Dermatology News & Patient Information

  As a dermatologist, I understand how challenging it can be to apply creams or lotions to hard-to-reach areas on the back. However, it's essential to keep these areas moisturized to prevent dryness, flakiness, and irritation. In this article, I will share some techniques to make it easier to apply creams to your back. Foam on the shower wall One of the easiest ways to apply creams to your back is to use foam on the shower wall. Start by applying a small amount of your chosen cream or lotion onto a bath sponge or loofah. Then, wet the sponge and squeeze out the excess water. Next, place the sponge on the wall of the shower and rub your back against it. This technique allows you to distribute the cream evenly across your back and ensures that you don't miss any spots. Back applicator If you have trouble reaching certain areas on your back, a back applicator like this can be a useful tool. This device is designed to apply creams or lotions to hard-to-reach areas without strainin...

  Neosporin is a common topical antibiotic ointment used to prevent infections in minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It contains three active ingredients: neomycin, polymyxin B, and bacitracin. While it can be effective in preventing infections, Neosporin also carries a significant risk of causing contact allergies. In the United States, Neosporin is the most common contact allergen, and it is estimated that up to 20% of the population may develop an allergic reaction to it. The overuse of Neosporin, as well as other topical antibiotic ointments, is thought to be a significant contributor to this high rate of allergies. Contact allergies occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance that comes into contact with the skin. The symptoms of a contact allergy can range from mild to severe and can include redness, itching, and swelling. It is also important to note that a severe contact dermatitis, which can be mistaken as an infection spreading, can develop from the overuse of Ne...

  Scarring is a common occurrence after an injury or surgery, and many people seek natural remedies to reduce scarring, including topical vitamin E. However, despite its popularity as a home remedy, the evidence suggests that vitamin E does not help reduce scarring and may even be harmful. Numerous studies have examined the effects of vitamin E on scarring, but the results have been inconsistent, and there is no conclusive evidence to support its use. In fact, some studies have suggested that vitamin E may actually worsen scarring. A review of several studies published in the Journal of Cutaneous and Aesthetic Surgery found that vitamin E did not improve scarring after surgery. Another study published in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery found that the use of vitamin E did not improve the appearance of scars. Given the lack of evidence supporting the use of vitamin E for scarring, medical professionals do not recommend its use. Instead, there are other ...

The original Dove bar soap and the Dove bar for sensitive skin share many of the same ingredients, such as Sodium Lauroyl Isethionate, Stearic Acid, Sodium Tallowate, Sodium Stearate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Sodium Cocoate, Sodium Isethionate, and Sodium Palm Kernelate. These ingredients are responsible for creating the soap's cleansing and lathering properties. However, there are two notable differences between the two products. The first difference is the presence of fragrance in the original Dove bar soap. Fragrance, listed as Parfum, is a mixture of aromatic ingredients that gives the soap its pleasant scent. Some individuals with sensitive skin may find fragrance irritating, which is why the Dove bar for sensitive skin is fragrance-free. The second difference is the inclusion of Tetrasodium EDTA and Tetrasodium Etidronate in the Dove bar for sensitive skin. These two ingredients are chelating agents that help to remove impurities from the skin and improve the foamability of t...

In a recent lawsuit, it was revealed that UnitedHealthcare, a health insurance provider, had been having undisclosed discussions to deny a patient a medication that was working for them. The patient in question, Christopher McNaughton, suffered from a severe case of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease. His condition caused him to develop severe arthritis, debilitating diarrhea, numbing fatigue, and life-threatening blood clots. Christopher was prescribed a medication that was working well for him, but it was expensive. His medical bills were running nearly $2 million a year, causing UnitedHealthcare to explore ways to reduce their costs. In an effort to do so, they had undisclosed discussions about denying Christopher the medication that was keeping him alive. The details of these discussions only came to light through litigation and were made public in an article by ProPublica. UnitedHealthcare was sued for violating the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (E...

​ Dry skin is a common condition that affects many people. It occurs when the skin loses its natural oils and becomes rough, scaly, and itchy. If left untreated, dry skin can lead to more serious conditions such as eczema or infection. However, there are many topical options available that can help to treat dry skin and restore the skin's natural moisture barrier. One effective way to treat dry skin is by using topical products that contain active ingredients like urea or lactic acid. These ingredients help to exfoliate the skin, increase moisture retention, and improve skin texture. Cetaphil Rough and Bumpy is one such topical option that contains urea. This product is specially designed to treat rough and bumpy skin on the arms and legs. It helps to smooth and soften the skin while providing long-lasting hydration. It is gentle enough to be used daily and is fragrance-free, making it suitable for sensitive skin. Another effective topical option is Eucerin Roughness Relief . Thi...

Warts are a common skin condition caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) and can be unsightly and uncomfortable. There are many treatment options available, including over-the-counter and prescription medications, as well as more invasive procedures such as cryotherapy or laser therapy. One home remedy that has been popularized for the treatment of warts is the use of duct tape. In this article, we will explore the scientific evidence behind using duct tape for warts. How does duct tape work for warts? The exact mechanism of action of duct tape in the treatment of warts is not fully understood, but it is thought to work by creating an occlusive environment that deprives the wart of oxygen and encourages an immune response. The tape is applied to the wart and left on for several days, after which it is removed and the wart is soaked in warm water and debrided. The process is then repeated until the wart is gone. What does the research say? Several studies have investigated the efficac...

  Scars are a natural part of the healing process that occur after injury or surgery. They come in different shapes and sizes and can have varying impacts on a person's appearance and quality of life. Understanding the different types of scars and available treatments can help you make informed decisions about how to care for your skin. Hypertrophic Scars Hypertrophic scars are raised, thick, and red scars that result from the body producing too much collagen during the healing process. They are commonly found on the chest, arms, legs, and back, and can limit movement or cause discomfort. If a hypertrophic scar is itchy, it may be a sign that it is growing, and seeking treatment is recommended. Treatment options for hypertrophic scars include silicone sheeting, which helps to flatten and soften the scar, intralesional injections of kenalog, which helps to reduce scarring, and ultrasonic shock therapy, which uses high-frequency sound waves to break up scar tissue. You can find the ...

Cosmetic facial fillers are a popular way to enhance the appearance of the face and reduce the signs of aging. They are injectable substances that are used to plump up the skin, smooth out wrinkles and fine lines, and restore the volume lost due to aging. There are various types of cosmetic facial fillers available in the market, each with its own unique properties and indications. In this article, we will discuss the different types of cosmetic facial fillers, their safety, and potential side effects. Hyaluronic acid fillers Hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers are one of the most commonly used cosmetic facial fillers. They are made of a naturally occurring substance that is present in the body. HA fillers work by attracting and holding water molecules in the skin, thereby plumping up the skin and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Some of the popular brands of HA fillers include Juvéderm, Restylane, and Belotero. Collagen-stimulating fillers Collagen-stimulating fillers are ...

When it comes to skin conditions, visiting a private dermatologist is likely to be a more effective solution than going to an urgent care center or  emergency  room. Dermatologists undergo specialized training in diagnosing and treating skin disorders, which equips them with the necessary expertise to diagnose and treat even complex skin issues accurately. On the other hand, the primary focus of urgent care centers and  emergency  rooms is to provide immediate attention to medical issues that are not life-threatening but require prompt attention. These facilities typically handle orthopedic issues, trauma, and chest pain and may not have the specialized training required to deal with skin conditions. Private dermatologists have access to a range of diagnostic tools and treatments that are not typically found in urgent care settings. For instance, they may use a dermatoscope to get a closer look at a skin problem, or they may use specialized lighting to identify the u...

Oculoplastic surgery is a specialized field of plastic surgery that focuses on the repair of injuries or conditions affecting the eyelids and surrounding areas. When it comes to repairing wounds near the eyelid, it is crucial to seek the services of an oculoplastic surgeon to ensure the best functional and cosmetic results. The skin around the eyelid is thin and delicate, making it susceptible to injury and scars. An oculoplastic surgeon has the expertise and specialized training to repair these wounds in a manner that minimizes scarring and preserves the normal functioning of the eyelid. In addition, they have a deep understanding of the anatomy of the eyelid and surrounding structures, ensuring that the repair is performed in a way that results in the best cosmetic outcome. Another important factor to consider is the proximity of the eyelid to the eye itself. Any injury or wound near the eyelid can potentially impact vision. An oculoplastic surgeon has the skills and expertise to rep...