Acne Treatments
Summary
Host Greg Foot investigates over-the-counter acne treatments with dermatologist Dr. Emma Wedgworth and app founder Ahana Banerjee. They examine the efficacy of key ingredients like benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and niacinamide, debunking myths about diet and hygiene. The episode highlights that price does not correlate with effectiveness and advises that severe or cystic acne requires medical intervention rather than expensive natural products.
Topics discussed
Intro and Louise's request on acne products
Listener questions and scope of investigation
More listener queries on expensive brands
Introducing experts and the Clear app
What is acne and its different types
Fact-checking causes: hormones, diet, stress, genetics
Myths about hygiene and skin tone differences
Price vs. ingredients and the four key actives
Benzoyl peroxide: efficacy and side effects
Salicylic acid: usage and evidence
Azelaic acid: concentrations and prevalence
Niacinamide: benefits and popularity
Marketing claims: fragrance, parabens, 'natural'
Tea tree oil and Norse Organics evidence
Physical exfoliation vs. chemical exfoliants
Pimple patches: hydrocolloids and destigmatization
Medical claims, loopholes, and price correlation
Verdict: Sliced Bread or Marketing BS?
Basic routines, age differences, and when to see a doctor
Louise's final thoughts and episode credits
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