Sweat Eruptions and Keloids: Common Concerns and Solutions

Questions about dyshidrotic eczema and keloids?

Hello, doctor.
I have dyshidrotic eczema, and when my skin itches, I have consulted both a dermatologist and a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to adjust my constitution.
The dermatologist prescribed "Beiluo Yi Ointment," giving me only a small tube each time.
When I asked for more, the doctor said it couldn't be provided.
I will be going abroad for work and vacation in a few months, and I'm worried about my skin itching and not being able to apply the ointment.

1.
Is it true that this medication prescribed by the doctor cannot be purchased at a pharmacy? I noticed that the manufacturer sells it in a 900g size.
What would be a good approach? I frequently visit a nearby specialized dermatology clinic.
Would you recommend seeing a dermatologist at a larger hospital instead?
2.
Is there any equipment available to check for keloid predisposition? Previously, I hit my hand against the corner of a cabinet, and the wound was deep.
I thought it would heal on its own, so I didn't apply any medication or cover it.
As a result, there is a small raised scar on the web of my hand, less than 0.1 cm.
The dermatologist mentioned that it is a keloid.
I would like to ask if this truly indicates a keloid predisposition.
Additionally, I have phimosis and am unsure if I should undergo circumcision.
Can keloids be visually assessed, or is there a more detailed testing method? I would appreciate your response.
Thank you!

RYAI, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/05

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

1.
Over-the-counter medications can be purchased without a prescription, while prescription medications cannot.

2.
Keloids can be diagnosed through visual inspection, medical history, and physical examination.

Reply Date: 2019/07/05

More Info

When dealing with skin issues related to excessive sweating, such as sweat blisters (also known as miliaria) and keloids, it's essential to understand the underlying causes and explore effective treatment options.
1. Understanding Sweat Eruptions:
Sweat blisters occur when sweat gets trapped under the skin, often due to blocked sweat glands. This condition can be exacerbated by heat, humidity, and friction, leading to itchy, uncomfortable rashes. The use of topical treatments like "Bai Luo Yi Ointment" prescribed by your dermatologist can help alleviate symptoms, but it may not be readily available at local pharmacies. If you find yourself in a situation where you cannot access your prescribed medication while abroad, consider discussing with your dermatologist about alternatives that are more accessible or over-the-counter options that may provide relief.

If you frequently experience these skin issues, it might be beneficial to consult a dermatologist at a larger hospital. They often have more resources and can provide a comprehensive evaluation of your condition. They may also suggest lifestyle changes, such as wearing loose-fitting clothing, using breathable fabrics, and maintaining proper hygiene to minimize sweat-related skin problems.

2. Keloids and Their Management:
Keloids are raised scars that can develop after an injury, such as a deep cut or surgical procedure. They occur due to an overproduction of collagen during the healing process. If you have a history of keloid formation, it is essential to be cautious with any injuries, as they can trigger keloid development.
Regarding your concern about whether you have a keloid-prone skin type, dermatologists can often diagnose keloids through visual examination. However, if you want a more detailed assessment, some dermatology clinics may offer specialized tests or imaging techniques to evaluate the extent of keloid formation.
For keloids, treatment options include:
- Corticosteroid Injections: These can help flatten keloids and reduce inflammation.

- Surgery: In some cases, surgical removal of the keloid may be necessary, but this can sometimes lead to the formation of new keloids.

- Silicone Gel Sheets: These can be applied to the keloid to help flatten it over time.

- Laser Therapy: This can reduce the redness and size of keloids.

3. Additional Considerations:
If you have a history of keloids and are considering circumcision for phimosis (tight foreskin), it is crucial to discuss this with your urologist. They can provide guidance on the risks of keloid formation associated with the procedure and may suggest preventive measures, such as using corticosteroids post-surgery to minimize the risk of keloid development.

In summary, managing sweat-related skin issues and keloids requires a multifaceted approach. Regular consultations with a dermatologist, adherence to prescribed treatments, and lifestyle modifications can significantly improve your skin health. If you have concerns about your skin's response to injuries or treatments, do not hesitate to seek a second opinion or further evaluation from a specialist. Your skin's health is paramount, and understanding your body's responses can help you make informed decisions about your care.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Blisters, Keloids, and Eczema: Skin Care Insights

Hello, Doctor! I would like to ask: Recently, when I wear new shoes, I easily develop blisters on my heels due to friction. Although I usually let them heal on their own, there is one wound that feels raised, has a color similar to my skin, appears a bit translucent when stretche...

Dr. Yang Zhiya reply Dermatology
Hello, regarding your heel issue, it is difficult to make a judgment without seeing the lesion, so I recommend consulting a dermatologist. Hair removal generally does not lead to keloids when the dosage is properly controlled, but I would advise against mole removal. Currently, t...

Excessive Sweating: Causes, Treatments, and When to See a Specialist

Hello Dr. Jiang: Two years ago, I asked you about a skin issue. Thank you very much for your response and encouragement. Now I have another question to consult with you. I feel that my upper body sweats very easily, including my face, neck, armpits, and hands, especially my face....

Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Localized hyperhidrosis can be treated, for example, excessive sweating of the hands or feet can be addressed through surgical procedures that ablate the sympathetic ganglia in the thoracic or abdominal cavity to control sweating. This is a definitive treatment option available i...

Understanding Keloid Formation: Causes, Treatments, and Personal Experiences

During high school, I developed acne on my shoulders and squeezed it. To my surprise, it gradually grew larger. After seeing a doctor, I was diagnosed with keloids and informed that it was a matter of my body’s constitution and would not improve. I followed the doctor's advi...

Dr. Lu Shangbin reply Surgery
Hello, 1. The condition of swollen feet is not related to obesity. 2. The physician himself was once 120 kilograms and has never experienced such a condition. It is recommended that you consult a plastic surgeon to understand the relevant treatment options, as medical advancement...

Understanding Skin Issues: Persistent Folliculitis and Allergic Reactions

I have a few questions for the doctor. I would like some guidance... Recently, my health has been a bit strange. I used to rarely experience folliculitis, but now I am having frequent outbreaks all over my body, especially on my chest. They are not healing easily and are leaving ...

Dr. Cai Yaozhou reply Internal Medicine
It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for a proper diagnosis and treatment of folliculitis, which is a skin condition characterized by inflammation of the hair follicles due to bacterial infection, often recurring. It can occur in any area with hair follicles, commonly affec...