NOTE: These will soon be moved to their proper section

Q. When I am out in the cold in winter I get raised non-itchy bumps on my face. They go away after a short while back inside. What causes this and is there anything I can do to prevent it? Thanks.

Answer: This may be called urticaria. You do need to contact your primary care physician or dermatologist for a specific antihistamine you can use.

Q. I have used a whole tube of the Renova at 1% and now am almost done with my tube at 5%. I have noticed no difference. I have experienced no irritation. I think I need a stronger product. What do you recommend? I have fine lines around my eyes and deeper lines between my eyes and around my forehead. I don't want to do Botox. I am looking for a product to try or is botox really the only answer! Thanks.

Answer: Renova may take several months to work. You might try a product called Cellex-C.

Q. I am 53 years old and still get a cyst or two every month or so. My dermatologist gave me Minocin. Do you think it is worth taking everyday when I only get a few cysts every couple of months? Or is there something else you might be able to suggest? If I take it every day is it certain that I more than likely won't get any more breakouts, even once a month? Also, when I take it, my acne seems to get worse before it gets better, is this normal? One more thing....when I get cysts, my throat develops a lump in it that is painful to the touch, like a swollen gland. Is this normal also?

Answer: For an occasional cyst, a topical antibiotic might work. There is no guarantee you will not continue to break out. Cysts may cause swollen lymph nodes. Let your doctor check it out.

Q. Do you know if most sunscreens are "non-comedogenic,"(NOTE - Comedogenic means Acne producing) or do they usually block pores and make oily skin worse? Thanks

Answer: Some are non-comedogenic, others are not. Read labels carefully. They can make oily skin oilier and block pores if they contain oil.

Q. I have been diagnosed with early stage melanoma in the lower leg with a survival of 90-95 percent per my physician. The thickness of the mole is about. 75mm. Besides the excision, if the lymph nodes feel ok according to the doctor and the chest x-ray is normal, are there any other tests necessary and if so which? Sincerely, Lida

Answer: You really need to discuss further tests with you primary care physician or dermatologists.

Q. I have had Rosacea on my nose for years, specifically lumps of sebaceous material on the top of my nose, almost like cysts beneath the surface that go deep. Nothing has helped, including retin-a, accutane, metrogel, etc. I am considering laser resurfacing, but wondered if a dermatologist would be able to accomplish the same thing by 'shaving' down the lumps with a scalpel. And if so, would there be significant scarring? Thank you.

Answer: I would suggest you see a plastic surgeon or dermatologist for treatment. I would not suggest shaving down the lesions.

NOTE from the National Rosecea Society:

Rosacea - While the cause of rosacea is unknown and there is no cure, today medical help is available that can control the signs and symptoms of this potentially life-disruptive disorder. Any one of the following warning signs is a signal to see a dermatologist or other knowledgeable physician for diagnosis and appropriate treatment before the signs and symptoms become increasingly severe:

• Redness on the cheeks, nose, chin or forehead.
• Small visible blood vessels on the face.
• Bumps or pimples on the face.
• Watery or irritated eyes.