How to Tell If Your Athlete's Foot Treatment Was Successful
Athlete's foot Doctor, I previously went to see a doctor for athlete's foot and received treatment, but I would like to know how to determine if it has been successfully treated?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Xiao Tuo: If the treatment for athlete's foot has lasted more than a month without any peeling or white flakes, you should continue applying the medication for another week. It's advisable to visit a hospital to check for any bacterial infection before discontinu...[Read More] How to Tell If Your Athlete's Foot Treatment Was Successful
Managing Eczema on Toes: Treatment Options and Expert Opinions
Eczema of the toes 1. I have eczema on my toes. When I apply medication, it forms a hard crust that feels rough to the touch, but later it peels off. After the peeling, new skin grows, and then it becomes itchy again. What should I do about this? 2. Regarding the situation descr...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Generally, eczema should be treated with topical medications until it is resolved, extending the treatment duration to 2-3 weeks before discontinuing the medication. If there are subsequent peeling symptoms, moisturizing products should be used for treatment, with petroleu...[Read More] Managing Eczema on Toes: Treatment Options and Expert Opinions
Effective Treatments for Anal Warts: Seeking Alternatives to Electrocautery
Anal warts? I previously underwent electrocautery at Chang Gung Memorial Hospital twice, and after four months, I have developed a recurrence. Could you please recommend a major hospital in Taipei where I can seek treatment? Which department should I consult? Also, are there alte...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Genital warts are caused by HPV virus infection. Traditionally, treatments such as electrosurgery or cryotherapy have been used, but they often result in recurrence. Currently, there are new immunotherapy options available: Aldara (imiquimod) cream enhances the body's...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Anal Warts: Seeking Alternatives to Electrocautery
Understanding Skin Scales: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
The "small squares" and dots on the skin? The oval-shaped small patches on my hands and feet seem to peel off after I wipe them with a towel following a shower, resembling small flakes similar to those on the scalp. As you mentioned, it is particularly severe in winter,...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: It looks like psoriasis. It is better to perform a biopsy for diagnosis before treatment. If it is congenital, the main treatment is with moisturizers (such as urea, ADE ointment, petroleum jelly, etc.). Additionally, managing itching is also very important.[Read More] Understanding Skin Scales: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Understanding Black Spots and Oval Patterns on Skin: Causes and Solutions
The "small grids" and dots on the skin? Hello, over the past few years, I have noticed some small black spots on my hands and feet, as well as some oval-shaped patches, particularly severe on my feet. However, there is no itching. Is this a skin condition? What can I do...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Based on your description, it's unclear whether the oval-shaped spots on your hands and feet are peeling, and whether they worsen in winter. Do any family members have similar skin symptoms? If this is a congenital condition, we should consider the possibility of &quo...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots and Oval Patterns on Skin: Causes and Solutions
Understanding Shingles: When to Seek Hospitalization for Severe Symptoms
Shingles Hello, I was diagnosed with shingles at a local clinic three days ago. The area with blisters has been spreading from my thigh to the back of my buttocks and lower back. The pain and burning sensation have been persistent and seem to be worsening. Given this situation, i...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Shingles is a reactivation of the varicella-zoster virus, and the location you mentioned likely corresponds to the lumbar region. Generally, antiviral medications (Acyclovir) should be administered either intravenously or orally within 3-4 days of the rash appearing to tre...[Read More] Understanding Shingles: When to Seek Hospitalization for Severe Symptoms
Effective Solutions for Skin Issues: Cracked Skin, Scars, and Stretch Marks
Please provide the content you would like Hello, Doctor: Previously, I asked you about the cracked, rough skin on my lower back and buttocks (which resembles a leopard pattern). You mentioned that it would be helpful to know if it gets worse in winter or summer, or if there are a...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Regarding issues with the lower back and buttocks that resemble "winter eczema," the focus should be on moisturizing agents or anti-inflammatory medications for treatment. There are many types of moisturizing products that can be tried. In terms of medications, o...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Skin Issues: Cracked Skin, Scars, and Stretch Marks
Effective Solutions to Eliminate Body Odor: A Dermatologist's Guide
Body odor Hello, what methods can effectively cure body odor?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, the sweat produced by the human body is odorless. The unpleasant odor associated with sweat is a result of bacteria breaking down the components of sweat. To thoroughly address the issue of body odor, a surgical procedure can be performed to block the nerves that control s...[Read More] Effective Solutions to Eliminate Body Odor: A Dermatologist's Guide
Understanding Persistent Rash on the Back of the Hand: Causes and Solutions
Rash on the back of the hand? Hello Doctor: My husband has had a rash on the back of his hand for 1 to 2 years that is neither painful nor itchy. He has seen doctors, but it hasn't improved; they all say it is eczema. However, we don't believe it is eczema. What could b...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello Peggy: It would be easier to provide suggestions if you have photos of the issue. If it has not improved for 1-2 years, it is better to visit a hospital for a skin biopsy to assist with the diagnosis.[Read More] Understanding Persistent Rash on the Back of the Hand: Causes and Solutions
Can Athlete's Foot Spread Through Toe Licking? Expert Insights
Athlete's foot If a person has athlete's foot and enjoys having their toes licked, could this lead to an infection in the other person's mouth?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Athlete's foot is a fungal infection of the feet. The oral cavity has protective immune cells, so as long as there are no cuts or wounds in the mouth, it is generally difficult for individuals with a normal immune system to get infected. However, treating athlete'...[Read More] Can Athlete's Foot Spread Through Toe Licking? Expert Insights
Effective Treatments for Athlete's Foot: Myths and Facts Explained
Treatment for athlete's foot? How should athlete's foot be treated? I saw in the news that there are products available on the market that claim to cure it with just one application. Is that true? Do I need to pay out of pocket for it? I'm not sure if your hospital...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello Tow3602: The treatment for athlete's foot typically involves the use of topical medications. Generally, ointments should be used continuously for one month, with some requiring application twice a day and newer generations once a day. The product you mentioned, "L...[Read More] Effective Treatments for Athlete's Foot: Myths and Facts Explained
Improving Dark and Cracked Skin on the Buttocks: Expert Tips
Skin of the buttocks Hello Dr. Chang: I have large areas of darker skin on my lower back and buttocks that appear cracked. I'm wondering if there is any way to improve this condition, as it looks unclean. I'm not sure if it's due to dryness or prolonged friction fr...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Based on your description, it could be chronic eczema. If there are circular red patches, you should also consider tinea corporis. Additionally, I would like to ask if there have been any treatments or recurrence, or any exacerbating factors (is it worse in summer or winte...[Read More] Improving Dark and Cracked Skin on the Buttocks: Expert Tips
Understanding Athlete's Foot: Treatment Options and Recovery Time
Athlete's foot Is it troublesome for the doctor? Could that cause a skin infection? Because I previously visited a dermatologist who said it was athlete's foot. Is the new generation of medication effective enough to treat it in one dose, or does it still need to be use...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello Tow3602: What I meant by a one-month treatment is that many patients often experience relapses. Therefore, I recommend extending the treatment duration to reduce the chances of recurrence. Many new medications emphasize a broad spectrum of antibacterial activity, and if the...[Read More] Understanding Athlete's Foot: Treatment Options and Recovery Time
Effective Non-Surgical Pain Relief for Diabetic Elderly with Corns
Treatment of corns in elderly patients with diabetes? Hello Dr. Zhang, my grandfather is nearly 90 years old and has diabetes but no other health issues. He has suffered from corns for many years, and recently the pain has become particularly unbearable. After visiting a regional...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: It is generally not recommended to use surgical procedures for treating corns. Instead, corn pads or topical salicylic acid ointments or solutions can be used locally for 2-3 months. If a quicker recovery is desired, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen can be employed, althou...[Read More] Effective Non-Surgical Pain Relief for Diabetic Elderly with Corns
Understanding Foot Conditions: Is It Dyshidrotic Eczema or Athlete's Foot?
excuse me? Is the presence of small bumps on my toes a sign of dyshidrotic eczema? I have a history of chronic eczema on my toes, but I have never experienced anything resembling dyshidrotic eczema before. I have been applying the steroid cream prescribed by my doctor for almost ...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: Hong Kong foot is known as "tinea pedis." In addition to causing peeling, it can also trigger allergic reactions such as dyshidrotic eczema, which is an extremely itchy skin condition. If topical medication provides some improvement, it is advisable to continue t...[Read More] Understanding Foot Conditions: Is It Dyshidrotic Eczema or Athlete's Foot?
Understanding Persistent Itching: Possible Causes and Concerns
I don't know what disease it is? Hello Dr. Chang: My penis has been itching at the base since the day after I had protected sexual intercourse with a stranger. The itching is more pronounced when I walk, and it is less severe when I am sitting. When I check the itchy area, i...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The symptoms you described make it difficult to determine if it is a lice issue. If it is pubic lice, typically shaving the area and applying medication for 1-2 days should suffice, as pubic lice lay eggs and can also cause dermatitis symptoms (eczema). It is important to ...[Read More] Understanding Persistent Itching: Possible Causes and Concerns
Understanding Sudden Onset of Dyshidrotic Eczema: Causes and Health Signals
I apologize, but I need to clarify your question regarding dyshidrotic eczema? Hello! Thank you for your insightful response~ I have benefited greatly and gained a better understanding of this symptom! However, I would like to learn more about the causes of its occurrence. Why ha...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Xiaojuan: Hand eczema and contact allergens (such as cleaning agents, medications, dirty objects, etc.) are related. One type is constitutional, meaning that even minimal exposure can trigger a strong allergic reaction (with red, itchy rashes, and in severe cases, blisters...[Read More] Understanding Sudden Onset of Dyshidrotic Eczema: Causes and Health Signals
Unusual Bumps on Heels: Causes and Treatment Options Explained
There is a strange growth on the heel? Hello Dr. Chang, I would like to ask you a question: I have developed small blisters on the heels of both feet, which later merged into large pus-filled lesions. The surrounding area is somewhat itchy, but the pus-filled areas are painful wh...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello, Xiao Juan: The symptoms you described are consistent with dyshidrotic eczema (pompholyx). The causes can be attributed to an atopic constitution (such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, or dermatitis) or an allergic reaction due to a tinea pedis (athlet...[Read More] Unusual Bumps on Heels: Causes and Treatment Options Explained
Understanding Keratosis Pilaris: Causes, Treatments, and Skin Care Tips
Keratosis pilaris Hello: 1. What are the causes and treatment methods for keratosis pilaris? 2. Does keratosis pilaris later develop into a light red color similar to acne? 3. Besides using exfoliating creams, what other methods can improve keratosis pilaris? Is a scrub suitabl...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
Hello: The cause of keratosis pilaris is currently unknown. Most literature suggests that this condition has a genetic predisposition (commonly seen in patients with ichthyosis) and is more prevalent in individuals with allergic or atopic tendencies, or those who are malnourished...[Read More] Understanding Keratosis Pilaris: Causes, Treatments, and Skin Care Tips
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. Zhang Zhibo reply Dermatology
1. The term "white cream" should refer to a whitening ointment, but the main ingredients need to be provided by the manufacturer to determine its composition. 2. Azelaic acid (Azel Cream) itself can treat acne and has a whitening effect, but it can be relatively irritat...[Read More] Understanding Skin Whitening Creams: Ingredients, Usage, and Effectiveness