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Articles by Dan Kern

Wound Healing in the Skin

Wound Healing Is a Complex Process, but Basically Follows Four Steps: Clotting, Inflammation, Healing, and Remodeling The Essential Info Wound healing is a complex process that involves several steps. We can simplify the process into four stages: Stage 1: Blood clotting: Cells stick together to form a blood clot to stop the bleeding. Stage 2: …

The Role of Inflammation in the Development of Acne

Inflammation Plays a Central Role in All Stages of Acne Development The Essential Info The body’s immune system is responsible for creating inflammation. It does this in response to anything that it sees as “foreign” or as an “invader.” This is normally a good thing because the inflammation serves to heal tissue damage or fight …

Do Topical Retinoids Increase Sensitivity to the Sun?

Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene) Can Irritate the Skin, Especially in the First Few Weeks, Which Might Make Sunburns Worse The Essential Info Retinoids are somewhat effective topical prescription acne treatments that work by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation. The FDA has approved these four retinoids: Tretinoin Tazarotene Adapalene [0.1% strength is now available over-the-counter as well] …

How to Find a Good Dermatologist for Acne

Search the American Academy of Dermatology Website for a Board-certified Dermatologist with an Interest in Acne, Look Around for Reviews, and Trust Your Gut The Essential Info The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist …

What Is Comedogenicity, and What Ingredients Are Comedogenic? The Full Story

Comedogenic Ingredients Are Ingredients That Clog Pores. There Are 45 Ingredients to Watch Out For. What Does Comedogenicity Mean? How Do Scientists Measure Comedogenicity? The 11 Studies Performed Thus Far on Comedogenicity Choosing a Non-comedogenic Product for Acne-prone Skin This article will go in depth and cover everything there is to know about comedogenicity and …

What Is Homeopathy, and Does It Work?

Homeopathy Is an Unproven Form of Alternative “Medicine” with No Scientific Backing. Buyer Beware! The Essential Info Homeopathic remedies normally contain little to no active ingredient, and are based on ideas that “like cures like” and “the lower the dose of medication, the better it works.” These ideas defy common sense, and not surprisingly, evidence …

Does Benzoyl Peroxide Make Hyperpigmentation Worse?

There Is No Compelling Evidence of This to Date The Essential Info Benzoyl peroxide is a widely used and effective acne treatment that kills acne bacteria and unclogs skin pores. Although some people claim that benzoyl peroxide can increase hyperpigmentation (red/dark marks left after acne heals), the evidence that we have, while still weak and preliminary, …

Choosing a Razor for Acne-prone Skin

Two-blade Cartridge Razors Are the Best Choice for Most People The Essential Info There is a proven link between physical irritation and acne, so finding a razor that is suitable for acne-prone skin means choosing one that produces the least irritation. Currently, four major types of razors exist on the market, and cartridge razors easily win …