DOC TALK

This month, Dr Karen Soh, medical director at Prive Aesthetics, gives tips on dealing with post-flight skin and an unexpected chemical burn.

Portrait of Tammy Strobel

This month, Dr Karen Soh, medical director at Prive Aesthetics, gives tips on dealing with post-flight skin and an unexpected chemical burn.

My Reading Room
What’s a quick fix for dry post- flight skin that looks tired and splotchy? Leandra Wong

Drink lots of water, and use moisturisers and hydrating mists – vital in tackling post-flight skin woes. Be sure to cover areas such as the eye area, neck and decolletage when you apply your products. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen, especially if your flight is landing during the day. Pick one with coenzyme Q10, a natural antioxidant that counteracts freeradical damage.

I had a stubborn pimple that didn’t heal for months, so my beauty therapist recommended that I apply vinegar on it. This has left a red scar on my skin. How can I remedy the situation? Sor Shan

In normal circumstances when stubborn post-inflammatory marks are difficult to heal, steroid creams can be applied to speed up the healing process and minimise scarring. However, in your case, you may be experiencing a chemical burn from the acidic vinegar. You’ll need to be extra careful with the wound and apply an antibiotic ointment to prevent infection. Serums formulated with growth factors and peptides can also be topically applied to promote healing. When the burn is completely healed and the scar is less red, laser treatments can help to reduce any resulting pigmentation or surface irregularities. Brightening skincare can also be used at this stage to lighten the scar.

My Reading Room
Are there any proven benefits of using facial mists? Nura Rahmat

Facial mists can help cool overheated skin, rebalance it and replenish its moisture levels, plus lend your complexion a youthful dewiness – but only when used correctly. You can use a facial mist on its own – spritz it generously on the skin, wait a few seconds, then blot off the excess to prevent an overly wet look – or under a moisturiser to help bind moisture to the skin. The main takeaway: do not allow the mist to evaporate off the skin, as this process will draw out some of the skin’s existing moisture.

WINNING QUESTION

This reader wins a Prive Skinworks skincare set, comprising the brand’s Honey Soothing Cream (15ml), worth $42.80, Triple Action Skin Defence Sunblock SPF50 (50g), worth $62, and Clear Acne Relief Mask, worth $16.