Dr Good Skin

DR MALAVIKA KOHLI
A renowned dermatologist, she has made her mark in aesthetic dermatology in India for over 15 years. Send your query to skin@youthincmag.com

Last month, I suddenly developed small white spots on my neck and back last month. I can’t determine whether it is a rash or a reaction because they are not really itching. However, they seem to have faded after application of Lacto Calamine, but they just don’t seem to go away. What can I do?
-Sheetal Mahadevia, Delhi
White spots on the neck and back could most probably be a fungal infection. You may require antifungal creams containing Clotrimazole or Miconazole. Fungus takes a week to die but marks take longer to fade. Colour can come back in 3-4 weeks. However, you can hasten up the process by using some colour blending creams available over the counter.

I’m 22 and have some facial hair growth. I shave regularly, but my problem is that I do not have enough growth to grow a moustache. I have tried and failed several times. Do you think it’s a problem, or is it just a matter of time?
-Purav Kothari, Pune
Do you also have decreased or no hair on other parts of the body as well? If so, then kindly consult your dermatologist as it may indicate an underlying medical condition. If the hair growth is normal on other parts of the body and only scanty on the face or it is seen as a pattern in the family then there is absolutely nothing to worry about.

A friend of mine suggested I go in for a laser treatment to permanently get rid of unwanted body hair. I want to know how safe this procedure is especially for sensitive areas. Also, is the process very painful?
-Priyanka Kulkarni, Hyderabad
Laser hair removal if done by a qualified doctor using the correct technique is completely safe even for sensitive areas like the face and bikini area. Newer laser machines make laser hair removal pain free. It’s always best to do a consultation with your dermatologist first to clear any doubts.

I have very beautiful, curly hair and I have been washing it and using a styling product on it every day, which makes it look amazing. However, will this result in harmful after-effects in the long run? Is there anything I can do to prevent it?
-Urvi Jappi, Mumbai
If the styling product is from a reputed company then it should not do any harm. However curly hair needs to be taken care of by using good shampoo and conditioners. Avoid any harsh treatments consisting of highlighting hair especially blond colours or doing excessive steams or sauna treatments.

I had once straightened my hair using the Extenso treatment. Unfortunately, the stylist applied the product very close to my scalp. I have been facing a hair fall problem ever since, and even after three years, it has not reduced. What can I do?
-Niyati Shah, Ahemedabad
Hair fall could be due to underlying nutritional deficiencies such as low Vitamin B12, Vitamin D3, iron, etc or due to hormonal imbalance. Hair fall can occur due to repeated trauma caused by hair procedures such as straightening, colouring and excessive blow drying. It’s always better to get it checked to avoid further hair fall.

Post-party skin SOS

December’s gone; so are the Christmas and New Year parties, which means that there are no more late nights, lack of sleep and excessive use of make-up products that in all probability took a grand toll on your skin and body. Here are a few post-party season tips to rejuvenate your skin.
Never forget to remove your make up before you go to bed. Thoroughly cleanse your face and follow up with a good moisturiser. In the morning, for glowing and flawless skin, you must follow three steps – cleansing, moisturising and adequate use of sunscreen. Slather on sunscreen every two to three hours especially if you are outdoors. Applications of Vitamin C serum once or twice daily will help you to get radiant glowing skin.
Daily oral anti-oxidants help to overcome the dual damage caused by stress and sun. It’s vital to drink an adequate amount of water, (at least 2 or 3 litres) to keep your skin hydrated, despite undergoing so much of stress.
Sound sleep is very essential for a healthy body and glowing skin. So, make sure you sleep for at least six to seven hours every night. A good and balanced diet complete with green vegetables and fruits really help. If your skin still looks dehydrated, go in for cleansing, hydrating or refreshing treatments. Have a good start to the New Year and keep glowing!

Volume 1 Issue 7