There are also some O-T-C combination
acne drying solutions that contain multiple ingredients
to rapidly dry the area within 24-48 hours. If these
do not do the trick, and you have enough time before
your wedding day, consult a dermatologist who may inject
a low-dose steroid solution directly into the area and
prescribe oral antibiotics or combination antibiotic/benzoyl
peroxide creams. Otherwise, concealer layered in that
area offers the best immediate fix!
 Flushed,
Red Face — Redness of the forehead,
cheeks, nose and chin or medically known as “Acne
Rosacea.” — If you currently
have this condition, immediately watch your diet and
stop intake of all caffeinated products (coffee, chocolate,
sodas), spicy foods, and alcohol. These all increase
blood flow to those areas causing the redness. O-T-C
strength Hydrocortisone cream or ointment to face 2-3
times per day will help to temporarily decrease redness.
Consult with your dermatologist for a more thorough
evaluation as treatment may require oral antibiotics
and/or topical medicated creams. There are certain
concealers that contain proper pigment for covering
red areas on the face. Schedule a make-up consultation
prior to your big day to ensure proper coverage.
Flaky
Eyebrows or Ears— Dry, flaky, red,
itchy skin along eyebrows, side of nose or ears which
is medically known as “Seborrheic Dermatitis” (Dandruff
of the face). — This condition
can be exacerbated by stress and is due to the pityrosporum
yeast that overgrows in the hair follicles. This condition
can be quickly remedied with the use of O-T-C Nizoral
(ketoconazole) shampoo to wash your face and ears followed
by Hydrocortisone cream twice per day. If this condition
is common for you, seek evaluation and treatment by
your dermatologist weeks in advance since stress of
the wedding can cause flare ups. If this is a new problem
for you and persists, consult a dermatologist.
Hormonal
Time-of-the-Month Acne — Acne that
exacerbates during your period or a week prior. — Following
an intense acne cleansing routine with beta-hydroxy
acid (salicylic acid) or a benzoyl peroxide face wash,
apply a benzoyl peroxide 2-3 times per day. Since it
is the androgens (male hormones) in the body that cause
flaring of acne, there are proven birth control formulations
(Ortho Tri-Cyclen) that reduce monthly acne exacerbations.
Unfortunately, if not taken a few months prior, there
is no quick fix due to the fluctuations of hormones
that occur during your period. Therefore, seek treatment
months prior to your wedding if you have a history
of acne.
Dull,
Dry, Ashy Face — Non-radiant, dry
complexion.
This may be a sign that your face has lots of old, dead surface skin. Your skin
could benefit immediately from a thorough exfoliation which will brighten and
decrease roughness of the face. A gentle facial scrub with coarse microbeads
(Neutrogena Deep Clean Scrub is my favorite) will help to rapidly exfoliate the
old, dead skin surface to a renewed feel and look followed by moisturizer. When
used regularly, you will not only find a more radiant complexion, but you will
also appreciate how well your make-up goes on and looks. If you are not getting
the desired results from your normal cleansing routine or you desire a more intense
approach, you may want to visit a spa for a facial or dermatologist for a few
sessions of microdermabrasion. Again, this should be done weeks before your big
day.
Post Waxing Redness or Irritation — Waxing
can produce immediate redness following the procedure
that will go away within a few minutes to an hour. — No
waxing on the wedding day! However, if you did wax,
immediately apply a cool compress to areas followed
by an O-T-C Hydrocortisone cream. Reapply a few hours
later. The redness should decrease or even disappear
shortly. If not, make-up is the immediate trick!
Dry,
Flaky, Itchy Scalp — Dry flakes,
itching and redness of the scalp medically known as “Seborrheic
Dermatitis” and commonly referred to as “dandruff.” — This
condition is commonly occurs in both men and women,
but can flare under extreme stress and anxiety such
as preparing for your wedding day. Examples of O-T-C
medicated shampoos include ketoconazole (Nizoral),
selenium sulfide (Selsun Blue or Intensive Head &Shoulders),
tar (Neutrogena T-Gel, Pentrax), zinc pyrithione (Head & Shoulders),
tea tree oil (Paul Mitchell Tea Tree shampoo) and salicylic
acid (Neutrogena T-Sal). Choose two different types
so that you will not lose effectiveness of the same
shampoo. Massage shampoo into scalp well and leave
in for at least 5-10 minutes before washing out thoroughly.
You may follow with your favorite shampoo then conditioner.
The next time you shampoo, use the other medicated
shampoo. Avoid using the tar shampoos on lighter or
bleached hair because it may discolor. No one wants
to be caught scratching their head when its time to
say “I DO” or with white flakes on their
black tux!
Melanye M. Maclin, M.D., is the dermatologist and CEO
of Innovative Hair Technology, Inc., based in Maryland.
Dr. Maclin specifically researches unique, natural ingredients
for the development and distribution of innovative hair
and skin products. In addition, she is well known in
the media as a beauty advisor and columnist of skin and
hair issues for several national magazines.
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