Espedilla: Wanto to be acne, scar free

DEAR Dr. Fritz,

Good day!

I am Gertrud, 21 years old and I have acne since I was 12 years old. I have tried a lot of medications for my acne and even visited 3 dermatologists already but still my acnes are still there. I have minimal scars on my cheeks and also on the side of my forehead. Moreover, I have been this using this so-called beauche products right now. though my acnes are gone but it keeps onÿoccurringÿwhenever myÿmenstrual cycle is near.

I would like to seek advise from you Dr. Fritz of how will I finally be acne-free and at the same time scar-free. I been intimidated to do "beso-beso" with myÿfriendsÿbecause of my acne and scar face for a long time. I want to stand-out and be confident on how I look. I am willing to pay any price of it.ÿ

Thank you and more power to you.

Regards,
Gertrud

Dear Gertrud,

I understand what you feel. It is really intimidating to face the world with face stabbed with acne and scars.

Your acne is secondary to your hormonal imbalances as they would keep on coming back during your menstruation. Acne at this time is mainly influenced by androgens and one of the major players that can affect the level of androgen is stress. So, this only means that if you highly stressed, then, you can have acne flare ups.

The problem here is that this becomes a vicious cycle because once acne appears you will be stressed. Thus, you have to take measures to control your stress levels. Yoga, meditation, relaxing bath or anything that can help you relax and smell the roses for a while would really help your situation.

Remember also that if you keep on eating foods that you are allergic to -- this can also play a role in your acne during these red days. Some of these foods that might give you allergies and lead to acne would include shellfish, nuts, soy products, and wheat or gluten.

So, check it out. Try to see that if you eat those foods and find yourself with acne before your menstrual period, then, probably you need to carefully examine your diet to settle on if this is the cause of your skin problems.

Keep in mind also that water has great power it does not only keep your skin hydrated it can also give you great skin.

Consider also your skin care regimen. This is essential to keep acne off your skin. Don't overdo cleaning your face or scrubbing it too hard, as this can lead to skin irritation or stimulate the oils to overproduce and thus, would clog your pores.

Try to also avoid products that have alcohol. If you should exfoliate, do it gently and natural treatments like tea tree oil is really good for your skin. I understand you are using beauty products so, if you find that they work for you, then, that's good enough then.

Don't forget to read the label, too. If you would buy cosmetics, be sure that they are labeled non-comedogenic or oil-free or water based. This is important - so that your pores are prevented from being clogged. Be sure also that those cosmetics you use or even perfumes are labeled hypo-allergenic so that you will not get skin irritations or allergic reactions.

Just don’t panic my dear Gertrud. Just remember those tips, as they will help you prevent your acne problems. But, of course, more help with the dermatologist wouldn't hurt.

Since you still have problems with your scars, but, we are out of space for now so, allow me to discuss more of them in the next issue. Until then!

Dr. Fritz

(For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/o Sunstar Davao, Granland Building, R. Castillo St., Davao City or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com.)