Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have unpleasant chicken pox scars on my face.  I've been to a derma and was advised to use fillers.  I understand that fillers need to be done every few months or so.  Is there another permanent solution to this?  Concealer doesn't really help it since the depressions are still visible.

Myka

Dear Myka,

Hyaluronic acids, the substance used in most fillers are temporary in nature.  Though it may be a good option to use, there are other more permanent treatments that you can explore. 

I suggest you ask your PDS derma about fractional laser.  This is a type of laser that can help scars become more superficial.  This usually takes 2 to 6 sessions, with an interval of 4 weeks between sessions.  The price is affordable, especially if scars are few in number. 

If you are more adventurous, you can consult with a cosmetic surgeon for scar revision.  The surgeon will release the scar adhesions underneath, thereby producing a less prominent indentation.  You can follow up this treatment with some fractional laser to attain better results.

Dear Dr. Jen,

My room mate has body odor and is too embarrassed to seek a doctor's advice.  She's been trying anti-fungal and anti-bacterial soap but it has not helped her.  Is there anything else she can try?  Is there a laser that can take away the smell?

Doni

Dear Doni,

Body odor, smelly armpits or bromhidrosis is associated with the areas of the body that have increase in apocrine and eccrine (sweat) glands such as the underarms, palms and soles, breasts and groin area. It is not the sweat per se that causes the bad smell, but it is the bacteria that break down the sweat that gives it the odor. 

Using an antimicrobial solution in the area can kill off the bacteria that grow there.  Shaving or removing hair permanently in the area can prevent accumulation of the bacteria and sweat on the hair shaft.  Avoiding scented products such as scented antiperspirant can reduce the risk of unpleasant reactions between the bacterial odor and the product's fragrance. 

Other important tips include washing the area twice daily with a mild, non-irritating cleanser to help keep the area clean and dry.  Also, after a sweaty workout, remove damp clothing right away to reduce the risk of bacteria growth.  For advanced therapy, consider getting botox shots in the area to stop production of sweat, surgical sympathectomy and using anticholinergic drugs.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). For information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/. For questions or concerns, please text to: 0932 857 7070; or email to: [email protected]; or call The Freeman: (032) 2531276, or PSH: (032) 233 8620 and 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.