As dermatologists, we are asked by our patients for medications for their specific skin conditions or diseases (eg. allergic and irritant contact dermatitis, nummular eczema, acne, melasma, etc. ) which should go well with their daily skin-care routine. Combining treatments for a specific pathologic skin condition on top of daily skin regimen can be tricky, since patients usually have more than one dermatologic concern.
We can utilize the “Phenotypic Approach”, which is a simplified way of assigning proper skin-care regimens and cosmetic procedures based on the current state of the patient’s skin.
Four (4) skin types or parameters are taken in consideration in determining one’s skin phenotypic diagnosis.
- Skin hydration: Is the skin dry or oily?
- Inflammation: Is the skin sensitive or resistant?
- Pigmentation: Is the skin pigmented or non-pigmented?
- Skin- aging: Is the skin wrinkled or tight?
Different combinations of these parameters can yield as much as 16 possible skin types (example: dry, sensitive, pigmented, wrinkled or oily sensitive, non-pigmented, tight, and so on).
These “skin types” are not static and can be affected by a range of intrinsic (patient) and extrinsic factors such as environment, aging, genes, existing diseases among others.
There is no one ingredient or product that is ideal for ALL skin types. Each individual’s skin has specific needs which should be taken into account when choosing the best skin-care regimen.
Ask your trusted dermatologists to help you in individualizing the best treatment regimen for you!
Source:
Kang, S., MD, MPH, Amagai, M., MD, PhD, Bruckner, A. L., MD, MSCS, Enk, A. H., MD, Margolis, D. J., PhD, McMichael, A. J., MD, & Orringer, J. S., MD. (2019). Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology (9th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
Author:
Kathleen May V. Eusebio-Alpapara, MD MMHoA
Fellow, Philippine Dermatological Society
Fellow, Philippine Academy of Dermatologic Surgery Foundation, Inc.
