Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

My boyfriend has stinky feet. Can this still be remedied?Cathy

Dear Cathy,

Stinky feet can be a turn off but it is easily solved.  It often signifies a combination of sweaty feet with fungal infection.  It is the increased sweating of the feet, coupled with constant occlusion by the use of closed foot wear that leads to infection. 

First order of business is to treat the fungal infection with an antifungal cream.  This requires applying the cream diligently for 2-4 weeks, or maybe longer if the areas between the toes are affected. 

Second thing to be addressed is to minimize sweating.  Use of aluminum chloride based foot powder to lessen sweat gland activity will help.  You can also opt to wear  sandals or open foot wear to air out the affected area during the day.  You may obtain a medical certificate from your PDS derma to require you to wear open shoes at the office while medication is ongoing. 

There are also socks with antibacterial benefits being sold in the department stores.  In some instances when the fungal infection has been too prolonged, superimposed bacteria can also creep in.  Hence, antibiotics is sometimes needed in complicated fungal infections.

Dear Dr. Jen,

How often should I exfoliate?  I read somewhere that it should be twice a week but I'm scared to do it too often.  I always come home with a red face after I do a diamond peel. Evely                       

Dear Evelyn,

Exfoliating will help get rid of the dullness in your complexion.  You can either exfoliate by doing using a loofah, facial scrubs or diamond peel.  Depending on your skin sensitivity, scrubbing can be done once to four times a month.  For regular skin, every two weeksof exfoliating is sufficient. 

Where you do your diamond peel, who does it and what kind of machine does the peel are all relevant issues when you do your diamond peel.  It is expected to be a little pink after the peel if you have sensitive skin.  However, if your skin stings or if you see scratches on your skin, then there is something wrong with your diamond peel. 

The aesthetician could be using a tip that is too rough for you or could simply by applying too much pressure or going over your skin too many times, making your face raw in the process.  This is a very important sign that you should transfer to another spa or derma. 

If you have pimples, diamond peel is not the exfoliant of choice for you.  You can opt to do a mild glycolic acid peel instead.  This will not cause irritation to your pimples but will still give you the benefits of a peel. 

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.