Do you have a question about skincare? Check out the list of questions below that dermatologists are frequently asked.

Skin Types

How do I know if my skin is sensitive?

Dermatologists define "sensitive" as skin that reacts by burning, stinging, itching, or feeling tight when certain substances are applied to it, or when it is exposed to certain elements in the environment. The way the skin reacts often depends on the condition of the skin. Normally, our skin works as an excellent barrier to almost anything it comes in contact with, however, if the skin becomes overly dry or irritated, it cannot function properly, which leads to skin reactions and inflammation. Caring for dry, sensitive skin can be a challenge. A visit to the dermatologist is the best way to determine if your skin type is sensitive to the products you use or if you have a true allergy or other skin condition. Want to find a dermatologist near you? Click here.

How do I care for dry and sensitive skin?

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you should test products prior to using them over your entire face. Here are a few tips in choosing products to care for dry, sensitive skin:

• Check the ingredient lists. The fewer ingredients, the less chance for a reaction.

• Avoid botanical or antibacterial ingredients. Rosemary, sandalwood, arnica, and chamomile can cause allergic contact dermatitis.

• Avoid solvents that penetrate the skin, including propylene glycol and ethanol. Instead, look for ingredients such as polyethylene glycol that will not penetrate the skin.

PURPOSE^® sensitive skin care products from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company are ideal for even dry sensitive skin. Developed with dermatologists, PURPOSE^® sensitive skin care products were formulated to be especially gentle to keep even sensitive skin healthy and beautiful. PURPOSE^® sensitive skin care products are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and dye-free and are ideal for every day use.

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My skin type tends to change with the seasons. What can I do to stay one-step ahead of it?

It's perfectly normal to have skin that reacts differently at different times of the year. It's more common to experience dry sensitive skin during the winter months, when humidity is low, but some people have a genetic or hereditary tendency to develop dry sensitive skin all year round. In the summer months, sweating tends to rob our bodies and our skin of moisture and exacerbates skin conditions such as acne and eczema.

Dry skin is also part of the natural aging process. With age, we lose underlying support from fat padding and connective tissues. This makes the skin less elastic and drier as a result.

Dry skin can be minimized by:

• Using gentle cleansers

• Taking lukewarm (not hot) baths or showers

• Limiting baths/showers to 5 to 10 minutes

• Applying a moisturizer right after drying off from a shower or bath (you may need to use a heavier cream or lotion during the winter months)

• Using a humidifier to add moisture back into the air

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I find I have reactions to many over-the-counter moisturizers with fragrances. Is PURPOSE^® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 fragrance-free?

Yes, PURPOSE^® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 is fragrance-free. Some people experience a condition known as allergic contact dermatitis. Certain ingredients used in cosmetics, such as fragrances and preservatives, can lead to skin reactions.

PURPOSE^® sensitive skin care products from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company are ideal for even dry sensitive skin. Developed with dermatologists, PURPOSE^® sensitive skin care products were formulated to be especially gentle to keep even sensitive skin healthy and beautiful. PURPOSE^® sensitive skin care products are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and dye-free and are ideal for every day use.

Here are some tips to consider when choosing skin care products:

• Read the list of ingredients. Ingredients are listed in decreasing order of amount; the lower on the list, the less of that particular ingredient the product contains. If you find an ingredient that has caused a reaction in the past, don't use that product.

• When considering a new product, test it on your inner wrist or elbow and wait 24 hours to see if a reaction occurs.

• Keep it simple. Choose products with simple formulas. More ingredients mean more potential allergens. Keep in mind that products labeled "unscented" may still contain fragrances needed to cover the odor of other chemical ingredients.

• Look for products that are hypoallergenic, fragrance free, and non-comedogenic.

Dry, oily, normal, or combination skin? Your skin is as individual as you are. But it isn't just what you're born with. Your lifestyle and your environment affect the condition of your skin and how you need to care for it every day.

Finding out more about your skin will help you make choices that keep it healthy and beautiful. So what's your skin type? Take our Skin Profiler Quiz to find out more.

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Skin Conditions

Nearly everyone will have some kind of skin problem in his or her lifetime. Dermatologists specialize in treating conditions of the skin, hair and nails. Among the more common include acne, athlete's foot, hair loss and hives. But they also treat chronic conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. See your dermatologist any time you have symptoms of a skin condition.

What is eczema?

Eczema, or dermatitis as it is sometimes called, is actually a group of skin conditions. In mild forms the skin is dry, hot and itchy, while in more severe forms the skin can become scaly and inflamed. With treatment, the inflammation of eczema can be reduced, though the skin will always be sensitive to flare-ups and need extra care.

If you think you have eczema, talk to your dermatologist. There are a number of ways to manage eczema, all of which begin with an effective skin care regimen.

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What causes adult acne?

Adult acne is a result of fluctuating hormones that occur naturally as we mature. Contrary to popular belief, it is not caused by poor hygiene, diet, or stress. With the number of products available today, acne can be cleared up. The goal of acne therapy is to get rid of existing lesions and prevent the formation of new ones. If you think you have adult acne, first talk to your dermatologist.

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Cosmetic Procedures and Prescribed Treatments

Whether we like it or not, physical appearances influence how we see ourselves and how others see us. There are many ways to change or enhance the way you look. Some people do it through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle changes. Some have cosmetic procedures or use prescribed treatments. Non-surgical cosmetic procedures are growing in popularity because they provide a more youthful looking appearance, with quicker recovery times, lower costs, and a more natural result. Talk to your dermatologist to decide what's best for you.

I'm considering microdermabrasion. What should I use to cleanse and moisturize my face?

Microdermabrasion is a powerful, yet gentle procedure that exfoliates, refreshes and renews skin. It is not a chemical, a laser or a surgical procedure. Microdermabrasion gently applies and removes a stream of crystals to the surface of your skin to remove the rough outer layer of cells and uncover the smoother, softer skin beneath.

Prior to, between and after microdermabrasion procedures, it's important to cleanse and moisturize with skin care products that won't irritate the skin. PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products are ideal for even sensitive skin and have been clinically tested for adjunctive use with microdermabrasion.

In the clinical tolerance study, patients used a daily regimen of PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash and PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 twice a day through the course of six microdermabrasion treatments. Over 80% of patients agreed that a daily regimen of PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash and PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 was compatible with the microdermabrasion procedure.

After you've had any resurfacing procedure, your sensitivity to both UVA and UVB sunlight increases, so it's important to minimize your sun exposure and to wear proper sunscreen. PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 provides UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection. PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products are also hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and dye free.

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I'm concerned about fine lines and wrinkles on my face and have started RETIN-A^® (tretinoin) therapy. Can PURPOSE® be used at the same time?

Yes. PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products were actually developed with dermatologists for adjunctive use with RETIN-AŽ (tretinoin) therapy. As we age, our skin produces new cells at a slower pace. Environmental and biological factors begin to take their toll and the effects of the sun become evident in sunspots, freckles and wrinkles. Tretinoin (brand name RETIN-AŽ) is a topical form of vitamin A. It helps the skin to renew itself more quickly and may improve the appearance and texture of the skin.

When using Tretinoin, it's important to use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer. PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash cleanses without drying or irritating. Tretinoin may also increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 provides UVA/UVB broad spectrum protection. PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products are also hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and dye-free.

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Sun Protection

One in five Americans will develop skin cancer during his or her lifetime and it is one of the few cancers where the cause is known - overexposure to the ultraviolet rays of the sun. Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States with more than 1 million new cases diagnosed in the U.S. each year. It is important to use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 every day.

What is broad spectrum protection? Does PURPOSE® protect against UVA and UVB rays?

A broad-spectrum sunscreen helps protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVB rays cause sunburns and UVA rays cause tanning. UVA rays are believed to be responsible for photoaging - the damage that occurs to the skin from many years of exposure to the sun. Both rays may contribute to the risk of developing skin cancer.

Most sunscreen products available in the past were developed to prevent sunburns by blocking UVB rays. Fewer sunscreen products have been equally successful in blocking UVA rays. PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 is a light, water-based formula which filters both UVA and UVB rays and provides the daily SPF 15 protection recommended by dermatologists. PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 is also hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), fragrance-free and dye-free.

In addition to using sunscreen everyday, dermatologists also recommend:

• Avoiding mid-day sun between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

• Wearing wide-brimmed hats, long sleeved shirts and pants to protect from the sun's rays

• Using a generous amount of sunscreen and reapplying it frequently (every 2-3 hours)

• Avoid tanning beds

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What are the early signs of skin cancer? How can I protect myself?

Skin cancer appears as a change in the skin, such as a growth, an irritation or sore that does not heal, or change in a wart or mole. Skin cancer usually affects the head, neck, back, chest, or shoulders. While prevention is your best defense against skin cancer, if a melanoma should develop, it is almost always curable with early detection. Check your skin regularly for changes or new lesions. It is important to see your dermatologist at least once a year for a thorough checkup.

Some suggested behaviors include:

• Stay out of the sun during the peak hours of UV radiation, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Wear protective clothing, wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses.

• Wear sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher summer and winter, on both cloudy and clear days.

• Apply sunscreen that blocks both UVA and UVB to all exposed skin, including lips, ears, back of hands, and neck. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going in the sun, and reapply it every 2 hours and after swimming, exercising, or sweating.

• Be careful when you are on sand, snow, or water, because these surfaces can reflect 85% of the sun's rays.

• Avoid artificial sources of UVA radiation, including sunlamps and tanning booths: They also can cause skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer.

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Lifestyle

What's the best general care for my skin?

Here are a few simple steps most people can take to care for and protect their skin:

• Use gentle, non-drying cleansers and moisturizers, twice a day, everyday.

• Help prevent skin cancer by daily using sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) outside, wearing protective clothing outdoors and avoiding overexposure to the sun and artificial tanning.

• Wear gloves when you wash dishes, use harsh chemicals, garden, rake leaves and do other activities that can be hard on your hands.

When should I see a dermatologist?

Skincare is healthcare and you're never too young to care for your health. You should see a dermatologist whenever you have symptoms of a skin condition. Even if you have never had skin problems, it is a good idea to see a dermatologist as an adult. Nearly everyone will have some kind of skin problem in his or her lifetime. The skin's protective barrier can break down due to age, disease or other factors. Your dermatologist can help you watch for the long-term effects of the environment, aging and disease and also help prevent skin problems.

Want to find a dermatologist in your area? Click here.

PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products

PURPOSE® is sensitive skin care made easy. PURPOSE® skin care products for sensitive skin from Johnson & Johnson Consumer Products Company are ideal for all skin types. PURPOSE® is the brand trusted by women who value simple and pure skin care products that leave their skin feeling clean, refreshed, and moisturized. Recommended by dermatologists and formulated for everyday use for sensitive skin, PURPOSE® products were developed with dermatologists to be gentle enough for all skin types, even sensitive skin care. PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products are hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores) and dye-free and are ideal for every day use.

Where can I buy PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products?

PURPOSE® skin care products for sensitive skin can be purchased at food, drug and mass stores nationwide and many online retailers. For a specific list of stores, please search the "Buy Now" page.

How do I use PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products?

PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash, Gentle Cleansing Bar and Dual Treatment Moisturizer with SPF 15 can be used twice daily or as directed by your dermatologist to cleanse and moisturize the skin.

PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash cleanses without overly drying or irritating. It's 100% soap-free, so it removes dirt, oil and make-up without stripping or drying like soap can. And it won't sting your eyes, so it's ideal for removing eye make-up. Unlike some cleansers, PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash is 100% oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores or leave residue, and it's ideal even for sensitive skin. To use: Wet hands and face, Mixing cleanser with water; work into a creamy lather. Cleanse face with a gentle massaging motion. Rinse thoroughly.

PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Bar removes dirt and oil without over-drying. Unlike some beauty bars, PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Bar is 100% oil-free and non-comedogenic, so it won't clog pores or leave residue. PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Bar is also hypoallergenic. To use: Wash face with PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Bar twice a day, or as directed by your dermatologist. Rinse with warm water. Pat skin dry.

PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15* is a light, water-based formula which filters both UVA and UVB rays and provides the SPF 15 protection recommended by dermatologists. PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15 is also hypoallergenic, non-comedogenic (won't clog pores), fragrance-free and dye-free. To use: Smooth on face and neck every day.

What are the ingredients in each of the PURPOSE® sensitive skin care products?

PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Bar

Inactive Ingredients: Sodium Tallowate, Sodium Cocoate, Water, Glycerin, Fragrance, Sodium Chloride, BHT, Trisodium HEDTA, D&C Yellow #10, D&C Orange #4

PURPOSE® Gentle Cleansing Wash

Inactive Ingredients: Water, PEG-80 Sorbitan Laurate, Sodium Laureth Sulfate, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, PEG-150 Distearate, Sodium Lauroampho PG-Acetate Phosphate, Fragrance, Quaternium-15, Tetrasodium EDTA.

PURPOSE® Dual Treatment Moisture Lotion with SPF 15*

Active Ingredients: Octinoxate, Meradimate, Titanium Dioxide

Inactive Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, DEA-Cetyl Phosphate, Coco Caprylate Caprate, Caprylic/CapricTriglyceride, Octyl Palmitate, Dimethicone, Stearoxytrimethylsilane, Tetrasodium EDTA, Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, Cetyl Ricinoleate, Carbomer, Bisabolol, Methylchloroisothiazolinone, Methylisothiazolinone, BHT

* The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends this product as an effective UV sunscreen

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