Boosting Immunity: Effective Treatments for Psoriasis
Psoriasis Are there any medications that can boost the immune system?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: This is quite a big question. As far as I know, there are currently no specific medications to boost the immune system. However, older physicians often advise patients with warts to consume Job's tears, so you might want to give that a try! If it is psoriasis, which i...[Read More] Boosting Immunity: Effective Treatments for Psoriasis
Understanding Chin Acne: When to See a Dermatologist
Acne? I have something on my chin that looks like pimples on both sides, resembling comedones, and they are in a row. Should I see a doctor? I'm worried.
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Generally, non-red and non-painful white papules may be whiteheads. You can visit a hospital or clinic for comedone extraction. If there is redness, swelling, and pain, it may be inflammatory acne, which can be treated with oral and topical medications. It is still best to...[Read More] Understanding Chin Acne: When to See a Dermatologist
Should Young Adults See a Dermatologist for Skin Wrinkles?
excuse me? Hello: You mentioned that skin wrinkling is related to aging. My family member is currently 20 years old (male) and has some wrinkled skin on the lower back. Should we still consult a doctor for this?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: It may be better for you to consult with a trusted physician in person. Thank you for your question.[Read More] Should Young Adults See a Dermatologist for Skin Wrinkles?
Understanding Skin Wrinkles: The Role of Collagen and Hydration
excuse me? Hello, Doctor: You previously mentioned that skin wrinkles are influenced not only by changes in the quantity of collagen but also by qualitative changes (the ratio of different types of collagen), which can affect appearance. Additionally, hydration plays a crucial ro...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The production of collagen is carried out by fibroblasts, and their activity decreases with age, leading to a reduction in collagen synthesis. Moisture retention relies on these collagen proteins (such as hyaluronic acid), which also diminishes, resulting in increased skin...[Read More] Understanding Skin Wrinkles: The Role of Collagen and Hydration
Understanding Urticaria: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Urticaria Hello Dr. Chang, I would like to ask a few questions: 1. I have been experiencing unexplained itching all over my body. I went to a clinic and was diagnosed with urticaria (hives), but after 2-3 months of treatment, I am still itching. Does this indicate that it could...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: There are many causes of urticaria, including food, medications, environmental factors, and even temperature changes, infections, or immune system responses. Relief from symptoms can take 2-3 weeks, so medication may need to be taken for several weeks. Generally, patients ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Should You See a Doctor for a Mysterious Rash on Your Elbow?
Do I need to see a doctor? There is a red and swollen area on the inner side of my elbow, the cause of which is unknown (I'm not sure if it was caused by an insect bite). It has a crescent shape and resembles a scar, similar to the mark left after a cut has healed. It is whi...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The symptoms you described are difficult to assess without seeing a photo for better communication. If it is a residual effect from insect bites, it could be papular urticaria or possibly a dermatofibroma that develops over time. In any case, it would be easier to make a d...[Read More] Should You See a Doctor for a Mysterious Rash on Your Elbow?
Dealing with Painful Pimples and Blood in Stool: A Dermatology Concern
I have a large pimple on my buttocks? While taking a shower, I noticed a red bump about 1.5 cm in diameter on my buttocks, and when I squeezed it, some white substance came out! After that, I applied Betadine (not sure if it was effective)! Also, about 4 to 5 months ago, I notice...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The lesion on your buttocks is likely a furuncle (known as "dīngzi" in Taiwanese), which is a type of inflammation involving multiple hair follicles. Over time, it can develop into an epidermoid cyst. It should be treated with oral medication and incision for dra...[Read More] Dealing with Painful Pimples and Blood in Stool: A Dermatology Concern
Understanding Moles on Young Girls: When to Seek Dermatological Care
Moles on the external genitalia of young children? Dear Dr. Zhang, My daughter is currently 7 years old. Around the age of 3, we noticed a mole on her vulva. As she has grown older, it seems to have slightly increased in size, but since I am not a medical professional, I am unsu...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: There are several principles to determine whether a mole may be malignant: 1. A (Asymmetry): One half of the mole does not match the other half; 2. B (Border): The edges are irregular or blurred; 3. C (Color): The color is uneven; 4. D (Diameter): The diameter is greater t...[Read More] Understanding Moles on Young Girls: When to Seek Dermatological Care
Understanding the Symptoms of Athlete's Foot: Circular Lesions Explained
Athlete's foot ulcer? There are usually lesions that do not itch, resembling "athlete's foot." ======> That's correct! There are concentric circular lesions with an outer ring and an inner ring, without blisters, just the lesions! I will upload the pic...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Student Zhang: It would be better to provide suggestions after seeing the lesion. If you have any questions for consultation next time, feel free to attach a photo if possible! I hope to help you regain your health![Read More] Understanding the Symptoms of Athlete's Foot: Circular Lesions Explained
Understanding Athlete's Foot: Insights from a Dermatology Consultation
Hello doctor, I have a question regarding athlete's foot..? Hello Dr. Chang, this is the student Zhang who previously had athlete's foot issues. 1. Today I visited the dermatology department at Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital. However, due to wearing sneakers, m...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: I believe it would be better to see photos for clearer communication. If there is usually peeling without itching, it is more likely to be "tinea pedis" (athlete's foot). If there is the presence of fluid and it is very itchy followed by peeling, this is ind...[Read More] Understanding Athlete's Foot: Insights from a Dermatology Consultation
Understanding Athlete's Foot: Treatment Options and Recommendations
Regarding issues related to athlete's foot, I would like to ask the doctor..? Hello, Doctor. I would like to ask some questions regarding athlete's foot: 1. I have been diagnosed with athlete's foot at a dermatology clinic, specifically the hyperkeratotic type. I...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Student Chang: 1. Regarding thick skin tinea pedis, the usual duration for medication is two weeks. You can also apply salicylic acid ointment topically to accelerate the shedding of thickened skin. 2. Currently, drug resistance is not high; oral medications tend to h...[Read More] Understanding Athlete's Foot: Treatment Options and Recommendations
Effective Floor Disinfection Tips to Prevent Athlete's Foot at Home
Regarding the home flooring for athlete's foot..? Doctor, I apologize, but I have another question that I didn't ask. I usually walk barefoot in my rented room, and I'm worried that my friends might get infected by walking barefoot as well, or that we might transmi...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Walking barefoot can lead to infections, and one must consider the issue of immunity. Fungi require a moist environment to grow, so using a general antibacterial cleaner to mop the floor should effectively kill the fungi. High-temperature disinfection can achieve the same ...[Read More] Effective Floor Disinfection Tips to Prevent Athlete's Foot at Home
Pimple-Like Bump with Pus on Areola: Should You Be Concerned?
There is a pus-filled pimple on the areola? Hello, doctor. I just noticed a raised, pus-filled lesion on the right areola while showering, and it resembles a pimple. I'm a bit scared that it might be a breast condition since I've never had anything like this before. How...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Xiaoxuan: If your condition is likely folliculitis or an epidermal cyst, and there has been no improvement after three months of treatment, a skin biopsy should be performed to confirm the diagnosis. Do not delay the timing of treatment![Read More] Pimple-Like Bump with Pus on Areola: Should You Be Concerned?
Understanding Keratosis Pilaris: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Keratosis pilaris Hello doctor, I have keratosis pilaris, and I feel that it has been getting worse with age. I am currently applying urea cream daily, which has shown some improvement, but I still feel very dry overall. Even in summer, my lips crack, and I have a lot of dandruff...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: You are experiencing issues with keratosis pilaris, cheilitis, dryness, and excessive dandruff, all of which are major characteristics of atopic dermatitis. For keratosis pilaris, if the application of urea is ineffective, you might consider using topical retinoids for tre...[Read More] Understanding Keratosis Pilaris: Causes, Treatments, and Dietary Tips
Understanding Scleroderma: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Scleroderma Hello, what is scleroderma? How is it treated?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Scleroderma is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized primarily by the hardening of the skin and other normal soft tissues. Typically, normal individuals develop scar tissue only during the healing process of wounds, whereas patients with scleroderma continuously produce fibr...[Read More] Understanding Scleroderma: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options
Understanding Persistent Rash on Hands: Causes and Concerns
Rash on the hand? Dear Doctor, I apologize for interrupting you during your busy schedule. My situation is as follows: at the beginning of this month, I suddenly developed some small white bumps on the back of my right hand, located around the joints of my index and middle finge...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello Albert: Regarding the sudden appearance of itchy white spots on the back of your hand, this medical history suggests acute papular eczema; however, it is unusual that it has not resolved after three weeks. If you have been undergoing continuous treatment, it should improve,...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Rash on Hands: Causes and Concerns
Effective Solutions for Chronic Folliculitis: Expert Advice Needed
Folliculitis Consultation Hello Doctor: I've been troubled by folliculitis for several years. It used to occur on my chest and back, but last year it spread to my calves, and this year it's quite severe on both arms. I've visited the clinic multiple times, but ther...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, There are many causes of folliculitis. Some are simply due to follicular obstruction leading to an inflammatory response, while others may be caused by bacterial, fungal, viral, or parasitic infections. Additionally, some individuals may have it as part of an autoimmune ...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Chronic Folliculitis: Expert Advice Needed
Understanding Acne: Your Guide to Effective Treatment Options
Acne issues? I would like to ask the doctor! I want to see a dermatologist for acne, thank you, doctor.
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Xiaoxuan: If there are dermatology clinics nearby, you can consult them. It's essential to see a professional in person for a proper discussion about treatment![Read More] Understanding Acne: Your Guide to Effective Treatment Options
Which Specialist to Consult for Painful Lip Bumps: Dermatology or Gynecology?
Which specialty should I see? I went to see a gynecologist because I had a painful lump on my labia. The doctor diagnosed it as an acne lesion and prescribed some medication, asking me to return for a follow-up in three days. They may need to use a needle to drain the affected ar...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: If a cyst is located in the vulvar area, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. If it recurs, one should consider a Bartholin cyst. Here is a brief introduction to Bartholin cysts: Clinical presentation: The cystic mass is located in the lower posterior part of the l...[Read More] Which Specialist to Consult for Painful Lip Bumps: Dermatology or Gynecology?
Managing Eczema, Blackheads, and Common Skin Treatments: Your Questions Answered
excuse me? Hello, Doctor: 1. I have chronic eczema that causes peeling. After visiting a dermatologist, the doctor recommended using a corticosteroid ointment along with oral medication. Will this treatment improve the peeling? 2. My nose has small spots that look like blackhe...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: 1. The final step of chronic eczema is peeling. The use of topical corticosteroids combined with oral medications is effective for itching, and adding moisturizing agents is beneficial for peeling. 2. For blackheads caused by excessive sebaceous gland activity, medications...[Read More] Managing Eczema, Blackheads, and Common Skin Treatments: Your Questions Answered