WHAT IS ACNE?
Acne is a common skin condition primarily affecting teenagers and nearly half of all adults.  It is commonly found on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back, and chest in  the form of whiteheads, blackheads, pimples, and/or cysts.  Whiteheads are clogged pores that bulge from the skin.  If a pore gets clogged but stays open, the surface can darken resulting in a blackhead.  When the wall of a pore opens, allowing sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells to enter under the skin, a small, red pimple  forms.  When clogged pores open up deep under the skin, a cyst, which is bigger  than a pimple, can form.  Cysts or nodules often result in severe, permanent scarring if not treated early.

WHAT CAUSES ACNE?
It’s important to note that acne is not caused by bad hygiene.  It is caused by a combination of factors, such as:  genes, hormones, natural bacteria, excess oil, and clogged pores.  Over-washing skin can actually make acne worse.  Acne begins at the hair follicle or pore and the oil producing gland.  This gland makes sebum, which  lubricates hair and skin.  Usually the appropriate amount of oil or sebum is produced, but pores can become clogged when too much sebum and dead skin cells are  present.  Other factors that can trigger acne include stress, fatigue, and menstruation.  These produce an increase in hormones, causing an increase in oil,  therefore producing acne in oil-prone individuals.

CAN DIET CAUSE ACNE?
Medical studies show that chocolate, greasy foods, and coffee do not contribute to acne in most individuals, as many presume.  However, some individuals find that there are certain foods that consistently trigger their acne.  In these cases, they should avoid these foods.

IS ACNE CURABLE?
Unfortunately, it is not.  However, with the use of medicated products, like the Clear Advantage System, acne breakouts can be treated, prevented, and controlled.

WILL SUN EXPOSURE IMPROVE MY ACNE?
This is a myth.  Although a small amount of exposure may initially improve the appearance of acne, it won’t help it go away.  Consistent sun exposure can actually increase the clogging of pores.  Tanning, in the sun or in a bed isn’t a good idea and won’t cure troubled skin.

DOES THE CLEAR ADVANTAGE SYSTEM WORK ON ALL TYPES OF ACNE?
Yes, the Clear Advantage System should help improve the appearance and condition  of all forms of acne, in most individuals.

HOW QUICKLY WILL I SEE RESULTS?
This depends on the severity of your acne.  With proper and consistent use, mild to moderate acne should see improvement in 4 to 6 weeks.  For more severe cases, it could take 6 to 8 weeks or longer.

DO I NEED TO USE ALL 4-STEPS IN THE CLEAR ADVANTAGE SYSTEM TO SEE RESULTS?
For optimal results, it is best to use the Clear Advantage products as a system, consistently and as recommended.  The Acne Wash, Refining Toner, Acne Lotion will help make your skin look its best from the outside, while the Skin Support Formula tablets work to help your skin from the inside out.

DOES THE CLEAR ADVANTAGE SYSTEM CONTAIN ALPHA HYDROXY ACIDS (AHAs)?
Yes.  The Refining Toner contains a group of Alpha Hydroxy Acids that work to gently and effectively remove dead surface cells which are often contributors of acne.

ARE THESE PRODUCTS FDA APPROVED?
The Clear Advantage System follows the FDA’s over-the-counter guidelines with active levels of acne-fighting ingredients.

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE BIO-MATTE OIL FREE LINE AND THE CLEAR ADVANTAGE SYSTEM?
Unlike the Bio-Matte Oil Free line, the Clear Advantage System contains an FDA approved, acne fighting ingredient to help heal and prevent acne.  The active, prescription-strength ingredient goes to work to specifically treat acne by controlling oil production, removing bacteria, unclogging pores, and sloughing dead surface cells.  It is deposited directly into the pores to help clear blemishes and prevent new ones from forming.  This medicated system also contains soothing and calming botanicals that help heal and hydrate the skin.  This system also works from the inside out with the Skin Support Formula.  These tablets are uniquely formulated with vitamins, minerals, and herbs long known to help troubled skin naturally.

WILL CLEAR ADVANTAGE HELP MY ROSACEA ACNE?
Depending on the severity of your condition, the Clear Advantage System may be helpful.  If you are under the care of a doctor for this condition, it is best to consult your doctor before using these products.

CAN I USE THE CLEAR ADVANTAGE SYSTEM WHILE USING OTHER MEDICATED ACNE  PRODUCTS?
If you are under the care of a doctor, we suggest you consult your doctor before using the Clear Advantage System with other medicated acne products.  In many cases, combining medicated products may increase skin dryness or cause irritation.