the B. spot

Hi B. spotters!

Once again, our resident derm extraordinaire, Dr. Susan Taylor, has answered your questions regarding extreme dry skin, chapped lips, exfoliation and other issues…if you have questions or general concerns about your skin, hair, or nails- remember the Doc is on the Spot to answer your questions!

Q. I have tremendous underarm sensitivity.  I shave every other day but because my underarms are so sensitive, I end up getting bumps and I have to  re-irritate them every time I shave so they never fully heal and then they scar.  Is there anything that I can put on my skin to soothe them and help them heal faster?  I also have a lot of discoloration as a result, so even though I have shaved the dark spots make it look as though I haven’t.  Please help!!!

• My first suggestion to reduce your underarm sensitivity is to stop using all underarm products for 5 days.  During that time I would use a 1% hydrocortisone cream to calm the skin.  Then I would switch to a gentle deodorant like Tussy; most anti-perspirants contain aluminum chlorhydrate which is very irritating.  Next, I might suggest using an electric razor for shaving.  Finally, to lighten the dark spots, I would suggest a botanical skin lightening cream (no hydroquinone).

Q. My skin is really dry and I am beginning to develop rash-like patches on my shoulder blades, legs and elbows.  Why is this happening and what can I do about it?

• I suspect that your dry skin is exacerbated by the winter weather and you may be developing a form of eczema.  Ii would suggest the following: Limit your baths/showers to 4 minutes using lukewarm (not hot) water.  Use a mild cleanser, like Dove, sparingly; apply a rich moisturizer (such as Eucerin or AmiLactin) to damp skin right after you bath and remember to reapply the moisturizer at the end of the day.

Q. How often should I exfoliate my skin?

• Everyone’s skin is different so the rule is to exfoliate when your skin begins to look dull and when it feels rough to the touch.  I always prefer gentle exfoliation with glycolic and lactic acids over harsh scrubs.

Q. It seems that no matter what I do my lips stay dry and chapped.  What is the best thing to use on my lips to stop the chapping?

• First, stop licking your lips! Licking them will dry them out further.  Also stop using your mouthwash and tarter control toothpaste (you might be allergic to these).  Finally, apply Vaseline several times a day and at bedtime.  If your lips do not improve in 1 month, the see your dermatologist.