Pimples

Dear Dr. Jen,

What brands of foundation are less likely to cause breakouts? I noticed that I get itchy and sometimes get pimples when using the wrong foundation. My friends don't usually get this kind of reaction except me. What gives?

Tina

Dear Tina,

Generally, mineral-based makeup is safer to use for both pimply and allergenic skin. Each one of us is different. What works for your friends will not necessarily work well for you. You do not have the same sensitivity level as your friends.  Nor do you have the same genetic predisposition in forming pimples.

Though I do not endorse specific brands, what is more important to look at are labels. The terms "non-comedogenic" are most valuable when looking for make-up products that don't cause pimples. Usually, when a foundation functions dually as moisturizer and foundation, or as chemical sunscreen and foundation, chances are you will break out.

If you find that you easily itch or get red and form small bumps after using makeup, the label to look for are "hypoallergenic" products. This would mean that the top most culprits that cause allergies are absent in that particular product.

Dear Dr. Jen,

There are small, red and very itchy bumps along my knuckles and elbows. I am already 35 years old and this is the first time I've had this. My doctor recently diagnosed me to have some allergy to food. How can this be possible at my age?

Jonna

Dear Jonna,

Your doctor could be right in your having a food allergy. It may also be atopic dermatitis, which is loosely termed as "skin asthma" or it can also be airborne contact dermatitis. Though slightly not usual, adult onset food allergy or atopic dermatitis may still happen.  There are so many factors to consider.

Some environments that may have only occurred now or lifestyle changes that have just been implemented could be the trigger factors. This includes occupation as well as new home environment. Presence of new pets and introduction to a new diet can also change things for you. Also, smoking is strongly linked with adult onset skin asthma. 

Treatment would include mild steroids in cream form and antihistamines. However, the more important thing is avoidance of your trigger factors or the allergen culprit. Your doctor may have mentioned elimination diet or avoiding the allergen and this you must follow to a T. Best of luck!

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). For information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/. For questions or concerns, please text to: 0932 857 7070; or email to: [email protected]; or call The Freeman: (032) 2531276, or PSH: (032) 233 8620 and 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.