Who, warts, where

Dear Lucy,

How can I prevent/get rid of facial warts? Which is a better treatment option – laser or cauterization?

KNOTS of Canada

According to Dr. Jetty Lopez of the Belo Medical Group, warts are caused by a virus so they are spread by direct physical contact. The beso-beso (cheek-to-cheek kissing) practice prevalent in social gatherings is notorious for spreading warts. So are sharing makeup brushes, facial sponges, pillows, towels, and bed linens. The good thing about warts is that they are preventable as well as treatable. For one, you can avoid making beso-beso and the moment you notice warts, have them removed ASAP. Believe it or not, warts spread faster than you can say stop. As far as treatment is concerned, Dr. Lopez says laser is far better than cautery. Laser is more precise, does not leave deep scars, and heals faster while the opposite is true of cauterization. If you are married, it would be best if you could ask your husband to also have his warts removed at the same time as yours. Otherwise, your efforts will be an exercise in futility.

Lucy

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Skirting A Visa Issue

Dear Tingting,

I will have an interview at the Canadian Embassy to secure a work permit as caregiver in Canada. Please advise me on what to wear. I was thinking of wearing a blouse and skirt, but friends who already got their work permit told me to wear a casual outfit, like blouse and slacks. I’m confused. Please help me decide.

Ruth

For a formal meeting with an official of the Canadian Embassy, a skirt would be better than pants.

Tingting

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Facing Facial Scars/Blackheads

Dear Mary,

Since I was young, I’ve had allergies. I’m 26 years old now and the scars from my allergies are still there. What product should I use to make them disappear? My other problem is my blackheads. Before, I used fresh lemon – I just squeezed it and applied it on my face. But nothing happened. I also tried the apricot scrub. There was little improvement. What do you suggest?

Bing

You should really see a dermatologist for your facial scars. Try Dr. Sylvia Jacinto at 1311 Batangas City, Makati with tel. nos. 894-3952.

As for your blackheads, they will not go away with lemon juice. Try steaming your face; then, with clean hands, squeeze out the blackheads. Then close the pores with an astringent. Fine-O-Xina is one good product to use.

Mary

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