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Articles by Dan Kern

Do Hormones Cause Cystic Acne?

Yes, Hormones Play an Important Role in the Development of Cystic Acne in Both Males and Females, and Often the Treatment of Cystic Acne in Females The Essential Info Androgens (male hormones present in both males and females) increase the production of skin oil, which can lead to an increase in both regular acne and …

What Medications Can Cause Acne?

Common Medications That Cause Acne Include Corticosteroids, Anabolic-Androgenic Steroids (AAS), Lithium, Isoniazid, Halogens, and EGFR Inhibitors (EGFR-I) The Essential Info Can Definitely Cause Acne: Based on research, common medications that often result in acne include: May Cause Acne: High doses of vitamin B supplements may also cause acne, particularly in females, but the evidence is …

The Tenuous Relationship Between Dairy and Acne

Most Evidence, Albeit Imperfect, Points Toward a Possible Association Between Milk and Acne, but Not Cheese, and Probably Not Yogurt The Essential Info Researchers have put forward hypotheses that attempt to link the hormones, carbohydrates, and proteins in dairy with acne. However, studies investigating the relationship between dairy and acne rely on questionnaires, which are …

Can You Reduce the Size of Your Skin Pores?

Yes. Topical Retinoids (Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene, Trifarotene), Chemical Peels, and Laser Treatments, among Others, Can Decrease Pore Size. The Essential Info Enlarged skin pores, while not a medical problem, can worsen the appearance of the skin. For most people, the answer is to simply accept your imperfections. However, if enlarged pores are bothering you, study …

The Role of Testosterone in Acne

In Both Males and Females, Testosterone and Other Male Hormones Increase Acne by Stimulating the Skin to Produce More Sebum (Skin Oil) The Essential Info Even though testosterone is a “male hormone,” it is present in both males and females, and is central to the development of acne in both sexes. During puberty, the bodies of both males …

How Does Benzoyl Peroxide Work in the Skin?

It Kills Bacteria and Unclogs Pores The Essential Info Benzoyl peroxide has been used for decades in the treatment of acne and is proven to be effective. In studies, it reduces acne lesions by 50% on average after 3 months, but when used within a proper regimen, it can completely clear the skin. When combined …

Is Getting a Facial Good for Acne?

Most Facials Involve Procedures that Physically Irritate the Skin, so It Is Usually Best to Avoid Them The Essential Info Many beauty salons and spas offer facials advertised as “for acne-prone skin.” Unfortunately, many of the procedures in such facials can physically irritate the skin, and it is well-known that physical irritation can make acne …

How Glycolic Acid Helps with Acne

Glycolic Acid Exfoliates the Skin, Decreases Skin Oil, Reduces Bacteria, Decreases Hyperpigmentation, and Promotes the Penetration of Acne Medications The Essential Info Glycolic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) that is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including acne. It works by: While glycolic acid is a very welcome adjunct to acne …

How Mandelic Acid Helps with Acne

Mandelic Acid Exfoliates the Skin, Decreases Skin Oil, Reduces Bacteria, Decreases Hyperpigmentation, and Promotes the Penetration of Acne Medications The Essential Info Mandelic acid is an alpha hydroxy acid (AHA), which is applied topically and may help reduce acne to a modest degree by: What is unique about mandelic acid is that it penetrates less deeply into …

Can Honey Masks Help Clear Acne?

Research Is Limited. It Might Help a Bit, But Don’t Expect Very Much. The Essential Info Honey has natural antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. Honey is also a safe, natural substance that comes with few side effects. While this makes it an appealing alternative to those who do not wish to experience the discomfort …