase. Don’t spray on inside.

Then place your belongings and other items inside a clean, dry, bath tub. Bed bugs don’t like ceramics and marbles much, so they won’t be present anywhere near the tub. However, all the wood furniture near your bed are undoubtedly infested.

Tip # 3: Surer way to get bed bugs out of your clothes is to have your clothes, clean and used, to the laundry. Ask the laundryman to soak it in warm water for twenty minutes. Clinging nymps on your used clothes, especially the clothes you used on bed, will die when soaked in warm water.

Tip # 4: You can get bed bugs out of your clothes if you will resist the urge to sleep on the bed before you leave. The bed bugs may cling onto your sleeves as its last shot to draw blood from you and stay there before you leave.

Tip # 5: When you get home, remove all your clothing, and even socks, and soak them in warm water for twenty minutes. Do this immediately to avoid speading bed bugs around your house in case a female bed bug hitched at your collar or sleeve. A single female bed bug lays 300 eggs. And adult bed bugs can last for eighteen months even without feeding.

You might think that following the tips abovementioned will make you look like a person sufferring from obsessive compulsive. This is untrue. This is the best measure to do to avoid having your house getting infested with these nasty bugs. They are very hard to terminate once they invade your household. The best remedy for a bed bug infested home is to throw away every furniture around and abandon the place for three years. So which is easier and better to do? Prevent the bed bugs from coming your house or exterminate them instead?

Bed bugs are tiny insects with scientific name Cimex lectularius. Through the decades, these insects are considered notorious pests in different countries, be it in the US, in Asian countries, in Europe and even in Africa.

When viewed from the top (by the way, you would not want to look at them at any other angle, for sure), bed bugs look like flattened creatures. They are so small, that one can hardly see and look at them, not unless they are aided by magnifying glasses or lenses.

You have your own perception and opinion as to how bed bugs look like. But in general, as seen in pictures printed all over text books, magazines or even online through the Internet, bed bugs closely resemble their closest relatives—mites.

Bed bugs are becoming pest problems in many countries, including the United States. Particularly in Georgia, bed bugs are becoming a very rapidly populating pest.

Exterminating bed bugs in Georgia

There are a handful of ways or measures to kill bed bugs in Georgia. The simple way is to capture them one by one, and try to ground them out. That would kill them, but it will be tedious, gross, and will surely try your patience.

Surely, applying insecticides or pesticides to infested areas can be a good and effective way. But doing so would pose a lot of threats, to your health, and to the health of everyone in the house. There are laws in Georgia that will prevent you from doing so easily.

To be sure, no human can be exterminated along with the bed bugs, it would be wise to seek help of a credible and professional pest control company. There are a number of those in Georgia.

Pest control companies in Georgia know hoe to drift away bed bugs better. These Georgian firms also know how to effectively get rid of bed bugs.

The wisest, most practical and cheapest way to get rid of bed bugs is by seeking professional help from people who know better.

The measure can be considered the cheapest. Although you may have to pay a little sum for the services of these Georgia-based pest control firms. The catch—the attempt will be surely successful. You do not have to keep on buying pesticides on Georgian pest shops or other modern equipment claimed to help get rid of bed bugs.

You will also save on costs for lotions or anti-itching medications that would be needed to relieve your discomfort due to bed bugs’ bites.

There a handful of pest control experts in Georgia. For sure you can easily find one through the ads, through the yellow pages or directories or through friends’ referrals.

When asking for pest control professionals’ help, be sure to commit your full cooperation. The effort will be inutile and futile if you will not agree to several proposed measures that would ensure the accomplishment of your goal to get rid of bed bugs.

Inform your housemates, family and even your nearest neighbors about your plan to hire professional pest exterminators beforehand. That would be a civilized and humane gesture if you do that.

Most of all, the success of the effort to get rid of bed bugs in your place lies in your own hands. Observe hygiene and cleanliness to prevent any similar problem from re-occuring. They say an ounce of prevention is more compared to pounds of cure. It is also true and applicable in the case of bed bugs.

Hygiene is important to prevent bed bugs infestation. Cleanliness would be of great help. Surely, pests like bed bugs dislike clean and tidy surroundings, for a start.

If you travel a lot, be sure to know that you may be a carrier of bed bugs. No, they would not thrive inside you or beneath your private parts.

Your baggage and the clothing you wear would somehow become a good breeding ground and traveling medium for the annoying insect.

Make sure the place you stay in is totally bug-free. When going home from a trip, it would also be advisable if you drop by the laundry shop and have your luggage washed before taking it home.

The measure would seem a little paranoid, but who cares? What is important is that you would not have another morning, when you wake up asking yourself what bed bugs are.

Many people are concerned about products to remove acne, yet perhaps the more important factor to consider is prevention. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So, here are five of the basic but most important ways in order to treat and prevent acne build up.

1. Cleaning

Washing away the outside layer of the skin with natural oils is not really helpful preventing or curing acne, or pimple for other people, for it develops under the skin. Although …

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acne scars,acne complex,treatment for acne,acne scar removal,acne care

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Many people are concerned about products to remove acne, yet perhaps the more important factor to consider is prevention. After all, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. So, here are five of the basic but most important ways in order to treat and prevent acne build up.

1. Cleaning

Washing away the outside layer of the skin with natural oils is not really helpful preventing or curing acne, or pimple for other people, for it develops under the skin. Although it’s a belief the people develop acne due to the fact that they don’t cleanse their skin thoroughly. For everyone’s information, washing the skin too much can cause irritation and produces more whiteheads and blackheads that turn into pimples after being infected. Gentle washing is only needed. Use mild soaps or cleanser, an example is Cetaphil or acne bars. Another good sample is Neutrogena product that washes acne.

2. Exfoliating

It is also important to exfoliate; this helps remove the dead skin cells, to maintain a healthy and glowing skin. A mild cleanser will help exfoliate the face after washing. Scrubbing will also help exfoliate the face, which can be done once or twice a week. This procedure will aid in reducing dead layers skin cells that clog the pores, reason why more pimples or acne.

3. Keeping the skin Clear

– Make sure that all cosmetics such as powder, lotion, blush on, foundation, and even sunscreen are oil free

– Complex 15 is oil free moisturizer that helps avoid dry skin

– Get in the habit of using oil-free lotions

– Get rid of hair chemicals such as gels or hair cream

– Always watch for labels with the term non-comedogenic, which means they don’t cause pores to be clogged

4. Proven Chemicals

Benzoyl Peroxide

This eliminates the bacteria that worsens acne and it also unplugs oil secretions and helps pimples or acne to heal. This can be found in many over-the-counter acne treatments. Start traditionalistically with a five percent moisturizer once everyday like after washing the face before going to bed. After a week, make it twice everyday if there are no other medications being taken or used. If the acne is not yet healed after four to six weeks, try a ten per cent mixture. This can be bought over-the-counter, however, there is a need to seek for a doctor’s prescription. Just be sure to request for a real form: the pharmacist can be asked which can be bought over-the-counter or which needs prescription.

Antibiotics

These are available only if there’s a doctor’s recommendation. Antibiotics are very helpful aid for pimples or acne that is already swelling and red and usually have pus, or for if it not those not anymore being treated with medications as expected. These antibiotics eliminate the bacteria, which develop to whiteheads. Make it a point to follow the doctor’s recommended dosage and always take the antibiotic pills with enough amount of water. Some of these bacteria killing medicines may also increase the skin’s sensitivity to the sun, for this use sunscreen when going out to prevent any sunburn.

Accutane

Accutane are antibiotics that are available only under a doctor’s order and recommendation. Accutane is a very optimized pill that is intended for those with deep scars, or pimples that can no longer be treated by other medications or antibiotics. Blood test is taken every now and then when using Accutane as medication, as this can affect the levels blood cell and blood count. For women, the physician, possibly an obstetrician-gynecologist may require the intake of birth control pills prior to prescribing the Accutane. Extra caution is really taken into consideration, as it can be very harmful to to pregnant women. However, until this time some physicians are not prescribing Accutane.

5. Treatment Information

The Treatment can take some time which often takes six to eight weeks for the pimple to heal after there will be another start of treatment. Some medications can cause acne to get even bigger or redder before it gets well, there are times when these could have pus too. If the acne still has not welled after several medications with other drugs, the doctor may suggest that the patient take an oral medicine. Doctors recommend this retinoid as a last treatment, due to its serious effects and it is also very expensive. Sometimes women are asked to take birth control pills as to help them control acne especially in women who mood swings even before their menstruations start.

„Who hasn’t encountered the dreaded „“““zit““““ at some point in their life making acne one of the most common of all skin disorders. Acne is a common eruption of the hair follicles and oil-producing glands of the skin. Acne usually is found on the face, neck, and upper body. Pimples and blackheads are caused by the increase in hormones adolescence or before a woman’s period and by bacterial infections of the skin.

Waste and toxins are eliminated by the skin through sweat pores. Thus, constipation or irregular bowel movements worsen the problem and need to corrected in acne treatment.

While there no one „“““best acne treatment““““ the following are the top five natural acne treatments which should be considered by anyone seeking an acne solution.

1. Supplements and Vitamins for Acne Treatment

Zinc – 50 milligrams, 2 times per day. If Zinc Picolinate is used (due to superior absorption) 50 milligrams is taken only once a day.

Vitamin A – 100,000 Units per day for 2 months. Excess Vitamin A be toxic to the liver and needs to be used under a physician’s supervision. Pregnant women (or women who may become pregnant) should not take more than 10,000 Units per day.

Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide) – topical gel, containing 4% Niacinamide, applied twice per day.

Vitamin B6 – 100 milligrams per day, especially if acne is associated with the menstrual period.

Vitamin C – 1,000 milligrams, 4 times a day. Reduce dosage if diarrhea occurs.

Vitamin E – 600 Units per day.

Pantothenic Acid – 2.5 grams, four times per day, orally. In research, this has been used together with a topical cream containing 20% Pantothenic acid which was applied four to six times per day.

Deodorized garlic, 10 to 16 capsules per day, depending on the severity of the acne and until symptoms improve. Reduce this dosage gradually, over a 3-week period, to 4 capsules per day.

Evening Primrose oil or Linseed oil – 2 capsules per day.

Most of these supplements can be taken in a multivitamin tablet and extra Vitamin A and Zinc.

2. Proper Diet as an Acne Solution

Increase fruits and vegetables in the diet. Eat at least 2 pieces of fruit and 1 cup of vegetables daily.

Eliminate sugar and sugar containing foods because sugar increases the fats that are secreted by the sebaceous glands. These are the glands that are infected by bacteria when a person has acne.

Limit junk foods, fatty foods, fried foods, and milk products. All these foods tend to aggravate acne.

3 The Herbal Acne Remedy

A tea can be made from equal parts of Oregon Grape Root, Dandelion Root, and Burdock Root. Brew 1 teaspoon of this mixture per cup of boiling water. Simmer 5 minutes, then steep for 15 minutes. Up to 6 cups per day for 12 days are taken, or less if nausea or an upset stomach occurs.

A tea of Vitex has often been considered useful, especially when premenstrual symptoms and hormonal imbalances are involved.

4. Physical Treatments in Acne Care

Exposing the skin to sunshine and fresh air or to the light of a tanning lamp, but not long enough to burn the skin. Overexposure to tanning lights may increase the risk of skin cancer.

5. Homeotherapy Acne Skin Care Products

Silica 6C and Hepar sulph 6C: Each day, 3 pellets of Silica in the early morning and afternoon and 3 pellets of Hepar sulph at noon time and in the evening. The pellets are dissolved under the tongue.

Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be effective acne treatment solutions. A health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct acne medicine.“

Acne is a common disorder in skin that may last for long in an individual. For many people, acne isn’t a problem anymore when they reach the age of 30. But there are also individuals who continually carry the facial burden longer than expected. Treatments are important to avoid complications. When simple treatments are not enough, perhaps it is time to consider medical options for the acnes.

The top three acne medications are the following:

1. Benzoyl peroxide
This anti-bacterial medication takes care of killing the P. Acnes, acne-causing bacteria. It is an antiseptic agent that reduces the amount of barren pores. It will take approximately 3 weeks to see the changes.

This ingredient is also used for bleaching the hair and fabric so make sure to use it right. It is both over-the-counter and prescription drug that comes in gel or cream.

There is an estimated 3% of individuals found to be allergic to such substance so make sure that you don’t belong to that group or else you will experience skin inflammation if you apply it on your skin.

2. Salicylic Acid
Used to treat skin disorders such as dandruff, calluses, and warts, salicylic acid can also be used as an acne medication. It slows down the cells in the follicles from cracking which prevents blockage. It also assists in breaking down the whiteheads and blackheads.

Salicylic acid comes in many forms including cream, gel, lotion, ointment, and many more. Only use the medicine according to the directions on the label recommendations or from the doctor; otherwise, it may result to acid poisoning. Poisoning can be noticed when the person using it experiences dizziness, diarrhea, deep breathing, etc.

3. Sulfur
This ingredient is common among soaps, washes, and creams. It allows the skin to peel and dry enabling the breaking down of the whiteheads and blackheads. It is necessary to check the label directions so as to avoid unnecessary complications.

It is always best to seek professional advice when taking any of the medications. It is better to be sure. These medications, however, only kills bacteria, slows down cell breakdown, and peels off the skin but it will never stop the skin from acquiring bacteria after a certain span of time.

This factsheet is for people who have acne.

Acne is a skin condition that causes spots. Most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25.1 However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. There are many treatments available to help deal with the condition.
What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that typically causes one or more of the following:

* blackheads (comedones)
* whiteheads
* red or yellow spots
* greasy skin
* scars

Acne typically affects the skin of the face, back, neck, chest and arms and the severity of the condition can vary.

Acne affects people of all skin colours. The processes that cause acne are exactly the same in people with black or brown skin but the impact is altered by the skin pigmentation.

Acne is very common and affects about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 at some time.

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Acne

This factsheet is for people who have acne.

Acne is a skin condition that causes spots. Most people affected by acne are aged between 12 and 25.1 However, men and women in their 30s and 40s can also suffer. There are many treatments available to help deal with the condition.
What is acne?

Acne is a skin condition that typically causes one or more of the following:

* blackheads (comedones) 2,3
* whiteheads2,3
* red or yellow spots2,3
* greasy skin2,3
* scars2,3

Acne typically affects the skin of the face, back, neck, chest and arms and the severity of the condition can vary.1,4

Acne affects people of all skin colours. The processes that cause acne are exactly the same in people with black or brown skin but the impact is altered by the skin pigmentation.

Acne is very common and affects about 80 in 100 people aged 11-30 at some time.4
The skin

The surface of the skin has lots of small sebaceous glands just below the surface. These glands make an oily substance called sebum that keeps the skin smooth and supple.

Tiny pores (holes in the skin) allow the sebum to come to the skin surface. Hairs also grow through these pores.

IIllustration showing the structure of skin
Illustration showing the structure of skin
What causes acne?

Acne is caused by the overactivity of the sebaceous glands that secrete oily substances onto the skin.

The sebaceous glands of people with acne are especially sensitive to normal blood levels of a hormone called testosterone, found naturally in both men and women.

Testosterone in people prone to acne triggers the sebaceous glands to produce an excess of sebum. At the same time, the dead skin cells lining the openings of the hair follicles (the tubes that hold the hair) are not shed properly and clog up the follicles.

These two effects combined cause a build-up of oil in the hair follicles. This causes blackheads and whiteheads to form.

For some people, their acne does not progress beyond this stage.

However in other people, the build-up of oil in the hair follicles creates an ideal environment for a bacterium called Propionibacterium acnes to grow.

These bacteria normally live harmlessly on your skin but when this ideal environment is created, they grow. They feed off the sebum and produce substances that cause a response from your body’s immune system. This inflames the skin and creates the redness associated with spots.

In more severe ‚inflammatory acne‘, cysts develop beneath the skin’s surface. These acne cysts can rupture, spreading the infection into nearby skin tissue. This can result in scarring.

What makes acne worse?

There are a number of things that can make your acne worse. These include the following:

* picking and squeezing the spots may cause further inflammation and scarring1
* stress can make acne worse in some people, although it is not clear why1,
* in women, outbreaks may be affected by the hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle1,
* excessive production of male hormones such as testosterone from conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome may be another cause.5 For more information, please see the separate BUPA factsheet Polycystic ovary syndrome
* some contraceptive pills may make acne worse. This is due to the type of progestogen hormone in some pills whereas some other types of contraceptive pills can improve acne – see Treatments section below. Your GP will advise you which contraceptive pill to take
* some medicines can make acne worse. For example, some medicines taken for epilepsy, and steroid creams and ointments that are used for eczema. Do not stop a prescribed medicine if you suspect it is making your acne worse, but tell your GP. An alternative may be an option
* steroids can cause acne as a side-effect

Treatment

Acne may cause you considerable emotional distress but there is a range of treatment options to help you tackle the problem. No treatment will completely ‚cure‘ your acne. The aims of treatment are to prevent new spots forming, to improve those already present, and to prevent scarring.3
Home treatment

It is important to keep spot-prone areas clean, so wash the affected area twice a day with an unperfumed cleanser.1,6 The skin needs a certain amount of oil to maintain its natural condition, so avoid aggressive washing with strong soaps.

There are a number of over-the-counter remedies available from pharmacies to treat mild acne. These usually contain antibacterial agents such as benzoyl peroxide (eg Oxy and Clearasil Max).

As well as its antibacterial effects, benzoyl peroxide can dry out the skin and encourage it to shed the surface layer of dead skin. Together, these effects make it harder for pores to become blocked and for infection to develop.

Benzoyl peroxide can cause redness and peeling, especially to start with. This tends to settle down if you reduce the number of times you use it. You can then build up your use gradually.

No home treatments for acne will work immediately. It can take weeks, if not months, for significant effects to be noticeable. If home treatments have not worked after two months, or you have severe acne, you should visit your GP.
Prescription medicines

Your GP may start your treatment by prescribing a preparation containing benzoyl peroxide. If this does not work, or if you have more severe acne, there are a range of other treatment options that you can either rub onto your skin (topical) or take in tablet form (oral).
Topical treatments

There are several topical treatments you may be prescribed including those listed below:

* azelaic acid (Skinoren) is an alternative to benzoyl peroxide and may not make your skin as sore as benzoyl peroxide
* topical retinoids (eg Adapalene) are medicines based on vitamin A, which are rubbed into the skin once or twice a day.7 They work by encouraging the outer layer of skin to flake off
* a topical antibiotic lotion applied to the skin can be used to control the P. acnes bacteria (eg Dalacin T). Treatment needs to continue for at least six months. Preparations that combine an antibiotic with other acne medication are available (eg Benzamycin which combines an antibiotic with benzoyl peroxide)

Oral treatments

There are several oral treatments you may be prescribed including those listed below:

* oral antibiotics (tablets), such as tetracycline, can be prescribed for inflammatory acne. They should be taken daily for around three months, although it might take four to six months for the benefits to be seen.7 The success of this treatment can be limited because the strains of bacteria are often resistant to the common antibiotics. Antibiotics do not prevent pores from becoming blocked so treatment to prevent blackheads, such as benzoyl peroxide, is often also prescribed at the same time
* some types of oral contraceptive tablets help women who have acne. A combination of the usual pill hormone called ethinylestradiol with cyproterone acetate (eg Dianette) suppresses male hormone activity so is often used in women with acne
* isotretinoin (eg Roaccutane) is a medicine known as an oral retinoid, which also exists in a topical form (see above). Isotretinoin works by drying up oily secretions. It tends to be prescribed to people with severe forms of acne that have proved resistant to other treatments. There a number of serious side-effects of this drug, such as liver disorders and depresssion. You should not take isotretinoin if you are pregnant, as it is very dangerous to an unborn baby. For safety reasons, isotretinoin is only prescribed under the supervision of dermatology specialists.

Acne is a broad term, which includes blemishes, blackheads, and whiteheads. Acne can strike at any age. Effective acne treatments are sometimes difficult to find, and understanding acne and prevention can be frustrating. Here are some acne treatment tips that have worked for many.

Although acne is not life threatening it can be uncomfortable and hard on your ego. There has always been a debate about the actual cause of acne. The actual cause is not as important as finding a cure.

So is there a cure for acne. Well yes and no. There are many products available and for some they are a cure, for others they do not help. A cure is only a cure when you find a product that works for you.

Most acne treatments will take time to work. It usually takes around 8 weeks before you see any significant improvement so you are going to have to be patient. Once you have got your acne cleared up it is important to continue with the treatment that is working so it does not return.

If you have serious acne, it is best to consult a dermatologist. However, in milder cases you will often be able to get it under control by yourself just by persevering. Try these tips to conquer your acne.

Exercise
Regular exercise helps keep your whole body in shape. It builds your immune system and helps eliminate toxins from the body. It is a great start to fighting acne.

Diet
You need to eat at least 5 servings of fresh fruit and vegetables each day. Fresh fruit and vegetables are full of nutrients that your body needs. They boost the immune system and are good antioxidants. They can work towards helping you get rid of the acne. Try to avoid refined sugars and fatty foods which have are not good for you or your skin. You also need to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to flush your system of toxins.

Cosmetics
Choose cosmetics that are water based and hypo-allergenic. Avoid oil free products, coal tar derivatives, and heavy creams. Make sure you wash your skin thoroughly every night to remove makeup residue.

Hormones
Hormones can play a role in acne flare ups and they can be used to reduce outbreaks. Your doctor may decide to use HRT to eliminate or reduce your acne outbreaks.

Clean Skin
You need to avoid harsh scrubbing of your face but you also need to thoroughly clean your skin nightly. Use a mild cleaning regime every night. Once or twice a week you should also, use an exfoliator to gently remove damaged skin and unplug pores.

Shaving
Is actually a great exfoliating treatment the removes dead skin. However, you should never shave an area that is infected or inflamed. Always use a shaving cream if your skin is sensitive.

Stress
Can be a contributing factor to acne so try to relax and unwind. Emotions trigger chemical reactions in the body, which can cause an outbreak.

You can help control your acne outbreaks by following these simple steps. What are you waiting for?

Did you find this article useful? For more useful tips, hints, points to ponder and keep in mind,
do please browse for more information at our websites.

If you suffer from acne, then you are not alone. Every day, people try new acne medicine in the hopes that it will prove to be successful in ridding them of the redness, swelling and discomfort that goes along with the ailment.

The best way to correct this skin problem is to select an acne medicine that carries little or no side effects. Today, many conventional medicines carry side effects that are often worse than the ailment itself. When searching for an acne medicine, whether it be over the counter or prescription, make sure that you understand any potential side effects that may result from it’s use. It may be difficult to reason with an acne medicine designed to rid you of the discomfort and embarrassment of acne when it, itself, carries a possible side effect of irritation and/or a rash.

The best types of acne medicine will be those that are gentle to the skin and perhaps are even designed for sensitive skin. Always look for a product that is simple to use and understand. It should not promise instant results because, quite simply, there is no miracle cure for acne. There are, however, medications that are designed to treat the ailment. As is the case with any treatment, results will take time. When searching for the right acne medicine, look for one that promises realistic results in a realistic timeframe.

If you are seeing a dermatologist and are receiving prescriptions, make sure that your physician/dermatologist is aware of any current or past medical conditions. Certain illnesses, either past or present, may prevent you from being able to safely use some acne medicines. For instance, women who are pregnant or think they may be pregnant, children and the elderly must be very careful about the medications that they are prescribed or use via over the counter purchases.

A final thought to consider with acne medicine is, in some cases, the offer of a guarantee. This symbolizes a company’s belief in their product, which goes a long way in consumer trust. When you do use a product, make sure to use as directed and follow the manufacturer’s guidelines exactly.

This article is to be used for informational purposes only. The information contained herein is not intended to be used in place of, or in conjunction with, professional medical advice regarding the use of acne medicine. Prior to beginning any treatment regimen, the patient must consult a licensed medical doctor or dermatologist for advice and/or to determine the best course of action for his/her individual situation.

Acne – now there’s a four letter word. During my teen years I was the Prince of acne and for good reason. I was the face of acne, pun intended. I had it all, blackheads, whiteheads, you name it it was there. And If the scorn of my peers (especially the girls) was one thing, the impossibility of getting rid of the hideous acne I had was quite another thing altogether.

The myths and fairy tales surrounding acne didn’t help either. My family members firmly believed that acne was a result of poor (or more specifically, junk) diet. Yes, I will admit that I, like any other team, enjoy my fair share of junk food, but I wasn’t too sure that eating out was the cause of my acne. I mean, a lot of my buddies ate out with me, and what’s more, ate the same junk food even more frequently than I did, but they had little or no acne. Something had to be wrong with conventional wisdom right? I had seen the myth being shattered right before my eyes. And I’m sure you’ve heard the one about chocolate causing pimples. And since I loved chocolate in all of its glorious forms, I would have found giving it up, even at the risk of remaining acne king, an unimaginable cruelty. But having done my homework and checking news and medical reports on the subject, I soon found to my great relief that chocolate consumption had nothing absolutely nothing to do with acne.

My friends and classmates weren’t a lot of help either. Most of them, hinted with delightful sarcasm, that my acne advertisement face was a result of my inordinately frequent happen of masturbating. Hell, for a while there even I thought it was true. But then I quickly realized that this was yet another myth. Well I’m starting to learn actually, if by no other means than by the process of elimination. For if my acne was linked to my masturbation, was I to conclude that my male friends who had no acne at all did not masturbate? I would have sooner believe that they were from another planet! So, that was another acne myth dispelled.

Another myth that I did believe, and which made perfect sense and even sounded scientific at that time, was the accumulation of dirt on my face that blocked my pores. But if that was a case then why didn’t my arms and legs, which more regularly came into contact with dirt, have acne all over them? In any case, I spent several days, weeks and months meticulously scrubbing my face with a variety of soaps and anti acne lotions in a bid to get rid of my acne, to no avail. Finally, I gave in to a fatalistic attitude and reasoned that the more I stressed myself out thinking about my acne, the worse the problem would become. It was at that point that I gave up bothering about my acne filled face. And guess what? A few short years later, as I slowly climbed out of my adolescence, the acne magically disappeared on its own! Although there are still a few tell tale scars of my acne prince days, for the most part you would never know they were there!

Nobody dreams of having acne, that would be tantamount to wishing for bad teeth. One thing that makes people attractive is their flawless skin. Sometimes, it shows the entirety of their personality especially on the manner of how they take care of themselves. Having a blemish-free skin also builds up the confidence of a person.

Acne can be present on any individuals at all ages. However, it is mostly occurring on the teens because of the imbalance production of hormone in their body. This is in fact, a part of their being adolescent where they undergo physical changes.

Here are 3 tips for you to prevent and get rid of acne.

1. Healthy diet for a healthy skin.

Fruits and vegetables are the best ingredients for your diet to maintain a healthy skin. Rather than eating junk foods it is better that you add varieties of fruits, vegetables and even nuts for your snacks. You can create a sweet juice out of the fruits if you are not used to eating it whole.

2. Drink more water everyday.

Water is the major cleansing agent of all the unnecessary components inside a person’s body. It is very essential that you drink a minimum of eight glasses of water every day to keep track of your acne-free skin.

3. Vitamins and Supplements

In order to combat the skin diseases and toxins that may attack your body, you can drink vitamins and supplements everyday. There are also some supplements that are best for fighting against acne, such as the Maca and the Manuka honey.

Above all other tips, you can make use of natural products for your skin. Avoid purchasing certain skin products not approved by your dermatologist because they contain chemicals that may just threaten your skin. Herbal soap will help you pacify the production of too much oil in your skin.

With the marketers of various acne products out there to make a buck at the expense of naïve acne patients, one step that very well could help clear the skin and delay the aging process is right there literally at your finger tips.

It’s called facial massaging and for me, a former acne patient, it works.

Now friends, I suffered from acne.

Actually the statement above will be an understatement. It devastated and almost annihilated me. What didn’t I try: Proactiv, Neutrogena, Clearasil, Dermatologists? You name it, this writer tried it. Well, not everything, cause I couldn’t afford plastic surgery, not on a $11 per hour salary, but I was saving up for it though…honestly, the phone number is still highlighted in the phone book.

During my years with dealing with acne, especially toward the end as an adult, I simply had to find something, anything to get this problem off or else…

Well, thank God I stumbled on Facial Massaging and combined with a proper diet and other common-sense tips, within 72 hours or less, there was a permanent and drastic improvement in my skin condition.

I humbly share the facial massaging steps with you so if you suffer from acne, you could look into them as part of a drug-free, yet simple BUT extremely effective means of treating your acne.

Facial Massaging Steps:

1. Wash your hands, especially your fingertips, thoroughly.
2. Now with your thumbs firmly gripping your jaw-line, proceed to pressing with the free four fingers the upper jaw line working from the center outwards.
Do 2-3 sets pressing firmly.
3. Now press the areas directly above the jaw line in the same center-going- outwards-direction firmly 2-3 times.
4. Do this working upwards till you reach the forehead line. If done correctly you should see little specks of dead skin on your face.
5. In a feathery motion, pinch at the entire face for as long as you desire (1-2 minutes) using all the free fingers in firm actions grasping the skin.
6. Now, in a downward-scraping motion using the finger tips, rub the jugular veins located at the sides of the neck (6-8) times, and then massage the outer part of the chest right next to the armpits in a firm circular motion ensuring you breathe deeply as well. According to the Egyptians (and from my own experiences) this simple procedure has a marked effect on alleviating bags and crow’s feet from the eyes and directing the flow of toxins away from the face.
7. Wash your hands with soap and rinse the face with cool water only-gently but firmly.
8. Wipe your face dry with a paper towel (or a towel you use only for your face and nothing else. Keep this towel in an exclusive location and wash it every other day).

Now, for an external acne treatment regimen, this procedure is quite effective. Combined with such internal acne treatment procedures based on a proper diet of your Juicy fruits, some roots and leafy vegetables and if desired (although highly recommended) occasional juice fasts or exclusive mono-meals of seasonal fruits, facial massaging will be very useful as a means of controlling acne (and delaying facial aging as apparent in crows feet and wrinkles) from the outside.

I must add, when performed correctly, it does enhance facial tone and structure not unlike costly plastic surgery. So, put your fingers to work and lovingly massage and sculpt your face with facial massaging while all the while becoming acne free starting today.

Here’s to a clearer skin naturally.

Teenagers are the most common age group suffering from acne. Androgens, a hormone that begins production at puberty, is a major cause of acne. Unfortunately for males, they tend to produce more androgens and develop more severe acne than females. Extra oils that contribute to acne, are also produced at puberty. These oils mixed with dirt and dead skin cause the pore blockage which causes acne. Some females will get break-outs around the time of their monthly period. This is caused by the hormone fluctuations caused by menstruation. Fortunately for females with hormonal break-outs, birth control can help to maintain a steady level of hormones.

A common misconception about teens with acne is that they have bad hygiene or eat a lot of greasy food. This is only a myth, and proves untrue for most people. Wash your face twice a day, especially after exercise, to get rid of excess oil. Avoid harsh soaps that can irritate and damage skin. Never pick your face because this could lead to increased irritation and life-long scarring.

Stress can be a cause of acne for teens. Unfortunately, this is an inevitably stressful phase of life. Teens with acne suffer from the emotional side of acne just as much as the physical side. Your face is the first thing that most people see when they look at you. Low self-esteem is a problem that almost all teens with acne will battle with. Depression over acne can cause withdrawal from social interactions, decreased attendance in school, and general avoidance of family and friends. Some teens develop social anxiety that can interfere with every aspect of day to day life

Some teens with acne decide to purchase topical cleansers from the store when they first start to develop acne. Sensitive skin will not react well with most over-the-counter treatments. It can cause itching, redness, burning, and general worsening of the condition. If the acne does not clear up after a few weeks of usage, you should consult a dermatologist. He/She can prescribe a more effective antibiotic that is more suited to the individual problem. Everyone’s skin if different so it may take more than one try to find what is right for you.

Common treatments suggested for teens with acne are Benzoyl Peroxide and retinoids. Benzoyl Peroxide kills acne causing bacteria and is used topically. Retinoids, such as Accutaine or Roaccutane, unclog pores and helps the process of skin renewal. There are side effects with using retinoids, such as depression, so usage is closely monitored by a dermatologist.

Acne is not the end of the world. It is completely normal and so common that people really don’t look down on others for not having perfect skin. Some teens with acne grow out of it before they finish high school. Others will grow out of it by the time they reach adulthood. Almost every case of acne can be treated effectively and if acne scars happen to form, there are also treatments available to reconstruct the smoothness of your skin.

There are many different types of blemishes that you can get on your face. They are all generally called acne but when it comes to treatment, it is important to know exactly what is going on with your skin. People with acne are usually familiar with whiteheads (milium), however they don’t know what causes them or how to get rid of them. The difference between this and a blackhead is that blackheads are exposed to oxygen which causes the black appearance.

A whitehead is a build-up of oils and dead skin that plugs up your pores. It is embedded under the skin so it appears as a raised white bump. These are also referred to as „closed comedones“. This is because the pore is not open and oxygen never comes in contact with it. They are caused by hardened oils under the skin that are clogging the pores, which is the cause of most acne to begin with. Some dermatologists believe that people with frequent outbreaks may produce a drier oil than normal, which makes them susceptible to getting clogged pores. If you wear make-up, avoid using anything that is greasy to prevent all forms acne. Another acne preventing precaution is to wash your pillowcase regularly as well as your hair. This will prevent old dirt and oils from rubbing off onto your skin and causing irritation.

If you are experiencing a problem with whiteheads, there are many treatment options available that could clear your skin right up. The Derma Cleanse Acne Treatment System cleans, tones, and detoxifies your skin. It also regulates the hormones in your body to normalize the oil secretion. You do not have to see a dermatologist to get this medicine, even though it is recommended by most of them. Using a deep pore cleanser can prevent whiteheads from ever forming. It could also help to gently dislodge existing spots over time. Even though the chance of scarring from a whitehead is very unlikely, you should still never attempt to remove them yourself. It will only damage your skin and cause an infection. The contents leaking onto your skin can also cause more acne to form. A doctor can remove them individually for you in his office, using sterile tool.

If you prefer to use a prescription provided by your dermatologist than deal with your whiteheads, a commonly prescribed medicine is Differin gel. It is a topical retinoid treatment that works to reduce inflammation involved with acne, as well as increases cell formation. It is more effective than other medicines such as Retin-A and it is also less irritating. It is alcohol free and it light and non-greasy. For patients with extremely sensitive skin, there is also less-harsh Differin cream. Most people with whiteheads also suffer from other forms of acne that this medicine would be beneficial to use for as well. He/She may also choose to prescribe an oral contraceptive as a way to regulate hormones in females. This is also beneficial in clearing up most types of acne.

Acne can happen to anyone. It shows up primarily in the face and can cause embarrassment and even avoidance of going out in public. Some people only experience light, occasional break-outs. Unfortunately for others, this problem can go on for years and requires treatment. There are several choices when it comes to healing yours. A dermatologist is recommended for severe or frequent blemishes. Natural Acne Treatment is the ideal remedy for milder cases.

Natural Acne treatment is simple. Changing your diet or taking herbs and vitamins to cleanse and provide additional nutrition could be enough to clear your skin up.

You should eliminate sugars, oils, and fats from your diet as much as possible. They are not part of a good balanced diet and are all unhealthy to begin with. Drinking water instead of sugary soda and eating a vegetable snack instead of you usual chips is not a difficult change to make. The healthier you are overall will reflect the health of your skin.

It has been debated that diet has no effect on acne. Diet alone is not a suitable natural acne treatment. However, modifying your diet in addition to taking certain vitamins can clear up your skin.

Taking certain vitamins is a great natural acne treatment used by many people. Zinc can prevent acne from ever occurring. It also heals existing blemishes. Vitamin A in low doses reduces the production of your skin’s natural oil, called sebum. Certain herbal blends can also help to benefit your body and your skin.

The advantages to natural acne treatment are that you avoid ever having to see a dermatologist, your body will benefit from healthier eating, and you are not exposing your skin to harsh chemicals. Visiting a dermatologist to take care of your acne can get expensive. It usually requires many follow-up visits and paying for prescriptions. This can also be time consuming and overall just not worth it if your acne is not severe enough to actually require it. Not consuming greasy foods will keep your system clean, which is beneficial to your overall health as well as your skin. Typical acne medicines contain ingredients that can cause your skin to be sensitive to sunlight or even worsen your condition.

Modifying your diet and taking vitamins are not the only options that you have as natural acne treatment. You could suffer from stress-induced acne. Ways to reduce stress in your life can differ from person to person because everyone gets stressed out by different things. Exercising and getting plenty of rest could help to calm the stress in your life. Perhaps taking a walk or practicing yoga would help you to relax and clear your mind to be stress-free. A life without stress could be a life without suffering from acne. Natural treatment may not be the answer to your acne, depending on the cause of it. Experimenting is an easy and painless method to try, and it could save you a lot of money if it is right for you.

Unsightly scars that appear on the face are usually the result of severe acne. Cystic acne or common acne that has ruptured are the main causes. It is a common problem that most people desire to have corrected as soon as their acne finally clears up. There is the option to have a procedure done in a doctor’s office to fade acne scars, as well as things you can do yourself at home.

Some people would be pleased with the appearance of their face if only they could just find a way to fade their acne scars. These are usually attention-drawing red or purple and are hard to cover up. Since scars are permanent, it is desirable to find a way to lessen their appearance. There are over-the-counter creams that can gradually fade acne scars. Mederma is available without prescription and even offers a money-back guarantee. It doesn’t claim to completely rid your face of scars, but it will visibly fade them. Mederma is expensive but one tube can go a long way. And if the scar fades then repeated usage is not necessary. If the scar is indented, the appearance of the scar is mainly caused by the shadow. The way this is treated it through basic collagen injections.

There are skin resurfacing treatments available that can reduce the visibility of acne scars. They usually require more than one visit and could become expensive. The common procedures done to fade acne scars are dermabrasion and laser treatment. The long-term safety of laser treatment is uncertain so there has been controversy and debate surrounding this procedure. Dermabrasion is safe but you will have to endure recovery afterwards.

Daily exfoliation and application of Vitamin E oil is an effective way to fade acne scars cheaply at home. Most people do not want to spend a lot of money on something cosmetic and this is a very safe way. The longer the scar has been present, the more difficult it will be to alter its appearance. It may be possible to fade acne scars at home if they are mild. Lemon juice has been a success in fading scars for many people. The citric acid that it contains help to remove dead skin cells, increase skin elasticity, and help new cell growth. It could be irritating for people with sensitive skin but it will most likely fade the scars. Aloe Vera is also known for its healing ability and could also help to fade scars. The best aloe to use is determined by how much of it is combined with inactive ingredients that can dilute the healing properties.

An exfoliating serum that you can purchase is the Bliss Sleeping Pill Serum. It uses amino acids to exfoliate you skin and lighten dark scars. Another over-the-counter way to fade acne scars is with a product called Advance Complex Fade Gel. It is used for treatment of dark spots, such as scars, and is specially formulated for people with dark skin. It also contains sunscreen to keep the dark spots from ever coming back.

Do you avoid mirrors and hide your face because of ugly acne scars? Acne is a common problem among people of all ages, especially teenagers. Perhaps your skin has cleared up and you are left with embarrassing scars that you don’t know how to get rid of. It could effect you psychologically as well as emotionally. Luckily for you, there are various treatments for acne scar removal.

The first step you should take in this process is to consult a dermatologist. Acne scar removal procedures have become very common. Remember when choosing a method of removal, consider the condition of your skin. If you have sensitive skin you should try the least abrasive procedure available. Acne scar removal is the key to regaining smooth and healthy looking skin.

Some acne scar removal options are dermabrasion, collagen injections, steroid injections, laser treatment, radiotherapy, or chemical peels. Some treatments may not completely remove all scars but the appearance of most of them will lessen dramatically. Your doctor’s recommendation toward a certain procedure depends on the type and severity of the scarring.

Dermabrasion is a procedure done under local anesthetic in which the doctor will remove the top layers of skin with a sanding instrument. It is one of the most effective treatments available for facial scar removal. It is not recommended for people with darker skin because it could reveal lighter layers of skin, which could cause another problem with your appearance.

Collagen injections are a less permanent solution to acne scars. They generally last from 3-6 months and require future injections to maintain their effect.

Steroid injections are a long term treatment for acne scar removal. The side effects of this procedure are minimal, but there is a chance that the scars will still remain visible.

Laser treatment is still in an experimental phase. The use of a vasecular laser may fade the color of scars. A carbon dioxide laser may flatten scars and resurface the skin, however this effect is not definite. This procedure is not recommended due to the uncertainty in the safety of the treatment.

Radiotherapy is a controversial treatment and is only recommended for extreme cases. It is used to prevent the reoccurrence of severe scarring. The long-term side effects, even in the small doses of this treatment, is the risk of cancer induced by radiation.

A chemical peel is a minor form of surgery that can be done by a cosmetologist. This is usually the solution to getting rid of minor scarring. A layer of skin is removed by the application of chemicals. Afterwards, a new layer of skin can form and reduce your scars.

For some people, more than one type of treatment is necessary for the best outcome. Each person’s face and skin are different and it is necessary to research these and other procedures available for you. Realistically, some people may not get rid of the appearance of scars completely.

Choosing the right dermatologist is as important as choosing your treatment. Qualifications and experience are key factors to look at. You can read about a dermatologist in any area online (www.IEnhance.com/physician). Acne scar removal can get expensive so you shouldn’t rush to give your money to just anyone. A good doctor will work closely with you to get your skin appearing as clear and smooth as possible.

Scarring as a result of acne can be permanent and depressing. Acne scar prevention is important to anyone who gets blemishes because scars are a permanent reminder of your struggle with bad skin. A scar is characterized by a discolored, slightly raised, or slightly indented mark that remains visible for an extended period of time. After a blemish heals, within a few weeks you should not be able to tell what was once there.

Acne scar prevention is quite simple. Severe cases of acne should never be left untreated. Cystic acne is the most prevalent in causing scar. Visit a dermatologist so he can figure out the best method to treatment of your acne. He/She may choose to inject a corticosteroid into a cyst to decrease the inflammation if it appears bad enough to cause a scar. Avoid rupturing pimples at all costs. Rupturing the wound will dramatically increase the possibility of scars. Squeezing or picking at a spot will also make an infection worse.

If you suffer from acne, it is best to find a good medicine. Acne scar prevention is much easier to accomplish if there is a minimal amount of infections to maintain. Over-the-counter medicines work for most people, but if it is desired, a dermatologist could assist you in prescribing the best treatment for your skin.

Boosting the healing process and decreasing the inflammation of acne works best for acne scar prevention. Being directly exposed to the sun slows down healing and can further the irritation to an existing blemish. Always wear a good, non-greasy sunscreen if you plan to be outside for an extended amount of time. Leave scabs that form to fully run their course. Scabs are present to heal and rebuild your skin to its best condition. Removing a scab before it should come off can re-infect the area and cause increased inflammation.

If your skin has developed scars before you learned proper acne scar prevention, there are ways to correct them. Simple procedures such as chemical peels or dermabrasion can be performed to re-establish the appearance of healthy and clear skin. It can be a painful and expensive process depending on the condition of the scarring. More than one type of treatment may be necessary in some cases to get the best result. A dermatologist is the best person to determine what is right for you. Unfortunately in some instances, scars may still be vaguely present even after numerous scar removal procedures.

Remember that acne scar prevention is a process and its takes work, but it is worth it. Some people just want to not worry with their acne and just hope that it clears up on its own. If you don’t take care of your acne or your skin, then it could leave ugly scars on your face. Scars cause skin to prematurely appear old and discolored. Then you will have lasting memory of the time you had trouble with acne and regret that you didn’t take precautions when you still had the chance.

Most people will suffer from acne at some point in their life. Everyone’s skin condition and chemistry are different so there can be no set remedy to prevent or clear existing acne. The good news is that it can be treatable. People make the mistake of letting it run its course, thinking they will outgrow it. Sometimes that is just not good enough.

With so many acne medications available over-the-counter or by prescription, it can be frustrating finding one that works. But something out there will work for you if you just keep trying. If you find that you are getting nowhere with your acne, try finding something more specific to your skin type.

Common over-the-counter (OTC) acne medications available are: Stri-dex, Clearasil, Oxy, Neutrogena On-the-Spot, Cetaphil, and Persa-Gel 10. These can be found in most drug and grocery stores. The prices may vary ($4-$14) but price does not necessarily mean it will work the best on your acne. There is also a variety in the form of the medication, such as: gels, lotions, creams, and medicated pads. The form of the acne medication does not usually effect how well it treats your skin. Do not be discouraged if a product that you try makes your acne worse. Sometimes we must take a step back to make progress. Make a note of the ingredients in what you used and, in the future, only use medicines that do not contain any or much of this. You should always read the labels before purchasing a product. You wouldn’t order a dish at a restaurant if you didn’t know what was in it, would you? If you skin is oily, then you may choose to purchase something that is especially for treating oily skin.

If your skin is too sensitive for OTC acne medications that you have tried, then perhaps you should consult a Dermatologist. Some forms of acne can not be treated without a prescription. The doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic instead of a topical acne medication for severe cases. These are commonly used to decrease inflammation that can contribute to acne.

Topical prescription acne medication for severe cases of acne usually contains retinoids. Retinoids prevent blackheads and whiteheads, while un-clogging your pores. The downside to this is that you could have increased sensitivity to the sun or develop an irritation. It is possible for fine lines and wrinkles to be reduces with this treatment, which is a bonus advantage to having younger and healthier looking skin.

In addition to typical acne medication options, there are some home remedies include treating with Hydrogen Peroxide, toothpaste, or diluted alcohol. If you experiment with these, you may end up with a cheap solution to your acne. Peroxide could speed up the healing process of existing acne. It kills germs to drastically reduce inflammation. Toothpaste can be applied lightly on spots that appear before the actual acne has formed. Usually, this is left on overnight and washed off in the morning. It dries up excess oils that can contribute to the formation of acne. Pure alcohol should never be applied to the skin. However, if you dilute it half with water to gently wash your face, you can dry up excess oils without completely drying out your skin.

Acne is a common problem and getting treated is nothing to be ashamed of. No one should have to live with the embarrassment of acne. There is an effective method out there for you, as long as you are willing to take the time to find it.

A lot of people suffer from acne. Anyone with acne has one goal in mind: to get rid of it. The severity of the condition will vary between people, as will the effectiveness of certain treatments. You shouldn’t have to deal with the embarrassment of blemishes on your face. The prescription and over-the-counter medications vary in price and effectiveness toward your skin. But why not try a few acne home remedies first? You may find something that works for you from your very own bathroom or kitchen.

The main purpose of an acne medication is to unclog your pores and calm inflammation. Acne home remedies are usually not for extreme cases, but more aimed at the mild to occasional blemishes. Some acne home remedies sound a little silly, and are not tested or proven by a real dermatologist. Some home remedies may worsen your condition or not effect it at all. You should be aware of this possibility before you try any of these. Common acne home remedies include: salt water, toothpaste, egg whites, ice, apple cider vinegar, steam, or wheat germ.

Washing your face with warm, mild salt water dries up excess acne-inducing oils. The advantage to using this instead of a normal soap to wash your face is that it is less likely to aggravate the acne or your skin.

Applying a bit of toothpaste on a visible pimple before you go to sleep helps reduce swelling. It also keeps the area free of oils that could make the spot worse. Be sure to use an actual paste because a gel will not have the same effect. This is the most common of all the acne home remedies.

Dab egg whites on a pimple that is already on the surface. If you leave it on overnight, it is said to draw out the infection and speed up the healing process.

Holding a cube of ice on acne before bed should visibly decrease the inflammation and swelling. It may also reduce the chances of scarring after your skin has cleared up.

Placing a cotton ball into apple cider Vinegar and then applying it to your infected area will almost instantly reduce swelling. This works especially well for large inflamed spots.

You are always advised not to squeeze any pimples, however, blackheads will not go away on their own. Opening your pores using steam to can assist you when you are cleaning your face. Take a hot shower or put your head over the vapors of a boiling pot of water.

Wheat germ, which can be found in most stores, is one of the only acne home remedies taken internally. Taking wheat germ with one meal a day can clear your acne and leave your skin softer than it was before because it is rich in helpful vitamins.

The most commonly effective acne home remedies are found in most homes. The benefit of experimenting with these on your blemishes is that you don’t have to go out and buy anything. If it doesn’t work, you didn’t waste any money in the process. If it does help the condition of your acne, then you have a great, cheap solution to your problem.

In today’s world, depression ought to be a major concern. Thousands are reported to suffer from the problem. Potentially thousands more cases of depression are going by unreported and untreated. The fact that sales of antidepressant drugs are fairly consistent serves as concrete proof that the condition is a problem. It has become such a concern that most organizations and systems designed to deal with suicide focus on spotting people with depression, inadvertently ignoring other suicide triggers. While antidepressant drugs are known to be effective in helping ward off the symptoms, there are other things that people have to be concerned over.

Acne is also a problem, though hardly one that is as large a concern as depression ought to be. Unlike mental disorders, acne is easily spotted because it has tell-tale physical signs that mark its presence. On their own, these marks are relatively minor concerns at best and are frustrating annoyances in most cases. However, it is the wide range of side effects that acne can have that is considered to be the real problem. With a myriad of social troubles in store for anyone that develops acne, it is understandable that some would worry about their physical appearance and social standing. This social isolation can result in someone developing depression and turning to antidepressant drugs to help dull the pain. However, depending on the drug, this might just inadvertently make things worse.

For a few years, some antidepressant drugs have been cited as having the side effect of causing acne. In this regard, zoloft is often cited as the primary culprit. There is no concrete medical evidence of such, but there has been more than adequate evidence to prompt various organizations to conduct research. There is also enough evidence to convince some to avoid taking zoloft and other chemically similar antidepressant drugs to avoid developing acne.

There have also been reports of a sort of reversal of this problem manifesting in some patients. In particular, some of the newer topical drugs used to combat acne are being cited as having the side effect of causing users to become depressed. Again, there is little actual chemical evidence, but some pharmaceutical companies have conducted research into the matter and have admitted that there is a possibility.
This puts people in a rather interesting situation. There have been some reports of people with acne taking anti-acne medication and becoming depressed, even as the acne fades. One possibility that might occur from this can result in a patient continually taking antidepressants to combat his depression, which are caused by acne that are the side effect of the very same antidepressants he’s taking in the first place. While the chances of something of that sort happening are relatively low, it can still happen and most of the medical community would rather not have to deal with such a bizarre outcome.

There have also been reports of patients with depression developing acne after being treated with certain antidepressant drugs. These cases have not been directly related to either acne medication or antidepressant drugs, but there are some that believe they’ve found chemical evidence hinting towards a connection. For the time being, however, the medical community is still skeptical. There are warnings against taking anti-acne and antidepressants at the same time, but this is only as a precaution until concrete evidence one way or the other can be determined.

Acne is a skin disorder that affects millions of people around the world. Acne occurs when there is an excessive secretion of sebum, a substance from the hair follicles. The excess secretion becomes the target for dust and bacteria to accumulate to later develop into acne.

Acne can affect people of all ages and races. But occurrence of acne is very high among adolescent people. According to studies, almost 85 percent of adolescents and young adults within the age range of 12 and 24 years old develop acne to a varying degree.

During adolescence, the hormonal levels of a person become elevated and they stimulate the sebaceous glands which are attached to the hair follicles. As an effect, greater amount of sebum is secreted.

The ages of 10 and 13 are when young people are most vulnerable to acne. Normally, acne usually lasts for 5 to 10 years although there are many cases where one experiences acne up until a later age.

People with poor hygiene are at a risk of getting acne. Since acne is caused by bacteria, people who are exposed to dust and dirty and do not wash their faces during bed time will most likely develop acne. Also, a person who uses dirty pillowcases will have higher risk of getting acne.

Acne can also be inherited. So people who have a family history with acne will be at risk of developing acne too.

People who take certain drugs like those used to treat epilepsy and depression may be at risk of acne breakout.

Acne affects both men and women. But among men, the likelihood of getting more severe and long lasting forms of acme is higher compared to women. Even then, more women have close relationships with their dermatologists than men.

Intermittent acne affects women due to hormonal changes that usually come with their menstrual cycle. This kind of acne is also caused by excessive use of cosmetics. Some cosmetics, especially those which are not oil-free or non-comedogenic may actually affect the pores of the skin and later develop acne.

More women compared to men are getting infected with perioral dermatitis characterized by small pustules and papules form on the chin and around the mouth.

Men and women who love to wear tight hats, backpacks, jeans, or any tight gear and paraphernalia are at risk with developing acne because skin friction can create irritation and may eventually trigger acne.

Middle aged adults are most likely to get affected with Acne Rosacea. The effect of this kind of acne includes flushed face and red nose due to inflamed bumps.

Infantile acne affects newborn babies. This is a mild kind of acne caused by fetal hormones. After a few weeks, infantile acne just naturally disappears.

More men are affected with a severe form of acne called Acne conglobata. This kind of acne is an advanced form of nodular cystic acne vulgaris and this can extensively attack the face, chest and back.

Another interesting study states that occurrence of acne is higher among Caucasians compared to other colors.

Let’s face it, you are engaged in an ongoing battle when you are afflicted with acne. While acne treatments for a mild case of acne are usually successful, moderate acne is a greater problem. Even dermatologists cannot cure a severe case of acne but can only provide an acne treatment regimen.

However, you can support your acne treatment efforts with proper acne skin care in order to reduce the recurrence of acne flare-ups and not aggravate existing acne.

Knowing What You’re Doing

One of the first pieces of advice is to make sure that you understand and follow the directions for any acne remedy that you are using. If you are taking a prescription acne medicine, read the patient leaflet that accompanies the medication carefully. Typically for moderate to severe acne a dermatologist may prescribe several acne medicines, each with its own treatment protocol and directions.

In order to achieve the acne free skin that you desire, it is important to use all the acne treatments properly and in the correct order. Consider bringing a tablet of paper, a pen, and a friend or relative with you to your appointment with your dermatologist. Simply jot down some notes about the order and time of day for applying each acne medicine and what its purpose is.

Remember, just because the acne clears with the use of your acne medicines doesn’t necessarily mean that you have succeeded in curing acne. Most people with moderate to severe acne must continue to use their acne medicine long-term to prevent any recurrence of their acne problem. Using the acne treatments properly should translate to clear skin and freedom from acne scars.

What About Over-the-Counter Remedies?

Besides using medications prescribed by a doctor, there are a large number of products on the market labeled as skin cleansers, facial cleansers, pore cleansers, and facial pore cleaners that can be used in curing acne.

When cleansing skin that is afflicted with acne, an important point to remember is not to scrub the skin; never scrub your face with a washcloth. It is a misconception that acne is caused by dirt clogging the pores of the skin. You don’t scrub away the offending dirt; you can’t scrub away the offensive acne and achieve acne free skin.

Over-washing or scrubbing skin afflicted with acne only serves to aggravate the condition. Rather use only a gentle skin cleanser, lukewarm water, and a gentle motion with your fingertips as your primary acne skin care regime. When you wash your face with your hands, be sure to first thoroughly wash your hands.

Do Natural Treatments Really Work?

Look for gentle cleansers that are sold as acne solutions. When you’re evaluating skin cleansers for acne, include natural acne treatments in your search as well. For example, a soap made from Echinacea and other herbal ingredients is an effective antibiotic facial cleanser that helps fight acne and restore clear skin. Tea tree oil also has known antibiotic properties and serves as a mild anesthetic that will soothe the irritated skin.

Oily skin is implicated as a one of the causes of acne. It doesn’t necessarily make sense to use a moisturizer on oily skin as a means of achieving clear skin. But many of the acne treatments, whether they are prescribed or available as over-the-counter products, have a tendency to irritate the skin while curing acne.

A moisturizer is a boost to irritated skin and keeps skin from becoming overly dry due to the acne treatments that have been applied. Look for a moisturizer with the following properties:

– oil-free
– won’t clog pores (non-comodogenic)
– containing a sun-screen

Besides a great desire to just scrub away the acne, many people try to remove the acne pimples by hand as a way to get clear skin. People who are afflicted with acne should avoid touching their face except to gently wash it with mild cleanser as already discussed.

By trying to remove pimples by hand you run the risk of creating acne scars that will last for a lifetime. Instead, have patience and rely on your prescription or over-the-counter acne treatment to work. Acne remedies usually take 6 to 8 weeks before curing acne.

For male acne sufferers, the daily ritual of shaving can be a problem. One acne sufferer has recommended the Gillette Sensor Excel as a gentle and effective razor to use. Other males prefer to try an electric razor. The advice is to shave delicately to avoid nicking the skin and to shave only as often as necessary. Finding a moisturizing shave gel may be one way to enhance your acne skin care program.

Female acne sufferers have their unique problems too, in finding the right cosmetic products to use. Females who are accustomed to using a foundation product may find that the foundation is difficult to apply smoothly if the facial skin becomes irritated due to the acne treatments being applied.

You may have to abandon the use of some cosmetics during the acne treatment period. Be sure to select only oil-free cosmetics and ones that are labeled as non-comodogenic (won’t clog pores) to use on your road to clear skin.

Proper acne skin care is a necessary addition to your arsenal for fighting your battle with acne and achieving clear skin once again.

Have you ever washed your face more than twice a day to clear up your skin? Do you avoid chocolate and greasy foods in the hopes that when you look in the mirror, you won’t see another blemish? Have you ever drank more water, or avoided or increased your exercise to prevent acne flare-ups? If you answered yes to any of the above questions, you’re not alone.

Acne is one of the most common skin disorders affecting nearly 85 percent of all people. While the variety of effective acne treatments continues to grow, so does the number of myths about how to control the condition.

“Although new acne treatments are developed every day, a cure for acne has not yet been discovered. As such, many patients choose to self-treat or experiment with unconventional treatments,” stated by a doctor. “Yet many of these treatments are based on anecdotal observations and have not been rigorously tested by science. The survey indicates that these myths are still affecting how patients care for their acne.”

Myth: Poor Hygiene Worsens Acne

The relationship between face washing and acne has always been greatly misunderstood, with most individuals believing that dirt and poor hygiene contribute to acne. In fact, a recent survey conducted at Stanford University asked participants about what they thought made acne worsen, and the majority, 91 percent, mentioned poor hygiene. “If a patient believes that dirty skin causes acne, they logically conclude that washing their face more often will improve their acne,” said by a doctor. “But dermatologists caution patients against washing too often, as the resulting irritation can exacerbate their acne.”

To determine the scientific validity of this myth, the effects of face washing on acne were recently studied at Stanford University. A group of twenty-four males washed their faces twice a day for two weeks using a mild over-the-counter facial cleanser. Then the participants were randomly selected to wash their faces either once, twice or four times a day for another six weeks. The study found that washing the face either once, twice or four times daily did not significantly change the appearance or condition of acne, and determined that the positive effects of increased facial cleansing are minimal at best. Dermatologists continue to recommend washing the face twice daily to maintain good overall skin health.

Myths: Exercise Can Clear Acne or Exercise Can Worsen Acne

The relationship between acne and exercise continues to show high levels of individual variability. Some believe that exercise and sweating can help clean out the pores, especially on the chest and back; while others note that their skin worsens when they exercise, especially those who use special equipment that rubs against their skin.

In another study conducted at Stanford University of patients with acne, it was determined that exercise-induced sweat does not have a significant positive or negative influence on acne of the chest and back. Twenty-three male participants were assigned to three groups: no exercise, regular exercise
followed by immediate showering and regular exercise followed by delayed showering. The number of acne lesions on the chest and back were counted over a two week period and no difference was noted between the three groups. “Based on the finding of this study, regular exercise can be encouraged for patients with acne,” stated Dr. Boer Kimball. “But they should avoid tight-fitting clothing and equipment. If tight-fitting equipment is required, it should be cleaned on a regular basis.”

Other Acne Myths

While misconceptions about facial hygiene and exercise are still the most commonly recognized acne beliefs, the Stanford survey also found that respondents believed that poor diet and decreased sleep can negatively affect acne. In addition, more than 80 percent of participants believed that increased stress, touching the face and popping pimples exacerbated the condition. Among male and female participants, the only differences noted were that more females believed that increased stress could worsen acne and that drinking more water would improve the quality of their skin. The study also found that some beliefs that were previously popular about acne were no longer viewed as true, including the idea that tanning improves the appearance of acne.

“What this survey and these studies have shown is that substantial differences still exist between popular belief and scientific support, yet this does not change the way patients attempt to care for their acne,” stated by a doctor. “It is important for anyone who is affected by acne to seek the help of a dermatologist who can diagnose and provide treatment options that are specific to the patient’s skin type to effectively address the condition.”

Headquartered in Schaumburg, Ill., the American Academy of Dermatology (Academy), founded in 1938, is the largest, most influential, and most representative of all dermatologic associations. With a membership of more than 14,000 physicians worldwide, the Academy is committed to: advancing the diagnosis and medical, surgical and cosmetic treatment of the skin, hair and nails; advocating high standards in clinical practice, education, and research in dermatology; and supporting and enhancing patient care for a lifetime of healthier skin, hair and nails.

How acne affects people’s lives
„There is no single disease which causes more psychic trauma, more maladjustment between parents and children, more general insecurity and feelings of inferiority and greater sums of psychic suffering than does acne vulgaris.“ –Sulzberger & Zaldems, 1948

While known for quite some time, the psychosocial effects of acne have not been fully appreciated until recently. The reasons for this are many. After all, everyone gets acne to one degree or another. In most cases, it goes away on its own. While it’s running its course, it is not a serious threat to anyone’s overall physical health. In addition, until the last couple of decades, there was very little anyone could do to treat it.

Acne, nonetheless, has a significant impact on a person’s outlook on life. Recent studies have detected the following as common among people with acne:

* Social withdrawal

* Decreased self-esteem

* Reduced self-confidence

* Poor body image

* Embarrassment

* Feelings of depression

* Anger

* Preoccupation

* Frustration

* Higher rate of unemployment

The effects listed above are often interrelated, with one effect leading to another and another, only to make the first effect worse. These negative psychosocial effects can have a crippling impact, discouraging patients from pursuing life’s opportunities–socially, on the job, or at school.

Actual quotes from people with acne
The fact is, people with acne generally hate the way they look with acne. Let people with acne tell you-here are some testimonials about living with acne*:

Verbatim #1
„I don’t look in mirrors…. I am like a vampire–I shy away from mirrors. I comb my hair using my silhouette on the wall to show the outline of my head. I have not looked myself in the eyes in years, and is painful not to be able to do that, and that is a direct result of acne, the acne scarring.“

Like a vampire, hating mirrors! Unable to face himself, how can this person hope to face the world?

Verbatim #2
„I think that if I had more self-esteem about the way I looked, I think I would have been more outgoing. I would have gone to more parties. I probably would have been more outspoken in class and would not have felt so insecure about going up and speaking in front of a group of classmates.“

Here is an extrovert, turned in on himself (or herself) because of acne. Who knows how different things would have been if he didn’t have acne?

Verbatim #3
„It is really humiliating to feel like I have no control over my acne. I hold my head down and I am ashamed to look at: people, embarrassed. I am 25 years old and to be acting this way is very frustrating.“

In just three sentences, this person revealed humiliation, lack of control, shame, embarrassment and frustration. With the treatments available today, there is no reason to suffer like this.

Verbatim #4
„It’s associated with being dirty, and I hate that, because it’s not at all like that. I inherited it from my mother, and she’s always telling me that she had the exact same thing and that it will go away. I am mad that I inherited it from her. My dad makes me feel bad because he never had bad skin when he was younger, so he doesn’t understand…. I hate that the first thing people see when they look at me is bad skin. I really. really hate that.“

Myths about acne are a common source of family conflict. Teenagers tend to be rebellious anyway–do they need to have acne misinformation driving another wedge between them and their parents? One myth that makes this family situation worse: The notion that nothing can be done to clear serious acne sooner than if it were left alone.

Verbatim #5
„I feel like I don’t look right no matter how hard I try to dress up and look nice–there is always that area of pimples there, and it is very unsettling. There really hasn’t been a day gone by that I don’t think about it, or look at my face…. Should I spend that much energy on it? I could be doing other things…instead of wasting 5 to 10 minutes every day looking at my face in the mirror, or playing with it, picking at my acne.“

This person is so preoccupied with acne that he almost neurotically picks at it. He is also clearly frustrated, as acne thwarts all attempts at achieving a good appearance.

These testimonials show the extent of the psychological, emotional and social disturbances that acne can cause. Clearing up the acne would relieve the source of these disturbances, but many people don’t realize that something can be done.

Many myths about acne, especially regarding diet and hygiene, are still considered to be true. And many parents and older siblings are stuck in the attitude of past generations that nothing can really be done but wait it out.

Making matters worse, there is confusion among people with acne and their families about what works and what doesn’t. They are often frustrated by products that promise to clear skin but that don’t work for them.

Some nonprescription products may be more effective than others, but dermatologists have treatments that work just about 100% of the time. Most cases of acne can be cleared up with the right treatment.

Kerwin Chang writes for http://www.acnestuff.net where you can find out more about acne and other skin care topics.