Dr. Michelle Hure, MD

Dr. Hure debunks the misinformation that retinol causes cancer and clarifies that the EU's new regulations are not a ban but a limit on over-the-counter strength to prevent hypervitaminosis, not due to cancer risk.

Dr. Hure advises against purchasing Facial Cleansing Brushes, Face Wipes, Lip Sugar Scrubs, Facial Toners, Smile Lines Patches, Collagen Masks, and Vaseline Lip Therapy from dollar stores due to concerns about quality and safety.

Dr. Hure advises against purchasing Feminine Washes from dollar stores.

Dr. Hure strongly advises against using vitamin A supplements for acne as a substitute for prescribed isotretinoin (Accutane). While isotretinoin is a form of vitamin A, it is a highly regulated medication requiring strict medical monitoring through the federal iPLEDGE program. This program mandates monthly doctor visits, pregnancy tests, and blood work due to the significant risks, including severe birth defects (teratogenicity) and potential liver dysfunction or failure. Vitamin A is toxic at certain levels, and unregulated supplements often have uncertain dosages, making it easy to reach toxic levels, especially when taken in large quantities or for extended periods. Self-medicating with vitamin A supplements bypasses crucial safety monitoring, putting patients and potential fetuses at extreme risk.

Dr. Hure clarifies that the EU is not banning retinol, but rather limiting its over-the-counter strength to 0.3% for face and hand products and 0.05% for body lotions. This regulation is a precautionary measure to prevent hypervitaminosis (excess vitamin A), which can occur from absorption through diet or skincare and lead to issues affecting neurologic, skin, bone, and liver function. She notes that this is similar to US practices where higher percentages require prescription. Dr. Hure emphasizes that claims of retinol causing cancer are misinformation, and retinol remains a safe and effective topical treatment in both the US and EU, especially when used under professional guidance.

Dr. Hure's practice explicitly does not participate in Medicare risk adjustment data mining. When faced with requests from insurance companies or third-party vendors, her approach is to decline participation, ignore unsolicited faxes or calls, or flat out state non-participation. If threatened with contractual obligations, she requests the specific clause, knowing her contracts do not mandate such participation. She advises that providers are not required to send information for unofficial audits and encourages standing firm to protect patient data.

Dr. Hure is concerned about the trend of individuals taking vitamin A supplements for acne as an alternative to seeing a dermatologist for a prescribed isotretinoin regimen, highlighting the significant risks involved.