Problem for very dry skin with slight acne problem.

[angelex123]

Hi there, I am suffering from severe sensitiveness in my face.  I have lately for the last 6 months been having cracked skin around my nose and mouth, my forhead, my chin where it is at its worst, and also at the inner sides of my cheeks (next to the sides of the nose).  At the same time I have got light acne which I was told to treat with this ointment called Differin which I don't apply to these specific areas, but just on the acne areas.  My face is all red and it hurts even touching these areas.

My face is so sensitive at the moment that even a light Simple moisturiser is giving me a burning sensation.  Before my dermatologist suggested a La Roche Posay Hydraphase XL but it still was giving me this sensation so I stoped using it.  Even applying make up is giving me this burning sensation especially on my chin and forhead.

The Differin gel seems to make my skin worse in the drying still and at the same time I cant use too oliy stuff because of the acne problem.  What do you suggest to help with the acne and sort out the severa drying problem that I have so as to make my skin more supple and comfortable?

Thanks for your help.

Angelle

[Vanessa Lacuesta]

Hi,


At this point, this sounds like you have an underlying dermatitis. Have you been assessed along this line? The dryness may be a form of allergic or inflammatory reaction to certain triggers like repeated application of creams and lotions on the area. Have you tried not applying anything on your face? Is there any peeling, flaking or itchiness without any medications?

At this point, I suggest that you try stopping the topical medications. Try using a light vitamin E cream .Use it thinly and sparingly over the dry areas. Wash your face with a mild and bland cleanser such as cetaphil. Use a hypoallergenc suscreen with an SPF of at least 15 each time you go outdoors.

Drink plenty of water and eat a well balanced meal. Avoid alcohol, smoking and spicy food for the moment.

Is there any history of asthma or allergies in the family?

Is there any scaling or flaking in the scalp, chest or other parts of the body?