Skinrepublic

  Dear Dr. Jen,

   What exactly is microdermabrasion and how is it better than a diamond peel? Is it painful and will it help reduce wrinkles?

   Steph

   Dear Steph,

   Microdermabrasion and diamond peel are synonymously used and pertain to the same thing. This is a quick procedure that involves sloughing off the dead skin layer or the top most layer of the skin. Skin is rejuvenated, becoming more even-textured. But it will not get rid of wrinkles.

   Simply put, it can be likened to using a loofah or a rough towelette or exfoliating scrub salts on the skin but done in a uniform, pain-free manner. The stratum corneum, which is made up of mature, dying or old skin cells, is gently abraded along with a suction that collects the old skin that is shed. There are several degrees of roughness and your derma will choose the one that is most suitable to your skin type.

   There is some mild, temporary redness after, which may last up to 30 minutes. 

   Microdermabrasion is best coupled with solutions containing glycolic acid, mandelic acid or even vitamin C. This is best done every 2 weeks to maintain an even and bright complexion. Hope I was able to answer your questions.

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   My son was diagnosed to have a viral upper respiratory tract infection. I later noted that the skin of his hands and feet peeled a lot after the rashes came out. Is this some sort of allergy or anything I should worry about?

   Rosa

   Dear Rosa,

   This is perfectly normal and expected from a viral exanthem or rash. The inflammation from the body also manifests as rash on the skin. Normally, our skin takes awhile to shed but due to the inflammation from the viral infection, this process is speeded up. The skin then sheds like crazy.

   If your son is complaining of itchiness, then some antihistamines can be given. Otherwise, you can let it be and just apply a mild moisturizer on the peeling areas.

   Before you can rest easy, there are other diagnoses that must be ruled out for not every peeling skin can be overlooked.   Scarlet fever and Kawasaki disease also present with peeling of hands and feet and are more serious conditions that necessitate admission or more specific medicines such as Immunoglobulins or antibiotics. If your pedia has already ruled these out, you can just wait out this peeling period. Your son's skin will be back to normal in 3-5 days.

   If you have any questions or concerns please text 0922 845 5556or call (032) 232 5929 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/.