“What the heck is carrageenan?” you may be asking. Carrageenan is a form of seaweed primarily grown in the Philippines in large aquatic farms. Carrageenan has progressively entered our food supply in many processed foods and many supposedly healthy or low-fat foods. Carrageenan has many processed food uses including as a thickening agent, a stabilizer, and volumizer. The problem is that many people are highly reactive to carrageenan and don’t even realize they may also be allergic.

Carrageenan stimulates the production of glutamate within the body, similarly to Monosodium Glutamate (MSG). Glutamate acts as a neurotransmitter within the central nervous system, resulting in excitability, headaches, and irritable bowls. All of theses things cause stress within the body, followed-up by increased adrenal activity and acne.

Carrageenan is found in many low-fat dairy products, especially the lactose free type, and acts as a thickener to give the product the appearance and texture of being like whole milk. Carrageenan is found in many of the low-calorie microwave frozen meals, sushi, diet sodas, toothpaste, and even many brands of beer and wine. Read your labels and avoid carrageenan like the plague if you want to stay acne free.

Iodine

Iodine is found in many foods and is used within the human body for normal cell metabolism and thyroid function. Overexposure to iodine can have an opposite effect, however, causing dysfunction within the thyroid and overall metabolism. Excess iodine within the body gets excreted through the oil glands in the skin and collects on the skin’s surface. This excess iodine on the skin’s surface irritates the pores and creates acne flare-ups, especially in acne-prone skin types.

The problem is that many of our more common foods are beginning to include higher levels of iodine. Using iodized table salt along with eating small portions of fish and regular portion of vegetables will provide the average person with adequate levels of iodine to keep the body at sufficient levels. Anything more will create excess iodine concentration, which will end up excreted through the skin. Check your multivitamins too, since many of the common brand names have excess amounts of iodine.

“High Androgen” Foods

Hormonal imbalances are a major source of acne and other skin disorders. High androgen foods are those that cause increased hormonal activity within the body and also intensify hormonal imbalances. So as an individual attempts to treat skin problems by medications, antibiotics, and regular facial treatments, frequent consumption of high androgen food items may be sabotaging their progress.

Peanuts and peanut oil are very prevalent in our food supply, and are highly androgenic. Corn oil and wheat germ are also very common in processed foods, even the so-called healthy variety. Other high androgen foods to avoid include animal organs such as liver and stomach, shellfish, coconuts, and legumes such as beans and lentils.

Bottom line – read the labels and prepare your own meals so you can control what goes into your body. Even the most highly regarded skin treatment programs can be easily sabotaged by improper diet. It’s easy in today’s fast-paced reality to reach for the easiest available meals, but if you take some time to be careful about your diet you will be much closer to the clear skin you truly desire.

Zinc

Of all the essential elements that we should be deriving from our foods, zinc is one that receives hardly any press exposure. Over 2 billion people worldwide suffer from zinc deficiency, and many of the symptoms associated with a lack of zinc include hair loss, skin lesions, diarrhea, and loss of lean muscle mass. Doctors and researchers are now realizing that zinc deficiency also plays a key role in many skin disorders including acne.

Research has shown that once a zinc deficiency is identified in an acne prone individual, many times zinc dietary supplements can be as effective if not better at reducing inflamed acne than when treating acne with antibiotics alone. Zinc is essential for maintaining hormone balance within the body, so it is thought that since hormone imbalances are often associated with instances of acne flare-ups, maintaining proper zinc levels within the body may indirectly treat acne by helping to restore hormone balance.

Not all types of zinc are created equally however, so to use zinc dietary supplements to treat acne conditions, be sure to supplement with zinc monomethionine. Zinc sulfate and zinc gluconate are the two other forms of zinc dietary supplements found in nutrition stores, but these types are not as easily absorbed and used within the body.

Be careful with taking too much zinc. Excess zinc can cause copper deficiency, affect coordination and muscle function, and result in overall fatigue and lethargy. It’s best to get with a physician or licensed nutritionist to identify if you have a zinc deficiency or if you can add zinc as dietary supplement without creating a zinc overload within your body.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are said to have many nutritional benefits, including improved immune and brain function, cancer fighting properties, and cardiovascular disease combating advantages. In terms of acne prevention, omega 3 fatty acids have been hailed for their anti-inflammatory affects and ability to help restore and maintain hormonal balance. In terms of balance, most people are deficient in omega 3 fatty acids but have an excess of Omega 6 fatty acids, which has been linked to depression and other diseases. Omega 3 fatty acid dietary supplements help to reduce Omega 6 fatty acids within the body and balance the two relative to one another.

Omega 3 fatty acids also possess anti-bacterial properties as well, making them an excellent method for combating bacterial causes of acne. Omega 3 fatty acids also support healthy cell membranes and nutrient absorption within the cells of the body, both of which are essential for maintaining clear healthy skin. This also plays an integral part in reducing the intensity and length of acne breakouts.

Omega 3 fatty acids can be found in many fish oil dietary supplements, but be sure to choose a brand that is purified of excess mercury and contains no soy. Soy increases estrogen within the body, which in turn increases your risk of acne breakouts. Many people tout the benefits of flaxseed oil as an alternative source for omega 3′s, but flaxseed has also been shown to increase estrogen as well, so be cautious and only use flaxseed in moderation. Omega 3’s are also found in many other natural sources, including pumpkin seeds, walnuts, and dark leafy green vegetables.

Probiotics

It’s a common misconception that bacteria and other “bugs” are inherently harmful, but in reality the human body, particularly the intestines, are host to a myriad of beneficial microbial organisms that are integral to many bodily functions. Scientists estimate that somewhere in the range of 300 to 1000 different species of bacteria reside in the intestines and colon, essential to so many bodily functions that those in the medical field refer to these bacteria as the “forgotten organ”.

For many acne sufferers, physicians often prescribe antibiotics to kill off harmful bacteria at the root of many forms of acne. The problem is that broad-spectrum antibiotics also kill off all of the good bacteria throughout the gastro-intestinal system, resulting in reduced immune function, problems with digestion, and inability to properly absorb carbohydrates and other nutrients. Lake of proper nutrient absorption often results in skin problems including acne inflammation. Ingesting probiotics allows for replenishment of the good intestinal bacteria, which in turn results in proper nutrition intake and the balances hormones that are so necessary for clear healthy skin.

What are the Benefits of Obagi Elastiderm Eye Treatment?

Obagi Elastiderm Treatment is a combination of powerful yet gentle ingredients, clinically proven to restore the natural glow to the skin around your eyes. Collagen is what gives skin its elasticity, the production of which begins to wane as we age. Obagi Elastiderm Eye Treatment incorporates a bi-mineral complex of zinc and copper that is proven to stimulate the production of collagen within the skin, restoring elasticity and the skins natural resilience. To compliment the production of new collagen within the skin, Elastiderm Eye Treatment uses malonic acid in a ground breaking patent-pending formulation not found in other skin care products to restore the surface of the skin. The malonic acid formulation rejuvenates the skins surface by stimulating new skin cell production. The antioxidant properties of blueberry extract further protect the skin by ridding it of damaging free radicals and protecting newly formed skin from environmental impurities.

Obagi Elastiderm Eye Treatment comes in either a gel or cream, each formulated for individual skin types and environmental concerns. The cream form is ideal for individuals with skin that is on the drier end of the spectrum or those who reside in cooler climates. The gel would be better for individuals with oily skin and is great in warm climates. The gel absorbs quicker than the cream, which is why it is better in warm climates where sweating may cause a cream based product to wipe off easily and not fully absorb. Both products can be combined as well for a full range of protection and restoration. The gel can be applied in the morning, where quick absorption is necessary as you begin your day. Using the cream at night, you can apply the product and let it work all through the night. Both are non-greasy and non-comedogenic so they wont cause further blockage or create additional problems.

Bottom line, Obagi has formulated an exceptional eye treatment serum that will provide amazing results as it reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

What is Obagi Nu-Derm Clear?

Clear is a rich skin lightening cream and is part of the Obagi Ni-Derm line of skin care products. It is often used as part of system of treatment, but it can also be used by itself to treat many pigmentation related skin health conditions. Obagi Clear is designed to transform skin marred by sun damage, aging, skin blemishes, and other redness and irritation resulting from acne and rosacea. Clear targets the problem at the cellular level, restoring skin to vibrant health and correcting uneven skin tones. It also lightens freckles, liver spots and other pigmentation issues by stemming the excess production of melanin within the skin.

Hydroquinone at 4% strength is the active component in Obagi Clear and is what creates the desired result of lightened even skin tone. Hydroquinone has been used in skin care products since 1982 when the FDA approved its medical use to treat skin pigment issues. Hydroquinone when applied to the skin’s surfaces acts as an inhibitor of melanin production within the skin, which is how it is able to clear up blemishes and uneven skin tones.

What are the Benefits of Using Obagi Nu-Derm Clear?

Obagi Clear is an excellent product and should be used at the advice of an experienced skin health care practitioner. Here are some of the benefits of using Obagi Clear to move you closer to younger looking healthy skin.

• Repairs damage caused by the sun’s harmful rays
• Reduces discoloration and redness caused by acne and rosacea
• Stimulates the production of collagen
• Helps firm and tighten loose skin
• Smoothes wrinkles and fine lines

Obagi Clear Bottom Line:

Obagi Clear used by itself is an excellent product for reducing the appearance of skin blemishes associated with more common concerns such as sun damage and age spots to the affects of more complex skin difficulties such as redness and blemishing from acne and rosacea. It is even more effective when used as part of a treatment system composed of other products in the Obagi Nu-Derm product line. Not only will it improve your skins present condition and appearance, but it will also increase your skins general resistance to damaging environmental factors. Whether your goal is to simply lighten the tone of your skin or if you wish to diminish redness and other blemishing, your doctor will agree that Obagi Nu-Derm Clear is the right product for you.

In terms of prevention and daily maintenance, most people spend a great deal of time and effort ensuring their facial skin is protected and maintained, but far less care is given to the significantly more delicate skin around the neck and chest. The skin of the neck and chest is much thinner and comprised of less muscle than that of the facial area. Combined with the fact that many people fail to maintain and moisturize this area, sun damage and age can be significantly more obvious when it appears on the neck and chest. Imagine the sharp contrast between a face that has been carefully maintained and a neck and chest that has been woefully neglected over the years. Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage is formulated to repair the damage caused by such neglect and to restore your skin to a more natural state of vibrancy and health.

What are the Benefits of Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage?

Obagi Elastiderm was first developed to treat the delicate area around the eyes to reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging that are often from collagen loss or sun damage. Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage combines all of the restorative properties of Obagi Elastiderm Eye Treatment and combines them with the skin lightening benefits of 4% hydroquinone solution. In clinical studies, hydroquinone has been shown to be a safe and effective compound for lightening the skin’s appearance and diminishing the signs and affects of hyperpigmentation.

A bi-mineral complex of zinc and copper combined with a patent pending formulation of malonic acid work together to stimulate the production of collagen within the skin and stimulate the production of new skin cells. Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage is also comprised of blueberry extract, containing potent antioxidants for eliminating damaging free radicals within the skin. The final powerful benefit of Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage is the exclusive Penetrating Therapeutics technology, which essentially forces skin rejuvenating nutrients deep into the skins surface.

In clinical studies, patients using Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage saw a 16% decrease in the number fine lines and wrinkles around the neck and chest and a 46% increase in skin elasticity by improving the amount of collagen within the skin. Radiant skin is always a thing of beauty, but nothing can detract from a beautiful face more than a disproportionately aged appearance around the neck and chest. Obagi Elastiderm Décolletage works wonders to restore your skin’s natural balance and vitality.

The Obagi Clenziderm M.D. Normal to Oily System is designed for individuals with normal to oily skin who may feel more comfortable using a gel based product. Having oily skin is a constant battle and is often one of the causes of acne in the first place. Gel based products work better on oily skin because they infuse gently into the skin similarly to a liquid. For this reason it is also the ideal formulation for people with skin that is more able to tolerate topical treatments since the active ingredient will permeate the skin more quickly.

The Obagi Clenziderm M.D. Normal to Dry System is formulated as a lotion and is ideal for individuals with dry skin or those who prefer lotions over gel based products. The product takes longer to dissolve into the skin, which will minimize side affects for those with sensitive skin.

Both Obagi Clenziderm systems have three different products that are designed to brilliantly compliment one another. The first step Daily Care Foaming Cleanser comes in a 4 fluid ounce container and contains 2% salicylic acid to wash away dirt and oil from the skin’s surface. Pore Therapy with 2% salicylic acid is also 4 fluid ounces of product. It goes on second to penetrate deep into the pores to unclog any dirt or other impurities. The 1.8 fluid ounce Serum is the third step and contains the patented 5% benzoyl peroxide formula. It diffuses deep into the skin as well to prevent any further outbreaks or acne flare-ups.

Very little product is needed during each treatment, and one three step system will last between 2 and a half to 3 months when used correctly. You may see some redness or peeling as you begin to use the system, but this will clear up as you progress. When breakouts do occur, the third step Serum Gel can be applied as a spot treatment. Many Clenziderm users report using the Serum Gel as a spot treatment and have seen acne flare ups reduced to small blemishes within a matter of hours.

Here are some of the highlights of the Obagi Clenziderm System:

• Intended for use daily
• Fast acting, long lasting acne treatment
• Suitable for all skin types
• Benzoyl Peroxide and Salicylic Acid eliminate oil and impurities
• Patented soluble benzoyl peroxide diffuses directly into the skin
• Clears the skin of acne, blackheads, and congestion

What is Obagi Nu-Derm Blender?

Obagi Nu-Derm Blender is a topical cream composed of a unique blend of 4% hydroquinone blended with water, glycerin, lactic acid, cetyl alcohol, and other common skin care ingredients. Since Blender is intended to improve complexion and eliminate skin blemishes, Hydroquinone is the primary active ingredient and is an excellent substance for accomplishing this objective. Hydroquinone was first authorized by the FDA as a skin treatment in 1982 and is used in clinical strength skin treatment medications for lightening pigmentation in general. Hydroquinone works to limit the production of melanin in the skin, which is how it is able to clear up blemishes and uneven skin tones. Lactic acid is a derived from milk products and has been used for centuries as a ready means for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines and as a skin moisturizer and exfoliant.

What are the Benefits of Using Obagi Nu-Derm Blender?

Using this product in conjunction with your regular skin care regimen and under the proper monitoring of your dermatologist will provide dramatic results over time. Here are some of the benefits of using Obagi Blender to improve your complexion.

• Diminishes redness and inflammation associated with acne, rosacea and other skin blemishes.
• Stimulates the production of collagen, resulting in a smoother more elastic skin surface.
• Repairs sun damage, photoaging, and age related blemishes.
• Reduces the appearance of freckles and discoloration.
• Rejuvenates fine lines and wrinkles.
• Restores uneven pigmentation and brown spots.

The Obagi Nu-Derm Blender Bottom Line:

The philosophical approach of Dr. Zein Obagi has always been one of systematic therapeutic treatment, so Obagi Blender is actually part of the Obagi Nu-Derm system. However, this does not mean you must use it conjunction with a whole list of other products. Under the proper care and guidance of an qualified skin care professional, you can purchase and begin using Obagi Blender to reduce acne related redness and irritation along with other skin pigmentation spots and blemishes.

Who is Dr. Zein Obagi?

The Obagi Blue Peel is the brainchild Dr. Zein Obagi. Dr. Obagi is a world-renowned dermatologist and is equally famous as an expert researcher and scientist. He has pioneered many skin health maintenance and prevention concepts that are now common knowledge among dermatologists and aestheticians. Dr. Obagi has been practicing his craft since the late 1980′s in Beverly Hills, California – one of the centers of aesthetics authority in the world. Since that time, Obagi skin care products have expanded to cover a variety of healthy skin related issues.

Dr. Obagi himself is known as a peel expert, designing a world-class restorative skin treatment labeled the Obagi Blue Peel. This treatment is tailored to the individual based on their own symptoms, and its produces dramatic results that have been featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show in addition to many talk shows, health magazines, and medical journals.

The Problem With Typical Chemical Peels:

Typically, patients may go for chemical peels at a doctor’s office or chemical peel may be applied by a licensed esthetician. The strength of the product applied and the actual chemical ingredients of the solution itself can vary for a number of reasons including the needs of the individual patient and the doctor or esthetician’s knowledge and area of expertise. The doctor mixes a treatment solution with a given percentage of Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) or some other acidic component. TCA is the most widely used form of chemical peel and solutions usually range anywhere from 15 to 50 percent TCA for medium strength to intense deep penetrating skin treatments.

The problem with typical chemical peels is that the process is not an exact science. The chemical peel may be applied to virtually any part of the body with the goal of reducing the appearance various types of scars, fine lines, wrinkles, and blemishes. As the chemical peel is applied to the skins surface, there generally is no method for determining where the product has been applied and whether or not the product has been evenly and accurately applied. You basically must rely on your doctor’s or esthetician’s trained eye. Even experts occasionally mess up, and a relatively inexperienced esthetician may leave your skin damaged worse than if you had never gone for a chemical peel in the first place.

The Obagi Blue Peel Advantage:

Just as with other chemical peels, the Obagi Blue Peel uses Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) as the active ingredient to reduce skin blemishes, scaring, and wrinkles. The Obagi Blue Peel advantage is in the blue skin cream itself. The blue cream itself has no ingredients for directly treating the skin, but what it does have is a patented mixture that indicates where and at what level TCA has been applied. This way nothing is left to chance or is left to simply rely on the trained eye of the doctor. Your doctor knows where product has been applied and at what level and also knows where product has yet to be applied. No more spotty skin treatments or over applied product that may cause further damage to your skin.

The Obagi philosophy is one of therapeutic and system-oriented healing rather than identification and elimination of symptoms alone, and the Obagi Blue Peel is emblematic of this philosophy. Not only does the blue peel produce dramatic, superior results, but it also is a much lighter treatment resulting in less initial irritation than with typical chemical peels. The blue cream mixture is also designed to be self-neutralizing, requiring no additional chemicals to eliminate the TCA when your session is complete. This neutralizing characteristic has the added advantage of regulating the speed at which the TCA enters and affects the skin, creating an even more even treatment then when raw TCA is applied in typical chemical peels. The blue cream can also be applied in layers to regulate the depth at which the TCA will penetrate the skin and is an excellent method for treating skin that suffers from conditions of various depths and types.

Bottom line, the Obagi Blue Peel is designed so your doctor has near complete control over the speed, depth, and intensity of a Trichloroacetic acid skin peel treatment. Obagi Blue Peel is an excellent method for treating a variety of skin care issues including acne, rosacea, wrinkles, fine lines, age spots, various types scaring and sun damaged skin. It has also been shown to promote production of collagen in the skin as well, leading to younger, firmer, healthy looking skin. So ask your dermatologist about the Obagi Blue Peel at your next visit. If they are not licensed to perform the treatment, be sure to ask for a referral to doctor who is licensed. The results will speak for themselves.