Dandruff

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have very big dandruff flakes on my head. No matter what brand of shampoo I use, it stays the same. It’s painful when I try to rub it off. And it’s very itchy at times.  What hair product can I use?  I am desperate and have to use a cap all the time.

Sara

Dear Sara,

Very severe dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis, can be one of two things.  It can be a fungal infection that needs the right kind of medication.  Often times, yeast infection on the scalp responds to anti-fungal shampoos (ketoconazole, stieprox or scalpex).  The more serious fungal infections though would need oral medication.

On the other hand, thick scales can be the beginning of psoriasis.  Are there other red or dry looking patches on your elbows or trunk?  If so, psoriasis needs very specific anti- psoriasis medication.  What’s more, it needs supervision while being given the medicine.

It is important to get your scalp checked by your nearest PDS derma for the proper diagnosis.  It is important to refrain from scrubbing or picking on the scales to avoid further injury to the scalp, which may enable bacteria or fungus to enter and cause infection.

If you want to get rid of the scales, simply apply some oil on the scalp a few minutes before bathing to soak it and soften it.  The scales will gently fall off by itself while shampooing.

Dear Dr. Jen,

I have big scars from the very bad pimples I used to have.  I’m not sure how many diamond peel sessions I have undergone but nothing seems to work.  I’ve also tried IPL laser on it and still no improvement.  Please help me; it is making me very conscious.

Nino

Dear Nino,

Acne scars is one of the challenges of dermatology.  It can seem quite impossible to treat but thankfully, with the advent of many technologies, it is very much treatable now.  Both previous treatments that you have undergone, the diamond peel and IPL are absolutely useless for deep acne scars.  Likewise, any creams, ointments or miracle gels that claim to get rid of ice pick scars are baloney.

Fractional laser has excellent results with these kinds of scars.  There are several fractional laser machines that are FDA approved.  They can be pricey and will range from six- to twenty-thousand per session, but you will see results.  It will also take several sessions to achieve flawless skin.  Look for a PDS certified dermatologist to perform these laser treatments and not just any cosmetologist. When the right setting is used and a good number of treatments are done, the results are definitely satisfying.

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.