Alpha hydroxy acids, Dermatology FAQ

Effective Strategies to Improve Acne Scars and Skin Health

I have a lot of acne? I have developed pressure sores on my body, arms, chest, and back, with the back being the most severe. I am currently on a regular medication regimen and applying topical treatments. While the frequency of new sores has decreased, I am left with many scars ...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
If there are only residual red or black marks, they will gradually fade over six months to a year. However, if new acne develops, the marks left by the new acne will also require an additional six months to a year to fade. As for true atrophic scars, they will not naturally dimin...

Understanding Salicylic Acid and Treatments for Skin Pits

Cavity Question 1: Is salicylic acid considered a mild medication? Question 2: Does salicylic acid have the effect of minimizing pores? Question 3: Does salicylic acid have side effects, such as skin redness? Question 4: What is the cost of a single session of cryo laser tr...

Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
1. The concentration of the product is 1.5%, which is mild for most people; however, wart ointments can erode the stratum corneum. 2. The size of pores is mostly determined by individual constitution and genetic differences; salicylic acid can help improve this condition. 3. The ...

Understanding Acne: Causes, Triggers, and Effective Prevention Strategies

Acne issues Dr. Chen: Hello! During my school years, I didn't have much acne, usually no more than 6 or 7 at a time. However, I've noticed that after entering the workforce, my acne issues have increased. In recent years, I have an average of over twenty acne lesions on...

Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, based on your description, it is likely that you are experiencing late-onset acne, which commonly occurs in women in their twenties and is related to work stress and hormonal changes. Indeed, work-related stress and irregular routines are sign...

Choosing the Right Neostrata Moisturizer for Combination Skin in Fall/Winter

Neostrata series of moisturizers? The Neostrata line has limited moisturizing products, and I have seen a moisturizer containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs). Which skin types is it suitable for? My skin is combination type, and during the fall and winter, I experience flakiness on...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
In winter, you can choose moisturizers with higher hydration properties for your skin. Generally, creams provide better moisturization than lotions or solutions. Neostrata offers a variety of moisturizing products with different ingredients such as hyaluronic acid and gluconated ...

Effective Treatments for Keratosis Pilaris: Beyond Topical Creams

Worry I have keratosis pilaris and would like to ask the doctor if there are better treatment options, as I feel that using ointments is ineffective.

Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, keratosis pilaris is a type of hereditary skin condition. May I ask which ointment you are using? Products containing retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids may help improve keratosis pilaris, and it is advisable to consult a dermatologist. However,...

Effective Skincare Tips for Oily Skin and Acne Prone Complexion

Are there any quick methods for skin whitening? Hello, my skin is very dark and I also have issues with acne. What would be the best way to take care of my skin? Summer is here, and I have oily skin that tends to get greasy, which causes my pores to appear enlarged. How can I add...

Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello: In response to your question, first of all, "quick" whitening may disappoint you. Generally, noticeable whitening effects take at least several weeks or longer, but consistent effort can yield results. Besides natural skin tone, sun protection is fundamental to w...

Understanding and Treating Enlarged Pores: Expert Insights and Solutions

Skin-related issues? Question 1: What are the causes of enlarged pores? Please explain how to prevent and improve this condition. What topical and oral treatments can help? If there are no effective treatments, what mild surgical procedures can cure it with minimal side effects, ...

Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Hello, in response to your questions: 1. The size of pores is most closely related to one's genetic predisposition. Blockages caused by acne can also make pores appear more prominent. Additionally, improper handling of acne by squeezing can leave depressions that make pores...

Effective Ways to Remove Blackheads: A Dermatologist's Guide

Question Hello, doctor: How can I remove blackheads? Thank you.

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
You can apply vitamin A acid or undergo a chemical peel with alpha hydroxy acids. Wishing you safety and well-being.

Essential Ingredients for Effective Moisturizers: A Guide for Different Skin Types

What ingredients should moisturizing products contain? Hello, doctor! I have combination skin, with an oily T-zone and drier areas around my cheeks and mouth. Previously, when I consulted a doctor, I was advised to focus on moisturizing. Currently, after washing my face, I apply ...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Almost any cream or lotion used on the face has moisturizing properties, although the degree of hydration may vary. Common moisturizing ingredients include oils such as plant oils, animal fats, and mineral oils, as well as natural moisturizing factors like urea, lactic acid, wate...

Understanding Blackheads: Causes and Effective Solutions for Your Nose

Nasal comedones Hello, doctor: I would like to ask how blackheads form on the nose, and what are the solutions to this issue?

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Acne is caused by excessive keratinization at the opening of the pores, which blocks them. The accumulation of keratin and lipids in the mid-follicle gradually expands and forms acne. Treatment options include the topical use of retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, and azelaic acid to...

How to Treat Acne Scars and Improve Oily Skin Texture

Poor skin condition..? Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you about my situation. I was an athlete in elementary school and have oily skin, which led to a lot of acne. However, I didn't understand it when I was younger, and due to rapid development, my acne became quite seve...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Hello! Atrophic scars can be treated with laser resurfacing surgery to achieve good results. For enlarged pores, you may consult a dermatologist about using retinoids or alpha hydroxy acids to improve pores that have become enlarged due to clogged comedones. The fundamental princ...

Understanding Blisters and Peeling Skin: Causes, Treatments, and Concerns

Blisters and peeling skin Hello Dr. Jiang: I have a troubling issue. Since around April of this year, I have been developing many small blisters on my fingers, which then harden and eventually peel off. I have seen several doctors, but none have been able to effectively control i...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Dear Youyou: Based on your description, it appears to be dyshidrotic eczema. The exact cause of this condition is unknown, and it often occurs seasonally, most commonly in the spring and summer or during seasonal transitions. While the precise triggers are unclear, a small number...

Effective Ways to Minimize Pores and Fade Acne Scars

How to minimize the appearance of pores? Hello, I would like to ask how to improve the appearance of enlarged pores after recently having blackheads extracted. Additionally, I have some scars on my face from previous acne; what can I do to help fade them?

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
1. After acne is extracted, the enlarged pores typically gradually return to their original size; however, if there are indentations caused by improper squeezing, the recovery is limited. 2. Acne can leave behind red or hyperpigmented spots, which are considered pseudo-scars. The...

Will My Acne Scar Fade Naturally or Do I Need Treatment?

Scar Hello doctor, I would like to ask you about a pimple that I had on my skin. I managed to pick it off, but it left a noticeable scar. Will the scar fade away on its own, or do I need to apply medication? If so, what should I use to help reduce the scar? Thank you!

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Acne scars can be categorized into "true scars" (atrophic or hypertrophic scars) and "false scars" (erythema or hyperpigmentation). True scars, specifically atrophic scars, can be treated with dermabrasion, with laser resurfacing being the most common method u...

Effective Solutions for Persistent Blackheads: Expert Dermatologist Advice

Acne Hello, Doctor: I have a lot of blackheads, and I have tried various products (such as nose strips, clindamycin, etc.) without any success. Is there any method that can help resolve this issue? Thank you.

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
For blackheads, it is advisable to use soap or facial cleansers with appropriate ingredients and strength, washing the face once in the morning and once at night, and then gently patting dry with a towel. Do not forcefully squeeze them, as improper squeezing can lead to inflammat...

Understanding and Treating Dry, Dark Patches on Your Buttocks

Please save my butt! Hello Doctor, I would like to ask you about a brown area on both sides of my lower buttocks, which is the part that comes into contact with the chair when sitting. It feels very dry and rough to the touch, and it doesn't look good at all. This has been g...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Little Fish: This may be classified as mild chronic eczema with associated hyperpigmentation, possibly a residual effect of eczema. Prolonged sitting can exacerbate the lesions. You might try using some low-concentration eczema ointments, combined with lotions containing alpha hy...

Can Radiant C and Retinoic Acid Be Used Together Safely?

Can Radiant C be used in combination with retinoic acid? Hello, I recently purchased a Herbalife product called Radiant C (Vitamin C Cream). The advertised ingredients are as follows: it features a unique vitamin C emulsion formula as the main component, which aims to make the sk...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Dear Miss Wang: I believe it should be fine as long as the usage of both is staggered. As long as you do not experience any discomfort, it should be acceptable. May God bless you and grant you peace.

Understanding Acne: Causes, Treatments, and Effective Management Strategies

Acne issues! Hello: I started developing acne in the sixth grade, and I am still experiencing it now. I think genetic factors might be the main reason because my mother also had a face full of acne when she was young, and I probably inherited her "excellent" genes, resu...

Dr. Liao Wenyu Reply:
Hello: (1) The doctor told me that once I have completed all three stages of treatment, if I want to maintain the results, I need to regularly use a product like Acne Control or a fruit acid product with a concentration of 15% or higher. What do you think? I agree and also reco...

How to Reduce Visible Pores on Hands and Legs: Effective Solutions

Capillary pores I would like to ask, my facial pores are not large, but the pores on my hands and legs are quite noticeable. Is there any way to improve this? Thank you!

Dr. Chen Yiying Reply:
Ms. Hsu, based on your description, it is possible that you have keratosis pilaris. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for a diagnosis. If it is keratosis pilaris, topical treatments such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, or other exfoliating creams may provide some impr...

Understanding Acne: Treatment Options and Concerns for Teens

About acne? I am 17 years old and have developed many acne and small pockmarks on my face (about the size of a grain of rice). I also have enlarged pores, but I rarely get cystic acne. I started experiencing this in the fifth grade. I have seen a dermatologist, who said it is not...

Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Regarding acne treatment, dermatologists have many tools at their disposal, and chemical peels with alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are one of them. AHA peels are a relatively safe treatment option, but they are not a cure-all; the choice of treatment should be based on the specific c...

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