ASK A DERMATOLOGIST

How can I make my skin feel less oily?

The trick is to be gentle and careful with it. Rather than scrubbing it mercilessly, just switch up your skincare routine to concentrate on hydrating it properly. Moisturise gently but thoroughly, and you might find yourself needing to do it more often than usual. Your diet might also need looking at – avoiding pizza or other takeaway foods can help your skin feel less greasy, and don’t forget to drink plenty of fluids!

How do I prevent dryness in summer months?

The causes may surprise you: Chlorine strips away more of your skin's oils than sea or ocean water. And good sunscreen often requires some scrubbing to get off, removing additional moisture. So right after a pool or beach day, shower and then moisturise immediately afterwards. A daily lotion (instead of a heavier cream) may be enough during the summer months.

I have acne on my back and chest. What could be the reason and how can I treat it?

It could be simply because someone in your family has it and you have it too or because of dirty scalp or dandruff. Waxing, friction, wearing tight clothes, sweaty gym clothes could also be the reason, in which case, it could be folliculitis and not acne. Whatever the cause is, you can treat it with oral pills or topical creams that contain azelaic acid, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, mandelic acid. However, make sure it is under a doctor’s prescription.

My 11-year-old son has dark circles. Are there any treatments you recommend for kids?

In children and adolescents, dark circles under the eyes may be secondary to environmental allergies or a history of sensitive skin (so called “allergic shiners”). The most effective management should be a personalised approach to treating the exact underlying cause, as determined by your son’s doctor.

How do you treat tiny red spots on arms, face, and back?

It depends on what the red spots are. One of the more common causes of red spots that we see is dilated blood vessels either in the form of telangiectasias or angiomas. These are most effectively treated with lasers. There are several other causes of red spots, but they would need to be evaluated by your doctor or dermatologist in order to determine the best therapy.

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