Allergies

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have rashes on my arms and feet every now and then. What is the best way to treat allergies of the skin?  What can I apply?

Jer

Dear Jer,

The most important thing to treat rashes is identification of the allergen.  While treating rashes with steroidal creams may give you temporary relief, the heart of the matter is not addressed.

When it comes to allergies, finding out the trigger is priority.  The only way to stop the allergies is to avoid the cause.  Hence, lab tests like food allergen panels, skin tests and patch testing will go a long way in addressing allergy problems.

Dear Dr. Jen,

Will touching the face frequently cause pimples? Can dust cause pimples?  I never used to have any pimples but I noticed that I have been breaking out lately.  Nothing in my regimen has changed much.  So I’m not sure if it is my pillow or the dust at work.

Larisa

Dear Larisa,

The act of touching your face will not be a direct cause of acne. Dust may also cause irritation, but not acne. Causes of breakouts are plenty.  Touching your face (unless this involves pricking or manipulating) and dust are not high on the list.

Other more common causes of late onset acne are stress, disturbed sleep patterns, hormonal imbalance and genetic predisposition.  Go to your nearest PDS dermatologist to discuss the possible factors that could be affecting your skin.  Good luck!

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.