Dermbusters: Brandon Adler, MD

In this episode of Dermbusters, host Nicholas Brownstone, MD, sits down with Brandon Adler, MD, to address some common misperceptions they often hear from their patients. 

Dr Adler shares how he tackles 2 pressing concerns that dermatologists frequently encounter from their patients: the efficacy and safety of natural products, and the concerns surrounding ingredients in sunscreens. 

Myth 1: Natural products are always better 

There is a growing trend among patients towards seeking out natural products, both homemade and store-bought, with the belief that they are inherently better and safer than traditional products. Drawing from his experience running a contact dermatitis clinic, Dr Adler shares that he often sees patients who develop allergic reactions to natural ingredients, such as essential oils. 

Tips for counseling your patients: 

• Explain that studies demonstrate the rates of contact allergy and irritation are at least comparable between natural and traditional products 
• Mention that while natural products can be effective, each patient is unique and may develop sensitivities or allergies to certain ingredients 
• Dispel the belief that natural always equals good; to illustrate the point effectively, share an analogy relating natural products to poison oak, which, while natural, is not something you want on your skin 

Myth 2: Harmful ingredients in sunscreens outweigh its benefit 

Many patients voice concerns about harmful ingredients in sunscreens, with some avoiding sunscreen use altogether to mitigate risks. Dr Adler shares a few tips on how he talks to patients on this issue. 

Tips for counseling your patients: 

• Explain that while chemical or organic blockers found in many sunscreens have been shown in studies to be systemically absorbed into the body, there is no evidence of any associated adverse effects to date, and these agents have been used safely for decades 
• For patients still concerned about systemic absorption, recommend zinc- and titanium-based physical or mineral sunscreens, which have not shown to be absorbed and therefore don’t carry the same potential implications as chemical blockers 
• For patients with environmental concerns, physical sunscreens can also be recommended 
• Emphasize that the risk of skin cancer is significantly greater than the potential risk of harmful ingredients in sunscreens 

Tune in to the episode to hear Dr Adler’s approach to individualized patient care and hear his practical solutions for addressing common patient concerns.