From acne to eczema, rosacea to dermatitis, we asked a dermatologist for his action plan for tackling the most common skin conditions. Say hello to complexion perfection.
When skin problems come up, it’s hard to know how to deal with them without wasting a lot of time and money on products and treatments that don’t really work. We spoke to Dr Greg Goodman from the Dermatology Institute Victoria for his skin care plan for the most common skin conditions.
THE T-ZONE AND JAWLINE
Common skin conditions: Spots, acne and eczema.
ACNE deconstructed
What are the symptoms?
“The main cause of acne is hormonal,” says Goodman. “Whiteheads, blackheads, inflamed spots, cysts and post-inflammation scarring are all common symptoms. Testosterone is the main hormone responsible, as it plays havoc with sebaceous glands which causes breakouts in areas that have the highest concentration like the T-zone, up chest and back.”
What would a dermatologist do?
“In order to clear acne look for skincare that will clear blockages, including ‘non-comedogenic’ and ‘oil-free’, and acne-specific ranges as they contain salicylic or glycolic acid, which help to exfoliate and dry up the spots,” says Goodman. “Products that will sterilise or decrease the inflammation in the follicles are also a good choice.” Brands such as Neutrogena and in particular their Deep Clean, Rapid Clear and Acne Stress ranges, La Roche-Posay and Dermalogica are a good starting point. Try Neutrogena’s Rapid Clear 2 in 1 Cleanser Mask, $13.99 and Dermalogica Medibac Overnight Clearing Gel, $64 for a more targeted application.
ECZEMA deconstructed
What are the symptoms?
“Skin is red, dry and scaly with small bumps or blisters and is extremely itchy,” says Goodman. “It often affects the forehead, cheeks, eyes and around the mouth.”
What would a dermatologist do?
“I would treat with non-cortisone anti-inflammatory creams to help reduce inflammation and itch. Antihistamines may also be used to reduce the itch and antibiotics may be required if there is secondary infections. Wet dressings help to soothe the skin and reduce itchiness,” advises Goodman. Try Aveeno Active Naturals Dermexa Moisturising Cream, $19.99.
THE NOSE
Common skin conditions: Seborrheic dermatitis and psoriasis.
SEBORRHEIC DERMATITIS deconstructed
What are the symptoms?
“Seborrhoeic dermatitis is a common, chronic rash mainly affecting the scalp and face,” explains Goodman. “It is produced by an overgrowth of a skin friendly yeast.”
What would a dermatologist do?
“Skincare containing salicylic acid, lactic acid, urea, propylene glycol, topical anti fungals or possibly mild topical corticosteroids will help the condition,” he says.
PSORIASIS deconstructed
What are the symptoms?
“Psoriasis is a skin and immune disorder where there is an increase in the rate at which skin cells are produced and shed from the skin,” explains Goodman. “Generally it is characterised by scaly red plaques, which are often itchy. It can appear anywhere on the body, but the most common areas are the scalp, elbows and knees.”
What would a dermatologist do?
“There is no single treatment, but you can control it with medications such as hydrocortisone cream, which can slow down the rate at which the skin cells are produced,” he says. Try La Roche Posay Lipikar Baume AP+, $24.95.
CHEEKS
Common skin condition: ROSACEA
What are the symptoms?
“It is a persistent redness with bumps and pimples and often includes raised red patches,” he says. “It usually occurs on parts that stick out such as cheeks, chin, nose and forehead. Pimples without blackheads or whiteheads appear on and around the reddened area, some of which may contain pus.”
What would a dermatologist do?
“I would recommend topical skin care treatments such as soap-free cleansers, gentle emollients and light foundations,” says Goodman. “Antioxidants and vitamin E will also help to fight free radical damage, promoting skin rejuvenation.” Try Paula’s Choice Rosacea Kit, $135.
The Carousel would like to thank Dr Greg Goodman for his contribution. Here is his link.
This is a sponsored post by Neutrogena. All opinions expressed by the author are authentic and written in their own words.
