Dr. Caren Campbell, MD

Dr. Campbell's favorite niacinamide product is Metacel, which she notes contains a perfect combination of niacinamide that is effective without causing flushing, burning, or stinging.

Niacinamide is an antioxidant that helps speed skin cell turnover and prevent oxidative stressors.

Tretinoin is the prescription-strength version of retinol. It should be applied at night, as the sun deactivates it. Use a pea-sized amount every night to help stimulate collagen.

Peptides are a gentle way to stimulate collagen and are safe to use during pregnancy. Dr. Campbell's CCMD Ultra Hydrating product contains peptides and is one of her favorite products.

No, retinoids are not safe to use during pregnancy.

Sunscreen is considered the best anti-aging ingredient because it prevents DNA damage, brown spots, and wrinkles. Dr. Campbell strongly recommends daily sunscreen use.

Dr. Campbell loves the EltaMD line of sunscreens. She notes that their mineral sunscreens use nanoparticles, allowing them to rub in well and look good on the skin, unlike older mineral formulations that often left a white cast.

C-E Ferulic is considered the gold standard antioxidant. It has undergone clinical trials demonstrating its ability to reverse DNA damage and prevent the breakdown of collagen and elastin, which are essential building blocks in the skin.

Topical Clindamycin is a great antibiotic for treating acne and folliculitis. For facial acne, apply a thin layer in the morning. For bacne, chest acne, or folliculitis on the butt or other areas, apply a thin layer twice a day. It must be used in conjunction with benzoyl peroxide.

No, topical tapes and patches are not effective for preventing or treating fine lines and wrinkles; Dr. Campbell considers them a scam. She recommends wrinkle relaxers like Botox, Dysport, and Daxi as the best treatment for fine lines and wrinkles.

Dr. Campbell views skin cycling as a beauty trend designed to encourage product purchases. She recommends a simple routine: cleanse the face, apply a pea-sized amount of retinoid, and then moisturize. A glycolic wash can be used a couple of times a week.

Dr. Campbell believes slugging does not help acne. She suggests that improvements seen in patient's skin after slugging are likely due to effective treatments like Accutane (isotretinoin, which is high-dose vitamin A).

Dr. Campbell advises against using oil-based and wax-based makeup removers, stating they are 'disgusting' and will clog pores, leading to acne.

Dr. Campbell considers Dial soap (in pump format) 'life-changing' for facial cleansing. It is 99.9% antibacterial and kills bacteria in pores without drying out the skin. She specifically recommends the pump format, as the bar format can be drying.

Dr. Campbell strongly advises against using 'period blood masks' or similar DIY facial masks at home, stating they are not a recommended approach for skincare and carry a significant risk of causing skin infection.

An abscess is a pocket of infection trapped under the skin that typically won't resolve on its own. Once pus is walled off, antibiotics alone often cannot fully reach the infection. Abscesses require an incision and drainage (I&D) procedure to release bacteria and pus, which helps the immune system fight the infection more easily. Systemic antibiotics are also needed, as the immune system alone cannot get the job done. Dr. Campbell often prescribes doxycycline due to its effectiveness against MRSA. If you notice a painful, swollen, worsening lump, especially with systemic symptoms like fevers, chills, warmth to the touch, or spreading redness, seek immediate medical attention from an emergency room or dermatologist. Early care prevents bigger complications.