Facing the Truth about Facials
By Willeth L. Laus

I’ve never had any facial treatment before. In this age of technology and at my age of 32, where undergoing facial procedure is considered a way of life, I don’t know if I should feel proud or ashamed when asked about it. While other people immediately run to a facial center for just one pimple on their face, I’m so hesitant to let mine be pricked. The reason: besides that I have not had any major skin problem in the past, I think it’s just a waste of money; plus horror stories of skin gone-awry due to pseudo practitioners scare me.

Talking to Dr. Jean Marquez, a soft-spoken dermatologist who looks young at her age (she says, she’s nearing 40, thanks to a skin well-taken care of), has opened my mind to dermatology.

Consulting a dermatologist is not a basic need but “once something (about your skin) starts to bother you, do not self-medicate. Do not try buying skin products without consulting first a dermatologist,” says Dr. Jean, who’s been practicing her medical profession since 1999.

“You might be paying the dermatologist a consultation fee for the first time but at least, you know what to apply and you don’t risk your skin and your pocket by trying so many over-the-counter products,” she adds hitting bulls-eye my notion that it’s purely extravagance.  

She points out dermatology should not be confused with cosmetology, which according to her, specializes on facials, massage, manicure and pedicure and other beautification procedures. If medical treatment is what your skin really needs, you should go to a dermatologist. 

And how would you know if the dermatologist is legitimate? Dr. Jean stresses, “You can always ask the secretary, ‘from what society si doktora?’. There is only one accredited society of dermatologists in the country, the Philippine Dermatological Society. The society is giving the Seal of Excellence to legitimate dermatologists so they can put it in their clinic, although not all doctors display the plaque.”

I had the confidence to submit my virgin facial skin to Dr. Jean’s hands for a diamond peel treatment, whose exfoliating ability I was told, rejuvenates dry and aging skin. I didn’t expect the result to be that marvelous, considering that it’s just one session, although admittedly, I indeed felt cleansed after the procedure. However, as my first facial treatment, the experience was worth overcoming my fear to give it a chance in my simple lifestyle. After all, I now know who to consult for what skin problem.

As a bonus, here are some tips from Dr. Jean: Always clean your face; use only a mild cleanser. Apply sun block as the sun emits harmful rays. If you have skin problems, do not self-medicate; consult a dermatologist. Lastly, have a good outlook in life. If you harness anger or bitterness, those negative feelings will reflect on your face.