For those interested, yes there is a genetic component to developing acne, in that certain people will be more "at risk", but there has yet to be specific acne gene. Just like there probably isn't a specific coughing gene, sneezing gene, when we get sick, right? Another example would be the small pox or chicken pox that's presented as skin lesions that were a direct result of a virus. Therefore, all of these are just signs of something wrong, imbalanced, or attacking our body and this is how we are physically able to be aware of the problem...some people aren't as lucky.


I know I know I know, the statements:
"no one knows why we have acne"

"no one knows how accutane works, it just does"

"there is no connection between diet & acne, but iodine may contribute"

"diet may work if you have an allergy, but my acne is hormonal so food can't be related"

"Bacteria causes acne"

"Sebum causes acne"

Sigh....through years and 1000s of hours of personal research, experimentation, and yielding positive results, along with others research & testimonies, I have never found anything that has defined acne as it's own disease. The various types of Acne and Acne-like lesions (rosacea, chloracne, yosho, etc) have ALWAYS been associated with one or more of the following:

Irritating/Pore Clogging Skin Care ingredients

Puberty

Hormonal/Health Imbalances

Stress

Allergies

Intolerances

Chemical Sensitivities

Toxins



Despite whatever your genetic risk is, the above can be corrected by altering your environmental influences as they can activate those dormant genes or can INCREASE your risk even more so. Now, later I'll clarify the above misconceptions, but until then here's something for all of you to mull over:

1965 - possible 1st evidence of Acne and the role that Androgens play as a subject of published research [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=4221206[/url] (no available abstract)

1970 - this is the first study that provides an available abstract and mentions how Androgen Excess has been found to increase Acne & Hirsutism [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=4252699[/url]

1972 - "Skin Diseases Induced by Hormones" and the role insulin plays [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=4270049[/url]

1977 - Unexpected discovery of Insulin & Glucose role on Sex Hormone production [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=193114[/url]

1978 -“ Dermatologic Indications for Anti-androgenic Treatment” [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=82309[/url]

1979 - HAIR-AN Syndrome (hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, acanthosis negricans) discovered? [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=496546[/url]

1980 - Influence of Sex Hormones on Acne (the role of DHT) [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=6258368[/url]

1981- Type II Diabetes and low HDL (good) cholesterol levels [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=6793437[/url]

1981 - Adrenal Hyperandrogenism [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=6450905[/url]

1986 - possible 1st evidence of Puberty being a function of Insulin Resistance
[url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=3523245[/url]

1988 – “Cutaneous Manifestions of Systemic Diseases” (thyroid) [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=9889752[/url]

1993 - Insulin Resistance & Puberty [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8262487[/url]

1994 – Correlation among hormonal imbalance and cancer [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8144280[/url]

1995 – Hormonal Correlates of Acne & Hirsutism [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=7825645[/url]

1996 – Hyperandrogenism, Insulin, & Cancer Risk [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8932921[/url]

1996 – Western Diets role in Insulin Resistance, Type II Diabetes, High LDL, and low Sex Hormone binding Globulin (SHBG) [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=8604665[/url]

1998 - SHBGs role to bind Free Testosterone (can convert to DHT) as a function of Insulin production & Diet
[url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=9770724[/url]

2000 - Hyperandrogenism & Insulin Resistance in Women
[url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11595827[/url]

2001 – Males, Sex Hormones, & Diet [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11319710[/url]

2001 – Sex Hormones, Diet, & Cancer [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=11205485[/url]

2002 - Genetic & Environmental Influences. Points out that twins with acne are deficient in a component that produces HDL (good cholesterol) [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12485434[/url]

2003 - Hyperinsulinemia, Syndrome X (Metabolic Syndrome), & Hormonal Imbalance [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=14527633[/url]

2003 - Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) in Adolescents [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=14593553[/url]

2003 - PCOS, Metabolic Syndrome, & Low HDL Levels [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15024892[/url]

2003 – LOCAH (late onset adrenal hyperplasia) in males with acne [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12828760[/url]

2003 – Dietary factors & Testosterone production [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12947426[/url]

2003 - Cutaneous Manifestations of Endocrine Disorders...for dermatologists [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=12688837[/url]

2004 - Androgen Excess & associated symptoms [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=14764747[/url]

2004 - Insulin Resistance & Androgens [url]http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/entrez/query.fcgi?cmd=Retrieve&db=pubmed&dopt=Abstract&list_uids=15292348[/url]


Furthermore, did any of you notice that when we treat our acne it is a result of the following methods:
Non-pore clogging skin care

Avoidance of allergens

Cleansing/Flushing of toxins

Anti-inflammatories (antibotics, benzoyl peroxide, zinc, glucocorticoids)

Exfoilants (glycolic, salicylic acid, retinoids)

Fat Metabolizers - B5 Therapy, NAC, Fish Oil, Fiber (Glucomannon), Guggul, Low Saturated Fat Diet, Avoidance of Trans Fats, etc

Anti-androgens - Retinoids (accutane, retinA, Isoterx, azelex), Estrogen, Spironolactone, Flutamide, Glucocorticoids (select cases), Insulin Sensitizers, Folic Acid, Green Tea, Saw Palmetto, etc

DHT Inhibitors - Retinoids, Avodart (duatasteride), Green Tea (EGCG), Beta Sitosterol (Saw Palmetto), Curcumin (Tumeric), Zinc Sulphate, Vit. B6 (Pyridoxal HCL or Phosphate only), GLA (omega 6), EPA (Omega 3), etc

Insulin Sensitizers/Balancers - Avandia, R-ALA, Chromium GTF, Cinnamon, Green Tea, NAC, D-Chiro Inositol (Buckwheat Farinetta), Low Carb Diets, Gluten-Free Diets, Paleolithic Diets, etc

Quote from openseason:

Jade if you look at the twin study you posted, it states that the twins with acne had low levels of the good cholesterol. That would be a genetic problem not a food problem. You prove my theory because you are eating dark chocolate and are 99 percent clear, and according to your theory thats impossible. What I am saying is that acne is an excess sebum production, which may br in response to androgens. However no young child has acne despite a diet of Captain Crunch cereal and Pop Tarts and chocolate milk. Why they dont have hormones thats why food isnt causing them acne.

Yup, that's why children generally don't have acne because their bodies haven't gone into puberty (a temporary state of insulin resistance & hyperandrogenism). Although there are some children that begin puberty before the age of 8 and do get acne. Of course these children also end up having some sort of hormonal disorder, sometimes it is due to Insulin Resistance Syndrome.

Now as for your statement about the twin study THANK YOU for finally reading one of the studies I posted. =) Now, if you noticed they don't discuss what those twins ate. Yet even that isn't a huge deal because whether it is genetic or environment (diet) that is influencing their low HDL, a Western Diet high in (refined) carbohydrates, animal saturated fats, trans fats, added sugar, and LOW in fiber will ALSO lower your HDL levels. Therefore when a doctor sees this, they tell people to alter their diet.

If you have a higher risk, a certain ethnicities do, than the average individual, the LAST thing you should do is eat foods that will CONTRIBUTE to this risk. That is why people with allergies avoid certain foods that cause them problems, genetic factor or not, they KNOW that by avoiding what is activating that gene or defect, they can prevent the allergic reaction. Thus, if you are at a higher risk or are showing high levels, that is why doctors tell you to lower your bad (LDL) cholesterol levels through diet & exercise. Of course they will give you medication if you want it, but most people can do it through diet.

The funny thing is, the above Western Diet, what is contributing to an increase in Insulin Resistance Syndrome, doesn't also just lower your HDL levels, but raises your Free Fatty Acids (some are inflammatory), also raises your Insulin levels, which lower your SHBG levels, and as a result, raise your Androgen levels. That is what all of those studies show when you actually READ them.

Yup, to test my sensitivity to sugar (I don't crave it), I occasionaly do eat dark chocolate or Gluten-Free Cookies/muffins that don't contain dairy, or trans fats, but do contain evaporated cane juice or brown rice syrup. If I eat enough (several pieces), I will develop a few small whiteheads/pustules that go away within 2 days. I'm very sensitive to all forms of added sugar, but table sugar & cane syrup don't have a big impact on me, especially compared to Corn Syrup & High Fructose Corn Syrup (Cystic acne).

99% clear is better than when I was on BC & Spiro, it was also better than when I was on Avandia & Spiro. Over the years, what have you done that had the BIGGEST impact on decreasing your acne?

Furthermore, did any of you notice that when we treat our acne it is a result of the following methods:
Non-pore clogging skin care

Avoidance of allergens

Cleansing/Flushing of toxins

Anti-inflammatories (antibotics, benzoyl peroxide, zinc, glucocorticoids)

Exfoilants (glycolic, salicylic acid, retinoids)

Fat Metabolizers - B5 Therapy, NAC, Fish Oil, Fiber (Glucomannon), Guggul, Low Saturated Fat Diet, Avoidance of Trans Fats, etc

Anti-androgens - Retinoids (accutane, retinA, Isoterx, azelex), Estrogen, Spironolactone, Flutamide, Glucocorticoids (select cases), Insulin Sensitizers, Folic Acid, Green Tea, Saw Palmetto, etc

DHT Inhibitors - Retinoids, Avodart (duatasteride), Green Tea (EGCG), Beta Sitosterol (Saw Palmetto), Curcumin (Tumeric), Zinc Sulphate, Vit. B6 (Pyridoxal HCL or Phosphate only), GLA (omega 6), EPA (Omega 3), etc

Insulin Sensitizers/Balancers - Avandia, R-ALA, Chromium GTF, Cinnamon, Green Tea, NAC, D-Chiro Inositol (Buckwheat Farinetta), Low Carb Diets, Gluten-Free Diets, Paleolithic Diets, etc


---

so does that mean that if you pick one thing out of each category and adopt it in your lfiestyle, its pretty much a guarantee of clear skin?

Joe,
You know I don't know many people that do ALL of that, but then again that may be why those with the most stubborn of acne still have some form ot it.

Personally, I do the following:

*Avoid Pore Clogging Skin Care & Irritating Ingredients (yarrow)

*Use a Custom & natural lotion that contains 8% Glycolic mixed w/ a drop of Coppertone Gel Sunscreen. - Light Moisture (aid in healing) & Gentle Exfoilant

*Use a "Natural" Skin Lightener that contains Licorice (antiinflammatory), Kojic & Retinyl Palmitate (side effect, helps reduce cystic acne more than BHA or Hydrocortisone did...go figure) - Anti-inflammatory

*100mg/day Spironolactone (hirsutism, doesn't do much for my acne) - Antiandrogen

*My custom version of a Low Carb diet, most of which I posted on Page 1 or 2 (99% clear as a result) - Insulin Sensitizing & Antiandrogenic


Outside of my diet, those other techniques I've done for the past 5 or 6 years along with a higher dose of Spiro & BC (or Avandia) and they NEVER gave me 99% clear skin. Yet I still believe that certain ingredients are bad for our skin, plus there are some ingredients that will piss my skin off despite my dietary changes ;-)

When it comes to picking a regimen it's best to know your hormonal situation. If you just grab what everyone else uses, sometimes you may end up very disappointed because it wasn't the appropriate treament for you. Since you are a male it's not likely they'll give you prescription antiandrogens. So what you can do is take natural antiandrogens & DHT Inhibitors or follow whats in the Insulin Sensitizer & Fat Metabolizer categories as some of those will aid in detoxing & liver healing, plus males seem to be happier on those libido wise ;-).

So to make a long story short, while not everyone has to do this, if you did all of those things, BUT picked the BEST one of them in each catagory for you , then you probably would have clear skin...

So what have you tried so far?