Skin problems are unfortunately part of everyday life, be it for a teen worried about breakouts or a parent wondering why their child’s skin is always itchy and irritated. Indeed, skin issues affect many Filipinos of all ages and lifestyles. Many dermatologists from hospitals like the Philippine General Hospital (PGH) and experts from the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS) treat thousands of patients every year for the same kinds of conditions.
Let’s talk about some of the most common skin conditions that plague Filipinos and discuss how you can manage them better.
- Acne
Acne is a problem many, not just Filipinos, know all too well. While it’s common during your teenage years, it can stick around into your 20s and even 30s. There are various causes, including heat, stress, pollution, or even using too many products at once.
The best way to fix acne is to keep things simple. Start by washing your face with a gentle cleanser and avoid harsh scrubbing. Also, look for non-comedogenic products that won’t clog your pores to treat and moisturize your skin. If your breakouts don’t get better, consult a dermatologist who can prescribe stronger treatments like retinoids or antibiotics.
- Psoriasis
Psoriasis shows up as thick, red patches with white flakes, often on the scalp, elbows, or knees. Contrary to some stories, psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that’s not contagious. This means you can’t catch it or pass it on to another person. But what’s true is stress, illness, and cold or dry weather can make it worse.
One of the best ways to manage psoriasis is to moisturize daily and get just the right amount of sun. When needed, visit your dermatologist for creams or special treatments.
- Keloids
If you have a scar that grows bigger over time, then what you probably have is a keloid. It often appears after surgery, piercings, acne, or cuts. If you’re prone to keloids, it’s best to avoid body piercings or tattoos. That said, if you already have the scars, Southstar Drug has some gels that may help with the stinging sensation or skin tenderness. Beyond these topical solutions, you could also explore treatments like injections, laser therapy, or silicone sheets.
- Atopic Dermatitis
Sometimes called “skin asthma”, atopic dermatitis presents as dry, itchy, and red skin. It is common in kids, but adults may also experience the condition. Here in the Philippines, the hot and humid weather can make it worse; sweating and scratching only add to the problem.
As atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition, it doesn’t really go away. What you can do is to manage it to prevent or minimize flare-ups. Avoid harsh soaps when bathing and moisturize right after. Also, choose clothes made from soft fabrics like cotton. If the itching becomes too much, your doctor may recommend antihistamines or topical steroids.
- Irritant Contact Dermatitis
People who often wash their hands or use strong cleaners—like caregivers, kitchen workers, or medical staff—are likely to experience this type of problem. The skin becomes red, dry, cracked, and painful, especially on the hands. To prevent irritant contact dermatitis, wear protective gloves while working. Then, at night, apply a thick cream or petroleum jelly and wear soft gloves to lock in moisture and help your hands heal while you sleep.
- Melasma
Melasma appears as dark patches on your face, usually on the cheeks, forehead, or upper lip. It’s common in women, especially during pregnancy or because of hormonal changes. In the Philippines, with its sunny climate, melasma often gets worse. To manage it, make sunblock lotion your best friend. Wear it every day, even if you're indoors or it’s cloudy.
- Warts (Verruca Vulgaris)
Warts are caused by the HPV virus and can appear on the hands, feet, or other parts of the body. Unlike psoriasis, warts are contagious. You can get them from shared spaces like pools or by touching someone else’s wart.
You’ve probably heard of old folk remedies to cure warts, like using garlic and vinegar. However, they often don’t work; worse, they can even burn your skin. It’s safer to let a skin professional remove your warts then use antiseptic ointments for wound care after.
- Seborrheic Dermatitis (Dandruff)
Got itchy flakes on your scalp, eyebrows, or nose? It might be seborrheic dermatitis caused by stress and oily hair products. You can use medicated shampoos from Southstar Drug to keep it under control. Also, wash your hair and scalp regularly to prevent oil and dirt build-up. If the flakes spread to your face or body, check with your doctor for appropriate treatment.
- Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra
As Filipinos get older, small dark bumps—especially on the cheeks or neck—may start to appear. These are called dermatosis papulosa nigra or DPN. They’re harmless, so if you see them popping up on your skin, don’t try to pick or remove them. Your best and safest option is laser removal done by a skin specialist to prevent infections and scarring. In the meantime, use gentle skincare products to keep your skin healthy and prevent more DPNs from developing.
- Nummular Dermatitis
This condition causes round, red patches that may look like a ringworm infection but it’s actually a form of eczema. Dry skin, insect bites, or allergens often trigger. As with eczema, moisturizing helps a lot. Use thick, unscented lotions and avoid long, hot showers or strong soaps to prevent flare-ups.
Love Your Skin
Your skin is your body’s first line of defense. So, if you notice something strange or painful on your skin, don’t ignore it. A visit to the dermatologist can help give you peace of mind and get you on the path to healing faster.
For everyday skin solutions, you don’t need to go far. Southstar Drug has a wide range of affordable skincare products, both over-the-counter and prescription-based, to help you care for your skin from head to toe.
