Skin republic

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   I have very oily skin and I am already 25 years old.  I can use up to three or four oil-blotting paper in a day.  What causes this? And is there a way to treat it?

   Ina

   Dear Ina,

   Oily skin is very common during the teenage years because of the hormone surge during puberty.  However, oily complexion in your 20's can be frustrating.  Though oil-blotting paper are helpful, it sometimes isn't very convenient to use especially when you're in the middle of a meeting or conversing with clients.

   Oily skin is caused by over active sebaceous or oil glands.  These glands can be triggered by stress, hormones, or just your plain genetic makeup. Washing your face too frequently can backfire on your oil glands.  When you strip your skin of it's natural moisture, your glands will try to compensate by producing more oils.  There are plenty of products that can tame oily skin.

   Overnight creams containing adapalene or retinol can help control oily skin, plus prevent wrinkles.  If you find these chemicals too harsh, alpha hydroxyl acids like glycolic acid will also do wonders to your skin.  Not only will these products lessen oiliness but will also make the pores appear smaller and rejuvenate skin in general.

   Give adapalene or glycolic acid a few weeks to work.  Then I hope you can finally say goodbye to your oil-blotting papers for good!

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   I have a very dull complexion.  How does one achieve rosy, fresh-looking skin without using moisturizer?  I form sweat beads whenever I use moisturizer in the morning and it is very unflattering.

   Dina

   Dear Dina,

   Dull complexion is most likely caused by accumulation of the stratum corneum layer of the skin, which is also the barrier.  It is normally composed by 15-20 layers of DEAD skin cells.  When these dead cells are not shed off, skin can appear flaky, dull, gray and unattractive.

   There are ways to ensure that your skin is constantly renewed.  Using exfoliating but non-irritating products can be good.  Examples of these are your alpha and beta hydroxyl acids (AHA and BHA).  Some people like to use physical exfoliants that can be used every 2 weeks.  There are exfoliating beads, however, that are too sharp and may give you acne or cause contact dermatitis. Take care in choosing the product.

Getting monthly or bimonthly chemical peels along with microdermabrasion can brighten skin instantly.  The entire skin renews itself in 30-45 days.  It makes sense to do a monthly peel or dermabrasion to maintain  your skin's glow.  It can cost from Php500- Php1,500, depending where you go. Have a certified aesthetician, or better yet, a certified dermatologist to perform the peels.  These procedures if done properly will give your skin the youthful appearance that you crave.

  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/