There have been some recent studies cited in the news suggesting that sunscreens contain some potentially harmful chemicals. Other conflicting information suggests that sunscreens block out too much vitamin D. For answers to these and other questions about suncreens, see the latest newsletter from the Skin Cancer Foundation, a non-profit group that has all of the facts.
Sunscreens- Are they safe?
July 15th, 2010Skin care products with Hyaluronic Acid “Do they plump the skin?”
June 10th, 2010
The latest “buzz word” on the ingredient list of anti- aging products is hyaluronic acid. It is the new ” collagen” Hyaluronic acid is the ingredient in the injectable fillers Restylane and Juvederm. It naturally occurs in the bodyso it does not cause allergic reactions when injected under the skin. When applied on the skin it does not “plump it up” but it does add moisture to the skin and help the skin retain water. In that respect it is very effective. I like the Skin Medica ” Dermal Repair Night Cream” which includes hyaluronic acid and Vitamins E and C. Skin Medica also adds hyaluronic acid to their Environmental Protection Sunscreen #30 which makes it an effective moisturizer. For more on hyaluronic acid see a recent LA Times article: Skin care’s new favorite ingredient: hyaluronic acid
Fraxel laser improves keloids, raised scars
February 7th, 2010
Keloids or raised scars due to surgery, burns or other injuries are very difficult to treat. The standard treatment, injection with cortisone, may flatten the scar but may cause increased redness. Recurrence may occur 6-12 months later. A recent study showed promising results for the Fraxel laserin treating keloids Eight patients were treated with a series of four treatments. All showed some improvement in scar color, texture and height. More studies are needed but since the Fraxel laser is safe, it is an option for scars that have not responded to standard treatment.
I have treated several pateints with this technique resulting in improvment. I welcome inquiries from patients with resistant scars.
“Surviving the holiday season in good form”
December 9th, 2009
- Surviving the holiday season in good form
Recently, I was quoted in the Nov. 22, 2009 LA Times Image Section for an article entitled “Surviving the holiday season in good form.” My portion covered skin care tips for the holidays. Following are the paragraphs with my comments. The entire article can be found by clicking here: LATIMES
Losing face
“Typically the things that cause acne have to do with clogging the pores and oil glands, causing an accumulation of bacteria,” says dermatologist Dr. Susan Goodlerner, who has a private practice in Torrance and is a clinical professor at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. Leaving makeup on several nights in a row could cause an acne flare-up.
The morning after, she recommends cleaning with products made for acne-prone skin. Most will remove facial oils and may contain salicylic acid (a beta hydroxy acid that helps stop pores from clogging) or glycolic acid (an alpha-hydroxy acid that exfoliates the skin). Toners can also help remove surface oils, and cleansing can be followed by the application of topical benzoyl peroxide, which can help kill bacteria on the skin and keep pores from clogging.
On the other end of the spectrum is dry, sensitive skin, and its more severe cousin, eczema, a chronic skin condition that can cause extremely dry skin patches, rashes, itching and even blisters. For dry skin, Goodlerner says, use gentle cleansers and moisturizers, and avoid anything astringent that will strip the skin of its natural oils. Some with eczema might need cortisone cream to reduce the redness and inflammation, or they may need a prescription medication.
Goodlerner advises that before embarking on a busy holiday schedule, choose products that will make cleaning and makeup removal easy. Also, cosmetics that are oil-free or have extra moisturizers will keep the skin looking good the day after a late night.
If you skipped out on brushing your teeth, chances are you also bailed on taking off your makeup and washing your face. That probably won’t cause too much trouble if problem skin isn’t an issue, but if it is, there may be repercussions.
What works to decrease facial hair?
November 22nd, 2009
Patients often ask me to prescribe something to minimize facial hair. There are only a few products that provide any benefit. Aveeno Positively Smooth moisturizer with soy proteins says that it “helps you shave less often”. The company sponsored study included only 29 women.
Vaniqa, a prescription cream works to reduce hair regrowth. Users still need to continue a method of hair removal. Stopping treatment will result in recurrence after 8 weeks.
The article below, which appeared in the Wall Street Journal Health Page provides a good summary of the available topical reatments.
Laser hair removal, although more costly than either of the above, permanently reduces hair up to 80% after a series of treatments. Most patients are more satisfied with this option.
Dysport vs. Botox -which is best?
July 8th, 2009The FDA has recently approved a new botulinum toxin A, Dysport. This medication has been used as a cosmetic injectable in Europe since the 1990’s. One research study published in the UK in 2006 showed that Botox had a longer duration of benefit. On the other hand, the manufacturer of Dysport claims a faster onset of benefit- 2 days vs 7 days for Botox. The cost to the physician for Dysport is slightly lower, which may result in a lower cost for patients. Allergan, the manufacturers of Botox, has recently started a program of $50 rebates for patients who come in for treatment in the next month. The competition may benefit patients resulting in a lower cost for wrinkle relaxing treatments. Larger studies and wider use of Dysport is necessary to determine which product is best.
BULLETIN: Friday June 19-High UV index in LA! Wear your sunscreen!
June 18th, 2009
Check the link below from the LA Times to learn why you should be extra careful about sun protection, tomorrow Friday, June 19th. I agree with the recommendation to avoid midday sun and wear sunscreen.
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2009/06/ultraviolet-index.html
Advanced New Anthelios #60 sunscreen available now.
May 3rd, 2009
Anthelios #60 Ultralight Fluid
I am very enthusiastic about the new La Roche sunscreen, Anthelios #60. I have been using the Anthelios #15 as a daily sunscreen and love the light, non-greasy texture but been awaiting a high SPF sunscreen that has the same feel. This product fits the bill.
Anthelios #60 provides a high UVA protection factor (UVA causes Aging and Sun Allergies) as well as UVB protection (SPF #60 UVB causes sunburning). The company claims that antioxidants, including a plant extract, added to the sunscreen provide a second line of defense. Several antioxidants do reduce sun damage so it will be interesting to see some scientific research to back up these claims. . .
I have tried the Ultra Light fluid for faces. . It absorbs into the skin right away without leaving any white film . It is a great product for every day use when a higher SPF sunscreen is needed (those who work outdoors, are prone to brown spots on the face, etc) There is also a lotion for dry skin and a more waterproof body formulation. Anthelios #60 is available in our office, at our web store as well as at select pharmacies.
Please post your comments after trying this product.
My personal experience with Latisse lash thickener
March 25th, 2009I have used Latisse for two weeks now. It is easy to use, takes just a few minutes at bedtime. The first few days I had mild irritation in the eyes which went away very quickly. I am encouraged that I am starting to see the benefit of thicker and darker lashes. It is now available in our office by prescription. 
Please post your experiences with Latisse.
Susan Goodlerner, M.D.
Grow longer, fuller eyelashes with Latisse
February 25th, 2009
Latisse is a new prescription treatment for thin, inadequate eyelashes or hypotrichosis. Recently approved by the FDA, Latisse is applied topically, once daily to the base of the upper eyelashes. In the recent clinical trial, patients saw results starting at 4 weeks with optimal improvement at 16 weeks.
before and after 16 weeks of treatment.
The medication will be soon be available in our office by prescription as well as at select pharmacies. Schedule your appointment now to see if Latisse is right for you. For more information see www.latisse.com
