Putting Lives on the Line for Perfect Skin

SkinB5 is Spreading Suicide & Depression Awareness through Natural Acne Treatments

When people think of acne, they usually don’t think of fatalities and life crippling side effects. In fact, acne itself is physically harmless, but the drugs to treat acne can have severe physical implications, even leading to death in some cases.

There has been growing speculation around the safety of acne treatment drugs for the past several years. As the occurrence of acne among teens and adults is increasing, so are the number of acne drug prescriptions. Acne sufferers are finding that topical washes and creams are not effective, and turning to stronger alternatives.

Two of the most commonly prescribed acne medications are isotretinoin and contraceptive pills. Isotretinoin (most popular brand names are Roaccutane or Accutane) works by mega-dosing the body with Vitamin A which in turn reduces skin oil and eliminates acne. While isotretinoin can be an effective acne treatment, the side effects are often overlooked. Isotretinoin have been linked to birth defects, depression, psychological illness, severe dryness of skin and even suicide, yet it remains one of the top prescribed acne medications around the world.

Contraceptive pills are another acne treatment alternative for women. They work by regulating the hormones that can cause acne. One of the most widely prescribed contraceptive pills for the treatment of acne is Diane 35. This drug was recently banned in France after leading to four deaths. 

There have been 23 isotretinoin related suicides and 75 reports of serious adverse reactions to Diane 35 in Australia alone. Most recently, Julian, an Australian university student took his own life after using Roaccutane to treat acne. Neither him, not his family were warned of the depression and suicide thoughts commonly associated with the drug. The severe side effects of these acne medications are not something that should be overlooked.

The truth about these acne treatments and their devastating side effects are quickly gaining publicity, and acne sufferers are wondering how to effectively treat their acne without suffering the effects of these drugs. Yahoo!7 (Channel 7) Australia recently aired a Sunday night program on the effects of Roaccutane and contraceptive pills, and how teens are literally “dying for perfect skin.”

“I am so glad to see the media finally bringing this serious issue to mainstream awareness,” states Judy Cheung, Managing Director of SkinB5 natural acne treatment.

“Many teens are purely focused on finding a solution to their acne fast, and often overlook the crippling side effects of these acne drugs. I think young people and their parents need to be fully educated about the serious health risks from these popular acne drugs.”

One popular alternative acne treatment, gaining worldwide recognition is SkinB5, which is a natural vitamin/mineral based formulation. SkinB5 targets acne from within to help reduce skin oil, balance hormones, reduce stress and boost the immune system; resulting in healthy, acne-free skin after the recommended treatment time.

Fortunately, with SkinB5 teens and adults no longer have to put their lives on the line for perfect skin.

SkinB5 provides a safe, side effect-free acne treatment solution that is 100% natural and actually works.

Boost Skin Health with French Green Clay!

French Green Clay Acne Treatment -Skin Purifying Mask by SkinB5

If oily skin is giving you acne problems, French Green Clay could be your natural skin care solution from heaven! Clay has been used throughout history for medical and cosmetic purposes. Used as a mask, French Green Clay in particular is renowned for its purity, healing powers and antibacterial properties and is one of the most prestigious mineral skin clays available. Not only that, you can see how natural it is just from the colour! The green tone comes from decomposed plant matter.

Antibacterial properties of French Green Clay

Since Roman times French Green Clay has been a home remedy, however, until recently there has been few scientific studies to prove its powers. Recently it was discovered that French Green Clay has powerful antibacterial properties, making it a great remedy for acne! This medical research is a breakthrough for acne sufferers as the clay can kill bacteria that builds up on your skin and probes acne breakouts.

How it helps Acne

The micro molecules in the clay make it extremely absorbent. This means its acts as a sponge reducing oil, toxic substances, dirt, contaminants and impurities on your skin that can cause acne. So it absorbs excess oil and kills the bacteria; a perfect combination to cure acne! It also promotes blood flow where there are damaged skin cells, helping the body repair them and develop new and fresh skin cells. This revitalises your skin and can tighten pores.

                                                                             

How to use it

French Green Clay can be used on problem spots daily by applying small amounts to affected areas. Also using it as a complete facial treatment as a weekly mask will clear your skin. By simply adding water the clay will mix to a paste and can be applied to your face and neck (ensuring you avoid your eyes). Leave the mask on for 5-10 minutes then wash it away to leave skin feeling smooth and revitalised. French Green Clay is a perfect ingredient for a facial treatment but can be hard to find in skincare products. One mask that we recommend with French Green Clay as a main ingredient is the award winning SkinB5 5-minute purifying mask. Visit www.skinb5.com to order! 

SkinB5 Listed as a Patent Pending Innovation

SkinB5’s core formulation of four vitamins and minerals is recognised as an effective and natural treatment for acne and is expected to receive full patent status within 12 months.

SkinB5’s patent pending combination of Vitamin B5, Nicominatide, Zinc and Copper is based on scientific research studies on vitamins and acne, and over six years of product research and development, including TGA (equivalent of the United States FDA) approval as a therapeutic alternative medication.

“Our formulation has been modified over the past six years based on customer feedback and evolving scientific literature,” states Judy Cheung, Co-Founder and Managing Director of SkinB5. “I believe we’ve finally found the ideal formulation balance between potency and effectiveness, whilst keeping the vitamin dosages well within safe limits. We’re ecstatic to finally be a patent pending product!”

While many vitamin based products can’t receive patent status, the SkinB5 system is recognised as a truly unique and effective innovation for natural acne treatments. Many vitamin based acne supplements on the market combine megadoses of certain vitamins, which is unsustainable as a long term acne treatment and leads to undesirable side effects.

SkinB5’s internal acne treatment products have been made to effectively treat and control acne with low doses of vitamins, and no side effects to the user. This allows users to continue taking the supplements as a skin health maintenance protocol, long after their acne is gone. 

Benefits of Bergamot Oil for Acne

Looking for a more natural skin treatment to get rid of acne and clear your skin? Essential Oils may be what you are after. There are many essential oils that fight acne and have anti-bacterial properties so your skin can stay healthy, clean and acne-free. In particular, Bergamot Oil has been found to prevent acne and have skin benefits. Not only that, the oil is commonly used to boost the liver, spleen and stomach, fight depression, relieve urinary tract infections and fight eczema, oily skin, cold sores and psoriasis.

For acne prone skin, Bergamot Oil is an ideal pimple treatment. It has antibacterial properties that help skin stay clean and fresh. This prevents pores blocking with dirt and bacteria to form pimples. It is also a great spot treatment for pimples and blemishes as its drying properties help reduce the puss-filled pimples we all hate!

 

Bergamot Oil is derived from the Citrus Bergamia tree, in South East Asia. The oil is extracted from the most fragrant part of the tree, accounting for is aromatic nature and citrus fragrance. The revitalizing aroma has the scent of fruity, sweet citrus and lavender oil and is a greenish-yellow colour. The soothing scent is good for the mind, body and soul, relieving stress and releasing a calming feel. This alone can help acne, as stress is not good for your skin or health!

The oil blends particularly well with other oils to create a treatment for your skin. Bergamot oil alone is very potent and can cause irritation on sensitive skin and in the sunlight. It should always be mixed with other essential oils or water to develop a light and gentle consistency for your skin. You should avoid sunlight directly after applying the oil and for sensitive skin, ensure you dilute the oil enough that there is no burning sensation when applied. The more sensitive your skin the more you should dilute the Bergamot Oil, so experiment with it and find a mixture that is right for your skin.

 

Bergamot oil can be found in many skin care creams and lotions. Some products we recommend are Skin B5’s Acne Control Cleanser, Moisturiser and Skin Purifying mask, all of which have Bergamot Oil as a major ingredient (www.skinb5.com). Its calming effect on inflamed skin and ability to heal topical infections makes it the perfect ingredient for skin care products.

The Secret to face washing

So you’ve heard the more often you wash your face the less breakouts you will have? Wrong! Well not completely wrong, keeping your face rid of dirt and bacteria is definitely an essential part of preventing acne but over washing can do more harm than good. It important to get the amount and technique of face washing just right.  

 

While face washing gets rid of dirt, make up and bacteria that build up throughout the day over washing can dry out your face, cause redness and make your skin sensitive and more prone to breakouts. Dryness and irritation of the skin make it less forgiving and more liable to pimples.

 

The main reason you shouldn’t over wash your face is washing away all of the good things your body naturally produces. We were born with skin that produces a natural layer of oil there to protect your skin. Your skin functions to protect itself and you need to not fight it too much! The layer of oil produced protects and hydrates your skin, keeping it well looked after. If you strip this layer of oil away you are exposing your skin to dirt, bacteria and dryness that all contribute to breakouts. Also because your skin is stripped of moisture you will need to use a moisturiser, which just means using more unnatural products, when your natural oils do a perfectly good job on their own. 

Now don’t get me wrong, washing your face is still important, but moderation and technique are the way to get it right. Try these face washing tips and see if your acne improves.

-Wash your face only once or at most twice a day. Just remember sometimes less is more.

-Be gentle. Lightly washing your face with a cloth will be a lot more effective the rigorously scrubbing your skin.

-Ensure you are using a gentle cleaner- Strong treatments can strip away natural oils and irritate the skin

-If you have dry skin you should only use a face washer and warm water. Cleansers can irritate dry skin and you are often better off without them.

 

You need to get rid of dirt and bacteria to prevent acne and maintain clean and healthy skin but this does not mean over scrubbing and ruining your skin in the process! The secret is simple; thoroughly but gently washing your face.

Benzoyl Peroxide – is it Safe?

Benzoyl Peroxide is one of the most common acne treatments and found in many prescription and over the counter medications. Often considered the go-to acne medication this treatment has been around for decades. Though it is one of the most popular treatments many people aren’t aware of the risks and side effects Benzoyl Peroxide has. Benzoyl Peroxide acne treatments essentially work by burning the surface of the skin to eliminate acne, and side effects include excessive dryness, blistering and even bleaching your hair! Is this really something you want to be applying to your face?

So how does it work? Basically build up of debris and bacteria called Propionibacteria acnes (P acnes) under your skin cause acne. P acnes can’t survive in an oxygen rich environment so Benzoyl Peroxide works by introducing oxygen and chemicals into skin follicles killing bacteria and cleaning away debris and dead skin cells. This reduces blocked pores and acne breakouts but dries out your skin and can be an unpleasant experience.

Though you may be told of all of the great results Benzoyl Peroxide produces, be weary of the side effects and consider if you really want to use this treatment on your skin. Common side effects of the chemical include

·         Severe dryness

·         A burning sensation

·         Peeling

·         Itching

·         Redness and irritation

·         Swelling

These reactions are not what you are looking for in a skin treatment and will deteriorate the health of your skin often more so than the acne will. If you experience any of these side effects you should discontinue use and see a doctor or dermatologist to find a better skin care solution.

Not only does Benzoyl peroxide cause frequent side effects there are many other reasons to decide against the chemical treatment.

·         It bleaches your clothes and towels, hair and eyebrows

·         Skin becomes so dry it can cause premature aging

·         It slows the healing of your skin

·         It is rated in category 3 by the Food and Drug Administration meaning the safety is ‘unknown.’

·         It eliminates the top layer of skin making it more liable to sun damage.

·         It is tested on animals

If the mention of chemical didn’t put you off enough think clearly about whether you want a product that can bleach you hair and clothes applied to the sensitive skin on your face. While many people swear by Benzoyl Peroxide as an acne preventative keep in mind it literally burns your skin and doesn’t treat the problem at the source, but rather covers it up. More natural acne treatments such as SkinB5 are the way to go as they are a safer and healthier option and produce great results naturally.

                                                                               

Testosterone & Acne Link - Can too much exercise cause acne?

Testosterone is a steroid hormone, mostly associated with men as it is responsible for the development of male sex organs. Despite this testosterone is still present in women and when trying to fight acne, both males and females should consider how testosterone is affecting breakouts.

Acne is formed when skin follicles get clogged with oil called Sebum. The purpose of sebum is to carry dead skin cells to the surface of your skin, however when too much of it is produced the oil can clog up and break out as pimples on your skin. Testosterone plays a part in this, as it increases Sebum, increasing the likelihood of follicles blocking.

All is not lost though, testosterone is variable and understanding what changes it can help reduce your breakouts. Dairy, sugar and starch foods have been discovered to effect testosterone levels. Another link is the amount of exercise you are undertaking. It has been found lifting weights increases your testosterone by up to 30% immediately after you exercise, which often results in breakouts. All heavy resistance training has similar effects, with each session increasing testosterone levels.

So how do you reduce your testosterone while staying fit and healthy? Some suggestions include reducing dairy, using medications that reduce testosterone levels or for females, the birth control pill which contains estrogen and progestin counteracting testosterone. It terms of reducing exercise, it is not recommended you stop physical activity. Consider the benefits of testosterone before trying to reduce it such as improved strength, red blood cells production, sex drive and bone density. Rather than abolishing all of these health benefits, a better option can be to ensure you thoroughly wash your face after exercise and avoid irritating acne after breakouts occur.

Testosterone is an essential hormone with many health benefits despite its tendency to cause breakouts and acne. Rather than trying to reduce it, a good understanding of how and when it fluctuates can be an effective prevention method for acne, as you can ensure you wash your face and look after your skin when testosterone levels increase such as after exercise.

Avocado Oil Natural Acne Remedy

With so many acne treatments available it can be hard to find the right one for your skin. If commercial

treatments don’t seem to be doing the job, you should give acne remedies and natural oils a try. Avocado Oil is one that has proved to have great results for many acne suffers. There are three ways it can help acne: nutritionally, as a moisturiser and as a topical treatment for acne problem spots.

Nutritionally, Avocados are very high in monounsaturated fats (good fats) and low in the bad fats that are directly linked to acne. Eating avocados as a regular part of your diet, using Avocado Oil to cook and using it as a salad dressing can have skin benefits. In addition to preventing acne it can increase your vitamin E levels, and help tone your skin.

Used topically, Avocado Oil is makes a great moisturiser! If you are prone to oily skin you may be hesitant to apply more oil to your face but don’t be worried! The oil that causes pimples and blocks pores is Sebum Oil, which comes from inside of the body. Avocado Oil actually prevents the inflammation that causes this Sebum Oil and keeps your skin well moisturised.

Most importantly, Avocado Oil is an ideal topical treatment for pimples, skin blemishes and scars! It helps in reducing blackheads and reducing pore inflammation which can result in the big puss-filled pimples we can’t wait to get rid of!

Avocado Oil cleans out blocked pores, improves skin tone and reduces inflammation of the sebaceous gland (which produces the sebum oil that causes pimples). Avocado Oil also promotes cell regeneration, leaving skin fresh, healthy and toned.

Not only is it good for acne, but for reducing scars as well! The oil is high in sterolins, which are well known for their healing properties. It also moisturises the upper layers of skin helping reduce age spots.

Try combining 1 tsp Avocado Oil with 1 tsp Castor Oil, and applying to your skin. Cover with a warm face washer and leave it for several minutes, allowing the heat to open up your pores. Wash off gently with a face washer and rinse your face to get rid of excess oil. Your skin will be left feeling smooth, refreshed and moisturised!

If you prefer to buy a premixed facial treatment, there are many acne facemasks available with avocado oil as a main ingredient. These are very effective in treating acne as they combine the benefits of not only avocado oil but also many other oils, vitamins and minerals into one lotion! We recommend the 5-Minute Skin Purifying Mask by SkinB5. It helps soothe acne prone, irritated skin while removing blackheads and moisturising your face! Visit www.skinb5.com to order.

Vitamin B5: Could it be the cure for acne?

Have you heard the buzz about Vitamin B5 acne treatments lately? If you haven’t,

SkinB5- Vitamin B5 based acne treatment

chances are you will soon! Recent studies are showing that this mega vitamin has impressive acne-fighting abilities, and is a MUST for all people suffering from acne. Here’s the lowdown on what exactly Vitamin B5 is and why you NEED to be taking it!

VitaminB5, also known as Pantothenic acid is one of eight B-Vitamins that are necessary for vital functions in the body. It is a water soluble vitamin that is commonly used in skin care products to treat acne and give clearer skin.

Vitamin B5 is part of a co-enzyme called Co-enzyme A, which is vital in keeping skin oil at a normal level in your body. At times (mainly during adolescence and hormone changes) there isn’t enough Vitamin B5 in the body, causing the skin to produce extra oil which leads to acne.

This vitamin is also essential for certain things like the conversion of carbohydrate, fat and protein into energy. Without Vitamin B5, it would be impossible to survive!

There are many foods full of Vitamin B5 that we eat on a day to day basis. These foods include meats, liver, poultry, fish, milk, egg yolks, cauliflower, broccoli, avocado, tomatoes, whole grain breads, cereals and lentils to name a few.

Vitamin B5 was first discovered by Roger J. Williams in 1919 when he found out that many animals require it to live and later on by the late 1990s was studied for its ability to prevent acne and decrease pore size.

Although it is very rare, some people suffer from Vitamin B5 deficiency and it can cause some problems like:

• Burning sensations in hands and feet
• Cramps, numbness and tiredness
•  Tingling sensations in the muscles
• Diarrhoea, vomiting and water retention
•  Restlessness, sleep disturbances

The main type of people who suffer from a Vitamin B5 deficiency are people who are under high levels of stress, women who are pregnant, women who use contraceptive pills, smokers and alcoholics. The simple way to treat this deficiency is by taking oral Vitamin B5 treatment, however, be sure to do your research so you don’t “overdose” on B5.

Manyoral acne treatments combine Vitamin B5 with other acne fighting ingredients to offer an effective and safe acne treatment (SkinB5 is one B5 acne treatment brand to look into).

So how important is Vitamin B5 really? A good Vitamin B5 based oralacne treatment, along with a diligent skincare routine could be the difference between acne ridden skin and a blemish-free, clear complexion. Try it for yourself and notice the difference!

Acne Myth #2: Eating Wheat Causes Acne

FALSE. Acne Myth BUSTED!

The reason there are theories that wheat causes acne is because wheat products can alter the glycemic index (GI) which provides a measure of how quickly blood sugar levels rise.  All high GI products eg. white bread, most white rice, corn flakes, extruded breakfast cereals, glucose, maltose, maltodextrins, potato, sweets etc, cause blood sugar to spike dramatically.  Elevated blood sugar stimulates your body to pump out insulin which then triggers a cascade of hormonal effects, including elevated levels of androgens (the acne-causing male hormones), excess oil, and increased skin cell production, all of which lead to clogged pores and breakouts.  Also, some cases of acne (and eczema, psoriasis) are aggravated by food allergies, eg. gluten which is found in such grains as wheat, barley and rye.

Acne Myth #1: Chocolate Causes Acne

Chocolate Causes Acne: Myth BUSTED!

With Easter just gone, there are plenty of Easter eggs and bunnies waiting to be eaten. Now I’m sure you’ve all heard the theories that chocolate causes pimples, so before you go diving into your eggs, we will have a look at how chocolate is related to acne and how to prevent it while still enjoying your Easter treats. 

Over time there have been conflicting opinions in medical professionals on whether or not chocolate causes acne. There has not been a direct link found between chocolate- or any specific food for that matter- and acne and we cannot say it directly causes breakouts. However, a high-fat and high-sugar diet can be linked as it contributes to the production of sebum oil. When there is excess sebum oil in the skin, inflammatory responses are promoted and blocked pores will break out as acne. So while chocolate can’t be solely blamed for your skin problems, it can be a good preventative method to reduce your intake.

For all those chocolate lovers out there, it’s not the make or break of skincare. You just need to be smart with chocolate consumption and diet choices. Choosing the right chocolate can even make a difference. White and milk chocolate are especially high in sugar, dairy and additives and hence can be worse for your skin. Rather, dark chocolate is healthier and while it is good for your cardiovascular system, the antioxidants in it are also good for your skin.

So does chocolate cause acne? No. It is not solely to blame. Unhealthy diets do cause skin problems however and chocolate contributes to your fat and sugar intake. The best preventative method is a healthy diet and a regular skin care routine. Washing your face gently once a day helps reduce excess oil, dirt and bacteria that can cause pimples. So if you want to enjoy your Easter eggs this week go right ahead, just try and compensate for the treats with low sugar and low fat foods and keep your skin clean and healthy.  

SkinB5 Wins Best Face Mask Award

SkinB5’s5-Minute Skin Purifying Mask won BEST New Face Mask in the 2013 Beautyheaven Glosscar Awards. The award is designed to recognize the best new products each year across various beauty categories. Products are nominated by beauty industry, and winners are selected on a voting system by Beautyheaven users – Glosscar winners are the best of the best, cream of the crop skincare products that have been tried and tested by real consumers!

The Skin Purifying Mask – designed to soothe and refresh dry, acne prone andtrouble skin, was launched August 2012, and quickly became a favourite SkinB5 product among SkinB5 users and Beautyheaven readers.

Packed with natural ingredients like aloe vera, French green clay, peppermint oil, Great Barrier Reef sea minerals and vitamin B5, the 5-Minute Mask literally “drinks” oils from the skin leaving the face smooth and clean with noticeably smaller pores and reduced blackheads.

“After I rinse it off my skin feels fresh, clean and genuinely purified. This feels perfect for my acne-prone skin as it is soothing, purifying and cleansing. My skin feels re-balanced and calmed afterwards,” writes Beautyheaven user, Softness in a product review online.

“At SkinB5 we are focused on alternative and natural skin treatments that ACTUALLY WORK and promote an overall healthy body. It is crucial that we NEVER use harsh preservatives, artificial fragrances, synthetic chemicals or any other unnatural, irritating products. The ingredients in all of our products are sourced in their rawest form possible to ensure purity,” states Judy Cheung, Co-Founder and Managing Director of SkinB5.

Just as with other SkinB5 products, a great deal of research and planning was put into the formulation of the new SkinB5 Skin Purifying Mask.  French Green Clay (imported from France) is renowned for its skin renewing properties and abilities to rejuvenate problem skin. Aloe vera heals and soothes irritated areas while Great Barrier Reef sea minerals smooth the skin (and promote SkinB5’s Australian roots). Vitamin B5 – a central ingredient to all SkinB5 products moisturises and promotes skin health and healing.

To order the SkinB5 Skin Purifying Mask, or for more information visit www.skinb5.com For a full list of 2013 Beautyheaven Glosscar Winners visit http://www.beautyheaven.com.au/skin-care/moisturisers/glosscar-awards-2013-skin-care-winners-10730

Does Milk Cause Acne?

When suffering from acne, many people believe in a good healthy diet as a preventative and aid to clearer, healthier skin. The diet-acne connection is one that has been dwelled upon for many years, with researchers in constant disagreement as to whether your diet will have an impact on your acne. One suggestion is that foods such as sugar, chocolate and fats are particularly bad for your skin and should be avoided. It has been widely accepted these unhealthy foods can be bad for your skin, however, could it be possible the foods we consider nutritious are doing our skin just as much damage? 

More recent studies have narrowed down the diet/ acne connection and discovered diets that raise your blood sugar (foods with a high glycemic index)  or frequent dairy consumption have some of the strongest impacts on your skin. While many medical experts disagree on whether or not milk causes acne, there have been studies that show people who drink more milk tend to have worse acne than those who consume less. 

You may be wondering how a substance we consider healthy could impact your skin. There are many reasons, the first being the hormones in the milk. As milk usually comes from pregnant cows, there are hormones in it which signal to our bodies to produce more sebum, blocking pores. Milk also raises blood sugar levels in the body, which, like the hormones increases sebum oils and blocks pores. 

Though it has not been proven there is a direct link between milk consumption and acne, many researchers suggest it could be an alternate treatment if conventional acne treatments are not successful. If you suffer severe acne and are having no luck with you current treatment, lowering milk intake could be an option worth trying. Many people have found by minimising milk and dairy products in their diet, acne has improved or even cleared. If your acne isn’t responding to the treatments you’ve been trying, try lowering your dairy intake over a couple of weeks and see if it helps you. Everyone is different so often you have to try a lot of treatments and preventatives before you find the one right for you!

In Search of a Safe Acne Treatment that Works

SkinB5 Offers an Effective Natural Alternative to Dangerous Acne Drugs

Prescription acne drug, Diane 35 deaths have been the latest buzz in newspapers and online health and acne forums around the world. With multiple countries banning the popular acne drug and contraceptive pill after four related deaths, acne sufferers have become sceptical of their acne treatments, and rightfully so.

This isn’t the first time a common acne medication has led to crisis.  Isotretinoin, a common prescription acne medication, has been linked to birth defects, depression, psychological illness, severe dryness of skin and even a few suicides, yet it remains one of the top prescribed acne medications around the world.  

Diane 35 now banned or suspended in many counteries

Antibiotics (eg. Tetracycline, Erythromycin, Minocycline, Doxycycline, Clindamycin) which is another common prescription treatment for acne also have well documented side effects, including sensitivity to the sun or cause sunburns, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, skin pigmentation changes, tooth discoloration, cause serious intestinal infection, cause candida vaginal yeast infections in women, lessen the effectiveness of birth control pills etc.  In our opinion, the concept of treating acne by killing both good and bad bacteria in your body is not a solution at all when acne needs to be treated at the source, stop it before it starts.  Overuse of antibiotics has also created the emerging global crisis with super bugs which are resistant to almost all mainstream antibiotics.

Topical acne treatments are another story. While they don’t lead to life threatening conditions, many contain harsh chemicals that over dry and burn the skin.   Topical acne treatments including cleansers, moisturisers, masks and spot treatment gels are packed with synthetic chemicals and high doses of alcohol, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid which literally burns the skin in order to minimise acne.

With a slew of dangerous acne drugs on the market, many acne sufferers are turning to homemade acne remedies and alternative natural treatments; many of which are not potent enough to eliminate acne completely.

Many research studies point to various minerals and vitamins which can support skin health and even reduce acne. The leading natural acne cure is Vitamin B5, which is clinically proven to reduce acne by regulating skin oil production.   

However, not one of these natural acne supplements is not enough to cure acne alone.  In 2006, after extensive research entrepreneur and natural health enthusiast Judy Cheung got the idea to create an all-natural acne treatment supplement that is effective and most importantly safe (no unhealthy megadoses).

“I have a lifelong passion in alternative, complementary medicine and wanted to give acne sufferers a REAL natural solution to acne and an alternative to dangerous prescription acne medications and chemical face washes.  After extensive review of existing clinical datas and naturopathic textbooks, I came up with the SkinB5 formulation — an internal acne supplement based on sound scientific research and will actually work, and we didn’t disappoint our customers!!”

The effectiveness of the SkinB5 acne fighting system is proven amongst our customers since its launch in 2006.  SkinB5 is a unique and potent combination of eight powerful acne clearing key vitamins and minerals, at carefully determined dosages to restore skin health by regulating skin oil production and hormones, reducing stress and boosting the immune system—leading to an overall decrease in acne lesions.   SkinB5 also helps control inflammation.

SkinB5 has been so successful since its 2006 launch that is now sold all around the world and has expanded to five all natural products which treat acne internally and externally.

"I am a long time acne sufferer and have tried almost every product on the market including prescription drugs. The drug worked, but only temporarily. Since it is a potent medication and has the potential for harmful side effects it is not an option as a long standing treatment. SkinB5 has provided me a long term option and has been the only product that has proven to clear my acne almost completely, naturally," writes Julie Blair, a SkinB5 user from the United States.

"I just wanted to send in a message about my SkinB5 experience. Honestly, thank you so much! I have suffered from acne for so many years, I have spent thousands of dollars on acne treatments. Since day one of the SkinB5 treatment I saw the results, I stopped breaking out almost straight away! My face has cleared dramatically! This is the first treatment that I have found which is easy to use, and actually works! I wish I took a before and after shot, because I still can't believe the results! Thank you so much! A very happy customer!“ submitted by another amazed SkinB5 user Dallas Wellby - Australia

“Many of our customers come to us after trying almost every acne treatment on the market. They find that SkinB5 works even better than prescription medications, without the horrible side effects and actually improves overall health,” says Cheung. “I’m so happy that with SkinB5 I can give teens and adults an effective, safe and natural alternative acne treatment, and save them from the scarring grief that many prescription acne drugs can cause.”

SkinB5 is available globally online at www.skinb5.com, or at most leading healthfood stores, skin specialists and natural pharmacies.

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About SkinB5

SkinB5 is an all-natural acne supplement that works from within to eliminate and cure acne on the face and all over the body by controlling skin oil production, balancing hormones, strengthening immune system and reducing stress. The SkinB5 acne treatment system is based on a safe dose of vitamin B5 which is proven to increase skin health and reduce acne by regulating the skin’s production of sebum, or skin oil. SkinB5's effectiveness is proven and safe for users of all ages. In addition to selling online, SkinB5 supplies to reputable pharmacies, health food shops, skin specialists and dermatologists who prefer to offer a natural alternative acne treatment. SkinB5 is a global eCommerce company which was launched in 2006. The product line consists of Acne Control Extra Strength Tablets, Acne Control Caplets, Acne Control Cleanser, Acne Control Moisturiser and 5-Minute Skin Purifying Mask. For more information, or to order, visit www.skinb5.com.

Make Your Own Apple Cider Vinegar Acne Remedy

Apple Cider Vinegar…you’ve probably heard it used as a main ingredient for salad dressing, but have you ever heard of the apple cider vinegar acne treatment? Probably not!

Apple cider vinegar has been used for centuries for many different purposes from cooking to household cleaning and as a natural treatment for numerous ailments including high blood pressure, diabetes and indigestion. Today, the many benefits of apple cider vinegar are still being discovered, but the research that has been done suggests that apple cider vinegar is a great all around health supplement.

Health Benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar:

• Regulates blood sugar levels. This is also important in preventing acne because eating sugary foods can lead to breakouts. Drinking apple cider vinegar mixed with water before a meal can greatly reduce the impact that the sugar affects you.

• Improves digestion. Apple Cider Vinegar helps prevent indigestion and promotes healthy bacteria growth in the small intestine. With better digestion, the body can rid itself of toxins which can lead to breakouts and acne, quicker.

• Balances pH levels. When applied to the face, apple cider vinegar makes a great toner which kills bacteria and returns the skin pH level to normal.

• Gives you a potassium boost. Potassium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in maintaining healthy skin, hair and nails. Apple cider vinegar is packed with potassium, benefiting your skin when applied topically or taken as a drink.

How to Make an Apple Cider Vinegar Acne Remedy:

Apple cider vinegar provides the most benefits through being taken internally and applied externally. For internal uses, mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one cup of water. Drink in the morning and at night, or before each meal.

For external application, start with a mixture of half apple cider vinegar, half water. Use a cotton ball or soft cloth to apply it to your skin. If this is too strong or if you have sensitive skin, add some water to dilute the mixture.

Be sure to always purchase raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar. It’s not the cheapest option on the shelf, but has more enzymes and minerals that will benefit your skin than the processed, filtered version.

Do you have more natural acne remedy tips? Share them with us in the comments section below! We love to discover new skincare secrets!

How Safe is Your Acne Medication?

How Safe is Your Acne Medication?

                               
Acne Product Removed from Market After Causing Deaths

What would you do if you found out the acne medication you are taking was linked to four deaths? It’s not often that a drug is removed from the market or declared “dangerous and deadly” but it has happened before, and the latest suspect? Diane 35 a prescription acne medication (also used as a contraceptive) which has led to the death of four French women over the past several years. Scary? We think so!

Diane 35 is not a trial drug or even a new drug. It has been used by people just like you and me to treat acne, and has been around for over 25 years! It wasn’t until recently that researchers discovered this acne drug increases users chance of getting blood clots by FOUR times, and was linked to the death of four people. The French Government has announced its plan to fully REMOVE Diane 35 from the market over the next three months, however, no other government has taken action yet and Diane 35 is still used by thousands of women to treat their acne.

News about dangerous acne drugs is not new to us. In a world where doctors can write a prescription for virtually any ailment, these drugs are commonplace. But the million dollar question is what kind of long term effects do these drugs have?

Roaccutane (also known as Accutane or Isotretinoin) is another controversial mainstream prescription acne treatment which has been documented to cause birth defects in pregnant women and can lead to overly dry skin, sun sensitivity and psychological problems. It has even been linked with several depression related suicides over the past few years. Because these drugs have only been on the market for a few decades, the full effects of taking them long term or for a lifetime are still unknown.

Unfortunately, in many cases acne is not a condition that can go untreated. While it poses little harm to one’s physical health, severe acne can lower self-esteem and confidence and even lead to depression. Potent prescription drugs with questionable side effects and topical acne treatments that provide little relief, leave acne sufferers with few options.

Recently, many teenagers and adults alike with all types of acne have been turning to an increasingly well known and reputable natural alternative acne treatment system SkinB5; proclaimed by many users as “the natural acne treatment that actually works!” SkinB5 is an internal nutritional supplement, treating acne where it starts—from within—rather than just on the surface like many over the counter acne treatments. Furthermore, SkinB5 is 100% natural and is based on a combination of vitamins and minerals that are clinically proven to reduce acne. Many naturopaths recommend SkinB5 as a natural alternative to prescription acne treatments because it is safe for all ages and has no undesirable side effects.

Luckily, acne sufferers now have an array of different treatment options on the market; from powerful prescription drugs to topical face washes and all-natural acne supplements. No two people have the same skin or acne condition, so the best approach to a healthy, effective acne treatment is to read the facts, do some research and consider the future effects of an acne medication before buying.

SkinB5 Valentine's Day Sale

 Get Acne Free in Time For Valentine’s Day

 

SkinB5 spreads the love this Valentine’s Day with a massive discount & a chance to win FREE masks for a year!

Love is brewing in the air, are you ready for this Valentine’s Day? SkinB5 can help you look and feel great this Valentine’s Day.
 

    Receive $30 off when you order our SkinB5 Complete Care Pack + Mask
    Free Global Shipping
    Plus your chance to win FREE SkinB5 Masks for a year!

Order SkinB5 before February 14 and get $30 off our BEST SELLING Complete Care Pack + Mask. This includes a bottle of SkinB5 Extra Strength Tablets, Caplets, Moisturiser, Cleanser and our top selling French Green Clay Facial Mask all for only $104.95 (Value $170.75) plus FREE worldwide shipping!  Get clear, acne-free skin with SkinB5 just in time for Valentine’s Day! Use coupon codeLOVESKINB5when you order from our website.

SkinB5 is the only Natural Acne Treatment System that REALLY Works!

Get this deal, and you will be entered to win a year of FREE SkinB5 Masks! 10 lucky customers will be selected to win, terms & conditions apply.

What are you waiting for? Get your confidence back, and be acne free NOW!

Visit www.skinb5.com/special to get this deal!

Mask Contest Terms & Conditions:

Customer must order Acne Control Complete Care Pack + Mask, order must be placed on or before 14, February, 2013 using coupon code LOVESKINB5. Each eligible purchase will receive one entry into the drawing. Ten (10) customers will be randomly selected on 20 February, 2013 to receive a year supply of free SkinB5 Skin Purifying Masks (six (6) masks). Winners will be contacted via email and will receive their prize in the mail, free S&H!. Contest eligibility and Distribution of the Skin Purifying Mask is at the sole discretion of SkinB5 PTY LTD. Entrants consent to SkinB5 using their name and location for promotional purposes including but not limited to SkinB5 website, Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. Offer may be terminated without notice. Void where prohibited.

Top 5 Skincare Tips For Summer

Top 5 Skincare Tips For Summer

 

How to Beat the Heat and Stay Acne Free all Summer Long!

1. Get a Smart Tan-or none at all! – The sun is not your enemy, as long as you are smart about your sun exposure. While tanning can hide acne blemishes and scars temporarily, tanning stresses your skin cells which can slow down the healing of acne and also clog pores with dead skin cells, leading to more breakouts. It’s best to avoid tanning altogether and wear sunscreen any time you go outside! Even on cloudy days, the sun’s rays can still harm unprotected skin. Get in the routine of applying an SPF each morning when you wake up!

2. Use a Water-Based Moisturiser – Heat, sunlight and humidity can irritate acne-prone skin during the summer. Keep your skin clear with an oil-free water based moisturiser such as SkinB5’s Acne Control Moisturiser. This non-comedogenic face lotion goes on light, dries quickly and helps keep your skin moist, rejuvenated and clear all day.

3. Cleanse, Cleanse, Cleanse – With hot summer days comes dirt, sweat, and unwanted bacteria. Summer heat isn’t always your skin’s friend, but it doesn’t have to stop you from having fun in the sun. Use a gentle cleanser at least twice a day; once in the morning, once at night to remove sweat, dirt and bacteria that can cause acne flare ups.

4. Minimise Peak Day Sun Exposure – The sun’s rays are most intense in the middle of the day-from 11 AM to 3 PM. If possible, avoid spending a lot of time in the sun during those hours. Otherwise, make sure you apply sunscreen regularly (every 1-2 hours) to stay protected.

5. Know Your Acne Products – Did you know your acne medication could be increasing your risk of sunburn and skin cancer? That’s right, many prescription acne medications and topical acne treatments actually make your skin overly sensitive to the sun’s rays. This means you have an increased chance of burning more quickly than you would off the medication. Research the side effects of your acne medication (sun sensitivity is included in many side effect lists), and be sure to check out this article on how to reduce sun sensitivity protect your skin from sun damage.

SkinB5 Launches Partnership with Velocity; Virgin Australia’s Frequent Flyer Rewards Program

 

Buy SkinB5’s proven natural acne fighting system now and get Velocity points!  SkinB5 announces partnership with Velocity, Virgin Australia’s Frequent Flyer Rewards Program to reward all customers who are Velocity members with 10 Velocity points for every $1 they spend on purchasing SkinB5.   Customers can collect and redeem Velocity points when they purchase SkinB5 via the Velocity Global eStore (http://www.shopandearn.com.au/health-beauty/skin-b5) to purchase airline tickets, hotel accommodation, hire a car and much more!

 

SkinB5 is proud to be among many other distinguished online retailers who offer Velocity points for online purchases. Other Velocity partners include Ebay, iTunes, The Iconic, Clinique and ASOS, to name a few.

 

SkinB5 customers wishing to participate in the Velocity program can register at www.shopandearn.com.au.  Once customers login to their account, they can search for “SkinB5” in the shopping search field.  The customer will then be redirected to the SkinB5 website, where they can shop and order as normal.  Once the transaction is complete, Velocity points will automatically be applied to the customer’s account.  To learn how it works, visit www.shopandearn.com.au/how-it-works.html.

 

In addition to offering Velocity rewards, SkinB5 also has its own customer reward system. For every $20 spent, one SkinB5 rewards point will be credited to their account.  Points can be saved up and redeemed for discounts or free products. Each point is worth $1.

 

SkinB5 hopes to finalise negotiations to offer shop and earn Delta Air Miles points, Asia Miles points and the option to donate a percentage of each purchase to reputable charities.

Is Your Acne Medication Harming You?

Acne Medications & Sun Sensitivity; What You NEED to Know to Stay Safe This Summer!

 

There’s nothing better than spending a lazy Summer Saturday basking in the sun. As the days get warmer we all want to be outside having fun, but for people with acne-prone or sensitive skin, summertime isn’t always fun and games. You probably already know about the importance of wearing sunscreen and protecting your skin from sunburn, but what you don’t know is that your acne medication combined with sun exposure can cause irreversible damage to skin leading to premature aging.

 

Almost all prescription acne medications have side effects, some worse than others. Roaccutane can cause severe depression, liver damage and birth defects in pregnant women, chemical face washes can over-dry and even burn the skin making it ultra-sensitive, and antibiotics can promote nausea, intestinal infections, resistance to antibiotics and hormone changes.

 

In addition to this, all of these prescription or over the counter acne medications cause increased sun sensitivity which leads to more sunburns, skin discolouring (such as blotches or freckles) a higher risk rate for skin cancer and premature aging.

 

Here’s the lowdown on different acne treatments and how they increase sun sensitivity:

 

Topical Acne Treatments (Face Cleansers, Skin Peels, spot treatment gel, etc.)-All of these acne treatments work as exfoliants; chemically removing the top layer of the skin. While this can help reduce the appearance of pimples and acne lesions, it can also prematurely expose a new layer of fresh skin which can be extremely sensitive to the sun. Combined with sun exposure this results in shorter burn times, darkening of the skin, spotting, freckling and more severe sunburns.

 

Dermatologist Acne Treatments-Laser acne treatments and microdermabrasion are two of the most common acne treatments performed by dermatologists. Generally these are used in severe cystic acne cases and can be very effective in removing acne, rejuvenating the skin and treating acne scars. The nature of these treatments is based on removing a layer of skin, leaving skin ultra-sensitive and prone to sunburn, discolouration and irritation when exposed to direct sunlight.

 

Prescription Acne Medications-Doxycycline and Roaccutane are two of the leading anti-acne prescription acne treatments. They don’t topically remove a layer of skin like some other treatments, but they are chemically based and proven to highten levels of sun sensitivity in many users. Keep in mind that these drugs affect the entire body; not just the face or acne-affected areas, so remember to wear sunscreen or cover up all exposed skin.

 

How to Avoid Sun Damage

 

Planning before a day in the sun is essential! It is important to remember that your skin on acne medications is much more sensitive and will burn much quicker than without the acne medication. We recommend using a daily moisturiser with at least SPF 15, and applying a higher SPF sunscreen frequently when spending prolonged amounts of time in the sun. Wearing a hat or covering exposed or sensitive areas of skin can also be beneficial in preventing sun damage.

 

However, the only way to completely reduce your risk of sun sensitivity caused by acne medications is to avoid them!

 

The only alternative acne treatments that don’t cause sun sensitivity (and other health problems) are naturally derived vitamin and mineral based acne supplements.

 

Acne treatments such as SkinB5 are gaining popularity among acne-ridden teenagers and adults alike for their gentle yet effective solution to curing acne. Many of these acne products (SkinB5 for example) are 100% naturally formulated with vitamins and minerals proven to reduce acne by regulating skin oil production, reducing stress, boosting the immune system and regulating hormones. Switch to a healthier, all natural acne supplement today and notice the difference for yourself!