Acne 101: Tackling troubled teen skin
Jul 22, 2010 1:40 AM by Laura Owens
Battling Acne
Most of us, 85% in fact, are hit with zits sometime in our lives. Blemishes and acne can pop up on our face, neck, back, chest and shoulders. And while it isn’t a serious health risk, severe cases can cause permanent scarring on our outside, and inside.
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Conventional treatmentsDermatologists, doctors who specialize in skin problems, often treat acne, particularly in severe cases. Family or general practitioners, pediatricians, or internists may treat milder forms. OTC topical drug treatments: Over-the-counter (OTC) medications include salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and sulfur and are available in many forms including gel, lotion, cream, soap, or pads. Used regularly, they can be moderately effective. They may take 4-8 weeks to have a positive effect. Prescription topical drug treatments: The prescription topical drug treatments that are used to treat acne include benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, tretinoin, tazarotene, adapalene, and azelaic acid. Prescription oral drug treatments: For patients with moderate to severe acne, doctors often prescribe oral antibiotics (taken by mouth) in addition to topical medication. Oral antibiotics are thought to help control acne by curbing the growth of bacteria, thereby decreasing inflammation. These medications are usually taken daily for a period of four to six months and then tapered off and discontinued as the acne improves. The most potent oral drug, isotretinoin, is usually taken once or twice a day for 16 to 20 weeks. It is believed to markedly reduce the size of the oil glands so that less oil is produced and to help prevent clogged pores. As a result, the growth of acne-causing bacteria is decreased. However, isotretinoin can cause birth defects in the developing fetuses of women who are pregnant while taking the drug. Women of childbearing age must not be pregnant and must not become pregnant while taking isotretinoin. Acne preventionMore effective than constantly attacking the symptoms of acne is to address the underlying causes that you can control: Cut caffeine. At least cut back on those sodas and coffees. Caffeine stimulates the glands to produce sebum that clogs pores and hair follicles. Get moving. Exercise is one of the best cures for acne. While it does stimulate sweat glands, it keeps them working to remain unclogged which prevents flare-ups. It's important to rinse your face after heavy exercise. Eliminate or reduce highly processed foods, sugars, grains. Dr. Mercola explains that refined carbohydrates and sugar cause a surge of insulin and an insulin-like growth factor called IGF-1 in the body. This can lead to an overproduction of male hormones, which cause pores in the skin to secrete sebum. In addition, IGF-1 causes skin cells known as keratinocytes to multiply, a process that is associated with acne. "Some say acne is a disease of Western civilization because studies have found that the condition is virtually nonexistent in non-westernized societies, where refined carbohydrates and sugar are rarely eaten," writes Dr. Mercola and Rachel Droege in their article, "No-Grain Diet Clears up Acne for Good." Avoid or minimize hot water and chlorine. Dr. Mercola also recommends avoiding chlorine and too much exposure to hot water which can cause oxidative damage. Limit showers to one per day, use a lower water temperature, and decrease soak time in the bath. Add more water. Drink lots of water. Water hydrates the skin and prevents inflammation to keep it healthy and smooth. Don't be picky. Picking or squeezing blemishes can make acne worse. Don't overwash. Don't wash your face too often. Once in the morning and once before bed is enough. Too many soaps and chemicals can trigger acne flare-ups. Pat your face dry after cleansing instead of harsh rubbing which can irritate the skin and inflame acne. Avoid using a lot of different products or harsh chemicals. Too many moisturizers and lotions can clog pores and trigger flare-ups. Dr. Mercola recommends avoiding all harsh, synthetic chemicals, and whenever possible, using only organic skincare products, preferably ones that use nourishing botanicals. Most teenagers battle a blemish here and there but, for those who have chronic acne, just looking in the mirror can become an emotional struggle. Yet, by partnering with parents, teens can tackle the underlying causes of acne and face the world with more confidence and a healthy glow. Resources: More on teen skin care
Please copy edit the 4 articles mentioned below and LMK if you have any questions. These will pay at $7 per article for the extra headache of following her dictates and can be billed to Walgreens with the campaign (COGS) invoice. 1) Teens and Skincare problems,
http://www.sheknows.com/articles/816501/helping-teens-tackle-common-skincare-problems-1
(first mention of Schlessinger needs to be sourced)……"Joel Schlessinger, MD, president-elect of the American Society of Cosmetic Dermatology and Aesthetic Surgery" Tips for Treatment: Sometimes applying a non-perfumed, heavy-duty moisturizer after showering does the trick. This is particularly important after sports and being in cold weather which can dry and irritate skin. Apply moisturizing lotion immediately after showering, bathing, or swimming. "If a moisturizer doesn't help — or if the skin begins 'weeping,' oozing, or it becomes significantly red or itchy, it's time to see a dermatologist, who can prescribe medications that can help," says Schlessinger. Dr. Mercola, however, a leading natural health expert suggests avoiding all invasive techniques and any antiperspirant that contains aluminum…..
2) Tackling Teen Skin http://www.sheknows.com/articles/816502/acne-101-tackling-troubled-teen-skin-1 Stress. High levels of stress is your entire body's enemy, skin is no exception. DELETE SPACE between text CRH (Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone) is released into the blood from the hypothalamus in the brain during times of stress. CRH creates a hormone, called Cortisol (stress hormone) causes oil glands to produce more oil and that leads to skin pores getting blocked. Deep breathing, exercise, massage, joining a teen support group, talking to parents, clergy or a trusted counselor can all help teens deal with stress.
Friction. Irritation caused by leaning on or rubbing the skin; harsh scrubbing can cause acne.
Pressure. Pressure from bike helmets, backpacks, or tight collars can irritate the skin and lead to a breakout.
Prescription oral drug treatments: For patients with moderate to severe acne, doctors often prescribe oral antibiotics (taken by mouth) in addition to topical medication. Oral antibiotics are thought to help control acne by curbing the growth of bacteria, thereby decreasing inflammation. These medications are usually taken daily for a period of four to six months and then tapered and discontinued as the acne improves. The most potent oral drug, isotretinoin, is usually taken once or twice a day for 16 to 20 weeks. It is believed to markedly reduce the size of the oil glands so that much less oil is produced and to help prevent clogged pores. As a result, the growth of acne-causing bacteria is decreased. However, isotretinoin can cause birth defects in the developing fetuses of women who are pregnant while taking the drug. Women of childbearing age must not be pregnant and must not become pregnant while taking isotretinoin.
More effective than constantly attacking the symptoms of acne is to address the underlying causes that you can control:
3 ) Your Teen's Nutritional Needs http://www.sheknows.com/articles/816339/page:2CaloriesAdolescent boys need 2500 to 2800 calories per day, while girls need around 2200 per day. Ideally, the bulk of their calories should come from lean protein, low-fat dairy, whole grains, fruits and veggies. (Last paragraph sounded awkward)Puberty brings dramatic and rapid changes to a teenager's body. As a result, parents should increase certain nutrients in their teen's diet and encourage kids to adopt a lifetime of healthy eating habits.4)Vaccines for Teens http://www.sheknows.com/articles/816340/vaccinations-for-high-school-and-college-freshman-making-the-decision-1Vaccines continue to perplex parents who are concerned about protecting their children against serious diseases while yet who want to avoid potential adverse reactions and immunological side effects. Here are some vaccine facts for parents to ensure their teens are up to date on their vaccines before they head back to school.The CDC suggests parents of college freshmen determine if their child needs "catch-up doses" -- vaccines the child should have received at a younger age. but did not.
Tetanus-diptheria-pertussis vaccine (Tdap): The CDC recommends a booster dose of Tdap at age 11 or 12. If the child is older and has already had a Td booster, the CDC suggests she get a Tdap shot to receive extra protection against pertussis, and then a Td booster dose every 10 years.
Hepatitis A vaccine series: Anyone can get infected with hepatitis A. Some teens however, have a greater risk. These risk factors include traveling outside the United States* (WHAT IS THE ASTERICK SOURCED TO?)
Influenza vaccine: The CDC recommends every person beginning at age 6 months and continuing throughout their lifetime, should receive annual vaccination against influenza every fall or winter. The CDC believes vaccination is the most effective measure you can take to be protected from this serious disease. (I'M CLARIFYING THIS BECAUSE THIS IS NOT WHAT MANY NATURAL HEALTH ADVOCATES BELIEVE,MYSELF INCLUDED).
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