Skin Republic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I’ve had this problem of rashes on my feet for the longest time.  Sometimes it peels off and it is extremely itchy.  I’ve survived with an over the counter anti-fungal cream for decades.  I constantly clean it with alcohol and sometimes soak it in hot water. And there are moments when it actually behaves, but it returns with a vengeance.  Please, please help me.  It has taken over almost my whole foot, even between the toes.

Angie

Dear Angie,

Fungal or bacterial infection on the feet can show as dry skin, blisters, redness, itching and peeling.  This can be compounded by formation of lichenified (thickened or calloused) skin over the infection as your skin’s way of providing protection to all the scratching.  Pouring hot water or alcohol may provide temporary relief from the itching, however, this actually worsens the problem.

That is definitely very treatable. At this point, you may benefit most from using oral anti-fungal medication as well as antihistamines.  This can be given for one to two weeks. Your PDS derma will check if there are no concomitant bacterial infection or contact dermatitis that is compounding your condition.  Some tissue may be sent to the lab or a patch test may be performed.

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Dear Dr. Jen,

The skin on my face is so rough.  No matter how many facials and diamond peels I get, it just doesn’t feel nice and smooth.  I’m still in my 30s and my skin feels oily, rough and sometimes dry.  I don’t understand what skin type I am anymore.  What products should I go for and what treatments will benefit me most?

Rhea

Dear Rhea,

Seborrheic dermatitis, which presents as flaky skin on an oily base, usually along the eyebrow and cheek area is often overlooked.  Skin can feel scaly and dry, but also look oily.  In some instances, diamond peel and facials can aggravate this kind of skin. Strong toners and anti-ageing regimen may also cause irritation and further roughness of the skin.

A good anti-inflammatory moisturizer at night will be good for your skin. Also, a mild AHA can be used weekly to take away the dead skin on top.  A review of the daily cosmetics and products will be necessary, to weed out offending formulas. Constant scrubbing and exfoliating might make your skin more sensitive.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). For information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/. For questions or concerns, please text to: 0932 857 7070; or email to: [email protected]; or call The Freeman: (032) 2531276, or PSH: (032) 233 8620 and 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan. (FREEMAN)