Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have a huge wart under my nail.  I have had it taken out several times by cautery — thrice already — but it keeps coming back.  Is there a chance for me to completely get rid of it?

Steve

Dear Steve,

Periungual verruca or “nail warts” are the hardest things to get rid of.  They grow deep into the nail! Another option for you to consider is to ask your PDS derma about bleomycin treatment.  It would require 1-2 treatments of injecting the medicine inside the wart causing wart/viral cells to die.

The most important thing in treating nail warts is frequent follow-up.  Two to three weeks after removal, medicine can be applied to make sure it will not come back.  Also, most dermas will remove the wart for free if it comes back immediately.  Good luck!

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Dear Dr. Jen,

I am a 25-year-old female and I have very hairy arms.  I even have hair at the back of my fingers.  I am conscious of this everytime I expose my arms.  Will permanent laser removal still work on these areas?  And which particular lasers will be most effective?  There are so many to choose from.

Janine

Dear Janine,

Permanent laser hair removal will definitely work on these areas.   It may require more sessions than the regular person, but laser treatment is the best option for you.

There are many lasers offered in clinics and spas.  Generally, the IPL-based lasers are the older kinds, which may be more uncomfortable (needing anesthesia) and will require a LOT more sessions.  The older machines will usually require a topical anesthesias (which translates into a longer waiting time). The upside is they are cheaper.

The newer lasers which are the diodes may cause no discomfort and will reach a hairless state at a faster rate (e.g. may require 6 sessions instead of 12).  They can also be more pricey.  With the more sessions (plus the discomfort) of the older lasers, many opt for the diodes especially if you don’t like to keep going back for more treatments. 

Whichever machine you choose, what is more important is that the operator is certified and trained.  The settings used in the machine vary for each person, taking into consideration skin color, hair type and discomfort threshold.  You can tell if your physician is good if she takes note of these things.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS). She is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH).  For other information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/.  If you have any questions or concerns please text, email or call (the Freeman or PSH): 0932 857 7070 or <[email protected] > or (032) 233 8620 or 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.