featured What are wrinkles and what causes them?
Static lines, or fine lines that are visible on the surface of the skin at all times even without facial expression, is a result of dry and damaged skin, that has lost its intrinsic elasticity, and ability to retain moisture. Dynamic wrinkles, or lines that appear with facial expression, such as frown lines, forehead lines, and crow’s feet, are due to over-activity...
What is the best way we can prevent or delay our skin from aging?
While we cannot reverse “intrinsic aging”, or the natural process of aging; we can minimise the effects of “extrinsic aging” by reducing free radical and other external damage to the skin, while enhancing anti-oxidant and other repair mechanisms in the skin. Sun protection – including oral and physical sunblock, sun avoidance – is key to minimise free radical damage to the skin....
What is your view on the subject of Labiaplasty or the notion of a “perfect” vulva?
Labiaplasty is surgery on the inner and outer lips of the vulva. It is often discussed in the media in a narrative similar to plastic surgery, where we think that women are getting Labiaplasty because they want a nice-looking or a “perfect” vulva that’s similar to what we see in porn. This might be the reason for some women, but according to...
Can hormonal changes / skin issues on vulva be treated by topical application of intimate care products?
Some skin conditions can be treated using over-the-counter products. However, others may require prescription-only medications. It would be prudent to see a family doctor for an assessment before self-prescribing treatment.Dr. Tan Toh Lick1 May 2019
Can the vulva be affected by common skin issues such as folliculitis, dermatitis, dehydrated skin, scars & blemishes etc.?
Yes, the vulva can be complicated with common benign skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and contact dermatitis. Like skin on other parts of the body, malignancy can also occur.Dr. Tan Toh Lick10 April 2019
Can hormonal changes in your body affect the health of the vulva (i.e. Menopause / pregnancy etc.)?
At puberty, fatty tissues deposit around the vulva increasing the size of the labia majora and mon pubis. In some girls, the pink labia minora may become darker. Pubic hair also starts to appear around this time. The vulva then remains similar until pregnancy. During pregnancy, the vulva can become engorged and varicosities are common. Pigmentation of the vulva, as with other...
Is the skin of the Vulva the same as the skin of the rest of the body or is it more sensitive in comparison?
The skin of the labia majora and the perineum are covered with skin just like on the rest of the body. In contrast, the labia minora are lined with a mucous membrane, whose surface is kept moist by fluid secreted by specialised cells. The area is often moist from normal vaginal discharge, sweating and in some women, incontinence. The combination of being...
