10 patient questions you might be asked today

With the internet being available at everyone's fingertips and seemingly endless advertising for a variety of skincare and cosmetic products, the average patient may come to an appointment with misinformtion and questions. Every month Zoe Diana Draelos, M.D. tackles these conundrums. Here's a selection of her most popular articles.

1. How can moisturizers improve the appearance of aging hands?

Hand moisturization is difficult to accomplish because the hands are washed more frequently than any other body part, thus experiencing both chemical and physical trauma.

2. Why does skin feel tight after cleansing?

No one knows exactly why skin feels tight after cleansing, however one general theory is widely accepted.

3. What are the safety concerns associated with parabens?

Safety concerns over parabens arose because they mimic estrogen by binding to estrogen receptors. What could this mean for patients?

4. What is an ultra-hydrating and therapeutic moisturizer?

The terms ultra-hydrating and therapeutic, as they pertain to moisturizer formulation, are pure marketing gibberish, however they have tremendous consumer appeal.

5. What is a nourishing hair shampoo?

The word “nourishing” is truly a cosmetic term with no medical meaning; nevertheless, consumers ascribe a positive meaning to this term.

6. Do digital beauty advisor devices work?

The digital beauty advisor is a digitized mirror providing personalized skin care information and day-to-day comparative health evaluations.

7. The impact of facial foundation on luminosity

“Luminosity,” is often used to describe facial appearance after applying facial foundation. What is luminosity?

8. The concerns around phthalates

One of the most concerning group of chemicals are phthalates, which are used as plasticizers to increase the flexibility, transparency, durability and longevity of plastics.

9. Common terms in skincare marketing: Sensitive skin

One of the most commonly used terms is “sensitive skin.” It is important for the dermatologist to understand the value of such terminology and the associated implications.

10. Does dry shampoo work?

Just as facial blotting papers are used to control facial sebum, dry shampoos are used to control scalp sebum.