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A: The answer to the question will depend on what kind of acne you have + what might be causing or worsening it. Acne comes in many forms such as whiteheads (closed comedones), blackheads (open comedones), red bumps (cystic or inflamed acne), and pus filled bumps (pustules). Hormones, hair products, touching your face, and some medical conditions can also cause or worsen acne. If you are struggling with uncontrolled acne you should see a board certified dermatologist to help get things under control. It’s easy to find one on the American Academy of Dermatology’s Find a Derm website at https://find-a-derm.aad.org/. !

A: When it comes to any medical questions, even for skin care and personal hygiene, you should ONLY look for information from reputable sources such as physicians + licensed medical professionals. Licensed aestheticians (preferably working under the guidelines of a board certified dermatologist) can also offer some great beauty tips. Social media is overflowing with supposed experts, so be wary of where you are getting your information from.

Here are some great board certified dermatologists with educational instagram accounts: @heidigoodarzimd, @derm.doc.miri, @drdavinlim, @shereeneidriss, @dermdoclibby

A: A good place to start with face washing tips is to wash your face once to twice daily with a gentle face wash for sensitive skin. Using warm water, gently wash your face with your hands only then pat dry with a clean washcloth, all without rubbing or scrubbing. Over washing or using harsh cleaners can cause skin irritation, redness and peeling. Depending on your skin type or if you have other skin conditions such as acne or rosacea, you may benefit from a medicated face wash. To learn more, read our blog article: “simple steps to wash your face well.”

A: A healthy balanced diet is always a good thing! When it comes to acne, there are only a few categories of foods that have been associated with acne.  
Following a low-glycemic diet has been shown to lead to fewer breakouts. That means more fresh fruits, vegetables, beans, and steel cut oats and less white bread, white potatoes or fries, doughnuts or other pastries, sugary drinks, and white rice. Although cow’s milk has a low-glycemic index, it too has been associated with increased outbreaks, with skim milk more commonly studied and associated with acne when compared to whole milk. Products made from milk, such as yogurt or cheese, have not been shown to lead to more breakouts. So, does that mean no more doughnuts, ever again? Dermatologists recommend paying attention to your breakouts and whether any foods or drinks trigger a breakout or worsen your existing acne. So enjoy your chocolate…. guilt free! And remember, everything in moderation!

A: Most belly buttons do just fine if you stick to your regular bathing habits with routine cleaning in the shower. Whether you have an “innie” or an “outtie” as your belly button, washing it with gentle soap and water (using a cotton swab or washcloth for the more difficult to reach “innies”) is all that is needed. And don’t forget to make sure it is dry after! Sometimes belly buttons do need special attention, especially when you can’t get rid of the smell with regular cleaning or if you notice any new growths or rashes. If that happens, it’s time to see your pediatrician or dermatologist.

A: Skin in general becomes more dry during the winter months. A good moisturizer is key to preventing dry skin (to learn more about moisturizing, read the article from our blog titled “moisturizing mattes” hyperlink). There are also special exfoliants to get rid of those pesky rough alligator feet! But be careful- sometimes there are medical conditions that may mimic dry skin such as athlete's foot (fungus), corns calluses, warts or eczema. So if your dry skin is not responding to a moisturizer or exfoliant, please see a board certified dermatologist or a podiatrist who can help diagnose and treat!