Here’s how you can protect your skin
The Philippines has topped a regional chart no one wants to lead: a recent study by Galderma revealed the country ranks sixth globally, and first in Southeast Asia, for prevalence of sensitive skin. This revelation, shared by Khen Koh, head of medical at Galderma Asia Pacific Region, during the recently held Cetaphil Skin Labs event.
In an interview with Manila Bulletin Lifestyle, Koh sheds light on the unique challenges Filipinos face in maintaining healthy skin.
The study
The study, encompassing 15,000 patients aged 18 to 65, primarily from urban areas, highlighted a worrying trend. "The Philippines ranked highest in the heat map for development of sensitive skin," Koh explained, contrasting it with neighboring countries like Myanmar, Laos, and Cambodia.
So, what's contributing to this prevalence? Koh points to several factors, starting with the sheer size of the Filipino population. "Number one, you do have a large population. Number two, you have a continuous high level of humidity," he stated.
However, beyond these obvious factors, Koh acknowledged that lifestyle and socioeconomic status also influence this skin situation. "I also believe that the main factors that are triggering the sensitive skin are stress and the lack of sleep," he said.
He suggested a potential link between the stress levels of Filipinos and the development of sensitive skin, although direct comparative data is lacking.The study also hinted at the impact of socioeconomic factors.
"There could also be, in a way, an association between the levels of different socioeconomic status," he noted that access to proper skincare, including gentle cleansers and moisturizers, can be limited for those in challenging conditions. Furthermore, the widespread use of traditional soaps, often harsh and alkaline, plays a significant role.
"I believe that the Philippines also has one of the highest usage of soap. I've been observing when I go into your pharmacies and supermarket, the soap section is really, really big," Koh observed. "But soap is a very harsh product to use to clean your skin because it has a very high alkaline content, and it actually breaks down the skin barrier."
The symptoms and preventions
Recognizing sensitive skin isn’t always straightforward. He advised paying attention to key symptoms. "If they have a combination of three out of all the symptoms which are itching, redness and skin tightness, particularly after they shower, or even on a normal day,” he said.
He then offered practical tips for managing and preventing sensitive skin:
Embrace a gentle routine: "Just use products such as Cetaphil, which have got the right ingredients. And follow a simple regime," he said as he emphasized the importance of a consistent, minimal routine.
Cleanse and moisturize: "Just cleanse your skin with a gentle skin cleanser. And then after that, apply a moisturizer or a moisturizing lotion.”
Protect from the Sun: "For your face, if you can obtain sunscreen, always protect your skin from the sun."
By adopting these simple yet effective steps, Filipinos can take control of their skin health and combat the challenges of sensitive skin.
"If you can do these three things, you would find that it really improves the health of your skin and also will help you to prevent but also, to an extent, reduce a lot of the symptoms that you have for sensitive skin," Koh concluded.
