Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

After shaving or waxing my legs, I get painful, itchy red bumps. It disappears after a few days but I'm left with brown scars after. Can using a depilatory cream help me? 

Sarah

Dear Sarah,

Shaving, plucking or waxing can give you "folliculitis". This basically means inflammation of hair follicles. Most of the time, there is bacterial and even sometimes, fungal infection involved. The follicle gets damaged and bacteria like Staphylococcus can grow in it. Also, ingrown hair further irritates your skin.

Depilating apparatus that are usually electronic, works the same way as plucking. Depilatory creams and lotions act by softening the keratin in the hair shaft so that when you rub it off, the hair easily breaks. All the broken hair can then be scraped off. It doesn't cause that much damage to the hair follicle but may irritate the skin because the skin is also rich in keratin. The key to using depilatory creams is to make sure not to leave it on too long. Hair can re-grow 2-5 days after, much like shaving.

If you insist in shaving or waxing, it is best to apply a topical antibiotic ointment like mupirocin, erythromycin, or fusidic acid for a couple of days after. However, most people opt to have laser hair removal to permanently get rid of the problem of hairy legs and the ensuing folliculitis. Hope you find the best option to suit your dilemma.

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have dark knees and elbows. I heard that glutathione is no longer approved of by health professionals. What is a safe way for me to lighten my knees and elbows.

Susie

Dear Susie,

Most Filipinas complain about dark knees and elbows. These are the parts that are often exposed to friction and increased pressure since we are often kneeling or leaning on our elbows. Exposure to sun, genetics and dryness are other factors that cause this.

There are many simple solutions to your problem. The mere home remedy of applying lemon (not calamansi) on the area will already help. However, your PDS dermatologist will likely do a more thorough evaluation by including your skin type in the consideration of your treatment plan. 

Bleach with products containing arbutin, licorice, kojic acid, alphahydroxy acids (glycolic acid), and tretinoin are your best bets. Adjunct treatment with chemical peels and diamond peels will speed up the process. If dryness is present, it is best to include a thick emollient to your post-bath regimen to seal the moisture in. Sunblock on these areas with SPF 30 or higher will protect the area from further darkening. Good luck!

If you have any questions or concerns please text 0922 845 5556 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/.