Skinrepublic

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   I've tried every treatment for oily skin out there.  None seem to work.  I end up having to wash my face four times a day. Is it possible to even treat oily skin?

   Marian

   Dear Marian,

   There are several treatment options for oily skin.  Retinols (such as retinoic acid, retin A, or the milder forms) and hydroxyl acids (glycolic acid) are very good at controlling oily complexions.  Your PDS dermatologist can prescribe the right concentration for your skin type. 

   Using oil-controlling products requires patience though because the thing to remember is to give a product time to work.  Before giving up on a product you must use it for a few weeks before declaring it ineffective.

   If an itchy, reddish reaction occurs, stop using the product immediately.  You might develop an allergy. 

   Frequent washing of face, on the contrary, especially if using strong soaps can only aggravate oily skin and may even encourage your skin to produce more oils.  Use a gentle cleanser and only wash twice a day. 

   Dear Dr. Jen,

   I'm in my late 20's and frown lines are starting to appear on my forehead.  How do I prevent it from becoming deeper?

Edmond

   Dear Edmond,

   The sun is the biggest factor in causing wrinkles. Just by applying sunblock daily, with an SPF of 30 or higher can already lessen the likelihood of forming  premature ones.  Cessation of smoking and eating food high in antioxidants can also help.

   Deep chemical peels and laser surgery (erbium, carbon dioxide or fraxional lasers) are other procedures you can consider to get rid of the wrinkles.  However, healing can be a little tricky with Filipino skin and downtime is about a week. 

   You can also do RF (radiofrequency) facials which will stimulate your skin to produce more collagen thereby tightening skin altogether.  And lastly, you can consider using botox though at a minimal dose.  Botox can "force" your frowning muscles to relax and prevent further deepening as the years pass you by. 

   As with any medical procedure, make sure it is a certified dermatologist performing them.  This is your face and you would want to entrust it to someone who has been trained properly. 

  If you have any questions or concerns please text, email or call: 0932 857 7070 or <askskinrepublic @gmail.com> or (032) 233 8620 or 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.

Dr Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS). She is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital.  For other information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/