Warts

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have warts on my legs. Will the local wart removal solution be able to tackle this? Or will it need laser? I was hoping I won’t have to see a doctor for them.

Ellen

Dear Ellen,

Warts are usually bumps on the skin that may be brown or flesh-colored.  They are viral in origin and will tend to spread if you don’t do anything about them. There are different kinds of warts. They are caused by the same virus, human papilloma virus, warts can present in different ways. The more common warts on the legs are flat warts.  It may possibly be removed with anti-wart solutions, especially the smaller ones. But the warts that look like skin tags, filiform warts, may need cautery laser or surgery.

The trick with using anti-wart solutions is to use them sparingly.  These are made of caustic substances like salicylic acid.  If you put too much, it is bound to spill to the normal skin surrounding the wart and may cause burns.  If warts are super small, you can even apply the solution with a toothpick.  Have patience in using the solution because it may take a while to work.

Dear Dr. Jen,

The skin on my face is really, really dry.  No matter what moisturizer I use, I still get fine scales on my cheeks or around my mouth when I wake up.  Is there something I can apply for this? Or am I allergic to my pillow or something else?

Connie

Dear Connie,

Very dry skin tends to act up if you sleep in a cool room, which makes the skin drier than it already is. Although allergies may play a role in worsening dry skin, allergies manifest differently. Allergies usually appear as bumpy red skin and can be itchy.

Dry skin can be managed by using a skin regimen that is mild and moisturizing. Stay away from harsh cleansers, alcohol-based products, toners and scrubs. Cleansers that do not have any foam or form bubbles are better for dry skin. Products that contain AHA, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid and mandelic acid can also worsen the dryness of your skin. Lastly, the secret to soft, hydrated skin is in choosing a thick, hypoallergenic night cream. This can also go a long way in buttering up your face overnight.

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.