Skin care q&a: acne, ear black heads, razor bumps, gluten!🙆💇💄

TL;DR

A dermatologist answers various skincare questions, discussing topics such as acne, irritant dermatitis, cic dermatitis, blackheads, ingrown hairs, vitamin C serum, and gluten.

Transcript

[Applause] hi guys happy Friday today is a Q&A where I answer your skincare related questions from the week um if you're new here I'm a dermatologist I film day in the life of a dermatologist Vlogs uh as well as a skin care focused uh sit down videos so if Vlogs aren't your thing um I have a playlist of just uh Dermatology content that I encourage ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🔤 Beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) is recommended for acne, while alpha hydroxy acids are used for gentle exfoliation.
• 😒 Prolonged use of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream on the face can have side effects and worsen acne.
• 😂 Zinc pyrithione in anti-dandruff shampoo can help treat cic dermatitis in the ear.
• 😂 Blackheads in the ear area can be reduced by using benzoyl peroxide gel or considering laser hair removal.
• ⌚ Vitamin C serum is not very stable and is degraded by UV radiation, making it challenging to determine the best application time.

Questions & Answers

Q: Which is better for acne, beta hydroxy acid or alpha hydroxy acid?

Beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) is recommended for acne because it targets oily surfaces and helps unclog pores. Alpha hydroxy acids are used for gentle exfoliation.

Q: Is it safe to self-treat irritant dermatitis on the face with over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream?

While it is safe to use, prolonged application of topical steroids on the face can lead to skin thinning, stretch marks, and worsen acne. It is best to avoid using it without professional advice.

Q: How can cic dermatitis in the ear be treated?

Using an anti-dandruff shampoo with zinc pyrithione can help. Applying a small amount to the ear and rinsing gently can provide relief. However, avoid inserting anything into the ear to prevent damage to the ear drum.

Q: What can be done to reduce blackheads in the ear area?

Applying a small amount of benzoyl peroxide gel can be helpful, but be cautious not to get it in the ear. Other options include using laser hair removal or van, although most men prefer to retain the ability to shave their beard.

Q: How should vitamin C serum be used?

Vitamin C serum is not very stable and works best with vitamin E and ferulic acid. It is also degraded by ultraviolet radiation. Applying it after going outdoors may be more effective, but further research is needed.

Q: What is the role of gluten in skin diseases?

Gluten can trigger an immune response in celiac disease and dermatitis herpetiformis, leading to skin rashes. Avoiding gluten is necessary for these conditions, but its role in other itchy skin diseases is not yet clear.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The dermatologist discusses the benefits of beta hydroxy acid (salicylic acid) and alpha hydroxy acids in acne skincare.

• The use of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream on the face is debated due to potential side effects and the risk of worsening acne.

• Suggestions are given for treating dermatitis in the ear and reducing blackheads in the ear area.

• Pseudo folliculitis barbae, or ingrown hairs in the beard area, are explained, along with possible treatment options.

• The dermatologist provides information on the use of vitamin C serum and the potential role of gluten in skin diseases.