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Dr. Irwin, Throughout June I have had what looks like whitehead acne on the knuckles of my hands, and a larger cyst-like one under my wedding ring (to the point I had to remove my ring it was so swollen). They will explode like traditional acne, bleed, then scab over. Once they scabbed over, they have not returned. During the time in May when the Swine Flu episode was at its highest in the media I used a lot of Purell Hand Sanitizer throughout my day when soap/sink was not available. However, the bumps on my hands didn't happen for many weeks after I stopped using the sanitizer. So I don't know if it still correlates. Thoughts on what this could be? Never had this before. Thanks, Linda

I really think you need to see your doctor ASAP.  From your description, it sounds like you are infected with either bacteria or yeasts.  Go right away please!

Dr. Brandith Irwin, MD

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Hi, I’m Dr. Irwin. I believe that consumers deserve a medically trained and unbiased skin care advocate.

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