Dear Dr. Jen,
I noticed that I get allergic reactions to a lot of make-ups and creams. I want to try so many new products but I am worried that I might end up getting another reaction. I’ve had eczema since I was a teenager and my doctor said that it is probably the cause to my extreme sensitivity. Does this mean I cannot use make-up at all?
Janet
Dear Janet,
Eczema is a chronic skin condition characterized by transepidermalwater loss, which translates into dry skin. Although sensitivity to some cosmetics is almost always part and parcel of the condition, it’s just a matter of being smart about your beauty products.
Stay on top of your eczema by reading the ingredient list on the label of each cosmetic you want to try out. AVOID anything with sulfur, retinol and salicylic acid. These can dry out the skin and cause irritation. Avoid anything with fragrances. Fragrance can trigger eczema too. Look for products that are labeled “fragrance free†rather than “unscentedâ€. (There is a big difference between the two!) Some preservatives like methylparaben and butylparaben should also be avoided. Preservatives can sometimes lead to inflammation.
A thing that will help your eczema is generous use of emollients that are hypoallergenic. Eczema patients should never be without moisturizers! Glycerin, lanolin and shea butter are safe bets. Another big help is use of niacinamide (vitamin B3). This can also reduce redness especially when placed underneath make-up.
Don’t give up on make-up use altogether! Just be smarter about which products to purchase and try out.
***
Dear Dr. Jen,
I have little bumps on the back of my upper arms. My dad and younger sister have it. It seems to worsen and get itchy sometimes. Is this contagious? I often scrub it to flatten the lumps.
Lila
Dear Lila,
There is a skin condition known as keratosis pilaris. This is NOT infectious but may be hereditary. This looks like chicken skin on the back of the arms and the thigh area. It feels rough, hard and may rarely be itchy. It is often overlooked because it is not really a serious condition but is just aesthetically bothersome.
There is an excess production of keratin that gives the skin the rough and hard feeling. Sometimes, the keratin can trap hair follicles inside the pores. It is usually more pronounced in the colder months.
Products that will dissolve the keratin are best as maintenance to smoothen the skin. Your PDS derma will usually prescribe something that contains lactic acid, urea, salicylic acid or retinoids. Using diamond peel and other exfoliating chemical peels are helpful as long as not done too frequently as this can also irritate the skin.
Dr Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS). She is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). For other information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/. If you have any questions or concerns please text, email or call (the Freeman or PSH): 0932 857 7070 or <askskinrepublic@gmail.com> or (032) 233 8620 or 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.