Q: Dear Dr. O’Donoghue, Are there any new treatments for acne or rosacea? – Rose, Venice FL.

A: Dear Rose, The traditional therapies have relied upon both topical and oral antibiotics. I prefer a more natural approach, I start many of my acne and rosacea patients on a specific all natural regimen. 

Therapy begins with a homeopathic oral spray which reduces redness, inflammation and breakouts. It is followed by a series of natural, pulsed light treatments that target and can permanently shrink inflamed blood vessels.

This is also combined with a specific diet that avoids the foods most commonly associated with rosacea flares.

Q: Dear Dr. O’Donoghue, I had a blood test that says I am vitamin D deficient. I know you can get some Vitamin D from going in the sun, but isn’t that a risky way to get it?

A: Dear Julia, You are absolutely correct. As a board certified dermatologist I find serious skin cancers every day that area the result of excessive skin exposure.  For my patients that are Vitamin D Deficient I recommend a diet high in vitamin D milk, cheese and fish.

If this is insufficient to correct the deficiency I recommend a supplemental oral vitamin spray that is easy to take and readily absorbed.  Only as a last resort do I recommend someone expose their skin to the harmful rays of the sun,

Q: Dear Dr. O’Donoghue, I see a lot in the news about Botox® – is it safe? – Linda, Boca Raton, FL.

A: Dear Linda,

Over 1.6 million people chose to have Botox® Cosmetic injections in 2008, and according to the American Academy of Dermatology, Botox® is growing faster than any other cosmetic procedure. It is the most safe and effective way to treat lines and wrinkles of the forehead and crows feet. 

It must be administered appropriately by a licensed and professional; individual, so make sure you ask the person performing the procedure how man y patients they have treated, what medical training they have, and what are the possible side effects.

Q: Dear Dr. O’Donoghue, I am overwhelmed by the variety of sunscreens available, which is best?- JP

A: Dear JP – Look for sun blocks that contain zinc oxide or titanium dioxide which are ingredients not easily broken down by the sun.  These also protect your skin from harmful UVA sunrays which are the main cause of melanoma.