Topical products: medicated creams, lotions, and sprays
When using topical products, such as medicated creams, lotions and sprays, more is not better. Excessive use can lead to serious poisoning.
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When using topical products, such as medicated creams, lotions and sprays, more is not better. Excessive use can lead to serious poisoning.
Seabather’s eruption is an itching, burning rash that occurs when jellyfish larvae are trapped between the skin and swimming garments. While it can be very uncomfortable, the rash is easily treated at home with over-the-counter antihistamines and topical steroids.
Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, works by causing a temporary numbing effect. When used sparingly and as directed, topical lidocaine is generally safe. Misuse, overuse, or overdose can cause serious problems and even death.
Hydrocortisone belongs to a class of medicines called corticosteroids. It is available in various forms, including topical creams, pills, and suppositories. It is often used to treat eczema, hemorrhoids, bug bites, mild sunburns, and rashes. Because it might cause fetal harm, using hydrocortisone during pregnancy is not recommended.
Afrin contains oxymetazoline, an ingredient that causes temporary nasal blood vessel narrowing. When used as directed, it reduces nasal congestion. Frequent use of oxymetazoline can cause worsening of nasal congestion after usage is stopped. Some people may continuously use Afrin to avoid these worsening symptoms, and this is often described as “Afrin addiction”.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reported a number of cases of severe allergic reactions to acne medicines containing benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Symptoms included chest tightness, trouble breathing, faintness, and severe swelling of the face, throat, lips, and tongue. Anyone with these symptoms should call 911 right away.
While colloidal silver has been promoted as an alternative or folk remedy, there is no evidence that it is effective. It can cause significant toxicity, particularly with long term use.
Ivermectin has been safely used to treat parasites (such as heart and intestinal worms) in animals and is approved for use in humans for parasite infections, head lice, and rosacea. It has not been shown to be effective for preventing or treating COVID-19 infection and taking products not intended for human use may lead to serious adverse effects.
When human skin is exposed to ultraviolet light and certain natural plant-derived substances, a skin condition called “phytophotodermatitis” can occur. This condition is frequently reported after skin exposure to the combination of sunlight and lime juice, and can include skin rashes, blistering, and dark pigmentation. Although it may be painful, phytophotodermatitis generally resolves on its own over time.
We use sunscreens to protect our skin from the sun's harmful rays. In some cases though, the use of sunscreen can result in allergic reactions or photoallergic dermatitis. Fortunately, in most cases, the rash is self-limiting and can be prevented in the future by avoiding use of certain sunscreen products.
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