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Laxative Licks Severe Acne Problem

Laxative (milk of magnesia) works for severe case of acne.

Q. My son has suffered from horrible acne for two years, even after seeing two different dermatologists. We’ve tried everything, from prescriptions and Proactiv to laser treatments. There’s nothing left to try except Accutane, but we worry about side effects.

After using milk of magnesia (MoM) on his face for only two weeks, his skin has improved. It is so much better that instead of hiding behind shoulder-length hair, he got his hair cut so his face can actually be seen now!

Milk of magnesia definitely works on severe acne. Be sure to get the original MoM because the mint one contains mineral oil. It’s wonderful to have my son smiling again!

A. Dermatologists are skeptical that milk of magnesia would be helpful against acne even though a letter in the Archives of Dermatology (Jan. 1975) stated that topical application of MoM might reduce redness and inflammation.

We have received a number of testimonials like yours. Certainly there is little harm in trying MoM on blemishes.

Under appropriate medical supervision, Accutane can be effective against severe acne, but it is expensive and has some potentially serious side effects.

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About the Author
Joe Graedon is a pharmacologist who has dedicated his career to making drug information understandable to consumers. His best-selling book, The People’s Pharmacy, was published in 1976 and led to a syndicated newspaper column, syndicated public radio show and web site. In 2006, Long Island University awarded him an honorary doctorate as “one of the country's leading drug experts for the consumer.”.
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