SkinRepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have extremely sensitive skin.  I react to whatever moisturizer or makeup I use on my face.  I was not always this sensitive.  Now, anything I use makes my face itchy or bumpy.   What caused this sudden change in my skin and is there a remedy to it?

                                                Nori

Dear Nori,

Fragranced cleansers, wipes, moisturizers or makeup are common culprits that lead to skin sensitivity.  Using antibacterial soaps or alcohol-based toners may also contribute to your skin condition. Also, check your anti-aging creams, if they contain harsh ingredients such as retinoids or alpha-hydroxy acids.

If you have already eliminated use of wrong products, your derma can probably point out pre-existing skin disorders such as eczema, rosacea or contact dermatitis.  This can make you super sensitive to everything your face touches. In the same way, very dry or broken skin (from sun exposure) makes you lose protection over your skin. 

Treatment of your skin sensitivity takes a lot of patience.  Some anti-inflammatory agents such as cortisone may initially be used to calm down your skin.  Use of proper moisturizers and sun protection may be included in your regimen.  Lastly, when your skin has recovered adequately, choosing the right make up will be your final step. 

Dear Dr. Jen,

My toenails have black spots after I started running.  Is it possible for toenails to get bruised?  Is there a cream I can apply to make it go away?

                                                            Jordan

Dear Jordan,

Runner's toe or subungual hematoma is common among runners.  The trauma on the nail bed due to the repetitive stress brought about by running causes blood to collect underneath the nail plate.  The nails can become deformed. 

The condition may cause you severe discomfort because of the pressure of blood pooling under the nail.  In this case, surgery may be required.  Otherwise, if the concern is purely aesthetic you can wait for the nail to grow out (from 6 to 12 months).  There is no cream that can treat subungual hematoma.

This should not discourage you from pursuing running.  However, take the necessary precautions on your next run.  Shoes that are ill-fitting or lack of space between the toes can be one of the causes of this condition. Prevention of runner's toe in the near future can be done by selecting your running shoes more judiciously.   Using toe-spacers can also help.  Best of luck!

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.