Benzoyl Peroxide and Benzene: Controversies and Recommendations
On March 6, 2024, Valisure LLC, an independent testing laboratory in Connecticut, filed a petition with the FDA requesting a recall of Benzoyl Peroxide (BPO) products containing or forming high levels of Benzene, a known human carcinogen. This report questioned the safety of benzoyl peroxide for the treatment of acne and challenged current treatment guidelines […]
A dermatologist’s guide to sun protection
The warm weather is finally here, so it’s time to go for a walk, play in the park, or spend time outside. While sunshine sustains life and is essential for our mental health, the sun’s powerful UV rays can harm your skin. In fact, UV radiation is the leading cause of skin cancer. It also […]
A Dermatologist’s guide to Molluscum Contagiosum
Molluscum Contagiosum (MC) is a viral skin infection seen most commonly in young to school-age children. As its name suggests, the MC virus is contagious and spread primarily through direct skin to skin contact, but also by sharing towels, clothing and gym mats. The prevalence of MC seems to be on the rise. A recent […]
How to treat dark spots from acne
Acne is a common skin condition that affects many people, regardless of age or gender. While acne can be frustrating, the dark spots it leaves behind can be just as bothersome. Many of our patients are more upset with discoloration than acne! These dark spots, known as hyperpigmentation, can be challenging to treat and often […]
A dietary supplement can improve Acne Excoriée (skin picking in acne).
Acne excoriee is a skin condition that is often overlooked and misunderstood. It is a compulsive disorder that involves picking at acne lesions, resulting in prolonged healing, persistent redness, scarring, and hyperpigmentation. This condition is typically seen in young women, but anyone can be affected. Acne excoriée is more than just a bad habit; it […]
“Combatting Dry Skin: Tips for Keeping Your Skin Hydrated and Healthy”
Dry skin is a common skin condition that many people experience, especially during the colder months when the air is dry. It occurs when the skin loses its natural oils, making it feel tight, rough, and even itchy. While dry skin can be uncomfortable and unsightly, it’s usually not a serious health concern. In this […]
Subcision for acne scarring
Subcision Subcision® is a minor surgical procedure for improving the appearance of acne scars. It is also called “subcutaneous incisionless surgery.” Certain acne scars, such as “rolling” or “boxcar” types, have tethering bands below the skin that pull the scar down making it look depressed. Subcision® is a technique that breaks these tethering bands, thereby […]
Photodynamic Therapy (Blue light) for actinic keratosis is now painless!
Photodynamic Therapy (PDT) for actinic keratosis What are actinic keratosis? Actinic keratosis are rough scaly patches on the skin caused by chronic sun exposure. They are more common in fair skin/blue-eyed people and are precancerous. If left untreated, actinic keratosis may progress to squamous cell skin cancer. Therefore, early treatment of actinic keratosis will reduce […]
How to take Accutane and prevent side effects
Accutane was the original brand name of the chemical compound isotretinoin. Even though multiple preparations of isotretinoin have been formulated and are sold today through prescription, the name Accutane has stood the test of time. Accutane is a modified version of vitamin A that shrinks the oil glands in the skin leading to remarkable clearance […]
Adult Female Acne
Every day I hear the same complaint: “I am 40 years old and breaking out with acne. Why?” Adult female acne refers to women in their 20s, 30s and 40s who experience acne, often in a ‘hormonal’ distribution around the chin and jaw line. Some of these women had acne as a teenager, and simply […]
