Acne: Advice please!!!!!

**immy4950** · 08-12-2005, 01:49 PM

It seems quite ironic that just last fall my face was clear. Bear in mind that i've worked at a Wendy's for two years and never had much of a problem until late last year.

Now my once clear face has acne between my eyebows and on my cheeks and my jaw. Even worse, i'm worried about scarring.

Now as of today i only have 8 more days at Wendy's, since i'm leaving to go to college. I have a new job at the college dining center, which involves mostly cleaning, so i'm hoping my face will clear up somewhat.

I've tried some products on my face, Biore cleansers, and all the those cloths, and lately i've been using alcohol on my face, since my mom told me it would help.

Question:
If you've had acne what have you used on your face to get it clear?

I have a doctors appointment for a physical in two weeks, should i ask about seeing a dermatologist? Or am i being too rash? I'm not big on taking medicines for something like acne, and i'm worried it will cost a lot of money that i would rather keep in the bank for emergencies. But then again, there is always the self confidence thing...especcially being a freshman in college, and the fear that i will be scarred forever.

So any advice you would like to give would be much appreciated... thank you.

**mom22grls** · 08-12-2005, 02:33 PM

I have acne....still.

I'm in my 30's. Your regular doctor can give you a prescription for a cream & cleanser....you shouldn't have to go to a dermatologist. I've used some of the most popular brands of prescriptions out there & they work....as long as you're consistant.

Also, though, there's otc cleansers with benzoil peroxide that work, too.

My dr. says that's what you want to use....not salicidic (sp) acid.

On the other hand, I've been using "proactiv" since January & I love it. It's a "club" thing and it's like $40 for a 2 month supply, but I've had no problems getting it to last for 3 to 3 1/2 months. I finally cancelled my thing because I have so much on hand. They have a free trial deal usually going on. do a google search.

Also, at Walmart last week, I saw a kit that is supposed to be the same as proactiv, but about half the cost. I haven't used it, but I will as soon as I need to get more.

HTH. This is not a fun issue.

**SHOPGIRL** · 08-12-2005, 03:45 PM

O.K. Acne is a subject I've had a lot of experience with. As a teenager, I had the usual amount of acne. Then, as an adult, I started having cystic acne.

I've taken all the acne drugs; there are things out there that will help. I even used accutane in my 20s, and it helped slightly. My dermatologist wasn't pleased with the results and he didn't think it helped.

I've been seeing the same dermatologist since I was 15 and now I'm 35. I love my dermatologist!

I've used ProActive; didn't think it was anything great. I still have a bunch of bottles left. I've used the HSN Serious Skin Care Line and that was o.k. I've used over the counter items, again, so so results.

The cream that I did use was Differin and that helped. The benzoyl peroxide products help, but the problem is it really dries out your skin, almost too much.

When I was pregnant, I really broke out; it was terrible!

So, what has really worked for me. . . First, go to a good dermatologist. Find out from friends who they would recommend. There are new drugs out there that will clear up your acne within a month.

Also, you might want to look into microdermabrasion. I did that and my skin tone really improved. I've also had glycolic peels. The old kind of peel really heats up your face and you end up flaking for a few days afterward.

The best thing I've tried so far is the Jan Marini skin care line. I get it from my dermatologist. It WORKS! I had four glycolic peels. Each peel lasts for 3 minutes, doesn't burn or flake. At first I didn't think it was really doing anything, but it did! I use the glycolic cleanser morning and night, $25 a bottle. Then, I use a moisturizer called bioclear, and that costs around $50 for a 1oz. bottle. Both should last you 2-3 months. My face has been so clear! Occasionaly, I have a break-out, and I even go without make-up a lot of the time.

Don't waste your money on all the other things. If you really want to improve your skin; see help from a dermatologist. I would do a search for Jan Marini and see if there is a dermatologist in your area that works with that line.

By the way, Salicylic acid does work. It just is very drying on its own.

So, good luck, there are a lot of options out there. The money I spend on the cleanser and moisturizer is well worth it!

Here's the link:  http://www.janmarini.com/

Here's the info on Glycolic Acid:

<CENTER><IMG src="http://www.janmarini.com/product_bioglycolic_line.gif">

<SELECT size=1 name=Products> <OPTION selected>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL CLEANSER</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC OILY SKIN CLEANSING GEL</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAN</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL LOTION</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL LOTION SPF 15</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC LIGHTENING GEL</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAR CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAR LOTION</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC EYE CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC ACNE GEL I AND ACNE GEL II</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC HAND AND BODY CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC RESURFACING BODY SCRUB</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC SUNLESS SELF-TANNER</OPTION> <OPTION>SKIN CARE MANAGEMENT TRAVEL SYSTEM</OPTION></SELECT><INPUT type=submit value=go name=product><INPUT type=hidden value=bioglycolic name=line> </CENTER>

<P align=justify>Glycolic acid is what is known as an "alpha hydroxy acid". Alpha hydroxy acids or "AHAs" are a family of acids that occur naturally in various fruits and foods. Glycolic acid, found in sugar cane, is the AHA that has received the most attention medically because of all the AHAs, it has the smallest molecule. This small molecular weight enables glycolic acid to penetrate more effectively and to ultimately bring about the most dramatic and beneficial changes of all the AHAs, often collectively referred to as fruit acids.

<P align=justify>Among other things, glycolic acid loosens the "glue-like" attachments, or cellular cement, that are characteristic of many skin conditions such as acne, photo damage (environmental aging), and hyperpigmentation. This non-invasive lifting of the cells in the stratum corneum enables glycolic acid to act as a phenomenal resurfacing agent that can immensely improve the appearance of the skin. It has even proven to be a valuable tool in reducing the depth of acne scarring.

As physicians and researchers have developed a greater interest in glycolic acid, medical studies have revealed that glycolic acid stimulates collagen, increases epidermal volume and even acts as a powerful antioxidant and free radical inhibitor. Tests also illustrate how glycolic acid acts as a delivery agent when combined with other beneficial ingredients or medications, thus potentiating the desired results.

<P align=justify>The Bioglycolic Line combines proven glycolic acid standards with technological advancements far beyond anything previously available. Jan Marini Skin Research has created Bioglycolic products to provide the ultimate resurfacing agents along with additional scientifically calculated components that equate to unparalleled skin care management.

<FORM action=catalog3.asp method=post>

<CENTER><SELECT size=1 name=Products> <OPTION selected>BIOCLEAN</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAR CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAR LOTION</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC ACNE GEL I AND ACNE GEL II</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC EYE CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL CLEANSER</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL LOTION</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL LOTION SPF 15</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC HAND AND BODY CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC LIGHTENING GEL</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC OILY SKIN CLEANSING GEL</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC RESURFACING BODY SCRUB</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC SUNLESS SELF-TANNER</OPTION> <OPTION>SKIN CARE MANAGEMENT TRAVEL SYSTEM</OPTION></SELECT></CENTER>

<CENTER> </CENTER>

<CENTER>BIOCLEAR CREAM
Containing Glycolic Acid and Salicylic Acid

<HR SIZE=1>

<IMG hspace=10 src="http://www.janmarini.com/bioclear.jpg" align=right vspace=5>

<P align=justify>Bioclear is a revolutionary cream that targets the multifaceted acne problems uniquely experienced by adults. This versatile product also has remarkable anti-aging and skin resurfacing properties that benefit all skin types.

<P align=justify>Our proprietary research has resulted in a formula that produces exceptional benefits for adult acne, acne scarring, inflammation, discoloration, enlarged follicle openings, the appearance of wrinkling and textural changes due to cumulative sun exposure.

1 oz. jar </CENTER></FORM> 
<CENTER><IMG src="http://www.janmarini.com/product_bioglycolic_line.gif"></CENTER>
<P align=justify>
<B>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL CLEANSER</B>
Containing Glycolic Acid
<HR SIZE=1>

<P align=justify><IMG hspace=10 src="http://www.janmarini.com/a01.jpg" align=right vspace=5>
<P align=justify>Bioglycolic Facial Cleanser with glycolic acid is a gentle cleanser suitable for all skin types. This formula is soap-free, non-irritating and rinses completely without the need for a post-cleansing toner or astringent. Our thorough deep cleansing product also contains sorbital, a natural humectant derived from berries, that leaves the skin soft and hydrated. By incorporating glycolic acid as a follicular cleansing agent, the skin is further prepared for other product application.

8 oz. pump dispenser
<CENTER><SELECT size=1 name=Products> <OPTION selected>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL CLEANSER</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC OILY SKIN CLEANSING GEL</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAN</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL LOTION</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC FACIAL LOTION SPF 15</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC LIGHTENING GEL</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAR CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOCLEAR LOTION</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC EYE CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC ACNE GEL I AND ACNE GEL II</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC HAND AND BODY CREAM</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC RESURFACING BODY SCRUB</OPTION> <OPTION>BIOGLYCOLIC SUNLESS SELF-TANNER</OPTION> <OPTION>SKIN CARE MANAGEMENT TRAVEL SYSTEM</OPTION></SELECT><INPUT type=submit value=go name=product><INPUT type=hidden value=bioglycolic name=line><IMG height=21 src="http://www.janmarini.com/backto.gif" width=72 border=0><IMG src="http://www.janmarini.com/product_bioglycolic_line.gif" border=0>
</CENTER>

**QuilterMom** · 08-12-2005, 04:53 PM

I've had a problem for the last couple of years (didn't have a problem as a teen!) and it's gotten worse with my pregnancy right now. Until pregnancy worsened it, I was happy with Burt's Bees products - garden tomato complexion soap and toner, citrus facial scrub, and herbal blemish stick. I'm still using those and have added Now coconut oil to my routine ( http://www.nowfoods.com/?action=itemdetail&item_id=3565 ). I'm a label reader and won't use the majority of products on the market as they contain ingredients that I choose to avoid.

**kettel6** · 08-13-2005, 05:51 PM

I use the ProActive knock off from Walmart, Acne Free.

**pkellyc** · 08-26-2005, 08:41 PM

My dd had a job at Quizno's and had the same problem washing her face with clearasil face wash helped.

**midwestgal** · 08-26-2005, 08:59 PM

I had the usual teen problems with acne-- not too bad, but it flared up more during my periods. When I was pregnant with my first child, my OB/GYN really got after me about proper nutrition. Boy, did that ever make a difference! I abandoned my junk food habits and really concentrated on fruits, vegetables and lean meats and fish. I'm not saying this because it is always a magic formula, but sometimes I think we forget that giving our bodies the proper nutrition is often the beginning of better skin. My older son had flare-ups too as a teen, and I found that making a lot of salads with spinach helped him. And believe it or not, another great help for him was a day at the beach in salt water! (We lived near the Texas gulf coast then, and this was recommended by his dermatologist.) The sun and the salt did wonders. Also, try to reduce stress as much as possible (easier said I know!), drink plenty of water and get enough sleep.

**many houseapes** · 08-26-2005, 09:44 PM

what has worked for our family is Tea Tree Oil. You can find it at Walmart for less than $5, but it will last a long time. apply w/ a q-tip every other day after cleansing your skin. tea tree oil has a strong smell..(it is also used in something called campho-phenique which was used for cold sores..i don't know if that product is still on the market...but that is what it smells like.). anyway, it works really well.

**bamamomto4** · 08-28-2005, 04:38 PM

I didnt have much acne as a teenager,I tried keeping my face clean ALL the time. I've used Noxzema since I was like 11...I've tried many other cleansers over the yrs but It cleans my face better than anything I have ever tried.

Now,I would get a few right before I started my period,after a few days,they'd be gone. For the past 3 or 4 months I've been breaking out,but no period ( noooo..I'm not pg..)

I've used the Acne free brand a few times but it seems if I use it at night,the next day I have 3 or 4 MORE pimples...it's weird lol

Lastnight I bought the Tea Tree oil from Wal-Mart,used it this morning and OH MY MERCY that stuff stinks!! Smells like bug spray.( Made my nose burn lol ) I was going to town and had to wash it off because it smelled so bad lol

**zakity** · 09-16-2005, 06:01 PM

I was taking arnica for my shoulders and my face started clearing up. I quit taking it because they quit hurting and my face started breaking out again. Then, my TMJ started bugging me again, so I started on the arnica again and it again cleared up. That cycle has repeated a few times. It might be worth it to try arnica. I have no clue why it works, but, for me, it does.