Acne Cream
Questions and Answers About Acne En espaol Health Information Health Topics Order Publications Studies with Patients Patient Research Registries Outreach Programs NIAMS Coalition Members Health Topics PDF version Publication Date January 2006 Questions and Answers About Acne This booklet contains general information about acne. It describes what acne is and how it develops, the causes of acne, and the treatment options for various forms of acne. Information is also provided on caring for the skin. If you have further questions after reading this booklet, you may wish to discuss them with your doctor. What Is Acne? How Does Acne Develop? What Causes Acne? Who Gets Acne? How Is Acne Treated? Treatment for Blackheads, Whiteheads, and Mild Inflammatory Acne Treatment for Moderate to Severe Inflammatory Acne Treatment for Severe Nodular or Cystic Acne Treatments for Hormonally Influenced Acne in Women Other Treatments for Acne How Should People With Acne Care for Their Skin? What Research Is Being Done on Acne? Where Can People Find More Information on Acne? What Is Acne? Acne is a disorder resulting from the action of hormones and other substances on the skin's oil glands (sebaceous glands) and hair follicles. These factors lead to plugged pores and outbreaks of lesions commonly called pimples or zits. Acne lesions usually occur on the face, neck, back, chest, and shoulders. Although acne is usually not a serious health threat, it can be a source of significant emotional distress. Severe acne can lead to permanent scarring. How Does Acne Develop? Doctors describe acne as a disease of the pilosebaceous units (PSUs). Found over most of the body, PSUs consist of a sebaceous gland connected to a canal, called a follicle, that contains a fine hair (see "Normal Pilosebaceous Unit" diagram). These units are most numerous on the face, upper back, and chest. The sebaceous glands make an oily substance called sebum that normally empties onto the skin surface through the opening of the follicle, commonly called a pore. Cells called keratinocytes line the follicle. Normal Pilosebaceous Unit The hair, sebum, and keratinocytes that fill the narrow follicle may produce a plug, which is an early sign of acne. The plug prevents sebum from reaching the surface of the skin through a pore. The mixture of oil and cells allows bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) that normally live on the skin to grow in the plugged follicles. These bacteria produce chemicals and enzymes and attract white blood cells that cause inflammation. (Inflammation is a characteristic reaction of tissues to disease or injury and is marked by four signs: swelling, redness, heat, and pain.) When the wall of the plugged follicle breaks down, it spills everything into the nearby skin – sebum, shed skin cells, and bacteria – leading to lesions or pimples. People with acne frequently have a variety of lesions, some of which are shown in the diagrams below. The basic acne lesion, called the comedo (KOM-e-do), is simply an enlarged and plugged hair follicle. If the plugged follicle, or comedo, stays beneath the skin, it is called a closed comedo and produces a white bump called a whitehead. A comedo that reaches the surface of the skin and opens up is called an open comedo or blackhead because it looks black on the skin's surface. This black discoloration is due to changes in sebum as it is exposed to air. It is not due to dirt. Both whiteheads and blackheads may stay in the skin for a long time. Types of Lesions Other troublesome acne lesions can develop, including the following: Papules – inflamed lesions that usually appear as small, pink bumps on the skin and can be tender to the touch Pustules (pimples) – papules topped by white or yellow pus-filled lesions that may be red at the base Nodules – large, painful, solid lesions that are lodged deep within the skin Cysts – deep, painful, pus-filled lesions that can cause scarring. What Causes Acne? The exact cause of acne is unknown, but doctors believe it results from several related factors. One important factor is an increase in hormones called androgens (male sex hormones). These increase in both boys and girls during puberty and cause the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Hormonal changes related to pregnancy or starting or stopping birth control pills can also cause acne. Another factor is heredity or genetics. Researchers believe that the tendency to develop acne can be inherited from parents. For example, studies have shown that many school-age boys with acne have a family history of the disorder. Certain drugs, including androgens and lithium, are known to cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may alter the cells of the follicles and make them stick together, producing a plug. Factors That Can Make Acne Worse Factors that can cause an acne flare include: Changing hormone levels in adolescent girls and adult women 2 to 7 days before their menstrual period starts Oil from skin products (moisturizers or cosmetics) or grease encountered in the work environment (for example, a kitchen with fry vats) Pressure from sports helmets or equipment, backpacks, tight collars, or tight sports uniforms Environmental irritants, such as pollution and high humidity Squeezing or picking at blemishes Hard scrubbing of the skin Stress. Myths About the Causes of Acne There are many myths about what causes acne. Chocolate and greasy foods are often blamed, but there is little evidence that foods have much effect on the development and course of acne in most people. Another common myth is that dirty skin causes acne; however, blackheads and other acne lesions are not caused by dirt. Stress doesn't cause acne, but research suggests that for people who have acne, stress can make it worse. Who Gets Acne? People of all races and ages get acne. It is most common in adolescents and young adults. An estimated 80 percent of all people between the ages of 11 and 30 have acne outbreaks at some point. For most people, acne tends to go away by the time they reach their thirties; however, some people in their forties and fifties continue to have this skin problem. How Is Acne Treated? Acne is often treated by dermatologists (doctors who specialize in skin problems). These doctors treat all kinds of acne, particularly severe cases. Doctors who are general or family practitioners, pediatricians, or internists may treat patients with milder cases of acne. The goals of treatment are to heal existing lesions, stop new lesions from forming, prevent scarring, and minimize the psychological stress and embarrassment caused by this disease. Drug treatment 1 is aimed at reducing several problems that play a part in causing acne: abnormal clumping of cells in the follicles increased oil production bacteria inflammation. 1 All medicines can have side effects. Some medicines and side effects are mentioned in this booklet. Some side effects may be more severe than others. You should review the package insert that comes with your medicine and ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about the possible side effects. Depending on the extent of the problem, the doctor may recommend one of several over-the-counter (OTC) medicines and/or prescription medicines. Some of these medicines may be topical (applied to the skin), and others may be oral (taken by mouth). The doctor may suggest using more than one topical medicine or combining oral and topical medicines. Treatment for Blackheads, Whiteheads, and Mild Inflammatory Acne Doctors usually recommend an OTC or prescription topical medicine for people with mild signs of acne. Topical medicine is applied directly to the acne lesions or to the entire area of affected skin. There are several OTC topical medicines used for mild acne. Each works a little differently. Following are the most common ones: Benzoyl peroxide – destroys P. acnes , and may also reduce oil production Resorcinol – can help break down blackheads and whiteheads Salicylic acid – helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. Also helps cut down the shedding of cells lining the hair follicles Sulfur – helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. Topical OTC medicines are available in many forms, such as gels, lotions, creams, soaps, or pads. In some people, OTC acne medicines may cause side effects such as skin irritation, burning, or redness, which often get better or go away with continued use of the medicine. If you experience severe or prolonged side effects, you should report them to your doctor. OTC topical medicines are somewhat effective in treating acne when used regularly; however, it may take up to 8 weeks before you see noticeable improvement. Treatment for Moderate to Severe Inflammatory Acne People with moderate to severe inflammatory acne may be treated with prescription topical or oral medicines, alone or in combination. Prescription Topical Medicines Several types of prescription topical medicines are used to treat acne. They include: Antibiotics – help stop or slow the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation Vitamin A derivatives (retinoids) – unplug existing comedones (plural of comedo), allowing other topical medicines, such as antibiotics, to enter the follicles. Some may also help decrease the formation of comedones. These drugs contain an altered form of vitamin A. Some examples are tretinoin (Retin-A 2 ), adapalene (Differin), and tazarotene (Tazorac) Others – may destroy P. acnes and reduce oil production or help stop or slow the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation. Some examples are prescription strength Benzoyl peroxide, sodium sulfacetamide/sulfur-containing products, or Azelaic acid (Azelex). Like OTC topical medicines, prescription topical medicines come as creams, lotions, solutions, gels, or pads. Your doctor will consider your skin type when prescribing a product. Creams and lotions provide moisture and tend to be good choices for people with sensitive skin. If you have very oily skin or live in a hot, humid climate, you may prefer an alcohol-based gel or solution, which tends to dry the skin. Your doctor will tell you how to apply the medicine and how often to use it. For some people, prescription topical medicines cause minor side effects, including stinging, burning, redness, peeling, scaling, or discoloration of the skin. With some medicines, such as tretinoin, these side effects usually decrease or go away after the medicine is used for a period of time. If side effects are severe or don't go away, notify your doctor. 2 Brand names included in this booklet are provided as examples only, and their inclusion does not mean that these products are endorsed by the National Institutes of Health or any other Government agency. Also, if a particular brand name is not mentioned, this does not mean or imply that the product is unsatisfactory. As with OTC medicines, the benefits of prescription topical medicines are not immediate. Your skin may seem worse before it gets better. It may take from 4 to 8 weeks to notice improvement. Prescription Oral Medicines For patients with moderate to severe acne, doctors often prescribe oral antibiotics. Oral antibiotics are thought to help control acne by curbing the growth of bacteria and reducing inflammation. Prescription oral and topical medicines may be combined. Common antibiotics used to treat acne are tetracycline (Achromycin V), minocycline (Dynacin, Minocin), and doxycycline (Adoxa, Doryx, and Monodox). Other oral medicines less commonly used are clindamycin (Cleocin), erythromycin, or sulfonamides (Bactrim). Some people taking these antibiotics have side effects, such as an upset stomach, dizziness or lightheadedness, changes in skin color, and increased tendency to sunburn. Because tetracyclines may affect tooth and bone formation in fetuses and young children, these drugs are not given to pregnant women or children under age 14. There is some concern, although it has not been proven, that tetracycline and minocycline may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Therefore, a backup or another form of birth control may be needed. Prolonged treatment with oral antibiotics may be necessary to achieve the desired results. Treatment for Severe Nodular or Cystic Acne People with nodules or cysts should be treated by a dermatologist. For patients with severe inflammatory acne that does not improve with medicines such as those described above, a doctor may prescribe isotretinoin (Accutane), a retinoid (vitamin A derivative). Isotretinoin is an oral drug that is usually taken once or twice a day with food for 15 to 20 weeks. It markedly reduces the size of the oil glands so that much less oil is produced. As a result, the growth of bacteria is decreased. Advantages of Isotretinoin (Accutane) Isotretinoin is a very effective medicine that can help prevent scarring. After 15 to 20 weeks of treatment with isotretinoin, acne completely or almost completely goes away in most patients. In those patients where acne recurs after a course of isotretinoin, the doctor may institute another course of the same treatment or prescribe other medicines. Disadvantages of Isotretinoin (Accutane) Isotretinoin can cause birth defects in the developing fetus of a pregnant woman. It is important that women of childbearing age are not pregnant and do not get pregnant while taking this medicine. Women must use two separate effective forms of birth control at the same time for 1 month before treatment begins, during the entire course of treatment, and for 1 full month after stopping the drug. You should ask your doctor when it is safe to get pregnant after you have stopped taking isotretinoin. Some people with acne become depressed by the changes in the appearance of their skin. Changes in mood may be intensified during treatment or soon after completing a course of medicines like isotretinoin. There have been a number of reported suicides and suicide attempts in people taking isotretinoin; however, the connection between isotretinoin and suicide or depression is not known. Nevertheless, if you or someone you know feels unusually sad or has other symptoms of depression, such as loss of appetite, loss of interest in once-loved activities, or trouble concentrating, it's important to consult your doctor. Other possible side effects of isotretinoin include: dry eyes, mouth, lips, nose, or skin (very common) itching nosebleeds muscle aches sensitivity to the sun poor night vision changes in the blood, such as an increase in fats in the blood (triglycerides and cholesterol) change in liver function. To be able to determine if isotretinoin should be stopped if side effects occur, your doctor may test your blood before you start treatment and periodically during treatment. Side effects usually go away after the medicine is stopped. Treatments for Hormonally Influenced Acne in Women In some women, acne is caused by an excess of androgen (male) hormones. Clues that this may be the case include hirsutism (excessive growth of hair on the face or body), premenstrual acne flares, irregular menstrual cycles, and elevated blood levels of certain androgens. The doctor may prescribe one of several drugs to treat women with this type of acne: Birth control pills – to help suppress the androgen produced by the ovaries Low-dose corticosteroid drugs, such as prednisone (Deltasone) or dexamethasone (Decadron, Hexadrol) – to help suppress the androgen produced by the adrenal glands Antiandrogen drugs such as spironolactone (Aldactone) – to reduce the excessive oil production. Side effects of antiandrogen drugs may include irregular menstruation, tender breasts, headaches, and fatigue. Other Treatments for Acne Doctors may use other types of procedures in addition to drug therapy to treat patients with acne. For example, the doctor may remove the patient's comedones during office visits. Sometimes the doctor will inject corticosteroids directly into lesions to help reduce the size and pain of inflamed cysts and nodules. Early treatment is the best way to prevent acne scars. Once scarring has occurred, the doctor may suggest a medical or surgical procedure to help reduce the scars. A superficial laser may be used to treat irregular scars. Dermabrasion (or microdermabrasion), which is a form of "sanding down" scars, is sometimes used. Another treatment option for deep scars caused by cystic acne is the transfer of fat from another part of the body to the scar. A doctor may also inject a synthetic filling material under the scar to improve its appearance. How Should People With Acne Care for Their Skin? Clean Skin Gently If you have acne, you should gently wash your face with a mild cleanser, once in the morning and once in the evening, as well as after heavy exercise. Wash your face from under the jaw to the hairline and be sure to thoroughly rinse your skin. Ask your doctor or another health professional for advice on the best type of cleanser to use. Using strong soaps or rough scrub pads is not helpful and can actually make the problem worse. Astringents are not recommended unless the skin is very oily, and then they should be used only on oily spots. It is also important to shampoo your hair regularly. If you have oily hair, you may want to wash it every day. Avoid Frequent Handling of the Skin Avoid rubbing and touching skin lesions. Squeezing, pinching or picking blemishes can lead to the development of scars or dark blotches. Shave Carefully Men who shave and who have acne should test both electric and safety razors to see which is more comfortable. When using a safety razor, make sure the blade is sharp and soften your beard thoroughly with soap and water before applying shaving cream. Shave gently and only when necessary to reduce the risk of nicking blemishes. Avoid a Sunburn or Suntan Many of the medicines used to treat acne can make you more prone to sunburn. A sunburn that reddens the skin or suntan that darkens the skin may make blemishes less visible and make the skin feel drier. However, these benefits are only temporary, and there are known risks of excessive sun exposure, such as more rapid skin aging and a risk of developing skin cancer. Choose Cosmetics Carefully While undergoing acne treatment, you may need to change some of the cosmetics you use. All cosmetics, such as foundation, blush, eye shadow, moisturizers, and hair-care products should be oil free. Choose products labeled noncomedogenic (meaning they don't promote the formation of closed pores). In some people, however, even these products may make acne worse. For the first few weeks of treatment, applying foundation evenly may be difficult because the skin may be red or scaly, particularly with the use of topical tretinoin or benzoyl peroxide. What Research Is Being Done on Acne? Medical researchers are working on new drugs to treat acne, particularly topical antibiotics to replace some of those in current use. As with many other types of bacterial infections, doctors are finding that, over time, the bacteria that are associated with acne are becoming resistant to treatment with certain antibiotics, though it is not clear how significant a problem this resistance represents. Scientists are also trying to better understand the mechanisms involved in acne so that they can develop new treatments that work on those mechanisms. For example, one group of NIAMS-supported researchers is studying the mechanisms that regulate sebum production in order to identify ways to effectively reduce its production without the side effects of current medicines. Another group is trying to understand how P. acnes activates the immune system in order to identify possible immunologic interventions. Other areas of research involve examining the effects of isotretinoin on an area of the brain that might lead to depression and developing a laser system to treat acne and acne-related scars without damaging the outer layers of the skin. Researchers in Germany, funded by German institutions, have taken P. acnes and identified its genetic information (genome). This information may help researchers develop new treatments to target the bacteria. Where Can People Find More Information on Acne? National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) National Institutes of Health 1 AMS Circle Bethesda, MD 20892-3675 Phone: 301-495-4484 or 877-22-NIAMS (226-4267) (free of charge) TTY: 301-565-2966 Fax: 301-718-6366 E-mail: NIAMSInfo@mail.nih.gov www.niams.nih.gov NIAMS provides information about various forms of arthritis and rheumatic disease and bone, muscle, joint, and skin diseases. It distributes patient and professional education materials and refers people to other sources of information. Additional information and updates can also be found on the NIAMS Web site. American Academy of Dermatology P.O. Box 4014 Schaumburg, IL 60168-4014 Phone: 847-330-0230 or 888-462-3376 (free of charge) Fax: 847-330-0050 www.aad.org This national organization can provide referrals to dermatologists. It also publishes a brochure on acne for adults and a fact sheet for young people. These are available on the organization's Web site or can be obtained by calling or writing to the academy. Acknowledgments NIAMS gratefully acknowledges the assistance of Laurence H. Miller, M.D., Chevy Chase, MD; Kenneth A. Katz, M.D., M.Sc., University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia; Edward W. Cowen, M.D., National Cancer Institute, NIH; and Alan Moshell, M.D., NIAMS, NIH, in the preparation and review of this booklet. The mission of the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), a part of the Department of Health and Human Services' National Institutes of Health (NIH), is to support research into the causes, treatment, and prevention of arthritis and musculoskeletal and skin diseases; the training of basic and clinical scientists to carry out this research; and the dissemination of information on research progress in these diseases. The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse is a public service sponsored by the NIAMS that provides health information and information sources. Additional information can be found on the NIAMS Web site at www.niams.nih.gov . For Your Information This publication contains information about medications used to treat the health condition discussed here. When this publication was printed, we included the most up-to-date (accurate) information available. Occasionally, new information on medication is released. For updates and for any questions about any medications you are taking, please contact the U.S. Food and Drug Administration at 1-888-INFO-FDA (1-888-463-6332, a toll-free call) or visit their Web site at www.fda.gov . NIH Publication No. 06-4998 January 2006 Many of our publications are available in print. Would you like to order publications on skin disorders to be mailed to you? Visit our online order form. 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Things You Should Know About Type 1 Diabetes Type 2 Diabetes - Things You Should Know Prediabetes: A chance to change the future Gestational Diabetes The History of Diabetes Diabetes Dictionary -- Research -- Research Diabetes Facts The Prevalence and Costs of Diabetes Diabetes: Are You at Risk? Things You Should Know About Type 1 Diabetes Type 2 Diabetes - Things You Should Know Prediabetes: A chance to change the future Gestational Diabetes The History of Diabetes Diabetes Dictionary -- Aboriginal Section -- Aboriginal Section Diabetes Information Available Resources Useful Links -- Find your branch Alberta British Columbia Manitoba New Brunswick NL & Labrador N.W.T. Nova Scotia Nunavut P.E.I. Ontario Saskatchewan Yukon Job Postings Useful Links About Us Help Français Complications: Dry Skin By Dr. Charles Lynde Diabetes affects many body organs, including the largest of the body, the skin. Some skin conditions are specific to diabetes, but most of them also occur in the general population. In addition, the clinical symptoms and complications of skin disease are frequently more severe in the context of diabetes. Dry skin (also called xerosis or asteatosis) is one of the numerous dermatological problems associated with diabetes. Although by no means the most serious complication of diabetes, you may find it extremely bothersome and problematic. What is Dry Skin? Rough, dry and scaly skin affects at least 75 percent of people with diabetes over the age of 64. Dry skin is aesthetically unappealing, uncomfortable, itchy and can set the stage for eczema like outbreaks and other skin infections. Dry skin covered with scale may appear in a generalized pattern or in localized round patches. In more severe cases, the skin loses its suppleness and cracks with erythema (redness or inflamation) becoming evident in and around the involved areas. Pruritus (itching) is the most prominent feature of this condition. Rubbing and scratching can aggravate dry skin, causing more itching and inflammation and potentially leading to infection. Dry skin can be localized such as on the legs, feet, hands and/or face or it can progress to all the skin. The Causes Dry skin is usually caused in large part by environmental factors. Although dry skin may be present in a person with diabetes year round, it is particularly present in the winter. When people turn on the heat in their houses, the indoor humidity decreases and there is also increased exposure to cold dry winds outdoors. Soaps, detergents, hot baths and showers remove the skin's natural oils (sebum) and promote dry skin. When you run the water in your tub, keep the temperature cool to lukewarm. In addition, in people with diabetes, damage to small blood vessels and to small nerves may further promote dry skin and its complications. It is important to treat dry skin because: It can cause intense itching and irritation; It can lead to secondary infection, localized folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles on the skin) or even cellulitis*; and It can lead to ulceration particularly on diabetic feet with loss of sensation. Daily treatment can prevent these problems and complications. Treatment Addressing the environmental factors is the foundation of treatment and prevention. This includes keeping the temperature as low as is comfortable and increasing the humidity through the use of humidifiers. The skin should be protected by wearing gloves when using cleaning agents, solvents and other household detergents. Bathing should be kept to a minimum and extremely hot baths and showers should be avoided. Products such as Dove unscented cleaning bar or Cetaphil wash (a grease-free emollient) can be used for washing. After bathing, an appropriate emollient such as petrolatum, or products containing lanolin or Aquaphor can be applied in liberal amounts. A good skin tip is to blot yourself dry after showering or bathing, leaving some water on the skin. The emollient can then be applied to trap some of the moisture in the skin. To this regimen can be added to products containing 10 to twenty percent urea that can hold moisture in the skin. An alphahydroxy acid (AHA) lotion can often restore the structure and function of dry skin. Creams and lotions are generally preferred by people as they are less greasy and thus more cosmetically acceptable. Urea and lactic acid mixtures are often not well tolerated for dry skin on a sensitive area such as the face, and they may sting if applied on open areas (i.e. unhealed cuts or rashes). Products with emollient bases may be better alternatives. If there are eczematous changes or infected areas associated with the dry skin, a family physician or dermatologist should be consulted as topical steroids or antibiotics may be necessary. The "diabetic foot" is a special case in point, as it is very prone to infection and ulceration. Roughness, dryness and fissuring require prompt treatment to avoid more serious consequences. A similar regimen of emollient and urea-containing preparations can be use. The simple act of putting a cream or lotion on the foot daily also forces one to check the feet daily. Daily treatment of dry skin is a highly recommended, necessary and cost-effective way of preventing further problems and complications. Charles W. Lynde MD, FRCPC is an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto and is Staff Dermatologist at the Toronto Western Hospital in Toronto. * Note : Cellulitis is an infection of the surface and the underlying layers of the skin that is accompanied by local heat, redness, pain and swelling. It may also be accompanied by fever, tiredness, chills and headaches. The symptoms may be less obvious when accompanied by diabetes, but they are still serious. Antibiotics are needed to treat this condition. © 2005 Canadian Diabetes Association Privacy Policy | Contact | Disclaimer Man Skin CareNivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin - Skin Care Shopping at dooyoo.co.uk Home Fashion & Beauty Skin Care Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin Contains a valuable combination of moisturising ingredients including Allantoin and Aloe Vera which ... more ... Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin - ... help support the skin's natural regenerating functions, helping relieve dryness and providing long lasting miniaturisation. Read 6 reviews Read Rate now: very good good average bad very bad Compare prices Matches for Personal Care matching "Nivea Intensive Cream for Men Dry Skin" Cosmetics matching "Nivea Intensive Cream for Men Dry Skin" Shavers matching "Nivea Intensive Cream for Men Dry Skin" Read reviews Results1 - 3by 6 Reviews All reviews for Nivea Intensive Cream for Men ... Sort by Sort by Sort by or Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin : Man Cream ! 09.12.05 by SRowlands Advantage: Protects & moisturises the skin Disadvantage: Your girlfriend may "borrow it" ! Only a few years back, us guys would have had funny looks if we admitted to using facial care products. Just imagine the scene, after a brutal and bloody rugby match, rushing back for a group shower experience, drying off and then pulling a jar of moistureiser out of the locker and applying it to your face. I get the feeling that the result would be along the lines of name ... Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin : MEN AND FACE CREAM? 28.03.05 by Jaguar1000 Advantage: Can be used on most skin types (Greasy/dry/sensitive) without any adverse affects . Disadvantage: They've pretty much got it perfect from the off ---General Overview---Face cream for men has actually come of age and the pharmaceutical companies must be rubbing their hands with glee. Having used some sort of face cream most of my life due to a mild skin problem I have had no problem transferring my use over to commercially advertised products rather than a cream advised by the doctor. The reason I could do ... Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin : The Stigma of Male Grooming 18.07.04 by utero Advantage: Good Value, No Nasty Smells, Works Disadvantage: Packaging A look of shock and disbelief comes over some blokes faces when I say I moisturise my skin daily. There?s a stigma attached in the majority of the male world that it?s quite a vain thing to do. Well if you have dry skin like me then it?s not vain, it?s just necessity. Not only that but it means my skin looks more healthy and no doubt will do in years to ... more links about this theme: Skin Care more 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Further links on the web Start price comparison for Nivea Intensive Cream for Men - Dry Skin Top dooyoo Offers Philips SmartTouch-XL HQ9190 Electric Shaver 1. Deals4U £ 149.00 2. electricshopping.com £ 154.99 3. QED £ 174.17 4. Miller Brothers £ 180.42 Top dooyoo Offers Apple iPod nano White (4 GB, MA005LL/A) MP3 Player 1. Dolphinmusic .co.uk £ 179.00 2. MacWarehouse £ 176.24 3. Advanced MP3 Players £ 179.00 4. 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COMET £ 94.97 4. electricshopping.com £ 108.99 Top Home - About dooyoo.co.uk - Terms and Conditions - Advertising dooyoo Europe: Deutschland - España - Italia - France - Sitemap - Product Index Tests und Preisvergleich - Produkt Index Germany © 2000-2006 dooyoo AG Register | Login | Help Search All categories Members ----------------- Audio / Hifi Banking & Finance Books and Magazines Campus & Careers Computer Fashion & Beauty Food & Drink Health House & Garden Household Appliances Internet Kids & Family Motors Movies Music PC / Video Games Pets Photography Services Shopping Software Speakers Corner Sports TV Telecommunication Toys / Games Travel UK / Ireland Guide Video skin treatment, it's importantSkin Management, Surface Repair Treatments About ASPS | Contact Us Home : Learn About Procedures : Procedures Print This Page Cosmetic Procedures: Botox® Breast Augmentation Breast Lift Browlift Camouflage Cosmetics Chemical Peel Chin Surgery Computer Imaging Cosmetic Surgery at a Glance Dermabrasion Ear Surgery Endoscopic Plastic Surgery Eyelids Face Lift Facial Implants Hair Replacement Indications for Men Injectable Fillers Laser Skin Resurfacing Lipoplasty or Liposuction Microdermabrasion Nose Surgery Permanent Eyeliner Spider Veins Tumescent Technique Tummy Tuck Upper Arm Lift Managing healthy skin From early on, we learn that having a smooth, clear complexion is an attribute of physical attractiveness. However, as we age, maintaining that healthy glow becomes more difficult. The face is the most exposed part of the body, vulnerable to the harsh rays of the sun. The face is also subject to acne, rashes, allergic reactions, and injuries that may leave permanent scars. This brochure will give you a basic understanding of commonly used treatments for managing skin-when they can help, what they involve, and what results you can expect. It can't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Ask your doctor anything you don't understand about the treatment you're considering. A number of non-surgical "refinishing" treatments are available for individuals who want to eliminate or soften imperfections on their facial skin and achieve a clearer, fresher look. These treatments include glycolic acids (sometimes called "fruity acids"), which are natural fruit substances blended into facial preparations and are used to eliminate rough or dried surface skin, and Retin-A®, a vitamin A-enriched cream that changes the cellular metabolism of the skin's surface and is used to combat fine facial wrinkles and blotches from sun damage. Each of these treatments can be used alone, or are frequently prescribed in conjunction with an aesthetic surgery procedure, such as a facelift or a chemical peel. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SKIN-SURFACE TREATMENTS "Surface-repair" treatments can enhance your appearance and give your skin a smoother, fresher look, but they won't remove deep scars and flaws or prevent aging. These treatments should not be thought of as mini-facelifts. Generally speaking, Retin-A® and glycolic acid treatments offer less dramatic results than surgical approaches like dermaplaning, dermabrasion, or chemical peel. Before you decide to have a skin-rejuvenating treatment of any type, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your plastic surgeon. PLANNING FOR TREATMENT Whether you're planning a surgical or nonsurgical skin treatment, it's important that you find a doctor who has training and experience with a variety of skin-management techniques. You'll want a doctor who can give you the best possible single treatment or treatment combination. Look elsewhere if your doctor tells you that he or she has perfected a single technique that promises unbelievable results. The choice is yours, but be certain your doctor is qualified to prescribe such treatments. After all, these treatments involve the most visible part of your body - your face. In your initial consultation, be open in discussing your treatment goals with your doctor and don't hesitate to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have. Your surgeon should be equally open with you and explain the factors that could influence your choice of treatment options such as age, skin condition, and previous plastic surgeries. The surgeon will ask about your medical history and conduct a routine examination. If you're having a surgical procedure in conjunction with your skin treatment, your doctor should explain the process in detail, including the risks and benefits, the recovery period, and the costs. Insurance usually doesn't cover aesthetic procedures. WHERE YOUR TREATMENT WILL BE PERFORMED It is unlikely that you'll have to spend time in the hospital for your skin treatment unless the treatment is performed in conjunction with a facelift or some other more complex procedure. Your initial application of Retin-A® or glycolic acid will probably be performed in a doctor's office or an outpatient facility. THE TREATMENTS Retin-A® Best candidates. In general, Retin-A® is most effective in older patients who have some fine facial wrinkles, or blotchy pigmented areas caused by sun damage. However, Retin-A® is often prescribed to younger, active individuals who want to combat the aging effects of sun exposure. Patients who are planning to have a chemical peel treatment are often instructed by their doctors to use Retin-A® as a preparation treatment; Retin-A® thins the skin's outer layer, allowing the acid solution used in a peel treatment to penetrate more deeply and evenly. Retin-A® is not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers, because its effects on the fetus and nursing infant are still being studied. Reactions/side-effects. Although no serious medical problems have been associated with Retin-A®, it's possible that its use could result in temporary skin irritation and redness. If this happens, your doctor may recommend a milder formulation. As late as 1993, Retin-A® had not received approval for use as an anti-aging treatment from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It has received FDA approval as an acne treatment, and doctors have been safely using it for this purpose for more than two decades. However, the full scope of Retin-A®'s effects and potential benefits continues to investigated. Beginning treatment. Your initial application of Retin-A® will include a lesson on how to continue your skin-care routine at home. After your face has been washed thoroughly, a small amount of Retin-A®, in either cream or gel form, is rubbed over your face and nose. It's likely that a very gentle formula will be used at the beginning - especially if you are younger or have a fair complexion. You may be switched to a stronger formula after your skin becomes accustomed to treatment. Only a very small amount of Retin-A® - a pea-sized dab - is needed to cover the entire face. You will be instructed to apply Retin-A® every night before you go to bed. Because Retin-A® is drying to the skin, your doctor may also recommend that you apply a moisturizer once or twice a day. This routine is usually continued for about eight months to a year, after which you'll be switched to a less-frequent schedule of maintenance, with Retin-A® applications only two or three times per week. At periodic follow-up visits, your doctor may adjust the strength of your prescription or its frequency of use. To maintain the benefits of Retin-A®, its use must be continued for a lifetime. After treatment. It's normal to experience some redness, irritation, itching, stinging, or skin dryness once you begin to use Retin-A®. However, you can expect these symptoms to gradually disappear as the skin becomes acclimated to the treatment. Caring for your new skin. Because Retin-A® thins out the skin's outer layer, you will need to consistently use a sun-block to protect yourself from ultraviolet light, and you may have to discontinue using certain products or cosmetics on your face. Though the degree of change varies from person to person, with continued use of Retin-A®, you will begin to see subtle improvements in the texture and tone of your skin. Retin-A® users notice a rosy glow during the beginning months of use, followed by the disappearance of fine lines and the shrinking of large pores. After about six months, many Retin-A® users report that wrinkles are barely visible and that age spots have faded. Glycolic acid treatments Best candidates. Glycolic or "fruity acid" treatments can offer smoother skin to people of all ages. This type of treatment seems to work best on patients who have rough, sun-damaged skin. Glycolic acids are sometimes formulated with bleaching chemicals to correct areas of uneven pigmentation. Reactions/side-effects. It's important to remember that side-effects may occur even with non-surgical treatments. No serious medical problems have been associated with glycolic acids, but their use may cause temporary skin irritation and redness. Switching to a milder formula may remedy the problem. Beginning treatment. Your initial application of glycolic acid cream will include a lesson on how to continue your skin-care routine at home. The way in which glycolic acid is applied to the face depends upon what form it's in. Two common forms are cream or facial wash. Both forms contain about 12 percent glycolic acid, which helps slough away dry, sun-damaged skin on the face's surface. Each also contains a special moisturizer and, if needed, a bleaching agent. In most cases, the acid is applied to the face twice daily, either by smoothing on the cream or using the facial wash. Your doctor may adjust the strength of the acid formulation or the frequency of its use after evaluating your skin's condition in follow-up visits. After treatment . It's normal to experience some redness, irritation, itching, stinging, or skin dryness once you begin to use glycolic acid. However, you can expect these symptoms to gradually disappear as the skin adjusts to the treatment. Caring for your new skin . Because glycolic acid thins the skin's outer layer, you will need to consistently use a sun-block to protect yourself from ultraviolet light, and you may have to discontinue using certain products or cosmetics on you face. Though the degree of change varies from person to person, with continued use of glycolic acid preparations, you will begin to see subtle improvements in the texture and tone of your skin. In most cases, glycolic acid users notice an overall freshness and smoothness. After a while, pigmented blotches fade or disappear as the bleaching effect begins to work. The time necessary for visible results depends on the degree of pigmentation and individual circumstances. Some patients see results in as little as six weeks. YOUR NEW ROUTINE Most people find that maintaining their new look is easier than expected. Using the cream or facial wash will become a natural part of your morning or evening routine - and the difference you'll see will be worth the extra effort. To find a plastic surgeon who performs this procedure, visit the online referral service of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). ASPS, founded in 1931, is the largest plastic surgery organization in the world and the foremost authority on cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery. All ASPS physician members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada. Index What to expect from skin-surface treatments Planning for treatment Where your treatment will be performed The Treatments Your new routine The appearance of fine facial wrinkles can be improved with Retin-A® treatment. Glycolic acid treatment can smoothe rough, sun-damaged skin and fade age spots. Contact Us | Privacy | Disclaimer Surgeon Referral Service 1.888.4 PLASTIC All Materials 2005 ASPS/PSEF |
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