Understanding Skin Treatments: Choosing Between Laser and Needle Therapy
Questions about aesthetic medicine and my own skin? Hello Dr. Huang, I have been unsure about which treatment would be best for my symptoms. I have a lot of hyperpigmentation from my teenage years, along with some pitted scars and enlarged pores. Since the cost of laser treatment...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: If you do not have sufficient financial resources as a backup, I suggest that you do not consider scar treatment at this time. Hyperpigmentation does not require treatment as it will fade over time. Currently, the most effective treatments for indented scars are dermabrasi...[Read More] Understanding Skin Treatments: Choosing Between Laser and Needle Therapy
Understanding Brown Spots on Your Face: Causes and Treatments
Spots on the face? Hello, doctor: I have a lot of brown spots on my face. What could be the cause of this? I didn't have them before, but they started appearing after sun exposure. Is there a way to get rid of these spots?
Dr. Mao Mingya Reply:
Hello: Sun exposure can easily lead to the development of spots, and existing spots may also darken in color. These spots include sun spots, freckles, melasma, and seborrheic keratosis. To remove them, one can use topical creams or undergo laser treatment; however, the effectiven...[Read More] Understanding Brown Spots on Your Face: Causes and Treatments
Understanding Post-Laser Hyperpigmentation: Causes and Recovery Time
Laser treatment for pigmentation issues can sometimes lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), where the treated area may darken after the procedure. This Hello, I would like to ask again, is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation something that everyone experiences, or do...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: It is not guaranteed and depends on individual constitution, the area treated with laser, the type of pigmentation, and post-operative care, among other factors. The rebound pigmentation can take as little as three months or as long as six months to a year to recover. The ...[Read More] Understanding Post-Laser Hyperpigmentation: Causes and Recovery Time
Laser Treatment for Freckles and Scars: Safety and Recovery Tips
Laser treatment for freckles and scar removal issues? Hello, I would like to undergo laser treatment for pigmentation, but I have bruising on my face. Is it safe to proceed with the treatment while the bruising is still present and fluctuating in swelling? Could this cause second...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: 1. It is not advisable to undergo laser treatment if there is any injury on the face. 2. After laser treatment, scabbing occurs, which typically falls off in about a week. (Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation generally refers to uneven pigmentation one month after the lase...[Read More] Laser Treatment for Freckles and Scars: Safety and Recovery Tips
Understanding Pigmented Scars from Cryotherapy: Causes and Solutions
Pigmented scars left by cryotherapy? Hello Dr. Huang: I have many moles on my body, which I find unattractive, so I have always wanted to have them removed. Previously, I did not do thorough research and was misled by a friend to go to a hospital where a doctor used liquid nitrog...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello! Without seeing the individual, it is difficult to determine whether it is a true scar or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Generally speaking, cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen is unlikely to cause true scars; instead, it often results in hyperpigmentation, which will fa...[Read More] Understanding Pigmented Scars from Cryotherapy: Causes and Solutions
Managing Fungal Infections: Ketoconazole Use and Liver Health Concerns
Dermatological medications Hello Doctor: I have a fungal infection (tinea corporis) that covers a large area, approximately the entire back of my right upper arm, the inner thigh, and about three coin-sized spots on my chest with hyperpigmentation. I recently visited a dermatolog...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: I suggest you still get a liver function test, as there are risks involved. Although the probability is low, from my personal perspective, tinea versicolor is merely unsightly and usually does not cause any discomfort or affect health. Even if it is treated orally, it may ...[Read More] Managing Fungal Infections: Ketoconazole Use and Liver Health Concerns
Common Questions About Using AHA and Retinoids for Acne Treatment
Questions regarding the use of certain acids (Retinoic Acid, Azelaic Acid) Due to previous issues with acne, my doctor recommended long-term use of retinoids. I now purchase retinoids and azelaic acid on my own and visit the clinic less frequently. However, I've come across ...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: Response 1: Mixing with lotion can reduce irritation, but it may also decrease the efficacy of the medication. It is advisable to use it based on your skin type. Mix it only when you are about to use it, as pre-mixing may lead to chemical changes and degradation due to p...[Read More] Common Questions About Using AHA and Retinoids for Acne Treatment
Can Vitamin E Capsules Help Fade Scars Without Clogging Pores?
Regarding vitamin E capsules for scar fading? Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if using vitamin E capsules to fade scars could potentially clog pores with the oil, leading to closed comedones? Thank you for clarifying this for me.
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Xiao Ping: The oil from vitamin E can indeed clog pores. Medically, vitamin E capsules cannot lighten scars, so I suggest you stop using them. Some so-called scars are merely post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or pigmentation from injuries, which will gradually fade over the mon...[Read More] Can Vitamin E Capsules Help Fade Scars Without Clogging Pores?
Understanding Urticaria: Allergies, Treatment, and Skin Changes
Answer I would like to ask about my skin condition. I have had allergies for a long time and have seen doctors who diagnosed me with urticaria. Although I have urticaria and experience allergic reactions, I have been using medication, and after a season, it improved. However, I h...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello! The symptom of having a freckle on my foot initially appeared as just one spot, but it has now almost encircled my foot. I believe it is a post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation resulting from an allergy, which will fade over time, taking several months. My personal email is ...[Read More] Understanding Urticaria: Allergies, Treatment, and Skin Changes
Understanding and Treating Urticaria Scars: Causes and Solutions
Urticaria scars I would like to ask about my skin allergy, which is similar to urticaria. During high school, I had flare-ups on my legs, but I tried my best not to scratch them. After a season, my legs gradually improved. However, after healing, I noticed the appearance of brown...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Urticaria can cause skin inflammation, which may lead to post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. This usually resolves completely within six months. If the results are not satisfactory, medication can be used for treatment.[Read More] Understanding and Treating Urticaria Scars: Causes and Solutions
How to Treat Back Acne Scars: Myths and Effective Solutions
Back acne scars Hello, Dr. Jiang. I suddenly developed some acne on my back, which has mostly cleared up now, but I am left with dark acne scars that feel bumpy to the touch. A nearby dermatologist said this is due to hyperpigmentation and that it cannot be treated. The doctor al...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: I have dark acne scars on my back. The nearby dermatology clinic said that this is hyperpigmentation, and congratulations, it's not a scar or keloid. Hyperpigmentation will gradually fade over time, and you can also use depigmenting skincare products. Dermatology clin...[Read More] How to Treat Back Acne Scars: Myths and Effective Solutions
Understanding Skin Darkening After Using Hechlin Cream for Acne Scars
After using Heparin..? I previously had acne scars on my chin, so I visited a doctor at Asia University Hospital. The doctor prescribed me Heparinoid ointment, but for some reason, the normal skin around the scars turned dark after applying the medication. I apply the ointment at...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: The surrounding normal skin around the acne scars has darkened after applying the ointment, which is likely due to irritation from the medication causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. There's no need to worry too much; changing your approach can help prevent th...[Read More] Understanding Skin Darkening After Using Hechlin Cream for Acne Scars
Effective Long-Term Solutions for Facial Pigmentation After Pregnancy
Spot removal Hello: I originally had spots on my cheekbones due to melanin deposition, which became more pronounced after giving birth. The areas on both sides are about the size of a 50 NT dollar coin each. I would like to know what permanent and long-lasting options are current...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: After giving birth, there are areas of hyperpigmentation on both sides of the cheekbones, each about the size of a 50 NT dollar coin. To assess the pigmentation, the color, shape, depth, and degree of fusion of the spots should be evaluated to determine whether it is 1. me...[Read More] Effective Long-Term Solutions for Facial Pigmentation After Pregnancy
Understanding Black Spots on the Glans: Causes and Treatments
Black spots on the glans? Hello: There are black spots on the glans that look a bit like the remnants of eczema, but they are not itchy or painful at all. Should I be concerned about this? If medication is needed, what should I apply?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: The symptoms you described are known as "post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation." Generally, it tends to fade within a few months. If treatment is desired, topical whitening agents can be used; however, due to their potential for irritation, the concentration should...[Read More] Understanding Black Spots on the Glans: Causes and Treatments
How to Treat Black Deposits and Scarring on Legs: Expert Advice
What is a black pigmentation scar? Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the issue of scars. I have scars all over my body, particularly on my thighs, but I didn't notice that they were itchy and scratched them, which caused bleeding and resulted in scars. Now I have larg...
Dr. Jiang Yujiao Reply:
Hello: If you scratch with your hands, it is likely not a scar but rather post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which will gradually fade over time. You should see a dermatologist for treatment of the itching and to inquire about the issue of "dark pigmentation scars." R...[Read More] How to Treat Black Deposits and Scarring on Legs: Expert Advice
How to Treat Dark Pigmentation Around the Lips Effectively?
Dark discoloration around the lips? What should I do about the dark discoloration around my lips due to melanin deposition? I previously consulted a doctor who prescribed a topical ointment, but it hasn't been very effective. Thank you.
Dr. Cai Changlin Reply:
Hello: The characteristics of the hyperpigmentation around your mouth, including its location, size, color intensity, duration, whether it involves the mucosa, and any previous lesions, all make a difference. It is essential to have a visual examination, so I recommend that you c...[Read More] How to Treat Dark Pigmentation Around the Lips Effectively?
Freckles: Effective Treatments, Insurance Coverage, and Comparison of Creams
Freckles Is the 3-in-1 cream for freckles suitable? Is it covered by health insurance? Are the ingredients in Hsin-Hui's whitening cream (Banjie) and Baoling Fuchin's Baolijie whitening cream the same? Which one is more effective for treating freckles? How should it be ...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Generally, cosmetic treatments are not covered by health insurance, whether it is a single-agent depigmentation medication or a three-in-one cream; the whitening cream from Hsin Kuei (Melquine) is a single-agent product; Melquine HT is a three-in-one cream; the whitening c...[Read More] Freckles: Effective Treatments, Insurance Coverage, and Comparison of Creams
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:
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 Darkening at the Corners of Your Mouth: Causes and Remedies
Darkening of the corners of the mouth? My mouth corners are sometimes dry and itchy, and I've recently noticed a trend of darkening at the corners (this has happened before and resolved, but I forgot the exact cause since different doctors provided different answers). What s...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: It is most likely post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which refers to the marks left after a skin condition has resolved. As long as the previous skin condition does not flare up again, the pigmentation will gradually fade over time. I cannot prescribe medication without ...[Read More] Understanding Darkening at the Corners of Your Mouth: Causes and Remedies
Can Alpha Hydroxy Acid Help with Acne for Allergic Skin?
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) I would like to ask! I have pimples all over my body! I have seen many dermatologists without any effective results! Sometimes I also get them on my neck! Why is that? One dermatologist suggested that I try glycolic acid lotion!!! But I have sensitive ski...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello, Pudding: Regarding the issue you mentioned, it seems to be a case of folliculitis. The questions of whether it itches or hurts are commonly asked! If the folliculitis is uniform and slightly itchy, you might consider seborrheic folliculitis, which can be caused by allergic...[Read More] Can Alpha Hydroxy Acid Help with Acne for Allergic Skin?