Skin Care Myths: Always Apply Antibiotic to a Wound

We are a germaphobic society. This is partly for good reason; MRSA, an aggressive staph infection, lurks everywhere, and we are constantly on watch for some deadly bird flu to descend upon us. Read more

February 19, 2008 | Filed Under Skin Infections, Skincare Myths | 3 Comments

What’s a Good Eye Cream?

Patients ALWAYS ask me about eye creams. The short answer: if you have lots of wrinkles, then most creams won’t make any difference. The best nonsurgical treatment for wrinkles around the eyes is Botox® — it is remarkably effective in treating crow’s feet and can help open your eyes giving you that wide-eyed, 20-something model look (if you go for that sort of thing). Read more

February 18, 2008 | Filed Under Health and Beauty, Recommended Products, Women's Skin Care | 4 Comments

Nickel Named Allergen of the Year

Forget the Oscars. The American Contact Dermatitis Society has just held its annual red carpet event — allergens of the year. The winner for the 2008 Allergen of the Year is … nickel.

February 17, 2008 | Filed Under Allergies, Mini Med School: Derm 101, Rashes | 4 Comments

New Technique Makes Skin Transparent

Skin is not see-through because light that hits it is scattered by collagen as it passes through. It is analogous to trying to see in the fog with your car’s high beams — the light is scattered in all directions and much of it bounces right back at you. Read more

February 16, 2008 | Filed Under Mini Med School: Basic Science | 1 Comment