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By themanhattandermatologist 11 Mar, 2024

A few summers ago, we worried about spray sunblocks containing the cancer causing chemical: Benzene.

 

This week we learned that this ingredient is found in many over the counter benzoyl peroxide acne products.  Brands tested and found with dangerously high levels include Clinique, Target’s Up & Up, Proactiv, PanOxyl, Walgreen’s acne soap bar, and Walmart’s Equate Beauty. FDA guidelines allow up to 2 parts per million (ppm). Valisure Testing Laboratory found up to nine times that amount in some treatments. These levels jumped significantly when the products were tested at higher temperatures as if stored in a medicine cabinet in a steamy bathroom. Proactiv’s 2.5% benzoyl peroxide cream contained as much as 1,761 ppm of benzene during testing; A similar cream from Target reached 1,598 ppm; Clinique’s hit 401 ppm. Clearasil 10% BPO initially tested just at the FDA level but jumped to 308 ppm.

 

The benzene found in sunscreen was an impurity that came from contaminated ingredients. The benzene in BPO comes from the benzoyl peroxide itself. BPO can break down and form benzene.

 

Valisure’s testing also examined benzene in the air surrounding acne treatments. An unopened Proactiv product leaked high levels when kept at 104 degrees F; the temperature of a hot shower.

 

When testing was done with salicylic acid (another acne ingredient found in OTC products) elevated benzene was not found.

 

So…what to do? I don’t recommend BPO for acne, but for an entirely different reason. Although an excellent treatment, these products can permanently bleach fabric. I don’t want someone to ruin their clothing, bedding, towels, etc. We have many wonderful topical treatments for acne by prescription. The Retin A family is always expanding, we have topical tazarotene, topical antibiotics, Dapsone gel, etc. We have excellent oral medication to treat (and cure) acne and many office treatments to use as adjuncts.

 

Call us to schedule your appointment and get a custom program for your needs!

 

Joyce Davis MD

212 242 3066

By themanhattandermatologist 29 Nov, 2023

Getting ready for the Holidays can look different for everyone. Don’t stress about your looks, let us help you look your best this holiday season. With just one hour, we can help freshen your complexion and make you look younger!

One way is by microneedling. This procedure involves using a sterile brush to remove the top layer of your skin. It can be done either with PRP (platelet rich plasma- the better and stronger way to enhance results) or with hyaluronic acid (a cheaper option). The skin will need to heal for a week before it is ready for “showtime”. Unwanted pigmentation, superficial wrinkles, and acne scars will fade or be minimized. Fresher, newer skin will result. One treatment is enough for most people, but for stubborn pigmentation a series of 2 or 3 sessions may be necessary. We offer package deals and are happy to give you more information when you call the office to book your appointment.

Another great way to look your best this holiday season is with fillers. Fillers have multiplied….and each company has their own rewards program. There’s no excuse to not get 1 or 2 syringes to look your best and youngest version of yourself before party season starts. For the 50+ age group, Dr. Davis injects filler on the cheekbones (to lift) and in front of the ears (to pull back). Expect treatment to hold for about 6 months. Many of our fillers are on special promotion right now for the holidays. Again, at no cost, join the rewards group from the company of your filler for additional savings/fee reduction. There are also great deals for botulinum toxins. These are usually injected to relax forehead lines; these can also be used to decrease perspiration. How nice not to sweat for 6 months and have no underarm stains on your clothes! You will look relaxed in the midst of your hosting and party mayhem. No one will know!

 

By themanhattandermatologist 12 Jan, 2023

Jill Biden went for Moh’s microsurgery.  What is that?  It is an outpatient type of skin cancer surgery.  It is done under local anesthesia in a facility where there is an operating room and laboratory for simultaneous examination of all skin removed.  If a section is positive for skin cancer then additional tissue is taken until clear borders are reached.   This technique ensures full removal of certain skin cancers (generally basal cell and squamous cell carcinomata of the face) with a minimum scar.  

Typically a skin biopsy is done first, and you would only go for Moh's microsurgery if skin cancer is diagnosed.

As part of your new year’s resolutions you should remember to get a full body check for skin cancer.  Many patients have skipped this needed annual exam during covid and are coming in with many more skin cancers than typical.  In between checkups  if you spot anything crusting, bleeding,  or changing color you should call the office to come get it examined right away.  Or, if on a weekend, you can book an appointment on our web site TheManhattanDermatologist.com or with ZocDoc.  Skin cancer is curable when caught early.  If neglected, it is more complicated to treat.    

Daily wearing of SPF 30+ is also recommended on all skin exposed to sun.  This means the face and in warmer weather the neck, chest, arms, back, and legs.  Too many patients still think that sunblock is just for the beach.  


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