Posts by Robert S. Bader, M.D., Dermatologist
ANTIBIOTICS & RISK OF ECZEMA
So often now, I see antibiotics given inappropriately. Most frequently, patients with an upper respiratory viral infection are given oral antibiotics, which have no benefit on treating viral infections. Why? One can theorize that the doctor does so to substantiate the patient coming to see him/her, the doctor is not completely sure and is covering…
Read MoreSEA LICE: WHAT IS IT AND HOW TO TREAT
Sea lice, which are jellyfish and sea anemone larvae, cause an itchy rash in ocean bathers in Florida and Alabama. The rash typically lasts for about two weeks and can be associated with a fever, chills, headaches, and nausea. Bathers are advised to minimize clothing while swimming, removing bathing suits after swimming before heading into…
Read MoreSUNSCREENS: CAN YOU TRUST THE LABEL?
The simple answer is NO–at least when it comes to water-resistance. In a recent study conducted by Consumer Reports, 43% of the 65 water-resistant sunscreens that were tested FAILED to meet their SPF claim on their labels after the area was submerged in water as indicated on the label for water resistance. Some of them, missed…
Read MoreHENNA TATTOOS: SEVERE REACTIONS MAY OCCUR
Most people think of Henna tattoos as a harmless ink that is applied to the skin. That is not always the case. Some Henna dyes contain paraphenayline diamine (PPD), which is the dye used in permanent hair dyes. This ingredient can result in severe allergic reactions. In a case reported in BMJ Case, a 10-year old…
Read MoreNEW RECOMMENDATIONS ON NEWBORN BATHING
Water alone or appropriate liquid cleansers can be used that will not impair skin maturation. After birth, the diaper area should be kept dry. It is appropriate to cleanse this area gently with cotton balls or squares with water or by using baby wipes. Moisturizers can be used to maintain skin barrier function. One may…
Read MoreOBESITY AND TYPE II DIABETES LINKED TO PSORIASIS
In a study published in JAMA, persons with Type II diabetes or obesity were at significantly increased risk of developing psoriasis. Obesity is a significant risk factor for type II diabetes as well. Therefore, eating a good healthy diet that is low in saturated fats and simple carbohydrates, exercising regularly, and maintaining an ideal weight…
Read MoreBEST OTC ACNE PRODUCT
Without question, the single most effective product for acne that is available without a prescription is benzoyl peroxide. All work equally as well for the face–2.5%, 5%, or 10%. Stronger does not mean better, just more drying. For the face, the gel works great. There are alcohol-based gels for oily skin, and water-based gels–for more…
Read MoreAVO. A NEW DRINKABLE SUNSCREEN: REALLY?
A 34-year old Dermatologist has come up with a drink, called AVO, containing over 30 vitamins and anti-oxidants that reduces one’s risk for sunburn. Will this replace traditional sunscreen? Can we just take a drink and go out in the sun? Not so fast! Although clinical studies show that one does burn less, it appears that this…
Read MoreMOST COSMETICS DO NOT WORK
Study Suggests Most Claims Reported on a Beauty Product Are Not Considered Truthful. CBS News (7/29) reports on its website that “a new study found fewer than one out of five” beauty product “claims was considered truthful by a panel of readers – and ads that used scientific language to describe the benefits were even less…
Read MoreMOST COSMETICS DO NOT WORK
Study Suggests Most Claims Reported on a Beauty Product Are Not Considered Truthful. CBS News (7/29) reports on its website that “a new study found fewer than one out of five” beauty product “claims was considered truthful by a panel of readers – and ads that used scientific language to describe the benefits were even less…
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