Scar

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have a big burn scar on my leg from a motorcycle ride last year. I was hoping it would get better over time but it still looks weird.  There are white and dark spots on the scar. What can I use to help speed up the healing?

Bela

Dear Bela,

It is quite tricky to treat scars that have varying pigmentation problems.  Some new scars respond well to over-the-countergels like contractubex, mederma or dermatix.  While dark scars are easily bleached to a lighter shade to match that of your skin tone, some light colored scars are more challenging to deal with.   I would advise that you to visit your PDS dermatologist, who can prescribe some tinctures to encourage pigmentation in the whiter areas.

However, if there is still no improvement after a few weeks of application, dermrollers, microdermabrasion and laser therapy can be tried.  During treatment, make sure to stay out of the sun or regularly apply sun block on the involved areas.

Dear Dr. Jen,

My eczema always gets worse over the summer.  I can already feel my back and neck itching every time I start to sweat.  What can I take to lessen the itching?  I don’t want to take steroids as my former doctor had prescribed me some.

Tweetie

Dear Tweetie,

Eczema or atopic dermatitis or skin asthma notoriously flares up during the hot summer months.  Heat, humidity, and sweat invariably lead to worsening of the sensitive areas on the neck, arms and legs.   Applying nonsteroidal lotions that are available in the local pharmacies can do wonders to relieve the itching.  And while oral steroids are definitely a no-no, you can use steroids in cream form.  This can also give you instant relief.  Lastly, intake of anti-histamines like levocetirizine, desloratidine, cetirizine, loratidine or hydroxyzine can do wonders to control the itching.

Staying in cool rooms whenever you can would be great.  But it is impossible to live in a 24/7 air-conditioned bubble!  So take the necessary measures to avoid flare-ups.  Wear lose, breathable cotton clothes.  Bring extra clothes in case you need to change, especially after a session at the gym. Take short showers and use mild hypoallergenic soaps. Apply moisturizing lotions after bathing.  And wash with regular water if you start to sweat so sweat doesn’t cling and dry up on your skin.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with the Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). Information on PDS is at www.pds.org.ph. Questions or concerns regarding the skin may be sent by text to 0932 857 7070 or emailed to [email protected]; or coursed thru The Freeman – (032) 2531276, or thru PSH – (032) 2338620 and 2325929. Inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.