Mixing Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid for Skin Spot Treatment: Best Practices
Spot I have spots on my face since childhood. Can I mix hydroquinone and azelaic acid together to apply at night? What would be the best ratio?
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: Since you only mentioned that you are using hydroquinone and kojic acid, but did not specify the concentration, formulation, or other additional ingredients of the products you are using, it is important to note ...[Read More] Mixing Hydroquinone and Kojic Acid for Skin Spot Treatment: Best Practices
Understanding Ultrasonic Axillary Gland Removal for Body Odor: Risks and Efficacy
excuse me? I would like to ask if the ultrasonic-assisted axillary gland removal surgery for eliminating body odor has any side effects. Will it cause excessive sweating like what has been reported in the news after undergoing body odor surgery? Or will sweat come from other area...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Your question is answered as follows: The basic principle of surgery for axillary osmidrosis (body odor) is to destroy the apocrine glands that produce the odor and remove them from the body. There are multiple methods for destruction and removal, which depend on the patie...[Read More] Understanding Ultrasonic Axillary Gland Removal for Body Odor: Risks and Efficacy
How to Improve Healing of Scar Tissue After Stitches in Children
How to promote the healing and flattening of needle scars? Dear Dr. Tsai, I apologize for bothering you! My young son accidentally bumped below his left eye and received three stitches, but the scar has not healed well. Could you please advise on how to improve this situation? My...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, In response to your question, I would like to provide the following information: Initially, the sutured wound will be quite noticeable, but over time, it may become less prominent. However, the progression can vary depending on each individual's constitution. Since ...[Read More] How to Improve Healing of Scar Tissue After Stitches in Children
Dealing with Dry Skin: Solutions for Your Troubling Skin Issues
My skin is terrible! I used to have oily skin on my face, but now I don't know what happened! My facial skin has become very dry and is constantly peeling, and this issue is bothering me!! It's really frustrating!! I switched to a cleanser with moisturizing properties, ...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, Regarding the issue you mentioned, here are my responses: There are many causes of dry, peeling skin. If it has already occurred, it is important to identify and eliminate the underlying cause. Common factors include the use of inappropriate cleansing products, failure t...[Read More] Dealing with Dry Skin: Solutions for Your Troubling Skin Issues
Best Sunscreens After Retinoid Use: A Guide for Your Skin
A acid sunscreen Tomorrow, I should be coming to your clinic. I'm still dealing with the same issue regarding pigmentation. I've been using the cream for a month, but I don't see much difference, and it's really frustrating. Also, could you recommend some suns...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Regarding your question, it is actually a common concern faced by every acne patient. Addressing patients' doubts and supporting them in their treatment is a fundamental responsibility of physicians, so please do not feel embarrassed. Once acne has caused indentations...[Read More] Best Sunscreens After Retinoid Use: A Guide for Your Skin
Understanding Itchy Upper Eyelids: Causes and Treatment Options
Itchy upper eyelid? Hello Doctor: My upper eyelid often itches for no apparent reason, and it has been going on for quite a long time. Since I have seborrheic dermatitis, I initially thought this was one of the symptoms. However, after some time, I noticed that even when there ar...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, Regarding your question, there are many reasons for itchy eyelids, and a proper diagnosis can only be made through an in-person examination. I recommend that you visit a nearby dermatologist for a more accurate assessment and treatment options. Additionally, if you have ...[Read More] Understanding Itchy Upper Eyelids: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Skin Whitening Creams: Ingredients, Usage, and Effectiveness
Whitening cream What is the whitening ingredient in WHITE CREAM? Can it be applied in the morning? Should sunscreen be applied after using it? Is AZEL CREAM also a whitening ointment? Is it used at night? After undergoing laser treatment, the clinic doctor prescribed these two oi...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: The "white cream" you mentioned is a product name and is not registered for a specific ointment. There are more than 30 approved cosmetic products by the Department of Health that include the term "white cream." I suggest you directly consult with your ...[Read More] Understanding Skin Whitening Creams: Ingredients, Usage, and Effectiveness
Concerns About Acne Treatment: When to Consult a Dermatologist?
About the skin? I would like to ask about my worsening chin condition. I've been taking isotretinoin for over three months, one pill daily, but I don't see any improvement. When I asked my friends, they said they thought my skin looked better before I started the medica...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Regarding your question, oral isotretinoin is currently the only medication that effectively inhibits the main mechanisms involved in acne formation, including sebaceous activity, keratin metabolism, inflammation, and Propionibacterium acnes. It is especially the first-lin...[Read More] Concerns About Acne Treatment: When to Consult a Dermatologist?
Understanding Skin Health: A Guide to A-Retinoids and Treatment Progress
About the skin? I am currently using one capsule of retinoic acid daily and have started applying Silian ointment for about three months. When can I expect to see improvement, or is it still in the detoxification phase? It feels like the signs of improvement on my face are quite ...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: The oral isotretinoin you are using is currently known in the medical field as the most effective last-line treatment for acne. However, even so, patients with cystic acne typically require a longer treatment dur...[Read More] Understanding Skin Health: A Guide to A-Retinoids and Treatment Progress
Understanding Early Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Tips
Early-onset baldness! I heard that lack of sleep and excessive fatigue can lead to early-onset baldness. What kind of baldness is that? Does it start from the forehead? If I allow myself to rest and adjust my schedule, will my hair grow back? Thank you!
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows. There are many possible diagnoses for hair loss, and irregular lifestyle can lead to some of them, but not all hair loss issues can be attributed to an irregular lifestyle. A correct diagnosis usually requires an...[Read More] Understanding Early Hair Loss: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery Tips
Understanding Cholinergic Urticaria: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Cholinergic urticaria What is cholinergic urticaria? Do the symptoms feel like a stinging itch?
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: Cholinergic urticaria is a type of physical urticaria, often triggered by heat or sweating. The symptoms are similar to those of general urticaria, including itching and skin lesions. The exact cause of cholinerg...[Read More] Understanding Cholinergic Urticaria: Symptoms and Treatment Options
Skincare Tips for Combination Skin: Moisturizers and Concealer Choices
Spots~~~ Dry cheeks and an oily nose indicate combination skin. For moisturizing, it's best to use a lightweight, oil-free moisturizer that hydrates without adding excess oil. When covering spots, it is generally recommended to use a concealer and foundation that match you...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows. The usage of whitening creams varies depending on their ingredients; some can be used during the day, while others are strictly prohibited for daytime use. Since I am unaware of the specific type of whitening cre...[Read More] Skincare Tips for Combination Skin: Moisturizers and Concealer Choices
Understanding Painful Groin Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Help
A painful lump has appeared in the groin area? Hello Doctor: For the past year or two, I have frequently developed a painful lump in the left groin area (upper thigh) before and after my menstrual period. It appears slightly red or skin-colored, has no head to squeeze (it seems t...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: Due to the descriptions in your letter, it is not clear what the lesion looks like and its exact location (is it on the thigh or in the groin? The diseases associated with lesions in these two areas are completel...[Read More] Understanding Painful Groin Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Minoxidil: Is It Related to Male Pattern Baldness and Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Is there a relationship between the ingredient Minoxidil and androgenetic alopecia? & seborrheic dermatitis? Due to severe long-term hair loss, I consulted a doctor who did not confirm whether I have androgenetic alopecia (as neither of my parents has thinning hair or baldnes...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello, regarding your question, I would like to respond as follows: Minoxidil is indeed a commonly used topical medication for patients with androgenetic alopecia and is one of the few drugs that have been experimentally proven to be effective in treating this condition. However,...[Read More] Understanding Minoxidil: Is It Related to Male Pattern Baldness and Seborrheic Dermatitis?
Understanding Oily Scalp: Seborrheic Dermatitis and Hair Loss Concerns
Oily skin!! Dr. Huang, I have a few questions for you! First, my scalp is very oily (as is my face). If I don't wash it for a day, it becomes itchy and greasy... Is this what is referred to as seborrheic dermatitis? Can seborrheic dermatitis lead to hair loss on the forehe...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, the issue of an oily scalp is not solely related to seborrheic dermatitis; there are many potential causes for hair loss at the forehead area. It is not accurate to directly attribute hair loss in the frontal region of an oily scalp to seborrh...[Read More] Understanding Oily Scalp: Seborrheic Dermatitis and Hair Loss Concerns
Effective Methods and Costs for Removing Black Birthmarks on the Face
Laser treatment for birthmarks I have a black mole on my face that is about the size of a one-dollar coin. What methods can I use to remove it, and what would the cost be?
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: The mole on your face needs to be assessed based on the type of lesion, its depth, location, and your medical history in order to make a comprehensive diagnosis. Once a diagnosis is established, we can determine the most appropriate treatment method and further discuss the...[Read More] Effective Methods and Costs for Removing Black Birthmarks on the Face
Understanding Dermatological Treatments: Insights on Chemix Tables and DermaLean
excuse me? Doctor, what benefits does this medication have? My friend has been taking it for four months. She has red skin and went to see CHEMIX TABLES. "YU" is oral, while DERMALEAN is topical! It was prescribed by her doctor. However, after taking it for nine months,...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: The oral medication your friend is using is likely an anti-inflammatory, while the topical medication is aimed at treating conditions such as rashes, acne, or infections. Of course, the usage of medications can vary among different physicians. It is advisable for your frie...[Read More] Understanding Dermatological Treatments: Insights on Chemix Tables and DermaLean
Is It Folliculitis? Understanding Skin Issues in Sensitive Areas
Is it really folliculitis?! It's so distressing!! Hello, Doctor: Recently, I have developed lesions on the inner thighs, buttocks, and near the anus, the cause of which is unknown! Initially, the affected area appeared as a red, swollen lump about the size of a five-dollar c...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Since I cannot see your lesions in person and can only rely on your written description, the information provided is somewhat insufficient. In addition to folliculitis, other possibilities such as bacterial infections, inflammatory cysts, or other conditions could also cau...[Read More] Is It Folliculitis? Understanding Skin Issues in Sensitive Areas
Do I Need to Continue Taking Medication for Skin Issues?
Do I need to continue taking the medication? I had an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone cream. When I last consulted my doctor, I forgot to mention that the anti-redness cream I used was Elisone. I have seen the doctor twice since then, and now I only notice redness on my cheek...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: Since I haven't seen your actual condition, I don't know the severity of your previous skin allergy or the current extent of the redness. However, generally speaking, it is quite common for areas of the face that have experienced allergic inflammation to become r...[Read More] Do I Need to Continue Taking Medication for Skin Issues?
When Will the Redness from Hydrocortisone Allergy Subside?
When will the redness and swelling caused by hyaluronic acid injections subside? I am allergic to hydrocortisone ointment, and my skin is red and swollen. It has been swollen all day. The doctor prescribed this ointment along with Tomin 2mg, Donison/5mg, Simethicone 20mg, and Buc...
Dr. Cai Changlin reply Dermatology
Hello: In response to your question, since your letter did not specify which topical ointment the doctor prescribed, I cannot be certain. However, based on clinical experience, if your skin lesion is due to contact dermatitis from using Cetirizine, then the topical medication pre...[Read More] When Will the Redness from Hydrocortisone Allergy Subside?