Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have been to the beach plenty of times during the summer. As a result, I had several sunburns and now my skin tone is dark. My foundation is now much lighter than my tanned face. What is the fastest way to get back to my original fair skin?

Tisha

Dear Tisha,

There are so many products available that can lighten your skin. I understand that you want to do it as fast as you can. However, in our haste to get fast results we must remember to go about lightening up safely.

Products that contain Vitamin A derivatives such as retinol, tretinoin, or retinoic acid are commonly used to lighten skin. Retinol is inactivated by sunlight. It can also be irritating to the skin if used during the day. Popular products such as licorice, hydroquinone and kojic acid are other effective lightening agents. However, they are also irritating during the daytime.

Nighttime is the best time to apply these lightening products. If you are looking for products to apply in the daytime, antioxidants (Vitamin C) and alphahydroxy acids (lactic acid, glycolic acid) are good choices. 

However, all of these lightening creams need to be applied in small amounts. It is a common mistake to apply a thick layer of cream hoping it would work overnight. Yes, it will work but it will also make your skin peel and become red. So always put small amounts on your face.

Lastly, don't forget to put sunblock on every morning. Sunblock goes under your make-up but over whatever antioxidant or bleaching cream you have. An SPF 30 or higher everyday will protect you from more darkening. Give it a few weeks and your skin will be back to its glowing glory!

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have very sensitive skin. I can't use make-up at all. Even eyeshadow makes my eyelids itchy and red. There are dayswhen I want to get all girly and dolled up but I don't want to risk getting red from using the wrong make up. I don't have the budget to buy different kinds of make-up brands just to see which one will work for me. How can I know what brand will be safe for my skin?

Crystal

Dear Crystal,

Make-up that contains the label "hypoallergenic" is usually a safe guide to buying cosmetic products for sensitive skin. However, the term "hypoallergenic" does not mean that the product is completely devoid of allergens. It simply means that the top irritating or allergenic chemicals are not present. But the less irritating ones might still be part of the ingredients.

Short of buying a dozen make up brands, what you can do is go to a few reputed brands that are known to be hypoallergenic (such as Clinique, Neutrogena, Almay, Mineral Make-up). Ask the cosmetic counter girl to apply it on your inner forearm, which shouldn't be wet for 24-48 hours. Observe the area for any signs of redness, bumps or itchiness. If after 3 days, the area remains free from traces of allergy, then it is safe to use on your face. I hope you will be able to find the right brand that will be gentle on your skin but provide for your make-up needs!

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/