Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

   What exactly is a PDS dermatologist? How can I tell if my dermatologist is qualified?

   Ren

   Dear Ren,

   A PDS (Philippine Dermatological Society) dermatologist is simply a doctor who took 3 years of extra residency training in dermatology and passed the PDS diplomate boards after his/her training. Just as you would rather entrust your cardiac problems to a cardiologist, or your eye problems to an ophthalmologist, so should you go to a qualified dermatologist for your skin problems. 

   You can ask your doctor where she trained for her residency in dermatology (not any other field!) and when did she take the PDS boards (not just the medical licensure exam!). There are only 11 training institutions that are accredited in our country. It is that simple. There are plenty of good, qualified PDS dermatologists abounding in our city. You can check the website below for more info on PDS. Hope that helps!

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   My pimples seem to have a mind of their own. I have tried every available tretinoin and antibacterial cream out there. My previous dermas have given me injections, oral antibiotics and chemical peels. They simply will not stop growing! I am already 25 years old. Please help me get rid of my pimples!

   Susan

   Dear Susan,

   I can sense your frustration at your endless pursuit of being rid of your acne. You need to sit down with your dermatologist and discuss not just treatments, but also causes. Judging from your age, this is already adult acne which may warrant a different approach at this point.

   So many factors come into play. Are your periods regular? Are you trying to have children? Did either of your parents have acne? Are you taking any hormones or steroids? What kind of diet do you eat? What brand of cosmetics are you using? Do you have back acne, as well?

   Your PDS derma will investigate what the cause of your acne is and give you the proper medicine/s. Another thing you might want to discuss with your derma is the possibility of permanent cure with intake of oral isotretinoin.

Curing acne is hard work and there is no magic wand that can make it better over night. Sometimes it is a trial and error. Take heart. Don't give up just yet.There are still many things you haven't tried. Perseverance is key: stick to a regimen that you have confidence in. Work with your dermatologist and both of you will eventually find what will work for you!

   If you have any questions or concerns please text 0922 845 5556or call (032) 232 5929 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/.