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Articles by Dan Kern

Are Aftershaves Safe to Use on Acne-Prone Skin?

Some Aftershaves are Safe to Use, but Make Sure They Are Alcohol-free The Essential Info Aftershaves are applied to the skin after shaving to disinfect nicks and cuts and relieve discomfort after shaving. They are unnecessary, but most are safe to use on acne-prone skin as long as they do not contain: Note: If you …

Premenstrual Acne

Acne Sometimes Flares Approximately 7-10 Days Prior to Menstruation The Essential Info Hormone levels fluctuate during the menstrual cycle and can result in acne flares, particularly 7-10 days or so before the onset of menstruation. Premenstrual acne is very common, with studies showing that among women who suffer from acne, 36-78% experience premenstrual acne flares. Pimples …

Oral Vitamin D: How Much Is Too Much?

This Depends on How Much Vitamin D You Already Have in the Blood, but 4000 IU (100 mcg) or More per Day Is Likely to Be Dangerous The Essential Info Vitamin D is a crucially important nutrient that the skin produces during exposure to sunlight, but which can also be obtained through supplementing with oral Vitamin …

Acne In-depth: How Dead Skin Cell Accumulation Can Lead to Acne

The Production of Too Many Skin Cells Results in Dead Skin Cell Accumulation and A Clogged Pore The Essential Info Skin cells play an important role in the formation of acne. Normal Skin: In normal, healthy skin, the body produces just the right amount of skin cells. Once these skin cells grow old, they die …

Accutane (isotretinoin) in Pregnancy

Isotretinoin Causes Severe Birth Defects and Miscarriage The Essential Info EXTREME CAUTION: Isotretinoin (Accutane®) interferes with fetal development and causes severe and life-threatening birth defects. In the fetus, isotretinoin disrupts normal brain development, hinders heart and immune system development, can deform the ears/face/head, and can result in death of the unborn child. In the mother, …

What are the side effects of Accutane (isotretinoin)?

Accutane (Isotretinoin) Is a Systemic Medication That Affects All Parts of the Body The Essential Info Isotretinoin, often known by its original brand name, Accutane®, despite being an effective acne treatment, comes with many side effects, some of which can be severe and/or long-term. If your doctor recommends isotretinoin, it is important to review your medical …

Urea and Its Role in the Skin

Urea Is Included in Many Topical Skincare Products. It Moisturizes and Can Strengthen the Outermost Layer of Skin. The Essential Info What Is Urea?: Urea is often included as an ingredient in various skincare products, particularly moisturizers. This is because urea can help hydrate the skin. In fact, urea exists naturally in the outermost layer of our …

Glycolic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy Acid – AHA)

Naturally Occurring Acid Which Powerfully Exfoliates The Essential Info Glycolic acid gently yet powerfully exfoliates the skin, helping to unclog pores and reduce acne, particularly when used alongside other acne treatments. It also evens out skin tone and makes the skin look fresher within days after you begin using it, which is a secondary fun …

Does Vitamin D Help Treat Acne?

Perhaps. Vitamin D is important for maintenance of healthy skin and might have a role in the treatment of acne. The Essential Info Vitamin D is crucial to skin health in general, and there is some evidence trickling in that suggests it might play a role in treating acne. First, researchers have published several studies …

Glycemic Load Diet and Acne

Preventing Blood Sugar Spikes May Help Reduce Acne The Essential Info A high glycemic diet is one that is, generally speaking, high in sugar/carbs and processed foods. This type of diet leads to spikes in blood sugar levels which causes a cascade of hormones and inflammation that some scientists suspect may lead to increased acne …