السبت، 6 أكتوبر 2012

tea tree oil a new natural remedy for acne

Tea tree oil a new natural remedy for acne

If you`re an acne sufferer, then you know the frustration of searching for an acne product that actually helps your skin. Chances are you`ve tried everything on the market and were left less than satisfied (and with a much lighter wallet!). The mainstream commercial products you`ve tried may work for a while, but the harsh chemicals in these products tend to make skin worse over time. Tea tree oil offers an alternative remedy for acne, and more than one study has demonstrated its effectiveness.

One study at the Prince Alfred Hospital in Australia revealed tea tree oil`s ability to perform just as well as a common over-the-counter acne treatment, without the side effects. Researchers wrote:

"We have performed a single-blind, randomised clinical trial on 124 patients to evaluate the efficacy and skin tolerance of 5% tea-tree oil gel in the treatment of mild to moderate acne when compared with 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion. The results of this study showed that both 5% tea-tree oil and 5% benzoyl peroxide had a significant effect in ameliorating the patients` acne by reducing the number of inflamed and non-inflamed lesions (open and closed comedones), although the onset of action in the case of tea-tree oil was slower. Encouragingly, fewer side effects were experienced by patients treated with tea-tree oil."

Although the tea tree oil took longer to work initially, there were fewer side effects. In the benzoyl peroxide group, 79 percent of people had side effects including itching, stinging, burning, and dryness. Researchers noted that there were far less side effects in the tea tree oil group.

Another study from the University of Maryland Medical Center tested tea tree oil against benzoyl peroxide. The study included 119 people with mild-to-moderate acne, and tea tree oil proved its worth once again. While the acne in both the tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide group improved, those using tea tree oil reported far less side effects.

Tea tree oil will be kinder to your face than most other commercial treatments. The trick may be in learning how to apply it correctly:

- Test your sensitivity first by applying a couple drops of tea tree oil to the inside of your forearm with a cotton swab. If there is no burning, rash or irritation after two hours you can try a facial treatment.

- If there was some irritation you could still use the tea tree oil, but in a diluted form: five drops tea tree oil with five drops water (or a 50 percent dilution). Retest until you find a dilution that works for you.

- Gently wash your face and then saturate your cotton swab with your tea tree oil solution. Apply this directly to your problem area, and leave it (no rinsing). Do this once in the morning and once at night.

- Once a day you can use an astringent rinse on your face (four drops tea tree oil into one cup of dechlorinated water.)

- Once a week use a healing facial mask by whisking 4 drops of tea tree oil into an egg white. Leave this on your skin for fifteen minutes and then rinse with lukewarm, dechlorinated water.

If any of these steps result in worsening or irritation, discontinue immediately. Also, be sure your tea tree oil is one hundred percent pure because additives might be the cause of an adverse reaction.

Essential oils to treat and heal acne

Essential oils are one of the most effective natural weapons against acne. Topical use of a few specific essential oils can be a first line defense against the bacteria that cause pimples to form. There are also natural skin toning oils that help to close the pores so acne-causing debris are unable to cause inflammation.

Essential oils in general contain some excellent antibacterial properties. However, some of them are not suitable for use on the skin because of their volatile nature. They may either burn the skin or need to be diluted to such a weak solution that they lose their effectiveness.

Two of the most powerful antibacterial oils that are also safe and gentle enough for topical use are lavender and tea tree oil. Tea tree oil is popular for skin applications due to its gentle nature and rare occurrence of allergic reactions. Some don't care for its rather medicinal smell while others like the distinct aroma.

Tea tree oil is derived from the leaves of a tree that grows in Australia called the Melaleuca alternifolia. The leaves of this tree were commonly used as a substitute for tea. Hence, the term "tea tree oil" was born. Prior to its use as an acne remedy, it was primarily used to disinfect scrapes and cuts.

It also may be used as a natural remedy for athlete's foot due to its excellent antimicrobial and antifungal properties. While tea tree oil has many topical applications, it may not be taken orally. Side effects including diarrhea, nausea, and sleepiness may occur if it is taken orally.

Lavender is an essential oil that may be surprising to some as an acne treatment. Lavender is mostly known for its calming qualities. Studies have shown that simply inhaling pure lavender essential oil had calming effects on the brain. It is used in many bath and body products due to its pleasant aroma.

Lavender oil also contains several potent antibacterial compounds. It is gentle enough that it can be used topically on the skin without causing irritation. In the proper dilutions, it can be a wonderful addition to an acne skin care routine. It is also excellent as an additive in natural acne skin care products.

Lavender oil is commonly used as a burn salve and as a natural cleanser for skin cuts and abrasions as well. It contains properties that help accelerate the wound healing process. This means it may also help accelerate the healing of existing acne lesions.

Another essential oil that may be one to consider for oily acne prone skin is lemongrass. Lemongrass has a pleasant lemon scent. It is great for oily skin since it acts as a natural astringent without over drying the skin.

Lemongrass also contains antibacterial and antimicrobial components. This combination of astringent and antibacterial qualities makes it an excellent choice for acne prone skin.

How to Cure acne at home with known home remedies

Acne is the scourge of adolescence... and for many adults too. Many readers are likely familiar with the more common home remedies for curing acne... tea tree oil, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar and burdock root. However, because acne is such a wide-spread and troubling problem, scientists are continuing to research new natural substances that are effective against this common issue. Both in vitro and human studies conducted over the last four years around the world have uncovered even more natural substances which are effective against acne.

Propionibacterium acnes is the bacteria most frequently linked to acne. This bacteria is almost always present on the skin of adults and adolescents. The bacteria feed off fatty acids found in sebum. If a follicle becomes blocked, the bacteria grow rapidly and secrete substances which break down the skin and form an acne lesion. Therefore, much of the research on natural substances that treat acne have centered around finding substances that are effective against Propionibacterium acnes. Try the following five natural substances for a powerful anti-acne defense.

1. Licorice: Researchers at the Skin Research Institute in Korea conducted research published in July 2008 that explored the role of Chinese herbs as agents against acne. They discovered that Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) had anti-bacterial properties against P. acnes. Apply licorice root extract directly to blemishes and use licorice root tea as a facial wash.

2. Echinacea: Another in vitro study conducted at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada used a standardized preparation of Echinacea against P. acnes. This research was published in September 2009 and showed that Echinacea both killed the bacteria and helped reverse inflammation brought on by the bacteria. Consume Echinacea internally in the form of either organic tea or capsules and apply Echinacea extract directly to pimples as an "on the spot" treatment.

3. Resveratrol: Researchers at the University of Naples in Naples, Italy published research in April 2011 that showed that the administration of a resveratrol containing gel improved acne symptoms in patients previously afflicted. Resveratrol is a substance naturally produced by grapes and other plants. The researchers in this experiment applied resveratrol gel once a day to acne-prone skin.

4. Basil Oil: Researchers at Naresuan University in Thailand conducted an in vitro study on the effect various basil oil preparations have on P. acnes. They discovered that sweet basil oil and holy basil oil were shown to have significant anti-bacterial effects against P. acnes. In this study, the sweet basil oil had higher activity against P. acnes than the holy basil oil did, although they both were active against it. Dilute basil oil in a carrier oil (such as coconut oil) and apply to the skin to control acne.

5. Hops: Another study conducted in Washington D.C. and published in July 2007 showed that hops extract had significant activity against the most common acne-causing bacteria. Hops extract can be used externally as an astringent to cleanse the skin and to prevent acne outbreaks.

Acne is an embarrassing and annoying condition, but using one or more of the aforementioned lesser known home remedies for curing will get your skin looking clean and clear again.

Best Alternate treatment for chronic acne sufferers

(NaturalNews) Certain pharmaceutical medications prescribed for acne sufferers come with serious side effects. Many sufferers, desperate to be rid of their embarrassing acne, have found out too late that their treatment choice can cause severe, life-threatening diseases. Using a more natural skin care protocol, orally and/or topically, comes without harmful side effects and is often less expensive.

Severe acne can cause permanent scarring and, in many cases, severe psychological damage. Not surprisingly, many chronic sufferers are prepared to try products with seemingly impressive results, but which come with damaging side effects.

A certain brand name medication, which was discontinued two years ago, is still sold as a generic in many parts of the world. These generic products have been linked to a myriad of adverse reactions, including disruption to the development of a foetus, birth defects, clinical depression and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is the name for a group of serious digestive tract disorders that include ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Lesser side effects include eye irritation, nose bleeds, raised blood sugar levels and decreased libido.

Chronic acne sufferers, who are prepared to try harmful and often dangerous acne products, should be fully aware of the facts before doing so, and may want to try an alternate protocol, which will not damage their health permanently.

Oral skin care for acne

An oral skin protocol for acne may include:

Vitamin A has been proven to maintain healthy eyes and skin. A healthcare professional should be consulted before self-administering, as excess doses of Vitamin A are toxic.

Guggulipid (Commiphora mukul) is an herb used in Indian medicine to improve blood lipid profiles. It is closely related to the herb myrrh. Guggulipid is said to reduce acne lesions.

Niacin, zinc, and a good probiotic formula taken on a daily basis may help in treating acne or rosacea.

Topical acne skin care

Creams containing the following ingredients may be recommended in the treatment of acne:

Alpha lipoic acid, collagen and vitamins A, C and E may contribute to skin healing.

Chamomile, cat's claw and geranium extract help with inflammation and redness.

Echinacea, tea tree and white willow bark have antibacterial/anti-fungal properties - they have shown to be a useful remedy for acne and boils.

Witch hazel, citrus extracts and calendula are powerful astringents, which makes them useful in fighting acne.

Facial masks made from seaweed extract and bentonite clay are said to calm the skin and aid healing for acne sufferers.

How to Use thyme as a natural cure for acne

(NaturalNews) During the 1950s and '60s, there was almost no way to get through puberty acne-free. Then the magnitude of acne-faced teens dissipated. Now acne, also known as pimples or zits, seems to be making comeback.

As acne becomes more prevalent so are the pharmaceutical solutions dispensed by dermatologists. You know, the folks who say sunshine will cause skin cancer and recommend you lather up with those carcinogenic sunscreens.

If you or someone you know is concerned about the presence of pimples, there is a natural, inexpensive solution - thyme.

Out with the pharmaceuticals and in with the thyme

The standard of care from dermatology involves antibiotics or creams containing the chemical benzoyl peroxide. Antibiotics used may kill the Propionibacterium acne (P. acne) that's associated with acne breaking out on the skin's surface.

That bacterium usually resides in healthy skin in low amounts without incident. But when trapped in enlarged pores with oil and dead skin cells, this anaerobic critter thrives, colonizes and creates those little pus pockets on top of sores.

But, anything containing benzoyl peroxide is liable to create irritation or other side effects and long term antibiotic use kills the good bacteria that help ward off other diseases. Administered orally or even intravenously for acne, antibiotics manage to kill off both the beneficial and problem-causing bacteria.

In addition, these potent antibiotics can weaken the immune system and add to P. acne's antibiotic resistance, which could be life threatening if the P. acne bacterium colonizes elsewhere -- like in the brain.

A thyme-based tincture has proven to be a more effective topical solution without side effects than benzoyl peroxide creams, according to recent research at Leeds Metropolitan University in Leeds, UK. The thyme tinctures, not essential oils, proved highly effective at soothing the skin and killing the Propionibacterium acne.

In addition to the healing and antiseptic attributes of the herb thyme, the alcohol base used for the tincture adds more antiseptic qualities. The tincture can be applied with a cotton ball, gauze, or sprayed on from a mist spray bottle.

You can make your own long lasting thyme tincture or any other herbal tincture inexpensively

You can alternately combine thyme with green tea. Simply mix a half cup of chopped thyme and several teaspoons of green tea leaves into two cups of water. Bring it to a boil and let is steep until it completely cools. You can keep it in a refrigerator for a week or more and apply with a cotton ball daily.

There you have it, a couple of zits-no-more protocols that defy Big Pharma and keep you away from dermatologist fees.

الأحد، 9 سبتمبر 2012

the Best Acne Treatment for You

Acne is a very common, sometimes serious skin condition. While mild cases of acne can usually be treated with over-the-counter products, more severe cases may require the expertise of a dermatologist who can recommend prescription drugs.

“The medications one uses for acne depend on type and severity,” says Adelaide A. Hebert, MD, a professor in the dermatology department at the University of Texas-Houston Medical School.

Acne treatment may involve combinations of different kinds of medication: Some remove the dead skin and oils that clog pores and create acne, while other types of acne treatment target the formation of cysts typical of severe acne. Still other acne treatment works by attacking overgrowths of Propionibacterium acnes, a type of bacteria that occurs naturally on your skin but can cause acne when its growth is uncontrolled .

In talking to your dermatologist about acne treatment, you should be familiar with the types of treatment your doctor might recommend.

Prescription Medications for Acne

Acne treatments include:

Retinoids. These are chemical products based on vitamin A. They’re effective against blackheads and whiteheads as well as severe, or inflammatory, acne.

“Retinoids work by exfoliating the clogged pores (removing dead skin cells),” says dermatologist Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, of the University of Miami Cosmetic Center. “This class includes Differin (adapalene), which is good for sensitive skin; Retin A and Renova (tretinoin), which is good for most patients; and Tazorac (tazarotene), which is good for severe cases.”

All are prescription medications. Dr. Woolery-Lloyd warns that each of these acne treatments can cause skin irritation when you first use them, but this should clear up within two weeks.

Common forms of acne such as whiteheads, blackheads, and inflammatory acne can be treated with retinoids, says Dr. Hebert, whereas cystic acne requires stronger medication, such as isotretinoin (Sotret, Claravis, Amnesteem, Accutane). Despite the serious side effects associated with isotretinoin, including birth defects, seizures, and stroke, Hebert says, “If you have true, severe, scarring acne and no other risk factors, it’s still the best choice.” Nevertheless, because of isotretinoin’s risks, it’s important that you remain under the close supervision of a doctor while taking it.

Benzoyl peroxide. “Benzoyl peroxide works as an antibacterial,” Woolery-Lloyd explains. That means that this acne treatment fights germs that could be contributing to your acne. It is available over the counter and by prescription.

“Benzoyl peroxide also can be drying, but is well tolerated by most people," she says. One significant drawback to this acne treatment is that it bleaches any hair or fabric it comes into contact with.

Antibiotics. Topical antibiotics are creams applied to your skin. They fight bacteria that could be contributing to your acne. Occasionally, a dermatologist might prescribe an antibiotic to be taken by mouth for acne. If your doctor recommends an oral antibiotic, you should know that they often increase sensitivity to sun, Woolery-Lloyd says.

Oral antibiotics prescribed for acne include:

Tetracycline, doxycycline, or minocycline

Erythromycin

Topical antibiotics for acne include:

Azelaic acid

Clindamycin

Erythromycin

Sodium sulfacetamide

Birth control pills: Another prescription medication that may be useful in women with acne is an oral contraceptive, which can help regulate hormones that may be contributing to your acne.

Many dermatologists recommend combinations of medications, such using a topical antibiotic with a retinoid. No matter which acne treatments you use, if they’re not working and you continue to have bouts of acne, talk to your doctor. You may need to step up your program, or change it a little, for better results.

Best ways to Remove Acne Scars

If acne scars are making you self-conscious or embarrassed about your skin, learn about treatments that can remove or reduce their appearance. These acne scar treatments are not cure-alls, and insurance usually doesn’t cover them, but they do help to minimize the appearance of scars.

Types of Acne Scars

Some acne scars are permanent and some go away over time. Acne scars may be in the form of:

Macules. These are flat, red spots where an acne lesion was once located. They can persist for a number of weeks and then fade on their own.

Skin discoloration. Sometimes a healed acne scar leaves discolored skin, which is also called post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation. Skin discoloration can remain visible for months after an acne lesion has healed.

Tissue scars. Some types of acne can leave scars that appear as enlarged, raised growths of tissue. These acne scars may be called keloids or hypertrophic scars, and are caused by excess production of collagen in your skin.

Loss of tissue. More common than raised tissue scars are the acne scars that are caused by a loss of tissue. These acne scars are called ice-pick scars, depressed fibrotic scars, soft scars, atrophic macules, or follicule macular atrophy. They tend to appear sunken and look like pits in the skin.

Acne-Scar Removal Options

Whether you decide to have your acne scars treated is a personal decision. Some people choose to have their acne scars removed because they’re emotionally affected by the appearance of the scars. Others have acne scars that are severe and disfiguring and choose to have them removed to restore the appearance of their skin.

If you have acne scars, consult a dermatologist as soon as possible. He or she can recommend treatments for your scars and discuss ways you can prevent future scarring.

Common scar removal treatments include:

Dermabrasion. This very effective scar removal treatment uses a high-speed brush or other instrument to resurface your skin and remove or reduce the depth of scars. You will typically need several days to heal afterward.

Micro-dermabrasion. For this less intensive type of dermabrasion, a dermatologist or aesthetician uses a spray of very small crystals instead of a high-speed brush to remove surface skin. More than one treatment may be required, and there is no downtime.

Chemical peels. Chemical peels can reduce the appearance of shallow acne scars and post-inflammatory hyper-pigmentation around a healed acne lesion. A chemical peel may be administered by a doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, or spa aesthetician and involves applying a chemical to your skin to remove its outer layer, giving it a smoother, more even appearance. Depending on the strength of the acid used, you may experience redness and peeling for a few days afterward.

Retinoic acid. Certain tissue scars should not be treated with traditional acne scar removal treatments. Instead, retinoic acid cream applied directly to the scar can help reduce its appearance, especially in the case of keloid scars.

Lasers. Your dermatologist can use a laser to remove the outer layer of your skin, contour areas of acne scars, or lighten redness around healed acne lesions. Various types of lasers are used, depending on whether the acne scar is raised or flat. More than one laser treatment may be required and, depending on the laser used, you may need to several days to heal.

Fillers. A substance such as collagen, hyaluronic acid, or fat can be used to "fill out" certain types of acne scars, especially those that have resulted in a depressed appearance of the skin. Since fillers are eventually absorbed into your skin, you will have to repeat filler injections, usually every few months, depending on the type of product used. There is no downtime for recovery from this treatment.

Punch excisions. This type of skin surgery removes acne scars by individually excising, or cutting out, the scar. The hole left by the incision can be repaired with stitches or a skin graft. This technique is most often used to treat pitted acne scars.

Skin grafting. With skin grafting, your doctor will use a small piece of normal skin to fill in an area of scarred skin. Skin grafts are usually taken from skin behind your ear. This technique may also be used when an acne scar removal treatment, such as dermabrasion, leaves a large tunnel in your skin.

Remember that while these treatments can improve your skin’s appearance, they may not be able to completely restore it. Be realistic with your expectations, but explore your options with a dermatologist.