Dr. Fredric Brandt Solves Your Skin Problems!

You know those celebrities who never seem to age but also look utterlynatural, as if they've had nothing done? 98 percent are clients of NewYork/Miami dermatologist Dr. Fredric Brandt. Here, he's answered all your skin questions.

What causes so-called "white heads," or milia, and how do I prevent them and avoid them? Thank you.

Milia are tiny cysts under the skin. They're often caused by over-moisturization and the use of occlusive moisturizers that contain mineral oil or petrolatum. The condition can be aggravated by heavy, oil-based makeup. Here's what you can do help prevent this problem:

1) Thoroughly cleanse face every morning and evening.

2) Exfoliate skin regularly: At-home microdermabrasion treatments, peels containing glycolic, salicylic, or lactic acid, and retinol or salicylic acid-based night creams will all help keep your pores from getting clogged.

3) Switch to a lighter daily moisturizer and only use water-based makeup.

I have pretty deep acne scars. What are the best options for filling them in or smoothing them out?

--Tralston

Acne scars can be divided into two types: Those you can eliminate by stretching the skin, and those that persist despite stretching the skin. The ones that can be eliminated can be treated with injectable, hyaluronic acid-based fillers such as Restylane or Juvederm.

Another option for treating any type of acne scars, including those that are not eliminated with fillers, is fractionalized laser treatments. This usually requires more than one treatment, and it is best to consult with a dermatologist who is experienced with lasers regarding this treatment.

--Caitlin55

Persistent acne always warrants a hormonal evaluation to see if there are any abnormalities or a hormonal imbalance causing this problem. If there is, even Accutane will only be of temporary benefit. But it's certainly an option if you've exhausted other treatments and there aren't any underlying hormonal issues. Accutane is a treatment for a 4-5 month time frame, and we do not recommend going on low-dose for a longer period of time. You have to take an appropriate dose for the prescribed interval--so you should see a dermatologist who knows correct dosing and treatment periods.

Check Lucky Right Now all week for more answers from Dr. Brandt regarding your most pressing skincare issues.