Skinrepublic

Dear Dr. Jen,

I'm 45 years old and just started having acne.  I never used to have pimples during high school or college.  What causes a late breakout of pimples, and can it still be cured?

Emily

Dear Emily,

Late-onset acne can have many etiologies. One of the more obvious causes is a change in skin regimen that you may have used in the past six months or so.  This may include something as simple as changing toners, using new foundation, or using an anti-aging serum.  Any new product is a likely culprit since this will clog up the pores thereby leading to pimples.  Aside from completely stopping the offending product, your PDS derma will probably prescribe a simple anti-acne cream that you can use for two to four months just to control the problem. 

Other possible causes to consider are hormonal imbalances or even endocrine problems.  This is easily ruled out by a trip to your endocrinologist or your gynecologist who will likely order some easy tests.  In treating the underlying hormonal problem, resolution of your acne will follow. 

Review of medications that you are presently using is also helpful.  Some medications can lead to pimple formation.  Before you head over to your dermatologist, make sure to make a list of medicines that you take, cosmetics that you have used as well as all the beauty products that you may have applied in the past six months.  This will ensure that your derma visit is thorough and will save you another visit altogether!

Dear Dr. Jen,

I always have itchy patches on my ankles.  I've used alcohol as well as anti-fungal ointments on it but it just seemed to be getting worse.  How can I get rid of this rash?

Jerome

Dear Jerome,

First of all, if you have something itchy, never apply alcohol, hot water or anything with acid or sulfur (salicylic acid or sulfur soap) on it. Your first instinct may be to try to disinfect the lesion.  You have to resist doing this because it may not even need disinfecting in the first place!

At this point, it is hard to say from your description what your rash may be.  It could be a case of eczema, fungal infection, allergy or even a case of over-scratching. The alcohol overdose (which may cause a burned kind of darkening on your skin) may have covered up the original rash already.

Getting advice from neighbors and our friendly salesgirls at the pharmacy may lead you to spending on unnecessary medicines.  Needless to say, getting a correct diagnosis through your nearest PDS dermatologist might be a good idea at this point.  This may save you time and money.

Dr. Tan is a diplomate of Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) and is affiliated with Perpetual Succour Hospital (PSH). For information on PDS, check http://www.pds.org.ph/. For questions or concerns, please text to: 0932 857 7070; or email to: [email protected]; or call The Freeman: (032) 2531276, or PSH: (032) 233 8620 and 232 5929. Your inquiries will be forwarded to Dr. Tan.