Recent cases of severe complications, including blepharoptosis (eyelid drooping), supraorbital neuropathy (forehead and scalp numbness), and infections, highlight the dangers of receiving these treatments from unqualified providers. Severe and irreversible complications of filler injections include skin necrosis and blindness.

Why This Matters

Injectable treatments require extensive medical training to ensure proper administration, minimize risks, and manage potential complications. Non-doctor practitioners lack the necessary expertise in facial anatomy, injection techniques, and emergency response—putting patients at risk.

Key Risks of Non-Doctor Administered Injectables

• Lack of medical expertise in anatomy, dosage, and injection techniques
• Higher risk of complications, including infections, nerve damage, and asymmetry
• Inability to manage adverse reactions and provide proper medical aftercare
• Use of unregulated or counterfeit products, increasing safety concerns

PDS Recommendations for Safe Treatment

To ensure patient safety, the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ (PDS) advises the public to:

• Verify credentials – Ensure your practitioner is a board-certified dermatologist or licensed medical doctor trained in cosmetic dermatology
• Prioritize safety over cost – Lower prices may mean compromised quality and higher risks.
• Seek treatment in reputable medical clinics – Avoid home-based or non-medical settings for procedures.

Your health and well-being should always come first.

To verify if a doctor is a board certified dermatologist, the PDS encourages the public to visit www.pds.org.ph

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The ceremony commenced with an invocation led by Dr. Maria Franchesca S. Quinio-Calayag, MD, FPDS, FDSP. This was followed by the warm welcome remarks of Dr. Daisy King Ismael, MD, FPDS, FDSP, who assumed office as the new President of DSP-PDS for 2025-2026. One of the key moments of the assembly was the Oath-taking of the DSP-PDS Board of Trustees for 2025-2026, officiated by PDS President Dr. Jasmin Jamora and outgoing DSP President, Dr. Eileen Cubillan. This was succeeded by the Oath-taking of New Diplomates, administered by Dr. Daisy King Ismael in her capacity as the Chair of the Board of Examiners 2024, Philippine Board of Dermatopathology together with Dr. Claudine Yap Silva. The new diplomates inducted were:

1. Dr. Marian Caligayahan
2. Dr. Erickah Dy-Calayag
3. Dr. Rahina Galvez
4. Dr. Zacaria Pario, Jr.
5. Dr. Aizlynn Robledo

The event also marked the Oath-taking of New Fellows, presided over by Dr. Maria Katherina Lat-Herrin, MD, FPDS, FDSP, Chair of the Membership Committee. The new fellows inducted were:

• Dr. Riza Milante-Taruc
• Dr. Len Cabaclang-Balmores
• Dr. Catherine Go-Teodosio

These ceremonies highlighted the society’s commitment to fostering excellence and professional growth within the field.

Dr. Eileen Liesl A. Cubillan, MD, FPDS, FDSP, the outgoing President (2023-2024), presented the 2024 Accomplishment Report, reflecting on the society’s achievements and milestones over the past year. This was complemented by the Treasurer’s report delivered by Dr. Mara P. Evangelista-Huber, MD, FPDS, FDSP, providing a comprehensive overview of the financial health and activities of the organization. A highlight of the event was the formal Induction of New Officers for the 2025-2026 term:

A highlight of the event was the formal Induction of New Officers for the 2025-2026 term:

• President: Daisy King Ismael, MD, FPDS, FDSP
• Vice President: Johannes F. Dayrit, MD, FPDS, FDSP
• Secretary: Claudine Yap Silva, MD, FPDS, FDSP
• Treasurer: Andrea Bernales-Mendoza, MD, FPDS, FDSP
• Public Relations Ofcer (PRO): Maria Franchesca S. Quinio-Calayag, MD, FPDS

These dynamic leaders are set to steer DSP-PDS towards new horizons, with a vision of advancing dermatopathology practice, education, and research in the Philippines.

The event was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including Past Presidents Dr. Gina Pastorde, Dr. Arnelfa Paliza, and Dr. Eileen Cubillan. Adding to the honor of the occasion was the presence of Dr. Jasmin Jamora, President of the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ (PDS).

The assembly concluded with heartfelt Closing Remarks by Dr. Johannes F. Dayrit, MD, FPDS, FDSP, emphasizing the society’s commitment to professional growth, collaboration, and excellence.

The 2025 General Assembly and Oath-Taking Ceremonies underscored the DSP-PDS’s vibrant community spirit, its dedication to dermatopathological excellence, and the seamless transition of leadership that will continue to uphold the society’s mission and values.

Induction of New Diplomates:
(L-R) Dr. Zacaria Pario Jr, Dr. Rahina Galvez, Dr. Marian Caligayahan, Dr. Aizlynn Robledo, Dr. Erickah DyCalayag, Dr. Daisy King-Ismael (President), Dr. Claudine Yap-Silva (Secretary)

Induction of New Fellows:
(L-R) Dr. Len Cabaclang-Balmores, Dr. Catherine Go-Teodosio, Dr. Riza Milante-Taruc, Dr. Maria Katherina Lat-Herrin (Membership Committee Head)

2025-2026 DSP Officers with DSP Past Presidents and Current PDS President
(L-R) Maria Franchesca S. Quinio-Calayag, MD, FPDS (PRO), Johannes F. Dayrit, MD, FPDS (Vice President), Eileen Liesl A. Cubillan, MD, FPDS (Outgoing President, 2023-2024), Daisy K. Ismael, MD, FPDS (President), Georgina C. Pastorde, MD, FPDS (Past President), Arnelfa C. Paliza, MD, FPDS (Past President), Maria Jasmin J. Jamora, MD, FPDS (PDS President),Claudine Yap Silva, MD, FPDS, FDSP (Secretary), Andrea Bernales-Mendoza, MD, FPDS, FDSP (Treasurer)

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This initiative, led by esteemed Dermatologist Dr. Ida M. Tiongco, an active faculty and consultant at the New York Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center and an active visiting consultant of the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center, reflects our department’s unwavering dedication to providing high quality medical and surgical care to our indigent highland brethren.

Dr. Tiongco, who has partnered with the Good News Clinic and Hospital (GNCH) for the past 25 years, collaborated with its current director, Dr. Carol Abayao for this year’s mission. Together with the steadfast support of GNCH’s former director, Dr. Antonio Ligot, and his wife, Sylvia Ligot, the 22nd iteration of the apolitical Dermatologic Surgical and Medical Mission commenced.

A team of distinguished Board certified Dermatologists from the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ, including Dr. Ma. Jasmin Jamora, the current President, Dr. Ma. Encarnacion Legaspi, current Board Member, Dr. Benedicto Carpio, OMMC Dermatology Department Chair, Dr. Gina Eubanas, and Dr. Odette Alonzo, helped complete the roster. They were likewise joined by Dr. Linda Valdelleon, former Dean of the UERM – College of Medicine and Surgery, and OMMC Dermatology residents Dr. Leanna Caylao, Dr. Reinard Wilopo, Dr. Tricia Amora, Dr. Eloisa Lobo, Dr. Michael Gunawan, Dr. Leonard Cua, and Dr. Jhudielle Eusebio, and SIMC Dermatology Chief Resident Dr. Janine Lovino-Ty.

Months prior to the event, Dr. Tiongco herself meticulously prepared surgical instruments and essential medical supplies, and ensured the safe transportation of the said supplies from the United States to the Philippines. Additional medications were generously provided by the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ.

Figure 1. The Good News Clinic and Hospital Chapel converted into a consultation area.

On the morning of January 8, 2025, the team began the mission after a lengthy but scenic 12-hour journey to Banaue, Ifugao. The hospital chapel was converted into a consultation area, the delivery room into a four-bed operating room, and the patient rooms into electrocautery stations. Over the course of two and a half days from January 8 to 10, the team managed a total of 364 patients. Meanwhile, a total of 158 dermatologic surgical procedures were performed, consisting of 84 electrosurgical procedures, 38 excisions, 7 snip excisions, 22 intralesional steroid injections, 5 skin punch biopsies, and 2 incision and drainage procedures. The surgical diagnoses included Dermatosis Papulosa Nigra, Verruca Vulgaris, Seborrheic Keratosis, Acrochordons, Sebaceous Cysts, Ganglion Cysts, Lipomas, and various Nevi. Twenty patients whose provisional diagnoses included Systemic Lupus Erythematosus, Tuberculosis Verrucosa Cutis, and Melanoma had their samples sent for further dermatopathologic examination. Lastly, the most common dermatologic diagnoses during medical consultations were Pityriasis Versicolor, Seborrheic Dermatitis, Acne Vulgaris, Atopic Dermatitis and Scabies Infestation.

Figure 2. Images of the Dermatologic Surgical Team performing procedures on the patients of Banaue, Ifugao

Throughout the mission, Dr. Ida Tiongco and the volunteer Dermatologists provided an adequate venue for service learning, ensuring that the dermatologic needs of the community are met, while providing a venue where dermatologic surgical skills can be taught. Dr. Encarnacion Legaspi also shared her expertise in cosmetic procedures, particularly demonstrating techniques for repairing earlobe keloids.

During the Fellowship Night of the Banaue Medical Mission, a special moment was dedicated to celebrate the birthday of a distinguished guest volunteer, Dr. Jasmin Jamora, President of the Philippine Dermatologic Society (PDS). Amid an evening filled with camaraderie and celebration, Dr. Jamora presented two prestigious awards—the PDS Diamond Award and the PDS Award of Distinction for Humanitarian Service—to Dr. Ida Tiongco, in recognition of her more than 20 years of dedicated service in organizing dermatologic surgery and medical missions for underserved communities in Ifugao. Certificates of Appreciation were also given to Dr. Antonio and Sylvia Ligot, for their years of invaluable support to the current and previous missions.

Figure 3. Group picture to honor and celebrate Dr. Jasmin Jamora’s birthday during the Fellowship Night.

Figure 4. Awarding ceremony of the PDS Diamond Award and PDS Award of Distinction for Humanitarian Service to Dr. Ida Tiongco, and Certificate of Appreciation to, Dr. Antonio Ligot and wife, Sylvia Ligot.

This initiative was made possible through the support of Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center, particularly their Department Chair Dr. Benedicto Carpio, Department Training Officer, Dr. Eileen Regalado-Morales, and the rest of the OMMC Dermatology Consultant Staff, together with generous grants from the Philippine Dermatologic Society through PDS President Dr. Jasmin Jamora and contributions from Dr. Tiongco’s friends and relatives.

Figure 5. Group picture of the 22nd Dermatologic Surgical Medical Mission Team for January 8-10, 2025

All biopsy samples from the dermatologic surgical mission in Banaue, Ifugao, led by the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center Department of Dermatology, have been meticulously documented and secured. As the team eagerly prepares for an upcoming review of the data, the Ospital ng Maynila Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology looks forward to unveiling a comprehensive analysis to bridge clinical observations with clinicopathological and demographic insights. This upcoming analysis report hopes to shed new light on dermatologic conditions in the region, providing valuable insight for future missions. Stay tuned for the exciting findings!

Figure 6. The 22nd Dermatologic Surgical Medical Mission Team at the Banaue Rice Terraces Viewpoint in Banaue, Ifugao

With the success of this year’s mission, the organizers look forward to future endeavors, ensuring that more communities across the Philippines gain access to essential dermatologic care. The 22nd Dermatologic Surgical and Medical Mission Trip stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, dedication, and the shared goal of making healthcare accessible to all.

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Trimming your nails may seem like an ordinary day-to-day activity, like brushing your teeth or combing your hair. But did you know that doing it incorrectly is the most frequent cause of ingrown toenails? Having this condition may be forgettable to some, but unforgettable to others because of the pain; it could cause enough pain for one to have a hard time walking, or sometimes, even standing.

So what is an ingrown toenail? It is a common condition wherein the side of the toenail grows down into the skin. The ingrown toenail may irritate the skin on the side of the toe, which can lead to swelling and redness; the affected area may then feel tender and warm to touch. Overtime, bleeding and draining of pus with secondary bacterial infection may ensue. It is most common to have ingrown toenail in the big toe.

Aside from incorrect trimming of the nails, an ingrown toenail may develop from wearing ill-fitting shoes and having poor foot hygiene. Repetitive trauma or foot injury from getting stepped on or banging your toe increases your chance. Those born with abnormally shaped nails, prone to excessive sweating, and those who are genetically predisposed have a higher possibility of ingrowing. It seems that anyone, really, may suffer from having an ingrown toenail. Those who are at higher risk include adolescents, athletes, patients taking certain medications like some chemotherapeutic drugs, and those with chronic diseases like diabetes, thyroid, cardiac, and
renal problems.

An ingrown toenail is best treated by a board-certified dermatologist, who will be able to assess and tailor-fit the treatment plan to the unique condition of the patient. Most of the time, an ingrown toenail can be managed conservatively by using simple yet effective techniques, without going through surgery. However, in severe cases, surgery may be the best option. Surgical removal of a part of the nail with application of a chemical to kill the nail root can be done to avoid recurrence. Usually, this procedure is done on children who keep getting an infection from ingrown toenails or to those who are genetically predisposed to having an ingrown toenail.

Prevention rather than cure is what they say and avoiding an ingrown toenail is very possible. Start with cutting your fingernails and toenails straight across and don’t round the corners. Though it might be a chore, it is better that you cut your own nails. After cutting, remember to
file the nail to smooth out uneven edges. Lastly, wear shoes that fit correctly and keep away from any form of trauma. If you suffer from chronic diseases like diabetes, it is best that you follow foot care recommendations from your doctor.

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There had been a lot of people (including doctors) who interchange a cream and an ointment. Knowing the difference between the two can help the patient and clinician decide on which preparation would benefit their condition more. 

Ointments are semisolid preparations that contains lipid or hydrophobic ingredients intended for external application to the skin or other mucosal membranes^1,2. It usually contains less than 20% of water and other volatile ingredients (eg. Ethanol), and more than 50% hydrocarbons and waxes^1,2. They are designed to soften or melt at body temperature, spread easily, and have a smooth, non-gritty feel and appear translucent¹. They are typically used as emollients to make skin pliable, barriers to prevent noxious substances from coming in contact to skin and vehicles for hydrophobic drugs^1,2. 

Creams are semisolid dosage forms containing one or more drug substances dissolved or dispersed in a suitable emulsion base^1,2,3. They are more considered to be more fluid to other dosage forms¹. They are usually found to have whitish, creamy appearance, due to scattering of light from dispersed phases (eg. Oil globules)¹. Creams can either be on a water-in-oil emulsion (eg cold cream) which can be used as a softening and cleaning agent for make-ups^1,2. On the other hand, it can also be in an oil-in-water emulsion (eg. Vanishing cream) which when rubbed on the skin, the water evaporates, leading to increased concentration of a water-soluble drug in the oily film which can adhere directly to the skin^1,2. 

Implications in Dermatology practice 

As a vehicle, ointments have higher penetrability and are useful for thickened skin over palms and soles and over lichenified skin (eg. ichthyoses, psoriasis)⁴. The downside is that they are relatively greasy and messy to use. On the other hand, creams are less greasy and are more suited for moist and weeping areas of the skin (eg. Wounds with pus, blood and serum)⁴. Creams are preferred over ointments for mucosal areas because they are easier to spread and remove². 

In using topical steroids, the vehicle play an important role in determining the potency of the active ingredient⁴. For example, Mometasone furoate 0.1% cream is classified under Mid-potent (Class IV) while its counterpart Mometasone furoate 0.1% ointment is classified as high-potent (Class II). 

References:

1. Mahato, R. and Narang, A. Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Third edition. CRC Press; 2018 pp. 547-562. 
2. Allen, L. and Ansel, H. Ansel’s Pharmaceutical Dosage Forms and Drug Delivery Systems 10^th ed. Wolters Kluwer; 2014; pp.316-341. 
3. Sahu, T, Patel T, Sahu, S and Gidwani, B. Skin Cream as Topical Drug Delivery System: A Review. J Pharm Biol Sci 2016;4(5): 149-154. 
4. Mehta, AB, Nadkarmi, NJ, Patil, SP, Godse, KV, Gautam, M and Agarwal, S. Topical corticosteroids in dermatology. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol 2016; 82:371-378. 

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What is a dermatologist?

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in managing skin, hair and nail conditions. 

Dermatologists undergo several years of training to be able to help people. They take care of both adults and children. They manage not only eczemas and skin infections, but also cosmetic concerns. 

What training does a dermatologist undergo?

• 4 years of medical school
• 1 year of medical internship
• 3 years of residency training
• Fellowship (for subspecialty training) 

What is a board-certified dermatologist?

After accomplishing the residency training, dermatologists take the diplomate board exam under the Ë¿¹ÏÊÓƵ (PDS). Once they pass the exam, they are board-certified dermatologists and are considered diplomate of PDS. They can now practice and hold clinics. 

A person will be able to know if a practitioner is a board-certified dermatologist of PDS by looking at the attached DPDS or FPDS after their name. Aside from checking the names, one may verify by checking at the PDS website. 

Subspecialty under dermatology

• Dermatopathology

A dermatopathologist has one more year of training in pathology in which he or she is trained to identify biopsied skin samples under a microscope and make differential diagnosis of the skin concern involving the biopsied area. 

• Immunodermatology 

An immunodermatogist is an expert in diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders characterized by defective responses of the body’s immune system. The most common immunologic skin condition are bullous diseases. They are also experts in evaluating immunofluoresnce readings for the correct diagnosis and treatment. 

• Photodermatology

A photodermatologist has further training in UV-induced skin conditions and phototherapy (the use of UV light in managing skin conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis). 

• Dermatologic surgery

A dermatologic surgeon has expertise in doing surgical medical and cosmetic procedures. 

Mohs surgery is a further subspecialty in dermatologic surgery where the expert performs surgery to manage skin cancer. It is a method wherein thin layers of skin are removed sequentially after examining in the microscope until the area is cancer-free. It aims to lessen the removal of normal healthy skin. 

• Laser 

A laser specialist is an expert in using energy-based devices for managing skin conditions. They evaluate people and determine the recommended laser and wavelength to manage the particular skin concern. 

• Pediatric dermatology

A pediatric dermatologist is an expert in managing infants and children. Some conditions are encountered more in children such as a unique birthmark, vascular anomalies or neurocutaneous disease among others. 

• Contact dermatitis and Environmental dermatology

An environmental dermatologist specializes in the external triggers for skin irritation and allergy. They are experts in occupational and recreational related skin conditions and are also trained in performing clinic-based patch testing. 

• Leprosy 

A leprosy subspecialty is an expert in handling and managing this mycobacterial infection. 

• Sexually transmitted infection (STI) dermatology

STI experts are keen in diagnosing and managing sexually-transmitted condition. They handle cases such as syphilis, herpes, and HIV. 

Why choose a board-certified dermatologist?

A board-certified dermatologist is a well-trained medical professional who gives evidence-based management to any skin, hair or nail concerns. It is best to seek consult with them for any skin concern for timely and proper treatment. 

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Dermatologists are trained to identify the signs and symptoms of eczema during physical examinations. They assess the patient’s skin, looking for redness, dryness, swelling, and scaling. Dermatologists also consider the patient’s medical history and potential triggers, such as allergies or environmental factors, to develop a comprehensive understanding of the condition.

Once diagnosed, dermatologists develop personalized treatment plans for eczema management. These plans often include the use of emollients and moisturizers to hydrate the skin and restore its barrier function. In cases of severe eczema, dermatologists may prescribe topical corticosteroids or immunomodulators to reduce inflammation and alleviate itching. They also provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding known triggers and maintaining proper skincare routines.

In addition to treatment, dermatologists offer essential education to individuals with eczema. They explain the chronic nature of the condition and teach patients how to identify and manage flare-ups effectively. Dermatologists also discuss strategies for itch relief and the importance of maintaining healthy skin hygiene to prevent secondary infections.

To summarize, dermatologists play a crucial role in managing eczema and improving the comfort of individuals with this condition. By accurately diagnosing eczema, providing personalized treatment plans, and offering education, dermatologists empower patients to take control of their eczema symptoms and enhance their overall well-being.

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