Though we’ve been told that some of our beauty issues are disgusting, unpleasant, and even inappropriate, you should not have to feel discouraged for having them. Because you know what? They are way more common than you thought!
To help you solve them once and for all, I did some research through various dermatologists for and other women’s health advocates to encourage you to embrace your beauty marks and of course, help you with how to solve them.
Upper Lip Hair Growth
Photo Courtesy of Wax strips
Excess facial hair growth can be attributed to genetics or some hormonal disorders. While there’s nothing wrong with rocking it (if you’re into it), there are ways to deal with upper lip hair if you’re absolutely not a fan.
How to help:
- Waxing
- Delipatory
- Laser hair removal
- Shaving
- Threading
Source: Dr. Doris Day, clinical assistant professor of dermatology at NYU Medical School
Milia
Photo Courtesy of Healthline
If you see tiny white bumps, you likely have milia. They’re smaller and harder in texture than whiteheads and can develop anywhere on the face.
How They Form:
When keratin protein blocks a sebaceous gland, it forms a hard ball under the skin. This happens from using creams that are too heavy or not shedding off.
How To Help:
- Swap out creamy moisturizers
- Try a cleansing brush
- Add a retinoid
- Visit a dermatologist to remove the bumps
Source: Dr. Day
Cysts
Photo Courtesy of Healthline
Cysts are raised bumps in the skin. The only way to be sure that your bump is a painless cyst is to see a doctor. There are many reasons for why they develop.
How To Help:
Depending on the type of cyst, your doctor may remove it, inject it with cortisone, or just observe it. One way to help is to NOT squeeze, poke, pick, or otherwise fuss with because it’ll make it way worse! Just like zits.
Source: Dr. Mary Lupo, clinical professor of dermatology at Tulane University Medical School
Deep Lip Cracks
Photo Courtesy of Healthgrades
The medical term for this ultra-common condition is called angular cheilitis. It’s an irritation from yeast that lives on the skin, and mostly grows near the corners of the mouth, where moisture pools. I’m just as guilty as most gals here because I have this problem just about every other week… Utah, am I right?
How To Help:
- Apply a lip treatment and stop licking your damn lips
- Abreva Abreva Abreva!
- If you’re crazy, and don’t like Abreva, try this lip treatment from Avene .
Avene Cold Cream Lip Cream, $16
Source: Dr. Carolyn Jacob, Chicago dermatologist
Dark Scaly Elbows
Photo Courtesy of Livestrong.com
Thick and discolored elbow skin can be a result of genetics and is most common among darker skin types. Other causes include diabetes, repeated friction on athletic mats, and rubbing elbows against hard surfaces and fabrics.
How To Help:
Apply lotion with salicylic, lactic, or glycolic acid to help prevent the accumulation of skin.
Source: Dr. Gervaise Gerstner, New York City dermatologist
Razor Bumps & Ingrown Hairs
Photo Courtesy of Dr. Peter Vignjevic
Little bumps that occur when your hairs curl or fold back under the skin, which causes inflammation. Dead skin cells can also clog hair follicles and force hair to grow under the skin.
How To Help:
- Choose fresh, sharp razors
- Exfoliate before shaving
- Shave in a warm shower to help hairs soften
- Use a soothing shave gel
- Use a salicylic acid product to help exfoliate bumps
Source: Dr. Jeanine Downie, New Jersey Dermatologist
Toenail Fungus
Photo Courtesy of Smithsonian Magazine
I’m too grossed out to post a photo of actual toenail fungus, but they are thick, discolored toenails and they often have a white, green, or black tinge. You can pick it up where there’s lots of moisture, mainly locker-room showers.
How To Help:
- Wear flip-flops in public showers
- Bring your own sanitized products to your next pedicure
- Keep your toenails short
- Look into prescription antifungals and tropical treatments
Source: Dr. Downie
Don’t be ashamed of these issues! Just know how to treat them, and you’ll be golden and glowing in no time.