Alpha hydroxy acids, Dermatology FAQ

Effective Ways to Treat Red and Dark Acne Scars on Your Skin

How to remove red and dark acne scars? I have had a lot of acne on my face since high school. I am afraid to squeeze them, but after the acne goes away, the original spots leave behind red pigment scars (many of which have not faded even after six months). I haven't squeezed...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Although you may not have squeezed the pimples, the inflammation from the acne can severely damage the surrounding tissue, leading to scarring. This is why dermatologists emphasize the importance of early treatment for acne. Alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and retinoids (commonly refe...

Understanding the Differences Between Home and Clinical Glycolic Acid Use

Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) What is the difference between low-concentration alpha hydroxy acids (e.g., glycolic acid 10%) typically used at home and high-concentration alpha hydroxy acids used in clinical settings? Which one has more significant effects? Are there any side effects ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
The difference between low concentration and high concentration is, of course, the concentration itself! The concentration of alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) used in hospitals typically ranges from 20% to 70%, and there are also combination AHAs. High-concentration AHAs can achieve th...

Dealing with Persistent Acne: When to See a Dermatologist?

Acne issues Hello, doctor. My skin is generally neutral; it tends to be slightly dry in winter and slightly oily in summer, and it is somewhat sensitive. For many years, I have had a small number of persistent acne lesions (fewer than ten), which have also left some post-inflamma...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
If the number of acne lesions is not significant and the inflammation is mild, it may be sufficient to use topical medications. However, this does not mean that seeing a dermatologist is unnecessary! The physician can adjust the treatment based on the current condition and provid...

Effective Treatments for Whiteheads: Prognosis, Medications, and Side Effects

Acne How should whitehead acne be treated? What is the prognosis? What are the current treatment medications? Are there any side effects?

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
Whiteheads are comedones with smaller or even closed openings. They can be gradually removed using exfoliants such as retinoids, alpha hydroxy acids, salicylic acid, and azelaic acid. Using a needle to puncture and extract the comedones is a quicker method, but excessive squeezin...

Struggling with Persistent Acne: Effective Treatments and Solutions

My face is covered in acne, and I'm going crazy? I frequently develop acne in the same areas, particularly on my cheeks and chin, while small pimples on my forehead can be itchy and sometimes appear in clusters. The blackheads on my nose are difficult to remove, and my skin ...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
L-ascorbic acid can help accelerate the fading of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after acne, but acne still needs to be properly treated. Yulian has many blackheads, so it is important to maintain facial cleanliness. In addition to washing the face, topical products such as ...

How to Minimize Pores: Effective Laser Treatments for Acne Scars

Laser aesthetics I have enlarged pores due to acne, and the pores left from blackheads on my nose are also quite large. What can I do to minimize the appearance of my pores, ideally to the point where they are not visible? How effective is laser treatment for this? Thank you!

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
If acne is trapped in the pores causing them to enlarge, then removing the acne will allow the pores to return to their original size. To clear acne, exfoliating agents such as salicylic acid, retinoic acid, alpha hydroxy acids, and azelaic acid can be used to gradually soften an...

Struggling with Acne: Effective Solutions Beyond Skincare Products

Acne issues? I have been struggling with acne for a long time and have tried many skincare products, such as creams, facial cleansers, and alpha hydroxy acids, but none have been effective. I still keep getting breakouts. Every time I go out, I encounter beauty therapists who tel...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
To address the issue of acne, in addition to maintaining a regular sleep schedule and a balanced diet, hormonal balance also plays a significant role; otherwise, it wouldn't be referred to as "teenage acne." The hormonal changes during puberty lead to an increased ...

Understanding AHA Peels: When to Expect Results and Next Steps

Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peel Dr. Cheng: Following the physician's recommendation, I underwent a glycolic acid peel treatment and completed two sessions. The results were minimal (reducing from about 30 noticeable acne lesions to 25). However, isn't it expected to see s...

Dr. Zheng Lizhen Reply:
In addition to improving acne scars and dark spots, chemical peels are also effective for acne. Although Xiaoyu feels that the results are not significant, hasn't she noticed a reduction in acne? Don't worry; during the first one or two sessions, there may not be obviou...

Understanding White Flesh Warts Under Eyes and Nose: Causes and Treatments

White flesh-colored warts located on the wings of the nose and beneath the eyes? I have been experiencing small, painless, and itchy white flesh-colored growths under my eye bags and around my nostrils for a long time. I previously visited a dermatologist who advised me to reduce...

Dr. Jin Lianchun Reply:
Dr. Jin Lian-Chun from Pingtung Hospital's Dermatology Department responds: Hello, Miss. Based on your description, there are several possible diagnoses: 1. Eccrine poroma: This is a benign proliferation of sweat gland ducts related to genetics, which can be treated with las...

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