Itch

Dear Dr. Jen,

What is the best cure for allergies to heat and sweat? I noticed that every time it gets super hot, my arms and neck start to itch and I can’t help but scratch it. It has already left marks on my skin and it looks very unsightly.

Susan

Dear Susan,

Does your skin get itchy and form rashes when it gets hot?  Does being in a cold room somewhat improve your skin?  Are you sensitive to sweat, fragranced products, papaya soap or kojic soap?

Most patients with atopic dermatitis, or eczema, have this kind of sensitivity.  Your skin requires constant moisturizing.  It is relatively high maintenance in a sense that you need to put fragrance-free lotions daily.  It also means sticking to soaps and emollients that are hypoallergenic and mild.

If you feel that you are starting to sweat and get itchy, applying cool water on your skin to wash away the sweat can help relieve you.  Using anti-inflammatory lotions can also help. If you are in terrible discomfort and can’t help the scratching, antihistamines can also go a long way.

Unfortunately, this is usually a lifetime condition.  A permanent change in skin care products will often show benefits in making your skin less reactive to your usual triggers. Don’t be tempted to buy the very fragrant lotions and body soaps.  You can always spray perfume on your clothes if you want to smell good.

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have a tendency to form keloids from childhood vaccines.  I would like to get tattoos but have been warned that I might form keloids too.  What is the possibility of forming a keloid on my back?

Gerald

Dear Gerald,

If you are a keloid former, there is a huge possibility of forming keloids when having a tattoo done.  There are certain areas in the body where keloid formation is most common.  This includes the nose, ears, shoulders, chest and back.

Though keloids can be treated, it requires a lot of treatment sessions for older scars. If you are keen on getting a tattoo, try to have a tiny one done on an area that is not prone to keloid formation.  Intralesional steroid injection can also be done right after a tattoo, although this is no guarantee that a keloid will not form.  But if you want to play it safe, best to stay away from getting a tattoo altogether.

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.