Skin Republic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I think I have bed bug bites on my arms and legs.  However, it is so strange that my husband doesn’t have any because we sleep on the same bed. Do bed bugs have a preference for certain blood types?

Joy

Dear Joy,

While some people, 30 to 50 percent of the population, don’t really react to bed bug bites, the rest of the population can present with extremely itchy wheals.  This explains, why in some couples, only one half of the couple will complain of bites.  Their partners will hardly show any visible marks on the skin.

It is not really a preference of blood types, because I’m betting your husband also got bitten.  It just didn’t show.  You, on the other hand, show an allergic reaction to the bite. 

You can have the bites confirmed by your nearest PDS derma.  Other diagnoses can also be ruled out like contact dermatitis or eczema.  Treatment involves elimination of bed bugs, first and foremost.  You can call a pest control company for this or research on DIY methods (soaking sheets in hot water, etc).  As for the rashes, your PDS derma will likely prescribe you with a cream-based steroid.  Depending on your level of discomfort, antihistamines can also be prescribed.  Avoid infection by washing with mild soap and water, and avoid picking on the bumps. 

Dear Dr. Jen,

I’ve already had 10 sessions or more of laser hair removal.  Still I have plenty of underarm and leg hair left.  I’ve researched that it takes about 8 to 10 sessions to achieve good results.  The machine is a good one, I’ve looked it up.  What could be going on here?

Lala

Dear Lala,

In some patients who have hormonal imbalance or some with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) hirsutism can be a problem.  Hirsutism is growth of unwanted facial or body hair in a male-pattern on a woman.  For example, presence of noticeable facial hair or chest hair in some women can be a sign of underlying hormonal problems.  Some patients who are resistant to hair removal, even on maximum settings, should be investigated for hormonal irregularities.  Common symptoms that can be found are irregular menses, pimples, weight gain, obesity or difficulty in conceiving.

It is important to work with your endocrinologist and gynecologist along with your dermatologist, because this needs medical approach too.  When you undergo treatment for any hormonal imbalance, your remaining body hair will respond to laser treatment too. 

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.