Should You Use Retinoids for Acne? Insights on OBAGI Products
Is it advisable to use retinoic acid? I have acne-prone skin. Should I use retinoids? Have you heard of the OBAGI brand?
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Patients with acne can use vitamin A acid. Currently, there are several brands of vitamin A acid available, as it is a prescription medication that requires a doctor's prescription. You should check if the active ingredient is isotretinoin, retinoic acid, acitretin, or adapa...[Read More] Should You Use Retinoids for Acne? Insights on OBAGI Products
Managing Postherpetic Neuralgia: Alternative Treatments and Options
Postherpetic neuralgia Hello Doctor: My father developed shingles over a year ago and after treatment at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital's dermatology department, the surface wounds have healed. However, he still experiences postherpetic neuralgia, which can be quite painful at...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
The currently known effective and safe medication is called Neurotin, with the active ingredient being gabapentin. You can obtain this medication through consultations in dermatology or neurology. Wishing you well.[Read More] Managing Postherpetic Neuralgia: Alternative Treatments and Options
Understanding Skin Allergies: Red Bumps and Itching on Hands
Skin allergy ~ itching Red, bumpy rashes resembling chicken skin have appeared on my hands. They are itchy and swell when scratched. The rashes are only present on both hands, with the most severe area being around the elbows. I usually do not have allergic reactions to seafood, ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
If the rash disappears within 24 hours, it is likely urticaria (hives). Many foods and medications can trigger this condition, and sometimes it is necessary to keep a long-term record of the relationship between diet and the rash. When experiencing skin allergies, it is best to a...[Read More] Understanding Skin Allergies: Red Bumps and Itching on Hands
Managing Foot Sweat and Blisters: Expert Advice for Relief
Foot sweat and blisters? Hello Dr. Jiang: My feet tend to sweat quite a bit, and about six months ago, I started developing blisters on the soles of my feet in different areas. After the blisters heal, the skin becomes rough, and sometimes new blisters appear, which seems to indi...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
When blisters occur, applying a topical corticosteroid ointment can help them dry out more quickly. If the symptoms are severe, you can visit a major hospital's dermatology department for localized ultraviolet light therapy. Wishing you safety.[Read More] Managing Foot Sweat and Blisters: Expert Advice for Relief
Why Am I Getting Acne on My Neck After Clearing My Face?
The acne on my face has cleared up, but now it's appearing on my neck? Hello Doctor: Two months ago, I had acne on my cheeks and chin. After taking good care of them for a while, the acne improved significantly and was almost completely gone. However, recently I have develop...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
In general, acne treatment requires at least 2-3 months, so you need to continue treatment for a longer period to prevent recurrence. It is also possible for acne to appear on the neck, but it rarely causes significant itching. Wishing you well.[Read More] Why Am I Getting Acne on My Neck After Clearing My Face?
Understanding Neck Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips
Acne on the neck? Hello Dr. Jiang: Two months ago, I had persistent acne on my face, primarily around my nose and chin. I visited a dermatologist who prescribed both oral and topical medications. After about three days of treatment, the acne cleared up, but the affected areas bec...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
In general, acne treatment typically requires at least 2-3 months, so you need to continue treatment for a longer period to prevent recurrence. It is also possible for acne to occur on the neck, but it rarely causes significant itching. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Neck Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips
Persistent Acne: Should You Consider Blood Tests for Diagnosis?
Is it appropriate to have a blood test for persistent acne? Hello Doctor: I have been experiencing acne since I was twenty years old. I had some during my teenage years, but it wasn't as severe as it is now. I have tried both Western and traditional Chinese medicine intermit...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Acne rarely causes significant itching, so you may want to consult a dermatologist to confirm whether it is indeed acne. Blood tests can be conducted to check for any abnormalities in female hormones. Generally, persistent acne can be treated with oral retinoids. Wishing you good...[Read More] Persistent Acne: Should You Consider Blood Tests for Diagnosis?
Unusual Bumps Underarm: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Abnormal growths in the armpit? Hello, doctor! Recently, I noticed pain in my armpit and after checking, I found two raised lumps. I initially thought they were pimples, as I have had pimples in my armpit before, but this time it feels different—hard and painful. When I raise my ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
You should see a doctor; it may be an inflammation of the axillary glands, which sometimes requires antibiotic treatment or even surgical removal to prevent recurrence. Wishing you well.[Read More] Unusual Bumps Underarm: Causes and When to See a Doctor
Understanding Chest Acne: Causes and Effective Treatments
Hello, Dr. Jiang? I have very few acne lesions on my face and back, but I have developed something similar to acne on my chest. The puzzling thing is that it hasn't disappeared for over a month, and it appears as hard bumps with pigmentation in the same area. Even when it se...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
You should continue treating your acne, whether with topical or oral medications. Generally, the treatment course for acne lasts about 4 to 6 months. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding Chest Acne: Causes and Effective Treatments
Post-Cryotherapy Concerns: Understanding Warts and Skin Reactions
Cryotherapy after wart treatment..? Hello Doctor, I have a wart on the sole of my foot. Last week, I underwent cryotherapy, and the area where the wart was has formed a scab. However, a ring of swelling resembling a blister has appeared around it. After walking a lot yesterday, I...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
This is a normal reaction; you just need to return to the doctor for a follow-up appointment in one week. Wishing you peace and may the love of Jesus be with you.[Read More] Post-Cryotherapy Concerns: Understanding Warts and Skin Reactions
Dealing with Laser Treatment Failures: A Mother's Journey
Failed skin laser treatment Hello Doctor, I have a daughter who, during her baby years, accidentally scratched her cheek with her fingernails while crying and waving her little hands. At that time, I didn't know how to handle it and only applied a small nurse's ointment...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Not all skin issues can be treated with laser therapy. In addition to the physician's experience, the patient's own constitution may also affect the treatment's ability to achieve the desired results. What is most important now is whether there are methods to compe...[Read More] Dealing with Laser Treatment Failures: A Mother's Journey
Understanding White Spots on the Penis: Causes and Concerns
It seems strange? Recently, after having intercourse with my girlfriend, I noticed white spots appearing on my glans. What could be the reason for this? Additionally, there are also white spots between my glans and the foreskin.
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
It is possible that there is a Candida infection, and you should seek treatment from a dermatologist. Wishing you well.[Read More] Understanding White Spots on the Penis: Causes and Concerns
Understanding Eczema vs. Athlete's Foot: Treatment Confusion Explained
Eczema and athlete's foot? Hello Dr. Jiang, I would like to ask about my situation. I visited two different hospitals for dermatology. Since I ran out of my ointment, I went to a clinic. The first hospital diagnosed me with athlete's foot, and the ointment's name s...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Athlete's foot often first appears as peeling or blisters between the toes. If applying antifungal medication improves the condition, it is more likely to be athlete's foot. However, if you apply eczema medication, the condition may worsen. Wishing you safety and health...[Read More] Understanding Eczema vs. Athlete's Foot: Treatment Confusion Explained
Understanding Skin Bumps on Inner Thigh: When to Seek Medical Advice
The inner thigh is long..? A few months ago, I developed two small, pimple-like bumps on the inner side of my thigh, one larger than the other. The larger one, which is not painful, seems to have grown recently to about 1 cm. What could this be, and do I need to go to the hospita...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
It would be better to visit a dermatology clinic for an examination. Wishing you safety and good health.[Read More] Understanding Skin Bumps on Inner Thigh: When to Seek Medical Advice
Managing Scars on Toddlers' Faces: Tips for Parents
Scars on a child's face? Dear Dr. Jiang, Our little one is two years old. Last month, he scraped a small mark on his face (no bleeding was observed). His mother applied American calendula ointment, aloe vera gel, etc. As a result, the small mark became a large red and swoll...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Generally, for scratches on a baby's face, applying a small amount of eye ointment such as tetracycline or erythromycin is sufficient. Children's skin has a great healing ability, and the vast majority will not leave scars. It is most important not to apply random subst...[Read More] Managing Scars on Toddlers' Faces: Tips for Parents
Chronic Eczema: Understanding Persistent Itching and Treatment Challenges
Chronic eczema I have been experiencing itching on my neck and buttocks for many years without knowing the cause. Sometimes the itching becomes unbearable, and scratching leads to broken skin, which is even more uncomfortable. However, during the winter months, the symptoms seem ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Eczema can be classified into exogenous and endogenous types. Exogenous eczema is caused by substances in the external environment that the skin may come into contact with, while endogenous eczema is related to an individual's inherent constitution and allergic predispositio...[Read More] Chronic Eczema: Understanding Persistent Itching and Treatment Challenges
How to Address Keloids After Tattoo Removal: A Dermatologist's Guide
Tattoo removal? I would like to ask, three years ago I had a car accident that caused a keloid on my nose, but there were no other wounds that developed. Regarding the depth of the injury, I remember when I was in elementary school, I accidentally cut my finger down to the bone, ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Keloids can be treated with local corticosteroid injections, silicone gel sheets, or laser therapy. Wishing you well.[Read More] How to Address Keloids After Tattoo Removal: A Dermatologist's Guide
Can Acne Be Cured? Understanding Breakouts and Treatment Options
Acne is so annoying! Hello Doctor, I always feel like the acne on my face tends to come in waves. For about 4 to 5 days, I won’t have any breakouts, and then suddenly a bunch will appear. I know I shouldn’t squeeze them, but sometimes while washing my face, I accidentally pop the...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
The treatment of acne requires a long duration, typically 4 to 6 months of continuous therapy, so it is important to have perseverance and patience. Additionally, maintaining a regular lifestyle is essential.[Read More] Can Acne Be Cured? Understanding Breakouts and Treatment Options
Do You Need Surgery for a Sebaceous Cyst? Risks of Not Removing It
Sebaceous cyst Hello: 1. Do you have to undergo surgery to remove a lipoma? 2. If surgery is not performed, will it "grow larger"? Thank you!
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
A sebaceous cyst is a benign tumor that does not necessarily need to be removed unless it becomes frequently inflamed. It may occasionally enlarge slightly, but the growth is limited. Wishing you well.[Read More] Do You Need Surgery for a Sebaceous Cyst? Risks of Not Removing It
What Are the White Thread-Like Structures at My Hair Roots?
White filamentous attachments at the hair roots? Hello, doctor. Most of the hair roots on my scalp have a white, thread-like attachment covering them. It resembles small segments, varying in length but generally less than 0.2 centimeters, and is as fine as the hair itself. This h...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
If the white attachment can be pulled off, it is a type of circular dandruff and can be treated like regular dandruff. Wishing you safety.[Read More] What Are the White Thread-Like Structures at My Hair Roots?