Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I am in high school and have pimples on my nose area.  What over the counter medicines work for pimples?  And at what point should I go see a dermatologist for treatment?

Christine

Dear Christine,

About 80% of the population, at one time in their life get pimples.  Normally, these are easily treated by over the counter preparations containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, resorcinol, or adapalene.

Salicylic acid can be found in  facial cleansers or as a solution.  It works by unclogging pores thereby preventing whiteheads from escalating to full blown acne. Benzoyl peroxide (BP) comes in a gel form.  BP controls oily skin as well as kills Propionobactrium acnes.  Resorcinol dries up the small pimple lesions.

When these mild over-the-counter medications don’t seem to work for your skin anymore, then it is time to see your PDS dermatologist.  Also, when your acne has started to scar or you’ve reached a point when your face embarrasses you, go see your PDS dermatologist.

Your derma can prescribe stronger medicines, give you chemical peels, inject those humongous pimples and can fast track your road to flawless skin!

Dear Dr. Jen,

What is a good anti-wrinkle cream that can erase wrinkles?  I am 48 years old and have just started to notice my wrinkles becoming deeper.

Alma

Dear Alma,

There is no anti-wrinkle cream that can miraculously erase wrinkles.  Don’t believe any advertisement that says it can turn around your skin in 5 days (or whatever it advertises).  Unfortunately, no magic serum exists today that can do exactly that.  Only God can work miracles. Even the full effects of Botox is seen only after 2 weeks.

The most effective cream for wrinkles is still in the retinoids group.  It is often marketed as “tretinoin” or “retinol”.  This is a form of vitamin A that increases cell turnover, improves fine wrinkles, refines skin texture, minimizes appearance of pores and decreases oiliness.  It also is a fantastic treatment to dark spots and acne.  Like any good cream it takes time to work its magic (give at a couple of weeks to months).  Take note that it does little to treat deep wrinkles caused by repeated facial expressions. 

Antioxidants like Vit C are also good for wrinkles and can be used in consonance with the retinoids.  It takes patience to achieve results.  Keep at it and you will appreciate visible changes on your skin soon (but not in a week!)

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

If you have any questions or concerns please text, email or call (the Freeman or PSH): 0932 857 7070 or <[email protected] > or (032) 233 8620 or 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.