Itchy rashes

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have itchy rashes below my belly button.  I'm not sure if food triggered it or if some bed bugs bit me.  It's been going on for some time now.  Any suggestions on what may have caused it?

Malou

Dear Malou,

Itchy rashes below the belly button may indeed be caused by bed bugs.  But also, if it was indeed bed bugs, you are likely to find other bites on the exposed part of your body (the ones exposed from your sleep wear).  This would include the arms or the back (when your shirt rides up) or even the ankles.

The rashes can easily be treated by applying some anti-inflammatory creams like betamethasone or fluocinonide.  This would remove the itch, but not eliminate the presence of bed bugs on your mattress. Changing your mattress and sanitizing your beddings might be a good idea.

Another consideration is allergy from the nickel in the jeans metal button.  Having the metal buttons changed into plastic ones solves the nickel dermatitis fast.  Also, to alleviate the rashes, applying some mild steroid creams can do the trick.  If still unsure, please consult your nearest PDS derma.

Dear Dr. Jen,

What do I use to lighten the areas on my inner thighs?  It's darker than the rest of my body and no matter what I do, it doesn't become white.

Jovy

Dear Jovy,

In most Filipinos, the inner thighs will always be one or two shades darker than the rest of the body.  However, it is good to know what are the things we do that worsen this.  Friction and tight clothing are the usual culprits.  Friction is produced when the thighs rub against each other.  Friction is also produced with exfoliating scrubs and loofahs.  Overscrubbing can make it worse.  Tight clothing from skinny jeans, compression leggings and snug underwear can also contribute to this darkening.

If you have weight problems which have caused the inner thighs to rub each other, then losing weight might be helpful.  Eliminating friction and tight clothing can help lighten it in the long run.  Applying mild (very mild) whitening agents such as licorice or vitamin C may also lighten the area.  A good thing to remember is that gradual and gentle lightening is most important when it comes to the inner thighs.  The skin on the inner thighs is very thin, sensitive and delicate, hence must be treated with utmost care.  Good 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.