Understanding M-Shaped Hair Loss: Effective Treatments and Concerns
Hair loss Doctor, I have noticed that over the past six months, the hairline on my forehead has receded about 1.5 cm, which is what is referred to as an M-shaped baldness. Is using minoxidil effective for this? I have observed that if I limit hair loss to about 100 strands a day,...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Male pattern baldness, also known as androgenetic alopecia, involves the hair follicles still being present but the terminal hairs transforming into finer vellus hairs. Currently, the combination of finasteride and minoxidil, or using them simultaneously, is considered a m...[Read More] Understanding M-Shaped Hair Loss: Effective Treatments and Concerns
Can Previous Cold Sore History Trigger Outbreaks from Other Herpes Infections?
If there is a history of herpes labialis, can exposure to other herpes patients trigger an outbreak? Hello Doctor: I have a history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections. Recently, due to work, I came into contact with a patient who had chickenpox. One day later, I noticed red...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: The appearance of "herpes" at the corner of the mouth is likely "herpes simplex," not chickenpox or "shingles," which can recur. Poor physical condition, fatigue, and lack of sleep can easily trigger outbreaks. Sincerely, Dr. Jiang Yu-Jiao, De...[Read More] Can Previous Cold Sore History Trigger Outbreaks from Other Herpes Infections?
Understanding Neck Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Help
Acne on the neck? Dear Dr. Jiang, I have black lumps on my neck that do not resemble acne. They do not produce any discharge when squeezed, and they are neither painful nor itchy. The symptoms have not disappeared. I often stay up late; could this be the reason? Thank you.
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: How large is the black tumor on your neck? Is it painful or itchy? How many are there? At your age, black tumors on the neck should be considered as seborrheic keratosis or warts... I hope you visit a nearby clinic or hospital for a diagnosis from a dermatologist, as that ...[Read More] Understanding Neck Bumps: Causes and When to Seek Help
Understanding Folliculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Folliculitis I am unmarried and have never given birth, but I have a boyfriend. However, I frequently experience folliculitis in the genital area. The area above the labia also sometimes develops inflammatory conditions similar to acne during my menstrual period; sometimes it res...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: If you frequently experience folliculitis during your menstrual period, it may be related to breathability. It is advisable to wear 100% cotton underwear and breathable sanitary pads. Additionally, washing with soap and applying anti-inflammatory medication can help improv...[Read More] Understanding Folliculitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Sun Allergy: Symptoms, Triggers, and Prevention Tips
Sun allergy The body has numerous small red spots on the limbs that are itchy. After visiting a dermatologist, it was diagnosed as an allergic reaction caused by sun exposure (I spent two to three hours in the sun at the beach two days ago). I researched online and found that man...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: "Heat allergy" and sun exposure allergy are indeed different. There is no medical term for "heat allergy"; it is likely a condition caused by heat-induced eczema. The main difference between the two is that the skin symptoms of "heat allergy" ...[Read More] Understanding Sun Allergy: Symptoms, Triggers, and Prevention Tips
Red Bumps on Skin: Itchy Mystery Near Collarbone Explained
Red spots on the body that do not resemble a rash? I have developed red spots on my body that look like pimples; they are very red and itchy. Most of them are located near my collarbone, where there are about 15 red dots, and there are also some on my body and chest. I have a few...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Symptoms of redness and itching may be due to insect bites, but some inflamed acne can also cause itching. If seeing a dermatologist does not help, consider consulting another physician for a second opinion. Sincerely, Dr. Jiang Yu-Jiao, Dermatology.[Read More] Red Bumps on Skin: Itchy Mystery Near Collarbone Explained
Understanding White Patches on Skin: Causes and Treatments Explained
I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that? Hello Dr. Jiang: Since I was in the first year of junior high school until now, I have developed some white spots on my body, both on the upper and lower halves. At first, I didn't think much of it, but they have been increa...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Did the dermatologist you visited tell you what condition you have? What was the diagnosis? If it is "vitiligo," the treatment process can be lengthy, but there are still ways to manage it. There are many dermatology specialists in Taichung County, and you can vi...[Read More] Understanding White Patches on Skin: Causes and Treatments Explained
Understanding the Link Between Hormones and Oily Scalp in Women
The relationship between oily scalp in women and hormones? Hello Dr. Jiang, I seem to have had slightly red, swollen, and itchy scalp since middle school, but I didn't pay much attention to it. As a result, there weren't any serious issues at first, but gradually, I no...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Based on your description, your condition may be seborrheic dermatitis or female pattern hair loss. A definitive diagnosis requires a visual examination. 1. The treatment for seborrheic dermatitis primarily involves shampoos and topical medications. The types of shampoos...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Hormones and Oily Scalp in Women
Understanding Rapid Beard Growth: Causes and Solutions
Regarding beard issues? I have never had much facial hair since it developed, with the hair above my lip being denser, while the area on my chin only has a few fine hairs and occasionally a few more that I usually pluck out. Recently, I noticed that my facial hair seems to be gro...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: The growth rate of facial hair cannot be controlled, with an average growth rate of about 1.2 cm per month. If you are experiencing growth of 1 mm per day, it is indeed faster than average, which may be due to individual physiological differences. It is advisable to observ...[Read More] Understanding Rapid Beard Growth: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Pigmentary Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Pigmentary atrophy Hello, doctor! My question is long and complicated, like an old woman's foot binding, and I hope you can forgive my ignorance! Doctor: My girlfriend (18 years old) has white spots around both of her eyes that extend outward, resembling the black areas of a...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Generally speaking, pigment abnormalities include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, and uneven pigmentation. Some pigment issues may gradually resolve over time or can be treated with topical medications, while others may require laser therapy or chemical peels for impr...[Read More] Understanding Pigmentary Atrophy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Effective Treatments for Blackheads and Oily Skin Issues
How should acne be treated? I would like to ask if it is appropriate to visit a clinic directly if I have persistent blackheads on my face and my skin is prone to oiliness and acne.
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: It is very appropriate to visit a dermatologist for long-standing blackheads and acne, as there are many treatments and prescriptions available. Sincerely, Dr. Jiang Yu-Jiao, Dermatology.[Read More] Effective Treatments for Blackheads and Oily Skin Issues
Understanding Skin Issues: Itchy Groin and White Bumps Explained
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Uh, doctor, I would like to ask a few questions. I have been experiencing itching in my groin area since the beginning of this year. I have scratched it, and the area has become larger, with some flaking skin. What could this symptom...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Possible conditions for itching in the groin include 1. measles 2. eczema 3. tinea. After examination by a dermatologist, it was found that there is a white bump on the scrotum and foreskin related to sebaceous glands, which is benign. Do not attempt to cut or poke it with...[Read More] Understanding Skin Issues: Itchy Groin and White Bumps Explained
Effective Non-Surgical Methods to Remove Scars for Aspiring Actors
Is there a way to remove scabs? Hello, Dr. Jiang. My dream since childhood has been to become an actor. However, during some auditions at television stations and film crews, I was told that the scars on my feet are unattractive. They suggested that if I want to be hired, I should...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: What type of scar do you have? Some may develop keloids due to individual predisposition, while others may present as flat scars. You can visit a nearby dermatologist for an evaluation to differentiate between them before proceeding with further treatment. Some scars can b...[Read More] Effective Non-Surgical Methods to Remove Scars for Aspiring Actors
Managing Asymptomatic Lupus: Prevention Tips and Skin Care Guide
If blood tests indicate the presence of lupus erythematosus but there are no noticeable symptoms, what preventive measures should be taken? Hello Doctor: I previously visited the immunology and rheumatology department for blood tests due to seborrheic dermatitis. The results reve...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: A positive result for Anti-dsDNA, defined as greater than 30 in our hospital, is considered significant. However, the American College of Rheumatology has established that at least four out of eleven criteria must be met for a diagnosis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE...[Read More] Managing Asymptomatic Lupus: Prevention Tips and Skin Care Guide
Dealing with Lip Bruises: When to See a Doctor After an Injury
Lip contusion I played basketball yesterday and bumped my lip. As a result, when I woke up the next day, I found that my lip was bruised. I would like to ask the doctor if I need to see a physician or how I can manage this at home. Thank you.
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Lip contusions are likely caused by external force or trauma. If the swelling is significant, making it difficult to close the mouth or eat, you should visit a surgical or dermatology department to have the hematoma drained. If the swelling is minor, it can be allowed to r...[Read More] Dealing with Lip Bruises: When to See a Doctor After an Injury
Understanding Nevus: Treatment Options for Large Melanocytic Nevi in Children
Melanocytic nevus Hello Dr. Jiang, my daughter is twelve years old this year. When she was born, she had a brown spot about one centimeter in diameter on her left thigh. At that time, the doctor suggested waiting until she grew a bit older to observe and manage it. Later, when we...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Generally, congenital melanocytic nevi larger than 5 centimeters require attention. If it is only 3 centimeters in size, it can be excised, but please have a dermatologist check it again. You can swim two weeks after the excision. If the dermatologist believes that assista...[Read More] Understanding Nevus: Treatment Options for Large Melanocytic Nevi in Children
Understanding Skin Healing After Injury: What to Expect and When to Worry
My brother has a laceration on his skin? I would like to ask the doctor about my brother. A few days ago, he was injured in a car accident, and he has a large bruise on his leg. The doctor said there was too much blood accumulation inside, so this morning, they made an incision i...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: The substance that oozes out from a bruised wound after incision is likely granulation tissue, which is a normal inflammatory response, so there is no need to worry too much. If the tissue becomes necrotic, the wound will progressively turn black and ulcerate. In the case ...[Read More] Understanding Skin Healing After Injury: What to Expect and When to Worry
Do You Need a Dermatologist for Allergy Testing?
I would like to undergo allergy testing? If you want to undergo allergy testing, should you make an appointment with a dermatologist? Thank you.
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: General hospitals can perform allergy tests. However, if you are looking to test for allergens related to urticaria, a blood test is not meaningful and will not be covered by health insurance. If your skin condition is contact allergic dermatitis, you can undergo a patch t...[Read More] Do You Need a Dermatologist for Allergy Testing?
Effectiveness of Transamin for Skin Discoloration: What You Need to Know
Transaminases, also known as Thank you for your response. I would like to ask: Is transamin effective for reducing hyperpigmentation? Is it still effective after one month post-laser treatment? What should I be aware of? Are there other methods to enhance the metabolism of melani...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Transamin is used to assist in the treatment of dark spots and can still be taken one month after laser treatment. However, it should not be used in patients with renal insufficiency. Other topical depigmenting products can be combined for better results. Sincerely, Dr. Ji...[Read More] Effectiveness of Transamin for Skin Discoloration: What You Need to Know
Laser Treatment for Melasma: Transamine vs. B12 – Which is More Effective?
Laser treatment for cheekbone spots? I underwent laser treatment for my cheekbone spots three weeks ago, and they are starting to darken again. The doctor prescribed a medication labeled as transamine, but he mentioned that it is actually B12???? Which one is more effective? Shou...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao reply Dermatology
Hello: Chloasma is a type of very deep pigmentation. After laser treatment, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is inevitable. Taking tranexamic acid is one method to reduce post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. As far as I know, vitamin B12 is not commonly used for this purpose, ...[Read More] Laser Treatment for Melasma: Transamine vs. B12 – Which is More Effective?