Wednesday, 24 December 2014

Acne Myth Busted!



Myth #1: 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.

Myth #2: Dairy causes acne.

 
 
 
 
 
 
TRUE.

Cow’s milk (even organic) contains its own hormones (including androgens) and growth factors (including bovine IGF-1). Everytime you drink milk or eat dairy products, the cow hormones are absorbed by your body and remain active in the bloodstream, so they can affect your skin (and acne) in the same way as humane hormones.  Furthermore, even though milk is low on GI, dairy products have been shown to elevate insulin production to the same extent as white bread.  Whey protein from cow’s milk which has androgen-like effects also promotes acne. Dairy can also promotes inflammation, contributing to a host of issues including acne.

Myth #3: Coming off the pill causes acne.

 
 
 
 
 
 
TRUE.

Certain contraceptive pills (Yaz, Diane35 and Ortho Tri-Cyclen) block the action of androgens (the acne-causing male hormones). As you come off the pill your hormones go out of whack and acne can arise.  Good news is it is treatable through correct nutritional and lifestyle strategies.  Take supplements that contain zinc and vitex herb, at a dosage specifically designed to stop acne by effectively balance the hormones.  Going to sleep before 11pm is also vital to keep your hormones happy. A clean diet that limits meat intake and avoid dairy products is essential – meat and dairy can cause inflammation, contributing to a host of issues including acne.

Myth #4: Red foods cause or worsen acne and pigmentation

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FALSE.

Natural red foods such as red capsicum, beetroot, tomatoes etc contain the most anti-aging and sun protective antioxidants and will help you achieve good health and hence clear glowing skin.  Artificial food colourings, including red food dyes found in many processed foods and cakes, however, have been linked to a range of health issues, including acne and eczema.  Also, dyes used in cosmetic and makeup products including D&C Red #9 and D&C Red #40 are known to cause acne and pigmentation. 

Myth#5: Dirty/oily hair that brushes against your face cause acne. For e.g. heavy fringes/bangs

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FALSE

The hairs on our head are lubricated by sebum (the same oil that lubricates our skin).  How much oil your glands produce is mostly determined by heredity, but just as your skin can get oilier during puberty (which is one reason teenagers struggle so much with acne), your hair can become oilier during similar hormonal shifts.  Taking a good dose of Vitamin B5 has been proven to control or regulate sebum production.

Myth#5: Pimples on your chin are linked to your ovaries, so when you're in your menstrual cycle you're more likely to break out on your chin.

 
 
 
 
 
 
TRUE

Hormonal acne do tend to show up on the chin, neck, and along the jawline rather than the oily T-zone.  Androgens in your body (the acne causing hormone) naturally spike around ovulation.   Studies show that your body produces the most androgen around days 21 to 26 of a 28-day cycle, resulting in larger ores and increased oil production which promotes acne.

Myth#6: Sugar contributes to acne.

 
 
 
 
 
 
TRUE

Sugar, particularly refined sugar eg. glucose, fructose, maltose is high on GI and can trigger dramatic blood sugar spikes.  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.  Adding good fats to high GI foods can help reduce the effects on insulin.

Myth #7: Mentally split your face horizontally through the middle, any breakouts about the invisible line are caused by diet and anything below is caused by hormones.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FALSE

Although hormonal acne do tend to show up on the chin, neck, and along the jawline rather than the oily T-zone, acne on the face and other parts of the body can also be caused by hormone imbalances, not just diet alone – a diet containing substantial diary products, refined sugar, highly processed foods, high GI foods promotes acne by elevating the blood sugar level dramatically, increasing production of androgens (acne causing hormones) and cause inflammation.

Myth #8: Stress and alcohol consumption cause pimples.

 
 
 
 
 
 
TRUE

Studies show that cells that produce sebum have receptors for stress hormones, so when a person with acne experiences a lot of stress, these sebum-producing cells become “unregulated” and more oil is produced to clog the hair follicles to allow more acne to form.  Alcoholic beverages on the other hand are often full of sugar, and sugar promotes acne by elevating blood sugar levels resulting in a cascade of hormonal effects, including increased androgens (acne-causing hormones), excess oil, and increased skin cell production, all of which lead to clogged pores and breakouts.  Avoid mixed drinks and cocktails with added sugar.

Tags: top myths about acne causes 

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TO POP OR NOT TO POP?


The biggest question for acne sufferers: to pop or not to pop? No doubt when you wake up in the morning with a monstrous pimple on your face the first thing you want to do is pop all that pus out and have your skin back to normal. But Stop! Lets first look in to whether you’re mother was right all those years when she said don’t pop your pimples or whether a harmless pop just helps relieve the pus. 

The truth of the matter is while you may think popping gets rid of your pimples it will actually worsen the problem and often leave your skin infected and scarred. When you have a pimple or blemish on your face it is there because excess sebum, dead skin cells and bacteria have built up under your skin have become inflamed. While squeezing all of that out might seem like a logical way to get rid of it, what you are doing is forcing that gunk so hard it either rips your skin or is pushed further down into the follicle. If it tears your skin and comes out the dirt and bacteria from your fingers can get into the pimple, causing it to become red and infected. Worst of all, popping pimples can cause permanent scarring, which can stay with you for the rest of your life. After you pop your pimple you are likely to end up with a large red blemish or scab in its place and is that really any better?

Despite knowing all of this, chances are when you next get a big pimple that same temptation to pop it will be back- be strong, don’t do it! But if you really can’t bear not to squeeze it at least follow a few measures to do it properly.

- Ensure you wash your hands and nails thoroughly, clean your skin around the pimple with an antibacterial cleanser and exfoliate over it.
- Applying a warm washer to the area before popping can soften the area for an easier extraction.
- Using toilet paper over your fingers when popping can also reduce bacteria.
- Wiping off the wound with an alcohol based toner or cleansing pad is a good idea after popping.
- Once you have popped it make sure you keep it clean while the spot is open and oozing and ensure you use no makeup until heals over!
- Another great way to keep your skin clear is to try and prevent the pimples coming up in the first place! Ensure you have good face washing and cleansing routines and you may want to try some acne treatments.  

Though squeezing out the pus of a pimple is tempting a pimple that will stay a couple of days is better than a scar that will last a lifetime. Resist the temptation! You will be thankful for it later. 

Tags: what are the treatments for pimples, pimple treatments

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Top 5 Skincare Tips For Summer


How to Beat the Heat and Stay Acne Free

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. 

Tags:  top 5 skin care tips for summer

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Acne After Twenty—How it can affect you into middle age

SkinB5 Helps Adults Get Acne Free No Matter their Age!

If you think you’ve escaped acne forever once your teenage years are gone, think again. Acne isn’t only a problem faced by teenagers these days! Believe it or not, acne can persist throughout an entire person’s life and is a common problem among middle-aged women especially.
According to a study at the Massachusetts General Hospital, “45% of women aged 21-30, 26% aged 31-40, and 12% aged 41-50 had clinical acne.” Those are quite shocking numbers for a disorder that is commonly considered as affecting teens only.
There are many factors that can contribute to acne, but no one quite knows what causes acne in adults. Factors such as diet, amount of skin oil production, hormones and stress can all influence acne severity.
Doctors suspect that hormones may be the leading cause of acne in middle aged women. “As women age, their levels of androgens [the male hormone that is present in both men and women] rise,” says Dr. Bethanee Jean Schlosser, assistant professor of dermatology at Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine.

At SkinB5, we get emails from middle aged people suffering from acne all the time. They ask if SkinB5 can help adult acne and if it will really work. We don’t blame them for being sceptical. After years of trying virtually every acne medication under the sun with little to no results, we would be sceptical too!

The great news for acne sufferers (especially middle-aged ones) is that with SkinB5, acne doesn’t have to rule your life anymore. SkinB5 DOES work for all ages and treats acne despite the cause. Especially for older users concerned about hormone induced acne, SkinB5 helps to regulate androgens (male hormones), in turn reducing acne.

Apart from treating hormonal acne, SkinB5 also helps reduce stress, boost the immune system and regulate skin oil levels; three additional factors that can cause or increase acne severity.

As a matter of fact, we just got a testimonial from a middle aged acne sufferer…here it is:

"At 41 years of age I've suffered with acne for over 20 years. In this time I have tried everything to cure it. From roaccutane, anti-biotic, contraceptive pill, complete diet changes, supplements, apple cider vinegar, raw potato & every topical cream & face wash. I have spent thousands & thousands of dollars. A few years ago my acne progressed in to Cystic acne. I decided I had nothing to lose trying SkinB5 and to my great surprise my acne has lessened significantly. My acne was stubborn and it did take around 5 months for me to really notice a difference. I am delighted to say that Skin B5 really does work. It has changed my life. Thank you SkinB5."

Natalie Carter – New Zealand

No matter your age, it’s never too late to get acne-free! Say goodbye to acne forever and see the difference for yourself with SkinB5!

Tags : how safe is your acne medication, side effects of acne drugs
 
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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. Acne Fighters recommends 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! 


 
For more details:
http://www.skinb5online.com/
 

Tuesday, 23 December 2014

Aloe Vera Natural Acne Treatment


Aloe Vera Natural Acne Treatment

Aloe Vera is a miracle plant! You may have used it to treat a sunburn before, or have heard of its healing properties, but what not many people know is that it also doubles as an effective natural acne treatment. Our SkinB5 cleanser and moisturiser are packed with Aloe, but a little more in your skincare routine can only help. Here are some do it yourself tips to harness the acne-destroying powers of Aloe Vera! 


1. Apply Aloe to problem areas. If you’ve ever used Aloe to treat sunburned skin, you are surely aware of its cooling sensation. But why put the Aloe gel away when the sunburn is gone? Try rubbing Aloe Vera on acne lesions or breakout areas before going to bed and in the morning. It will reduce swelling, inflammation and redness while making your skin feel cool and soft.

2. Drink it up! Aloe can be applied externally to treat problem spots on the skin, but its benefits don’t stop there. Drinking Aloe juice can further its skin soothing and anti-acne benefits. Start out with 2-4 ounces, twice a day. You can purchase Aloe juice at health food stores (be sure to check the concentration and purity) or make your own with a few Aloe leaves and a juicer.




3. Take it from the source. Like any natural substance, the purer your Aloe Vera is the more effective it will be as a natural acne treatment. The best Aloe comes straight from the source; the Aloe plant. You can easily pick a leave, wash the surface and cut the skin off revealing pure Aloe goodness ready for topical application or juicing. If you don’t have access to an Aloe plant, Aloe Vera gel and juice can be purchased at many specialty stores. Look for a brand with a pure concentration of Aloe (97% or more) and no added sugar.

 
 
 
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Avocado Oil Natural Acne Remedy


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 http://www.skinb5online.com/ to order.

 

Benzoyl Peroxide – is it Safe?


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.

For more details:

http://www.skinb5online.com/

 

 

SkinB5 Takes Part in 24 Hour Click Frenzy Special


SkinB5 has been selected to participate in Australia’s exclusive Click Frenzy Sale, starting 7PM (AEDST) this Tuesday.

Shoppers will have the opportunity to save up to 60% on a SkinB5 Acne Control Caplets, Cleansing Mousse and Moisturiser pack. The pack normally retails for $85.85, but will be on special for only $39.95 during the Click Frenzy event.

“This is an introductory offer designed for new customers to try SkinB5 products at a great rate,” states Judy Cheung SkinB5 Managing Director and Co-Founder.

“This is a great opportunity to spread awareness about our natural formulation designed to treat acne from the inside instead of on the surface. We are excited to be selected to participate in Click Frenzy with many other top brands.”

The annual event is Australia’s largest 24 hour flash sale, giving consumers access to amazing deals and deep discounts on their favourite brands. SkinB5 will be represented alongside many other leading and reputable brands such as Myer, Bonds, Adidas and Target.

For more information about SkinB5 or to take advantage of the SkinB5 Click Frenzy special visit:

Why are you more prone to acne during the holidays?


The holidays are a beautiful time filled with festivities, relaxation and family gatherings. For many the snow is falling and the world is turned into a winter wonderland. Children are enthralled by the magic and excitement. Teenagers and adults on the other hand are often stressed by the many events, family gatherings and present finding missions that are on top of daily life. During this time we often fall out of our exercise routines, change our eating patterns, and have high stress levels – all contributing to increased breakouts and acne. Depending on where you live, environment and weather can have a huge influence on your skin. This combination of factors can wreak havoc on our skin, luckily, we’re here to give you a few tips to avoid pre-holiday breakouts! 

Whether you love or hate the cold, during the winter months your skin gets dried out. Both indoor heating, indoor air conditioning and cold weather draw the moisture of our skin. Many assume that keeping oil-free skin will keep their acne at bay. This is true to some extent, but unfortunately if skin gets too dry it compensates by producing more oil, which blocks the pores and can cause breakouts.

Luckily there are a number of solutions that you can use to easily keep your skin hydrated, healthy and glowing. Avocado oil is a great option that we wrote about recently. Drinking 8 glasses of water a day is also super important for hydration and often neglected in winter. If you find these aren't improving your skin then putting a humidifier in your bedroom may help. Finally, opening the window allows for fresh air circulation, which is beneficial for skin health and acne control.

The holidays are often filled with stress, which has been shown to increase acne. Getting that perfect gift for someone you love or just seeing the family can be stressful for many. Not getting enough sleep also dramatically increases stress, and with all of the festive events that are on it can be hard to get in enough hours of sleep! Plus many of our normal routines, exercise that help us manage stress, go out the window over the holidays.

There are a number of simple techniques that can help you manage stress. Breathing techniques like taking 10 deep breaths when you feel stressed are a great way to bring in an extra bit of calm.

Exercising is also an excellent way to not only feel great physically but also decrease your stress. Finally, finding a way to get an hour more of sleep a night will really help you with your stress and you will probably just feel better in general. But, if all of this seems like too much manage during the holidays, SkinB5 can take care of your acne outbreaks, which will probably help with the stress anyway (Vitamin B5 is known as the anti-stress vitamin)!

Although the holidays can be bad for breakouts there are many natural solutions to keep them under control. If you want to keep your acne out of this year’s holiday photos then keep your skin hydrated and try to manage your stress. Or get some SkinB5 and let it look after the problem for you. Happy holidays! 

Tags: Acne, Skinb5, avocado oil for acne, is avocado oil good for acne

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