Skincare Articles

Many of us get to the point where age defiance becomes an important goal. For many, this may mean keeping the body in shape at the gym, ensuring skin suppleness with moisturizes, or using cosmetics to obscure common age-defining features. For others, the goal is to achieve long-lasting and more profound youth-promoting effects, such as facelifts. The facelift is a long known means to overcome the well-known facial aging processes of skin drooping or sagging due to gravitation forces on the skin over time.   There are people who would like to have the effects of a facelift, but simply do not want to “go under the knife” or deal with the risk of general anesthesia for a cosmetic procedure, and the cost of a traditional facelift can be prohibitive. These concerns can be overcome through a procedure that addresses the facial drooping that can lead to a younger-appearing face that does not involve cutting the skin, the longer healing times, and risks associated with traditional surgical approaches. The application of polydioxanone (PDO) threads to lift the facial tissues is a minimally invasive means to achieve similar results as a traditional facelift but with shorter procedure time and less postoperative complications and healing times (1).    *What are PDO threads?   PDO threads are a type of absorbable suture material that is available in different textures (mono, cog, and screw threads). Mono threads have a smooth texture and are used to achieve basic skin tightening. Cog threads have a barbed texture that promotes collagen production and provides a more dramatic lifting effect. Screw threads are typically 2 intertwined threads used to achieve more volume in the areas being treated.      *How are PDO threads used to overcome sagging facial skin?   Unlike the case for traditional surgical facelifts, there is no need for sedation or general anesthesia. Local anesthetic is applied, then a special needle is used to insert the threads beneath the skin surface, lifting it as desired. The typical time for a single outpatient procedure is 45 minutes to an hour. You can then resume your normal activities within one day with some inflammation and swelling lasting about a week. It takes up to 6 months for the body to fully absorb the PDO threads.    *How long do the effects of PDO thread procedures last?   Follow-up treatments may be needed for some people in 6 to 9 months, then another one is typically not needed for another 3 years or so.     *What do PDO thread procedures cost?   PDO procedures cost much less than traditional surgical facelifts, and the exact cost will depend on the scope of the procedure. However, the average cost is in the $2100 range.     PDO threads can also be used in non-facial areas to perform buttock lifts, breast lifts, neck lifts, rhinoplasty (nose job), and general skin tightening procedures. Side effects are minimal and are mostly in the form of post-procedure inflammation that resolves in a week (2, 3). Most experts agree, however, that the best results are in people who do not have very advanced skin changing with significant loss of skin fat and elasticity (1, 3).       References   1.Myung Y, Jung C. Mini-midface Lift Using Polydioxanone Cog Threads. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open. 2020;8(6):e2920.   2.Ali YH. Two years' outcome of thread lifting with absorbable barbed PDO threads: Innovative score for objective and subjective assessment. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2018 Feb;20(1):41-49.   3.Suh DH, Jang HW, Lee SJ, Lee WS, Ryu HJ. Outcomes of polydioxanone knotless thread lifting for facial rejuvenation. Dermatol Surg. 2015 Jun;41(6):720-5. 

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch and Dr. Nasime Yazdani An age-old common childhood consequence of repeated lip-licking may be familiar to many. I recall that during the age of 8, I had a relentless cracking skin irritation right over and arching the top lip. Adults would say, “stop licking”, and I would be in anguish thinking “I can’t.” The only minute-long relief from the irritating feeling from the cracking and dryness was to lick it again, then again. This common form of childhood lip eczema that can occur on or around the lips is often referred to as lip licker’s dermatitis (1), perioral dermatitis, eczematous cheilitis, or contact eczema.   Childhood lip eczema typically looks like red, cracked skin with raw areas within the cracking skin, and pigmentation changes can also occur. When at the top of the lip, it’s not uncommon to see an arc of dermatitis or sores that form into the shape of a mustache. The redness, fissures, scaling, and crusting are a result of damage to the skin’s epidermal barrier causing inflammation. Lip eczema can also itch but not in all cases. The initiating triggers are not always identified, and some common culprits are facial soaps and lotions, food ingredients, habitual licking, or even anxiety. In the case of habit or anxiety/nervousness, the saliva itself is the irritant. Even after the trigger is removed, the irritation may still lead to continued licking in an attempt to relieve the discomfort when the affected areas dry. This creates a vicious cycle that can last weeks or months and requires a safe and effective solution.   The goal to treat lip eczema in a way that will allow the quickest possible healing without creating other problems due to medicine side effects is a challenge for parents and providers alike. For this healing to begin, the child must stop licking the lips. This can be accomplished by applying moisture that the licking attempts to provide (2). Depending on the case, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if an infection has developed in the damaged skin.   A healthy skincare routine is also paramount. Caregivers must be sure to avoid the common tendency to apply corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone creams (3). This type of treatment will only make matters worse by increasing the problem of dryness, redness, and irritation, particularly when applying to the face.  You must also read all labels of lip emollients and steer clear from toxic chemicals and common irritants like lanolin, fragrance and harsh preservatives.  MatrX B Post-Traumatic Response Gel, containing natural substances with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties can relieve skin dryness and help restore it to a healthy state.  Apply a thin layer of gel onto children’s lips once in the morning and before bedtime followed by a moisture barrier cream such as organic coconut oil or shea butter for a total of two weeks.    References:  Jagannathan, K., Vijayanand, S., Manoharan, D. et al.Perioral Rash in a Young Boy Due to Lip-Licking Dermatitis. Indian J Pediatr(2021).    Fonseca A, Jacob SE, Sindle A. Art of prevention: Practical interventions in lip-licking dermatitis. Int J Womens Dermatol. 2020;6(5):377-380.   Sharma R, Abrol S, Wani M. Misuse of topical corticosteroids on facial skin. A study of 200 patients. J Dermatol Case Rep. 2017;11(1):5-8. Published 2017 Mar 31.

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch Eczema is a form of atopic dermatitis and is a chronic skin condition that affects over 20 million children and adults in the United States. Eczema stems from an overactive immune system that causes inflammation and resultant skin damage. The skin is typically dry, scaly, extremely itchy, and develops rashes of varying appearance and coloration. The traditional mainstay of treatment involves environmental and lifestyle changes such as stress management, recognizing and avoiding triggers, use of skin moisturizes, and other self-care measures. Pharmacologic intervention with topical corticosteroids or immunosuppressant ointments such as Elidel is an often needed approach to eczema. The latest eczema-specific drug approved by the FDA is Eucrisa (crisaborole). Eucrisa 2% ointment is a non-steroidal topical prescription medication labeled for use to treat mild to moderate atopic dermatitis in children and adults. It works by inhibiting an enzyme, phosphodiesterase-4, involved in immune-mediated inflammation via the release of cytokines (1). Various cytokines are found to be present at high levels in people with eczema (2). Clinical trials with Eucrisa suggest that it is safe and efficacious, but there are potential side effects such as stinging or burning at the site of application and allergic reaction. Eucrisa can be applied to skin on any part of the body including the face, but is not to be applied to mucous membranes such as the mouth and vagina. In the case of lip eczema, it may be difficult to use Eucrisa because some of the medication could get into the mouth. The potential benefits of Eucrisa comes with an impressive price tag of over $600 for a 60 g tube, which can be prohibitive for those who are under- or uninsured, and prior authorization and failure with standard treatments may be needed for those with health coverage (3). Seaside Medical’s Post-Traumatic Response Gel with MatrX B is a non-prescription product with natural substances beneficial for inflammatory conditions such as eczema. Unlike the case for Eucrisa, The Response Gel can be used on the lips because a small amount getting into the mouth is not associated with safety concerns. It has been reported as effective in relieving lip eczema without adverse effects and with long-term results. The Response Gel is a viable option for people with eczema who prefer a cost-effective, non-prescription, and natural option even for those with lip eczema.   References Woo TE, Kuzel P. Crisaborole 2% Ointment (Eucrisa) for Atopic Dermatitis. Skin Therapy Lett. 2019 Mar;24(2):4-6. Klonowska J, Gleń J, Nowicki RJ, Trzeciak M. New Cytokines in the Pathogenesis of Atopic Dermatitis-New Therapeutic Targets. Int J Mol Sci. 2018;19(10):3086. Published 2018 Oct 9. doi:10.3390/ijms19103086 Castelli G, Schaffer M. Crisaborole (Eucrisa) for Mild to Moderate Atopic Dermatitis. Am Fam Physician. 2018 Sep 15;98(6):379-380.

by Dr. Stacey Matthews Branch Yeast is a fungus that normally inhabits the skin, digestive tract, and vagina without causing any harm. Yeast infections (candidiasis) occur when something triggers the yeast to overgrow (eg., stress, weakened immune system, antibiotic treatments). Skin yeast infections can cause scaly, red, and irritated, patches on the skin that may or may not itch. It’s often tempting to self-diagnose and use something that may not actually help to resolve the infection. A common OTC product that people go to is Neosporin or similar formulations. However, these typically contain the antibacterials bacitracin, neomycin (linked to allergic reactions in some people), and polymixin b that have no effectiveness against fungi. Using antibacterial substances on yeast-infected skin increases the risk of destroying the healthy competing skin bacterial flora and making a yeast infection worse. Neosporin AF (containing miconozole) is marketed for athlete’s foot and jock itch. These specific skin fungal infections are caused by the Tinea genus of fungus. Although some yeast infections can respond to miconozole, another antifungal drug (topical or even a form taken internally) may be more appropriate and prescribed by your doctor. Another go-to remedy is hydrocortisone cream, however, it is also not a suitable option in the case of skin fungal infections because the infection can actually worsen due to the steroid’s immune-weakening effect. Nonfungal conditions such as lip eczema or angular cheilitis have been mistaken for a fungal infection. Eczema is an inflammatory condition resulting from an abnormal allergic response or atopy (1,2). A related condition involving the corners of the mouth (angular cheilitis) can be caused by a fungal infection, but many other factors including nutritional, immune, chemical, and environmental also play a role(3). A good approach to alleviating the irritation associated with a skin yeast infection is keeping the skin well hydrated, avoiding inflammatory foods, and using products that can help restore the skin’s healthy state naturally.   Results of a number of scientific studies have demonstrated the healing effects of aloe vera, which have been attributed to its many antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial components such as aloe-emodin, aloin, and acemannan (4). Spirulina is a type of algae that contains compounds (phenolics, phycocyanins, and polysaccharides) with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunostimulating effects (5,6). Post-Traumatic Response Gel formulated with aloe vera, spirulina, and other beneficial natural substances may afford the healing properties needed to help the skin recover from minor skin trauma including that caused by yeast infection. References   Schena D, Fantuzzi F, Girolomoni G. Contact allergy in chronic eczematous lip dermatitis. Eur J Dermatol. 2008 Nov-Dec;18(6):688-92. Hitz Lindenmüller I, Itin PH, Fistarol SK. Dermatology of the lips: inflammatory diseases. Quintessence Int. 2014 Nov-Dec;45(10):875-83. Lugović-Mihić L, Pilipović K, Crnarić I, Šitum M, Duvančić T. Differential Diagnosis of Cheilitis - How to Classify Cheilitis? Acta Clin Croat. 2018 Jun;57(2):342-351. Sánchez M, González-Burgos E, Iglesias I, Gómez-Serranillos MP. Pharmacological Update Properties of Aloe Vera and its Major Active Constituents. Molecules. 2020 Mar 13;25(6):1324 Finamore A, Palmery M, Bensehaila S, Peluso I. Antioxidant, Immunomodulating, and Microbial-Modulating Activities of the Sustainable and Ecofriendly Spirulina. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2017;2017:3247528. Gunes S, Tamburaci S, Dalay MC, Deliloglu Gurhan I. In vitro evaluation of Spirulina platensis extract incorporated skin cream with its wound healing and antioxidant activities. Pharm Biol. 2017 Dec;55(1):1824-1832.

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch Few of us have escaped a period when the skin under or around the eyes show signs of worry or stress. This is often manifested as dark circles around the eyes. There are a number of common causes for the circles including, genetic traits, lifestyle (lack of sleep, smoking, alcohol consumption), age, and diet (iron deficiency). You may be dealing with that now more than ever during prolonged periods of quarantine due to the current pandemic. Stress is a major cause of many changes in the body, including the development of dark circles around the eyes. While under quarantine, irregular sleep and changes in diet and daily habits can take a toll on the entire body and mind, including the skin around the eyes. However, increased levels of the stress hormone cortisol can promote fatigue and decreased appetite that can affect skin health. While working on the changes that can prevent or lessen the occurrence of dark circles, many want to know what they can apply to the the eye skin for lightening effects. Energy eye serums for tired eyes are designed to replenish moisture and suppleness to the skin. Popular products to provide a more dramatic decrease in dark circles contain the ingredient hydroquinone. Hydroquinone lightens or bleaches the skin by reducing the number of specialized cells (melanocytes) that produce skin pigment (melanin). Concerns with the synthetic form of hydroquinone are the risk of allergic reactions and permanent skin discoloration. A natural compound that originates from bearberries is uva ursi. Uva ursi contains a compound called arbutin that can naturally reduce pigmentation without the harshness common with synthetic hydroquinone (1). Besides the skin lightening action, uva ursi contains an abundance of antioxidants that protect against UV-induced skin damage. It is a good candidate as an ingredient in energy eye serum for dark circles, and is a beneficial component of Seaside Medical Technologies' Brightening Eye Serum along with other skin-supporting ingredients that increase elasticity, moisture, and blood flow. Combining the benefits of proper rest, diet, and other important self-care measures with the use of healthful energy eye serum can help restore eye skin health and youthfulness. Sarkar R, Arora P, Garg KV. Cosmeceuticals for Hyperpigmentation: What is Available?. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2013;6(1):4-11.

Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch Preservatives in skin care are used to prevent the overgrowth of microbes that can cause product deterioration. However, they must be carefully chosen to prevent harmful effects on the body. A chemical class that is widely used as a preservative in skin care products is alcohol. There are many types of alcohols, and their preservative function and effects on the skin can vary widely. Ethanol is a simple alcohol often found in skin care products, but it tends to have a drying effect on the skin depending on the amount in the product. Conversely, stearyl and cetyl alcohol do not have ethanol’s drying effect. A brief overview of the most common types of alcohol in skin care products can be found here. The alcohol phenoxyethanol is increasingly used as a preservative to replace parabens, which have the potential to disrupt the endocrine system. Phenoxyethanol is considered a well-tolerated skin care product preservative, but there are reports of the alcohol causing irritation or allergic reactions in animals and some people. Therefore, those considered to have sensitive skin should use caution with products containing phenoxyethanol. Phenoxyethanol is also found in plant-based skin-care products. A good example is the use of rhubarb root extract. The extract is commonly formulated in a base of water and glycerin and preserved with phenoxyethanol. Rhubarb extract contains the compound rhaponticin that has been found to provide hydration and antioxidant properties. Studies in cells grown in the laboratory suggest that rhubarb extract may be able to protect from photodamage.  Ethanolamine is another preservative found in cosmetics and is made up of a primary amine (ammonia derivative) and a primary alcohol. Ethanolamines help increase the product’s shelf life, promote the uniform blending of the product, and help remove oil and dirt from the skin. An example is the foaming agent diethanolamine found in shampoos and soaps. Diethanolamine is often excluded from some products due to the potential of this compound to react with other ingredients in products to form nitrosodiethanolamine, which may have cancer-causing properties. All alcohols are not created equal and a better understanding skin care product alcohols will help you to make a conscious choice of what to use on your skin. Fortunately, water-based, enzymatic products exist that can provide an effective, non-drying skin cleansing alternative.    References   Dréno B, Zuberbier T, Gelmetti C, Gontijo G, Marinovich M. Safety review of phenoxyethanol when used as a preservative in cosmetics. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2019 Nov;33 Suppl 7:15-24 Fiume MM, Heldreth B, Bergfeld WF, Belsito DV, Hill RA, Klaassen CD, Liebler DC, Marks JG Jr, Shank RC, Slaga TJ, Snyder PW, Andersen FA. Safety Assessment of Diethanolamine and Its Salts as Used in Cosmetics. Int J Toxicol. 2017 Sep/Oct;36(5_suppl2):89S-110S Silveira JP, Seito LN, Eberlin S, et al. Photoprotective and antioxidant effects of Rhubarb: inhibitory action on tyrosinase and tyrosine kinase activities and TNF-α, IL-1α and α-MSH production in human melanocytes. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2013;13:49.

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch Reviewed by Dr. Yazdani The times we are experiencing are like no other for most of us. Measures intended to reduce the spread of the virus that causes COVID-19 has been taking unexpected tolls on many people. Many describe going “stir crazy” under quarantine, while others benefited from more time with family and pets and the ability to catch up with neglected chores. One twist in people’s lives is an unavoidableble change in their skin and we’re here to shed light on this quarantine outcome.  The first obvious issue is the effects of wearing a face mask for long periods of time.  The results include allergic reactions, skin dryness, abrasions, and rash from mask material friction. While many of these side effects are transient and resolve once the mask is removed, it is wise to consider the materials and fit of a mask you’re wearing on a regular basis.   Stress resulting from prolonged lockdowns, changes in income and employment status, uncertainty of the future, and more has contributed to a myriad of health effects. Healthy skin isn’t immune to the heightened stress of a pandemic, with a surge in acne cases, dry skin, and rash development. One condition that is popping up often, excuse the pun, is an increase in cases of acne or "maskne".  Stress-related hormonal changes coupled with skin care neglect may be a factor.  Those with chronic skin conditions have all experienced an uptick during current pandemic conditions, especially within the subcategory of stress-responsive skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and chronic pruritus (increased susceptibility to and perception of itchiness occurs due to the connection of the brain messages with the skin, the brain–skin axis). An article published in May of this year addressed the subject of the effects of pandemic stress on chronic skin conditions (1).  Our physician, Dr. Yazdani found herself prescribing Post-Traumatic Response Gel more often in the days following lockdowns to combat the surge of skin disorders.    People are required to hand wash and hand sanitize more regularly than ever before, and some take this concept to a whole new level. Be mindful to avoid overuse of harsh soaps or hand sanitizers whose key ingredient is alcohol, a skin drying agent. Exposure to chemicals also occurs with constant cleaning of inanimate surfaces with toxic disinfectants, particularly when gloves are not worn. Therefore, it is essential to sufficiently moisturize the skin to replenish the hydration lost with hand and surface sanitizing. Seaside’s Antioxidant Concentrate will accomplish this task without leaving yet another layer of toxic residue on your hands.   Daily holistic skin care is essential during these times. Using skin cleansing products containing natural ingredients and that promote skin health are key. Use a healthy skin care routine whether going on a date, to work, or staying home. It doesn’t matter if no one will see you, it’s the health of your skin, the body’s protector and largest organ that is important.  Be well, stay healthy. Reach out or leave a comment with your thoughts on the effects of the quarantine or if you have questions on how to stay healthy. Garcovich S, Bersani FS, Chiricozzi A, De Simone C. Mass quarantine measures in the time of COVID-19 pandemic: psychosocial implications for chronic skin conditions and a call for qualitative studies. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol. 2020;34(7):e293-e294.

  Stacy Matthews Branch, PhD Reviewed by Nasimeh Yazdani, MD   To say that chronic pain is a difficult condition to treat is an understatement, most poignantly for those who deal with constant body aches as they navigate the challenging quest for remedies to reduce their symptoms. In the search for a cure without the unwanted side effects of pain killers, anti-inflammatories, or opioid medications, people are increasingly considering the value of plant-based natural medicines. A long-known substance may fit the bill in many cases of chronic pain, Arnica. Background Arnica is a genus of nearly 40 species of flowering plants, with Arnica Montana  being the most widely studied species. The main parts of the Arnica plant used for medicinal purposes are the flowers. Arnica grows abundantly in high-altitude mountainous regions of Europe and the Americas. There are a number of companies that source the Arnica Montana plant, including Mountain Rose Herbs, Bulk Herbs and Spice, and Bulk Apothecary.  From ancient civilizations to modern day societies, Arnica’s profound anti-inflammatory and bactericidal properties helped humans cope with ailments such as joint pain, nerve pain and insect bites (2, 3).  Folk remedies of a tea made from Arnica roots to treat back pain dates back centuries.  Due to its potential toxicity in oral form, however, we advise you to refer to the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States for details on Arnica monographs and its limited oral applications (1). Topical Uses of Arnica A plethora of other historical Arnica benefits including topical applications in the form of ointments and tinctures for bruises, sprains, and contusions make this plant a favorite of apothecaries, as well as wellness connoisseurs.  Notably, a sector which reaped the benefits of Arnica’s soaring popularity in the past couple of decades is the Aesthetic Medicine Industry.  Topical applications of gels containing Arnica and Bromelain (derivative of pineapples) rescued patients of their common post-procedure bruising and inflammation following facial enhancers like lip fillers, lasers and other noninvasive surgical procedures.  A modern topical product containing Arnica, Post-Traumatic Response Gel with MatrX B, developed by a physician, is an effective solution to relieving pain, swelling and redness after aesthetic procedures. Health-Promoting Properties of Arnica Researchers gained insight into the chemical properties of Arnica by studying its impact on cellular structure on a molecular level. A review published in 2017 examined reports of the pharmacologic activity of Arnica, exploring the healing properties of its 150 constituents such as  flavonoids, carotenoids, essential oils, and diterpenes (4). Similarly, a recent study showed possible anti-cancer activity of Arnica essential oil on brain tumor cells in the test tube laboratory setting (5). Post-Traumatic Response Gel is an organic gel with one of the highest concentrations of Arnica Montana, giving it healing properties for treatment of even the toughest pains, such as nerve pain.  This medicinal wonder and health-promoting properties of Arnica is well known for centuries.  Now is the time to expand our knowledge with more rigorous scientific studies, and to ultimately potentiate its profound therapeutic value. References 1.Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia Convention of the United States (HPCUS). Arnica Montana. In: Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States. Southeastern, PA: HPCUS; May 2015. 2.Wichtl M, ed. Brinckmann JA, Lindenmaier MP, trans. Herbal Drugs and Phytopharmaceuticals. 3rd ed. Stuttgart, Germany: Medpharm GmbH Scientific Publishers; 2004. Barnes J, Anderson LA, and Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines. 3rd ed. London: Pharmaceutical Press; 2007. Kriplani P, et al. Arnica montana L. A plant of healing: review. J Pharm Pharmacol. 2017;69(8):925-945. Sugier D, et al. Essential Oil from Arnica Montana L. Achenes: Chemical Characteristics and Anticancer Activity. Molecules. 2019;24(22):4158.

by Dr. Stacy Matthews Branch Worldwide, people are arming themselves with information on how to achieve health and treat common diseases with natural substances and dietary approaches. There is no doubt that many synthetic pharmaceutical agents can come with an eyebrow-raising list of undesirable adverse effects. This is not only the case with ingested compounds, but with a majority of topical products used to heal skin conditions. Some common go-to skin healing products contain substances that can actually offer a fresh set of unwanted health effects. A good example is a main ingredient in dandruff shampoos. Many coal tar−containing shampoos are marketed for containing this ingredient to combat dandruff and psoriasis. Although there have been concerns regarding the cancer-causing potential of coal tar, results of studies have not yet uncovered this potential with the use of shampoos and psoriasis treatments. Even so, cancer is not the only concern with coal tar in skin healing products. Coal tar contains literally thousands of different compounds and has been found to be a photosensitizer. A review of coal tar skin exposure outlines the phototoxic, skin irritating, allergic, and other skin harming effects. This same review article still leaves open the possibility of skin tumor potential with long-term exposures. Common components found in other skin-healing agents such as antifungal and minor skin injury creams can generally seem harmless, but perhaps not so much. A number of leading brands contain benzyl alcohol, a preservative and fragrance that can irritate the skin. Also often found is polysorbate 60, a thickening agent and solvent that can also be a skin irritant. Opting for a skin product without these ingredients, especially for routine use on bruises and cuts, would help avoid the toxic pitfalls while getting the same healing power. Products containing Matrx B™ have the benefit of natural, skin-friendly ingredients that do not contain the compounds commonly associated with skin irritation, but still has strong healing properties. The conscientiousness in avoiding toxic exposures with diet and ingested medication has gained traction over the last two decades; there’s no reason to doubt that the same principle will go a long way with topical skin-healing substances.   References Roelofzen JH, Aben KK, Oldenhof UT, et al. No increased risk of cancer after coal tar treatment in patients with psoriasis or eczema. J Invest Dermatol. 2010;130(4):953-961. Moustafa GA, Xanthopoulou E, Riza E, Linos A. Skin disease after occupational dermal exposure to coal tar: a review of the scientific literature. Int J Dermatol. 2015;54(8):868-879. www.ewg.org/skindeep/benzylalcohol