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Articles by Dan Kern

Eczema (Atopic Dermatitis)

A Common Skin Condition, Particularly in Young Children, that Includes Itchy, Dry, and Scaly skin, Typically on the Cheeks, Arms, and Legs The Essential Info Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and cracked skin. It normally begins before the age of 5, but continues in about 1/2 …

What Is an Acne Nodule?

Nodules Are Large Acne Lesions That Arise Deep in the Skin That Do Not Contain Pus The Essential Info Acne nodules are large (over 5 mm in diameter), red, painful bumps that form after a skin pore ruptures and expels its contents deep into the skin. They are fibrous lesions that do not contain pus …

What Is an Acne Cyst?

An Acne Cyst Is a Large Acne Lesion Filled with Fluid or Pus The Essential Info Acne cysts are very large (7 – 15 mm in diameter), skin-colored or red lesions that are filled with liquid or pus. They most often affect males in their teens and early 20s, and are part of a type …

How Exfoliation Helps with Acne

Exfoliation Unclogs Pores by Removing Dead Skin Cells from the Skin Surface The Essential Info Healthy skin is constantly undergoing cell turnover. Old skin cells die and flake off, and new cells are born every day. In acne, this process becomes stalled, with old skin cells getting stuck and accumulating, ultimately clogging pores. Exfoliation helps to …

What Is a Whitehead?

A Whitehead Is a Small, White or Skin-colored Clogged Pore The Essential Info Whiteheads, also known as closed comedones, are small, non-inflammatory, white or skin-colored lesions that most often develop on the face, particularly on the nose and around the mouth. They are most common during teen years, but can be seen at any age. …

Can Topical Green Tea Treat Acne?

Studies Show That It May to Some Degree The Essential Info You will often find green tea extract, sometimes referred to as EGCG, in skincare products. It is a welcome ingredient. Green tea (EGCG) is good for the skin because it is: Topical green tea has also been shown in studies to improve mild-to-moderate acne …

Soaps or Cleansers: Which Is Better for Acne-prone Skin?

Mild Liquid Facial Cleansers Are Best for Acne-prone Skin. Avoid Soap. The Essential Info The name of the game when it comes to washing acne-prone skin is to stay as gentle as possible and not irritate the skin. Facial cleansers are much milder and less irritating than soap. So the answer is clear, opt for a …

Can Topical Epsom Salt Treat Acne?

Some Weak, Indirect Evidence Suggests That It Might Help a Bit The Essential Info Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) is a popular folk remedy that some people apply to the skin in an attempt to treat acne. While doctors recognize Epsom salt as an effective oral medication for conditions like constipation and asthma, no studies have …

How Often Should an Acne-prone Person Change His/Her Pillowcase?

A Safe Rule of Thumb Is to Change Your Pillowcase Once per Week The Essential Info Pillowcases can pick up: However, these things left on pillowcases are unlikely to contribute to acne, with the exception of the haircare products pomade or brilliantine. If you use pomade or brilliantine, wash your hair before going to sleep at …

Sulfur for Acne

Sulfur Smells Bad, but Is a Useful Aid in the Treatment of Acne, Especially When Combined With Other Medications The Essential Info Sulfur is a time-tested topical treatment for acne that people have been using since the 5th century BC for its ability to: However, due to the unpleasant odor of sulfur and the temporary …