SkinRepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

My legs started to form very itchy rashes after I started using compression stockings. Is it possible to have an allergy to stockings? Medically, I need to use stockings but my legs already look very red and are full of rashes.

Jeane

Dear Jeane,

If you have deep vein thrombosis or varicose veins, compression stockings must be worn daily to relieve you of pain.  The rubber component in stockings can be allergenic. Especially more common is the itching found on the thigh bands for thigh-high stockings.

Although treatment is easily achieved with the application of steroid creams and intake of antihistamines, what is more important is choosing cotton-based, less allergenic compression stockings.  Your PDS derma can point you to the right direction on the options available.  Sadly the nicer ones that are cotton-based are usually available through direct order.

Dear Dr. Jen,

I'm in my 40s and noticed that my hair is getting greasier. What gives?

Diana

Dear Diana,

The oil glands on our scalp help keep our hair shiny and soft. As we age, the oil glands become more active and secrete more oils. Exercise and other sporty activities also increase oil secretion.

A quick solution would be to shampoo daily or even twice a day. To prevent damage and over-drying the hair shaft, use shampoos that are gentler on your hair. Baby shampoo is generally considered milder, so it may be a safer choice for you. Also, you can skip applying conditioner to your scalp and just do it to the ends of the hair.

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.