The skin is the largest organ of the body and the first defense against pollutants and allergens. Hence, basic skin hygiene involves cleaning, moisturizing and sun protection.

 

Yet, legions of patients visit Dr. Ma. Purita Paz Lao, president of the Philippine Dermatological Society (PDS), for cases of acne, ectopic dermatitis or eczema, fungal infection, dry skin, wrinkles and other skin concerns.

 

Dermatologist Dr. Zharlah Flores said that despite people doing 10-step skin-care regimens, they are not getting results because of the wrong products.

 

Likewise, she was appalled by some patients’ poor hygiene, such as sharing towels with other members of the family, changing bed sheets only after several weeks and an unbalanced diet. These aggravate their skin conditions.

 

Cetapahil, a line of skin care products by Galderma Laboratories, has initiated a campaign in partnership with Watsons and the PDS. The Cetaphil National Healthy Skin Mission aims to educate the public on hygiene and protection, and using skin-care products suitable to the individual’s skin type.

 

 

Doctor-patient relationship

 

At the launch at SM Makati, Lao and Flores emphasized the importance of the doctor-patient relationship. “Guidance should come from a board-certified dermatologist who will recommend the good brand for your skin type. The PDS is the only dermatological association recognized by the Philippine Medical Association and the Philippine Regulatory Commission,” said Dr. Lao.

 

Cetaphil Philippines brand manager Francesca Sy said that the National Healthy Skin Mission fulfills the brand’s purpose of improving the lives of Filipinos through maintenance of healthy skin.

 

She cited a survey conducted by IQVIA, an American multinational that provides health information technology and clinical research, which revealed that Cetaphil is the most prescribed brand by dermatologists in the Philippines. The findings were based on the volume of doctors’ prescriptions and sales.

 

Throughout the campaign, Cetaphil will hold consumer engagement activities in eight national locations. Beauty advisors at select counters will conduct free skin patch tests to identify the customer’s skin type, have it analyzed by electronic detailing and recommend suitable products.

 

 

Sy pointed out scientific studies on the efficacy of Cetaphil’s cleanser and moisturizers. Other cleansers have a higher acidity or pH level and harmful ingredients. Although they remove dirt, pollutants, excess oil and bad bacteria, they also strip off the essential components of fatty acids, proteins and moisture.

 

Cetaphil Gentle Cleanser’s pH level is 5.5, equivalent to the skin’s natural acidity. This shields the skin against bacteria, allergens and pollution while retaining moisture. A healthy skin should have a naturally acidic mantle of 4 to 6 pH.

 

An American study further showed that the cleanser didn’t aggravate condition of patients with rosacea. Moreover, Cetaphil Moisturizing Lotion alleviated dryness, roughness and peeling, and reduced skin sensitivity.

 

During the panel discussion, model and host Bianca King recalled that when she had dermatitis, it would recur when she stopped applying creams. A combination of an allergy test and a product from Cetaphil’s dermatology line cured her ailment.

 

In her lecture, Dr. Flores said that a successful skin regimen is based on knowing one’s skin type. She cited 16 skin personalities identified by American dermatologist and researcher Leslie Baumann.

 

“We know about oily, dry, resistant and sensitive skins. But it doesn’t end there. The skin could be dry and sensitive, but also pigmented,” said Dr. Flores. She made recommendations based on fundamental skin types:

 

Oily skin should use a gentle skin cleanser (that doesn’t strip off essential liquids), oil-free sunscreen and tretinoin.

 

Dry skin should use an oil-based moisturizer.

 

Sensitive skin is prone to breakouts when using certain products. Look for a product that does not contain ingredients that clog the pores and redden the skin. Use a gentle skin cleaner that is hypoallergenic. This means that the allergens or the culprits have been significantly reduced. There is no smell or lather. Use a sunblock that is noncomedogenic (doesn’t block pores).

 

Aging skin should use a cleanser that doesn’t leave any residue.

 

Pigmented skin should use a gentle facial cleanser that doesn’t rub on the skin. Use tretinoin to exfoliate dead skin, or retinol, a Vitamin A derivative to make the pigmentation fade if the skin is sensitive.

 

The skin is the most sensitive yet most exposed part of the body. Apply one ounce or a finger-sized amount of sunblock daily. Apply a thin coat every two hours to prevent sun damage.

 

Sleep is a ‘superpower’

 

Dr. Lao recommended a nonalkaline or a pH balancing cleanser that maintains the skin’s natural acidity. This supports the growth of good bacteria in the skin and is best for the enzymes to clinch the hydration.

 

Another alternative are synthetic bars or syndets for their neutral acidity.

 

 

To maintain smooth skin, Dr. Lao favored moisturizing lotions with ceramides—fats that protect the skin barrier and prevent moisture loss—and dimethicone, a silicon that traps impurities.

 

“The skin will remain soft, not dry,” she said.

 

Beauty also starts from within. Dr. Flores stressed the importance of diet: “Avoid sugary, fatty and spicy foods, red meats and empty carbohydrates. Eat lots of fiber and leafy vegetables. Broccoli hydrates the skin. Nuts contain antioxidants. Cucumber retains water in the skin. Banana and avocado contain essential fatty acids and maintain skin hydration.”

 

For good skin and well-being, King swore by American neuroscientist Matthew Walker’s book “Why We Sleep,” which explains why sleep is a “superpower.”  She sets the alarm at 9 p.m. to remind her of bedtime, and gets eight hours of sleep.

 

Said Dr. Flores: “Great skin doesn’t happen by chance. What you do now is what your face will look like in the future.” —CONTRIBUTED