Top news of April: Product rankings, counterfit Botox, solar eclipse

Healio has compiled April’s most-read news in dermatology.

News from health officials dominated headlines this month, along with a feature from an expert on protecting your skin, as well as your eyes, during the rare solar eclipse event.

US News & World Report: Dermatologists rank CeraVe, Neutrogena best in OTC products

Ranked by dermatologists, CeraVe and Neutrogena over-the-counter products topped the U.S. News & World Report’s annual Best OTC Medicine & Health Products list. Senior health editor at U.S. News & World Report, Shanley Chien, MS, weighed in. Read more.

AAD, ASDS warn consumers of fake Botox injections following hospitalization reports

The American Academy of Dermatology Association and American Society for Dermatologic Surgery Association released official statements in response to multiple reports of patients being hospitalized for botulism from counterfeit Botox injections. Read more.

Yes, you can sunburn during an eclipse: Dermatologist discusses skin safety for rare event

Prior to the 2024 total solar eclipse that traversed many states in the U.S., Healio spoke with Allison Arthur, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist at the Sand Lake Dermatology Center, about how it is equally important for individuals to protect their skin as well as their eyes while viewing this natural spectacle. Read more.

FDA issues warning for OTC topical pain relievers with high levels of lidocaine

Reported by Healio on April 1, the FDA issued warning letters to six companies for the marketing of OTC pain relief topicals that were found to contain unlawful concentrations of lidocaine. The agency warned consumers to avoid using these products due to the risk of serious injury. Also, Lara Devgan, MD, MPH, FACS, shared her Perspective. Read more.

Retinol 0.1% improves signs of photoaging

A new study found that stabilized bioactive retinol 0.1% can be an effective and well-tolerated solution for individuals seeking to improve signs of photoaging including wrinkles, uneven skin tone and dark spots. Read more.

Dupilumab treatment for atopic dermatitis linked to cutaneous T-cell lymphoma development

Researchers conducted a study confirming the potential association between dupilumab and the increased risk for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma in patients taking the drug for atopic dermatitis. Read more.

Botanical, alternative treatments show promise in acne vulgaris treatment

Utilizing alternative, botanical treatments, including herbs, dietary modifications and supplements, may target the underlying causes of acne and improve severity, according to a study published in the Journal of Drugs and Dermatology. Read more.

Lotion improves skin texture, firmness following nonsurgical fat reduction procedure

A botanical body lotion called SkinMedica Firm & Tone Lotion for Body (Allergan Aesthetics) was found to improve skin firmness and texture following cryolipolysis — a growing nonsurgical fat reduction procedure. Read more.

Certain hand sanitizer, aloe products recalled due to presence of methanol

On April 5, the FDA issued a public service announcement stating that Aruba Aloe Balm N.V. had recalled 40 lots of its hand sanitizer and aloe products due to methanol contamination, putting consumers at risk for methanol poisoning. Read more.

CDC investigating reports of counterfeit, mishandled botulinum toxin injections

While previously assumed to be only four cases, the CDC announced on April 16 that the agency, state and local health departments and the FDA are investigating 19 reports of “harmful reactions” following counterfeit or mishandled botulinum toxin injections. Read more.