Struggling with Acne: Effective Solutions for Persistent Skin Issues
Acne Hello, doctor: I've been struggling with acne since elementary school and have seen countless doctors. I've also tried traditional Chinese medicine, but nothing seems to improve. Additionally, I have many acne scars, although the pitting is not too severe. My pores...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Your acne may be classified as stubborn acne. To treat this type of persistent acne, oral retinoids, specifically isotretinoin, are considered the most effective medication. However, treatment typically needs to be continued for 5 to 6 months. Oral isotretinoin can only be prescr...[Read More] Struggling with Acne: Effective Solutions for Persistent Skin Issues
Understanding Herpes Transmission: Kissing and Cold Sores Explained
Kissing someone with oral herpes? Hello, doctor... I started kissing my girlfriend three weeks ago, and today I noticed a small red spot on her lips, which also has some blister-like formations. I discovered this after kissing her several times. Upon noticing it, I immediately we...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Your girlfriend has a condition known as simple herpes. Generally, it can only be transmitted through contact when symptoms are present. As for determining whether an infection has occurred, it can only be confirmed once there are symptoms on the skin. In fact, the vast majority ...[Read More] Understanding Herpes Transmission: Kissing and Cold Sores Explained
Understanding Allergic Dermatitis: When Bug Bites Become Serious
It should be a bug bite? Hello Dr. Jiang, On the morning of the 16th, I woke up feeling some pain on the side of my calf near the ankle, with a small bump that felt like a mosquito bite. I thought it was just a regular mosquito bite, so I applied "Mentholatum." However...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
I suspect that your insect bite may be accompanied by a mild bacterial infection. If your pain persists, you could consider adding a few days of antibiotic treatment. I believe there shouldn't be any major issues, especially for young individuals, and it should not affect yo...[Read More] Understanding Allergic Dermatitis: When Bug Bites Become Serious
Understanding Scars: Why Do They Persist After Healing?
Scar issues? Doctor, I have a question: Recently, after getting injured, my scars are not fading. Even the marks from mosquito bites leave traces that don't seem to disappear. This never happened before. Is there something wrong with my body?
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Scars that involve pigmentation may take some time to fade. If the scar is a raised hard lump, it may not resolve on its own; however, it is not specifically related to any issues with your body. Wishing you peace.[Read More] Understanding Scars: Why Do They Persist After Healing?
Understanding and Treating Keratosis Pilaris: Causes and Solutions
Pityriasis rubra pilaris Hello, Dr. Jiang! How can we treat keratosis pilaris, and what causes this condition? Thanks!
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
I'm not quite sure about the disease name you mentioned. Please provide me with the English medical term so I can identify the condition and understand how to treat it. Wishing you peace, and may Jesus love you.[Read More] Understanding and Treating Keratosis Pilaris: Causes and Solutions
Choosing Between Glycolic Peels and Retinoid Creams for Acne
I would like to ask you about choosing between chemical peels with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) or using topical retinoids (such as tretinoin)? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask you about whether to choose glycolic acid peels or tretinoin cream. I have a question regarding my skin...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels can improve pore congestion and enhance the absorption and efficacy of acne medications. As for tretinoin (commonly referred to as retinoic acid), it is the most effective medication for acne, but it requires at least four months of use. In my perso...[Read More] Choosing Between Glycolic Peels and Retinoid Creams for Acne
Managing Skin Irritation from Carbon Fiber Exposure and Eczema Relief
In the workplace, there is a need to handle carbon fiber, and there are also issues related to eczema? (1) Recently, due to my work, the products from my company are made of carbon fiber, which has caused my skin on my hands to feel itchy and prickly both during work and after ho...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
It may be necessary to wear gloves to avoid contact. A topical eczema cream can be applied. Skin issues on the scrotum are mostly due to scrotal eczema, and a low-potency corticosteroid cream can be applied locally, but it should not be used for an extended period. If the conditi...[Read More] Managing Skin Irritation from Carbon Fiber Exposure and Eczema Relief
Understanding Pityriasis Rosea: Symptoms and What to Expect
Pityriasis rosea Hello... I have been diagnosed with pityriasis rosea by my doctor recently. Initially, the red spots did not itch, but later they started to peel and became itchy. Is this a normal situation?
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
It is possible for such a situation to occur; the primary diagnosis of pityriasis rosea is based on the appearance of the lesions. Most cases of pityriasis rosea will resolve on their own. Wishing you peace, Jesus loves you.[Read More] Understanding Pityriasis Rosea: Symptoms and What to Expect
When to Surgically Remove a Subcutaneous Cyst: Key Considerations
Subcutaneous cyst Hello, Doctor: When is the appropriate timing for surgical removal of a subcutaneous cyst, during the time it is infected or when it is not inflamed? What should be noted after the surgery? Thank you, Doctor~
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Epidermoid cysts are best excised when they are either inflamed or after the inflammation has resolved. It is advisable to avoid contact with water until the sutures are removed post-surgery. Wishing you safety, Jesus loves you.[Read More] When to Surgically Remove a Subcutaneous Cyst: Key Considerations
Understanding Armpit Hair Issues: Causes and Treatment Options
Axillary hair I often experience excessive sweating in my armpits, especially during the summer. When I take a shower, I frequently notice that my armpit hair appears white. Upon closer inspection, I realize that there is a white film covering the hair, which can be scraped off w...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
This is a specific bacterial infection known as trichomycosis. It is easily treatable; you just need to visit a dermatology clinic for diagnosis and medication. Wishing you peace, Jesus loves you.[Read More] Understanding Armpit Hair Issues: Causes and Treatment Options
Understanding Unusual Acne: Causes and Health Concerns
The acne is large and foul-smelling? Doctor, my acne appears in unusual places. They are quite large and I can't seem to fully extract them; there are always white, stringy substances. One of them had a very foul odor when I squeezed it, and I'm worried that it might in...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
What you have is not a pimple, but an epidermoid cyst, also known as a sebaceous cyst, which needs to be surgically removed. Wishing you peace, Jesus loves you.[Read More] Understanding Unusual Acne: Causes and Health Concerns
Dealing with Severe Acne: Over-the-Counter Solutions and Skin Reactions
Severe acne problem? I started getting acne in middle school, and it fluctuates between good and bad. Although I've heard that not staying up late can prevent acne, I still break out regularly. Most of my acne appears on both sides of my cheeks and is quite red, making it ve...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Sometimes the skin on the face is not exactly the same as the skin on the arms, so I suggest you may want to stop using it. As for stubborn acne, the most effective treatment is oral isotretinoin, as it can maintain remission for about 1-2 years. However, this medication requires...[Read More] Dealing with Severe Acne: Over-the-Counter Solutions and Skin Reactions
Understanding Skin Rashes: Allergies or Other Conditions?
I'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that? Doctor: Please tell me what the following symptoms are. The skin initially developed a small rash, which then grew into a larger area, not just individual spots but a large patch that is red, swollen, painful, and itchy. It can also ...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
This condition is called urticaria, which is an allergic reaction that can be triggered by various factors including food, medications, and environmental elements. Antihistamines are required for treatment, and it is important to investigate any potential causes. Wishing you peac...[Read More] Understanding Skin Rashes: Allergies or Other Conditions?
Dealing with Dry, Peeling Skin and Persistent Acne: What to Do?
Dry, peeling facial skin with persistent acne? Dry, peeling facial skin with persistent acne—how can this happen? Should I apply more moisturizer or use acne medication?
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
The causes of dry skin may include cold weather, the use of unsuitable cleansing products, or insufficient moisturizing efforts. Acne is an underlying skin issue, so you should visit a dermatology clinic for treatment. Wishing you peace, and Jesus loves you.[Read More] Dealing with Dry, Peeling Skin and Persistent Acne: What to Do?
Can Post-Pityriasis Rosea Pigmentation Be Fully Treated?
Is the pigmentation from pityriasis rosea unable to resolve? Hello Dr. Jiang, I was diagnosed with pityriasis rosea in August of this year. Although the rash cleared up by the end of September, I still have many round spots (hyperpigmentation) on my skin. Initially, I thought the...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
The pigmentation on your skin is classified as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which can sometimes take several months or even over half a year to gradually fade. To accelerate its resolution, you can consider other methods, such as the introduction of L-ascorbic acid (Vitam...[Read More] Can Post-Pityriasis Rosea Pigmentation Be Fully Treated?
Understanding Small Hard Bumps in the Groin Area: When to Seek Help
A small hard lump has developed? Two days before my last menstrual period, I felt some irritation in the genital area. After scratching it, I noticed a small hard lump near the pubic hair growth area close to my abdomen. At first, I thought it was caused by an insect bite and did...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
You should visit a dermatology clinic. If it is painful, there may be a bacterial infection. If it is not painful, it could be localized glandular swelling or hyperplasia. Wishing you peace, Jesus loves you.[Read More] Understanding Small Hard Bumps in the Groin Area: When to Seek Help
Skin Reactions After Using ZORAC: What You Need to Know
Post-medication issues? Hello Dr. Jiang, I am one of your outpatient patients. During my follow-up appointment on November 21, after the skin biopsy and suture removal, you prescribed ZORAC (tazarotene) cream. After applying it for three days, the treated area has developed pee...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
You can stop the medication for a few days. Zorac is a type of retinoid that may cause peeling, so wait until your skin recovers before applying a small amount. If you have any questions, please call me at 038358141-3116. Wishing you peace, and Jesus loves you.[Read More] Skin Reactions After Using ZORAC: What You Need to Know
Can Nail Fungus Heal? Understanding Eczema and Nail Health
Can a fungal nail infection get better? I have a bit of eczema on my thumb! I went to see a doctor who prescribed some medication to apply. Is eczema a type of fungus? Could it turn into a fungal nail infection? My nails are already uneven! Will new nails grow out? Since there ar...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Eczema is not caused by fungi, so it will not turn into nail fungus. The recovery of nails can sometimes take a long time, so there is no need to worry. Wishing you peace; Jesus loves you.[Read More] Can Nail Fungus Heal? Understanding Eczema and Nail Health
Understanding Eczema: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips
Eczema Dear Doctor, Due to a job transfer, I moved to the Netherlands from Taiwan. However, I have noticed that my skin keeps peeling. Could this be caused by eczema? Will I recover after using a steroid ointment? After the peeling occurs, is it safe to apply steroids to newborn...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Dear Chou, It is difficult to determine the exact nature of your skin issue. If "decorticating" refers to scaling, you may be experiencing xerotic dermatitis, which is eczema caused by dry skin. It is advisable to apply a moisturizing cream or ointment to prevent your ...[Read More] Understanding Eczema: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention Tips
Can People with Atopic Dermatitis Get Their Hair Permed Safely?
Can individuals with atopic dermatitis get their hair permed? Hello Dr. Jiang, I would like to ask a question. I have atopic dermatitis, but I want to get a perm. However, I am concerned about potential allergic reactions to the chemicals used. Can hair absorb these chemicals, or...
Dr. Jiang Zheen reply Dermatology
Hair does not absorb chemicals; the scalp absorbs substances. Patients with atopic dermatitis may not necessarily be allergic to perm solutions, and the likelihood of being allergic to the smell of the chemicals is low. Jesus loves you, wishing you peace.[Read More] Can People with Atopic Dermatitis Get Their Hair Permed Safely?