Skin Republic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I used to have a nail that was yellow and deformed. Now, there are three nails affected.  It looks very ugly that I have to wear nail polish all the time.  No matter how the “manicurista” scrapes the top, it still comes out yellowish.  What is the best cure for these kind of nails?

Andrea

Dear Andrea,

Wearing nail polish for a long time can cause yellowish discoloration of the nails.  However, when you find any deformities, whitish deposits, lifting up, thickening and/or discolorations, a fungal infection is a likely culprit. Onychomycosis or fungal infection of the nail is transmitted by infected nail paraphernalia, those being used by the local salons.  I always advise my patients to bring their own nipper, nail cutter, nail pusher and nail file when they get a mani-pedi.  You can also get it if you constantly wear plastic gloves. Commonly, nail fungus starts on the toe nails.  This occurs by wearing footwear that is constantly sweaty and warm or from walking on gym or pool floors that may carry the fungus.

Covering the nails with nail polish only hides the infection and won’t make it disappear.  For mild infections, using medicated nail lacquer for several months can help. For more serious infections, oral antifungals will be necessary.  It takes about six months for finger nails and 12 months for toe nails to grow back.

Dear Dr. Jen,

There are dark creases in my armpits.  I tried using lemon and baking soda and it helps a bit, but then it starts to get dark again.  The other areas of my armpit are okay but it is really annoying to find the dark streaks.  Is there a home remedy that you can recommend? What safe procedural options do I have?

Lyn

Dear Lyn,

The underarm skin is one of the most sensitive areas of the body.  The skin is very thin and is prone to getting easily irritated. The area is also occluded and the skin rubs on each other constantly. Common causes for underarm darkening are use of some deodorants or over eager scrubbing which may lead to contact dermatitis and, later on, darkening. Waxing or shaving can also inadvertently remove the protective layer of dead skin on the area and immediate application of anti-perspirant or alcohol or lemon and other strong ingredients on it can lead to hyperpigmentation.

Use of home remedies sounds attractive.  The problem is, you cannot gauge the strength and acidity of the lemon, calamansi, and baking soda you are using. It would be wise to refrain from using any product for now. Have your underarms checked by your nearest PDS derma first before bleaching starts. 

If there is any contact dermatitis left it should be treated by some anti-inflammatory before whitening the area.  As for procedures you can obtain, there are many to choose from. As soon as your PDS derma gives you the go signal, you can start applying mild vitamin C-based bleaching agents. Glycolic acid peels are also safe to use. There are lasers that can also safely whiten the area. 

Miracle peels or one session promises are usually too good to be true. Chances are they might be too strong and will even cause rebound darkening.  Go for gentler options that may take a few sessions but will get you there in a month or two.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.