Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

What is the best treatment for sunburn?

Kris

Dear Kris,

Summer is already here. Living on a beautiful tropical island like ours makes it impossible to avoid swimming at the beach or in the pool. Though the best thing to do would be to prevent sunburn, once it's there already here is what you can do:

1. Rehydrate.  Drink lots of juice, water or any fluids available.

2. Go to a cooler room or go under the shade to prevent more burning.

3. Grab a lotion or better yet, open some aloe vera leaves and apply on your burnt skin to moisturize.  Aloe vera has aloectin B which is antibacterial and can stimulate your immune system.

4. Drink an anti-inflammatory such as Paracetamol, Aspirin, or Ibuprofen (for those without allergies to these meds.)

5. Don't pop the blisters and don't peel off the dead skin.  Just cover with a moist gauze or some lotion. 

Next time you are out in the sun, make sure you apply, re-apply and re-apply some more the sunblock!  Hope this helps!

* * *

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have very dark elbows.  I have tried scrubbing it but it seems to just dry the area. What causes this and what can I do about it?

Bugsy

Dear Bugsy,

Dark elbows can be caused by a number of things: heredity, friction with environment (such as desk, chair, etc) and even sun exposure.  Although lemon juice and hydrogen peroxide are worth a try as home remedies, your PDS dermatologist can also help you.  Chemical peels (with vitamin C, glycolic acid or tretinoin) can bleach your elbows, and even knees, much faster.  Adverse reactions to chemical peeling is rare to come by since elbow skin is pretty thick.  More importantly, twice-daily moisturizing is a must!  Hope to have your elbows looking even-colored soon!

If you have any questions or concerns please text 0922 845 5556 or email [email protected].

Dr Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS). She is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital.  For other information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/