It seems that new research demonstrating the benefits of daily low dose naltrexone (LDN) usage is published every month. Recently there have been case studies and reports showing that LDN may an effective treatment for dermatological conditions. A majority of existing treatments for these conditions are topical, making LDN a unique oral option that is non-toxic and can be used on a daily basis. LDN and Dermatology LDN (low-dose naltrexone)…

Microneedling is one of the most common cosmetic treatments performed by dermatologists. It is used to treat acne, scars, sun-damaged skin, hyperhidrosis, and to reduce wrinkles. Studies have shown that the transdermal delivery of drugs might be enhanced by the use of microneedling to improve penetration in the skin. Why Use Microneedling? Microneedling is often used in combination with chemical peels and medications to treat acne. The exfoliating effect allows…

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are lesions on the skin caused by exposure to UV rays. These precancerous lesions have the potential to become squamous cell carcinoma. AKs can be caused by unprotected sun exposure or from using a tanning bed and are commonly found in patients over 65. They occur most frequently on the face and the back of the hands but can be found on any area of the skin.…

Products that Are Not Commercially Available Dermatologists are frequent prescribers of compounded creams. There are many combinations of ingredients that can be made by a compounding pharmacy that are not commercially available. Higher-strength ingredients can be used including in hydroquinone creams and chemical peels. A compounding pharmacy makes medications that have been discontinued, are experiencing shortages, or are not available in the United States. Combination drug products are available to…

Dermatologists and aestheticians frequently use benzocaine cream for a variety of skin procedures. The skin can be numbed with a benzocaine cream before everything from mole removal to skin tightening. This cream makes the experience of a cosmetic procedure more comfortable for patients and easier for professionals. Benzocaine cream is also sometimes prescribed to provide pain relief form minor burns and irritations on the surface of the body. While benzocaine…

A skin numbing cream can be an effective way to make both medical and cosmetic procedures easier.  Dermatologists in particular find that a skin numbing cream is useful in a variety of situations they encounter on a daily basis. Aestheticians use numbing creams to make cosmetic treatments safer and less painful. A skin numbing cream can be used before a variety of procedures including: Biopsies Removal of skin lesions Dermabrasion…

Recently facial fillers have become the next most popular cosmetic treatment after Botox. Fillers are injected to increase volume in the cheeks, nasolabial folds, lips, and other areas. While many cosmetic patients are now having facial fillers along with their Botox, having multiple injections may cause some discomfort. The fear of pain from an injection may even stop some individuals from using fillers, even though they want the results. Using…

Chemical peels are treatments that should always be done by a trained professional like a dermatologist or aesthetician. In some states, the use of high-strength professional chemical peels is limited to dermatologists only or someone under their supervision. Peel solutions with higher concentrations of active ingredients are often only available with a prescription. Performing a chemical peel at home with a solution obtained online can lead to adverse reactions in…

Microneedling is an effective procedure for improving the complexion. On realself.com, the popular website dedicated to patients discussing aesthetic treatments, microneedling has a high 92% approval rating among patients. It continues to be a popular skin rejuvenation procedure for its effectiveness and relative affordability compared to laser resurfacing. Because it is a moderately invasive treatment that requires puncturing the skin, a topical anesthetic is usually applied before the procedure. The…

There are numerous acne creams, gels, lotions, scrubs, and more that are available as over-the-counter products at the local drugstore. While some of these products can be essential parts of a regular skincare routine, many individuals continue to suffer with acne even after consistently using them. When an acne sufferer is looking for alternative treatments from a skincare professional, chemical peels are often the first treatment offered. Chemical peels have…