Effectiveness of Acyclovir vs. Diflucan for Treating Shingles
Measles Which of the two medications, Acyclovir or Valacyclovir, is more effective for herpes zoster? What are the side effects? Is topical hydrocortisone effective for herpes zoster? Can it be used in combination with these medications?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Dear Q: Xyzal (levocetirizine dihydrochloride) 5mg is a third-generation antihistamine derived from the second-generation Zyrtec (cetirizine 10mg), which improves upon the sedation and dizziness side effects associated with the second generation. The package insert states that cl...[Read More] Effectiveness of Acyclovir vs. Diflucan for Treating Shingles
Skin Issues from Frequent Hand Exposure to Water: Causes and Remedies
People who frequently soak their hands in water? My grandmother and a lady I know who sells buffet meals seem to have frequent exposure to water, which has caused wounds on their hands that are difficult to heal. What could be the cause of this condition? Are there any effective ...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Dear kuan861, Hello! Common skin conditions for individuals who frequently come into contact with water include contact dermatitis, fungal infections, bacterial infections, and dyshidrotic eczema, among others. Since itching can lead to scratching and subsequent skin inflammatio...[Read More] Skin Issues from Frequent Hand Exposure to Water: Causes and Remedies
How to Treat Freckles and Foot Odor: Expert Dermatologist Advice
Could you please provide the content you would like me to translate Hello, doctor. I've been troubled by freckles on both sides of my cheeks since childhood, and my soles tend to get very sweaty. Some people say this is foot odor. Is there a way to eliminate the bothersome f...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: Freckles can actually be effectively treated with laser therapy, but it depends on your willingness to try and whether your budget allows for it (maybe cut back a little during department store anniversary sales?). However, it's important to understand that freckles c...[Read More] How to Treat Freckles and Foot Odor: Expert Dermatologist Advice
Can Pubic Lice Spread to Hair on the Head? Expert Insights
Pubic lice Hello, Dr. Chang: Can pubic lice move to the hair on the head?
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Dear Fred: Although pubic lice are most commonly found in the pubic area, they can also exist in areas with hair, such as eyelashes and scalp hair. Since this condition is classified as a sexually transmitted infection, it is essential to seek treatment as soon as possible. Addit...[Read More] Can Pubic Lice Spread to Hair on the Head? Expert Insights
How to Treat Dark Patches on the Neck: Dermatologist Insights
Neck..? Hello, Doctor Huang: I have a patch of darker skin on my neck that looks dirty, often leading people to think I haven't washed properly, and some even believe it's a mark from a failed suicide attempt. This has been quite distressing for me. I suspect it might b...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Hello: I apologize, but online diagnoses are not permitted due to the risk of misdiagnosis. This website is intended for further consultation after a known diagnosis. If you are truly concerned, please visit a dermatologist in person. Thank you.[Read More] How to Treat Dark Patches on the Neck: Dermatologist Insights
Managing Seborrheic Dermatitis: Hair and Skin Care Tips for Relief
Inquire about seborrheic dermatitis? 1. I have seborrheic dermatitis, which makes my scalp itchy and oily. After scratching, it becomes wet and moist. Over time, I have experienced significant hair loss, so my hair has become very sparse. I’ve heard that this condition makes it i...
Dr. Cai Changlin Reply:
Hello: Regarding your questions, I will address them in two parts. (1) Concerning your scalp, if you have been diagnosed with seborrheic dermatitis, it may be challenging to completely eliminate the symptoms, especially during times of high stress, lack of sleep, or seasonal ch...[Read More] Managing Seborrheic Dermatitis: Hair and Skin Care Tips for Relief
Effective Solutions for Acne Scars and Breakouts: A Guide for Oily Skin
How to eliminate acne scars and acne? Hello: Recently, I've been experiencing breakouts on my face, which is quite bothersome. Is it because I have oily skin that I keep getting acne? In the past, I would pop my pimples out of habit, which has left my face with pitted scars....
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Acne is not exclusive to oily skin; several factors can contribute to its development: (1) Poor keratinization within the pores can lead to the blockage of hair follicles, preventing sebum from being expelled; (2) Overgrowth of Propionibacterium acnes: This bacterium is no...[Read More] Effective Solutions for Acne Scars and Breakouts: A Guide for Oily Skin
Understanding Beau's Lines: Causes and Concerns for Your Toenails
Is this the Boas line? I recently noticed that the toenails on both my big toes have suddenly developed a concave shape in the middle, but it seems to be growing lower from the area where the nails grow. I found a reference online that resembles Beau's lines, but it doesn&#x...
Dr. Zhang Zhibo Reply:
Hello: Your question pertains to whether the horizontal grooves or pitted depressions in the nails have different underlying causes. Beau's lines are horizontal grooves that occur due to a sudden illness or significant physiological stress that halts the growth of the nail m...[Read More] Understanding Beau's Lines: Causes and Concerns for Your Toenails
Understanding Warts During Pregnancy: Concerns and Treatment Options
Wart issues? Hello: I am currently 34 weeks pregnant and have recently discovered that I have a wart. I went to the hospital, and the doctor said it is a wart and that it is contagious. I would like to ask the doctor: (1) Will it be too late to seek treatment after I finish my po...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello: "Finding a trusted dermatologist for consultation" is the best advice for you. I apologize that based on your written description, I cannot ascertain your specific condition. Answers found online can only speculate based on the description and experience, and can...[Read More] Understanding Warts During Pregnancy: Concerns and Treatment Options
Understanding the Link Between Acne and Emotions: What You Need to Know
Acne and skin conditions? Why are acne and emotions related? Does feeling down also have an impact? If someone with oily skin feels that their face is greasy and decides to wash it, will that make it worse?
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Some people have connections, while others do not. However, if this leads to feelings of sadness, it is advisable to talk to a psychiatrist. If you only wash once a day, it won't be a problem. However, if you wash multiple times or for a long duration, not only will your ski...[Read More] Understanding the Link Between Acne and Emotions: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Causes of a Black Line on Your Nail: When to Seek Help
A black line has developed in the middle of the nail? Hello, Dr. Hong! About a month ago, I noticed a long black line appearing in the middle of the nail on my right thumb, extending from the base (lunula) to the edge of the nail. It is not painful or itchy, but it continues to g...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, Abang: Moles and conditions related to melanocytes (some of which are benign and some malignant, requiring pathological examination for diagnosis), as well as localized abnormal keratin growth, are all possible causes. I apologize for not being able to provide a diagnosis ...[Read More] Understanding the Causes of a Black Line on Your Nail: When to Seek Help
Is It Eczema? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns About Skin Conditions
Is it eczema? Recently, I have developed many small bumps on my fingers that resemble chicken skin, which are slowly turning into small blisters the size of sesame seeds. The surrounding area is reddened, and it seems to be spreading in clusters... It started from my left index f...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello, Conditions such as hand eczema, dyshidrotic eczema, hand tinea, and scabies are all possible causes. I apologize, but based on your description, I cannot determine your specific condition. Answers found online can only speculate based on the information provided and pers...[Read More] Is It Eczema? Understanding Symptoms and Concerns About Skin Conditions
Can Hair Growth Solutions Help with Sparse Sideburns and Eyebrows?
Hair growth solution Hello doctor, I am a male. My sideburns and eyebrows are too light, which feels strange and bothers me. Can I use Rogaine or other hair growth solutions to treat this?
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello: Based on the medical literature I have reviewed, there are no relevant reports. I recommend that when the skin exhibits the described symptoms, you should promptly visit a public hospital under the Department of Health in your city or county and consult with a dermatologis...[Read More] Can Hair Growth Solutions Help with Sparse Sideburns and Eyebrows?
Should You Squeeze Pimples? Expert Insights on Acne Care
I'm sorry to ask again? Hello, doctor... I previously asked about whether or not to extract comedones. I apologize for not specifying that I was referring to the comedones on my cheeks and some areas around the jawline. Should I also follow your advice not to have too high e...
Dr. Huang Ruiyun Reply:
Sorry! I misunderstood your question. There are indeed many people asking about blackheads on the nose! There is hope for acne on the cheeks. If you are using alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) without experiencing any adverse reactions, I recommend trying it for three months. Of course,...[Read More] Should You Squeeze Pimples? Expert Insights on Acne Care
Understanding Eczema and Folliculitis: Treatment Options and Concerns
The doctor said I have eczema and folliculitis? Initially, I noticed a small itchy area on my face that was slightly dark, but it gradually expanded and became rough to the touch. Eventually, many small white and yellowish bumps appeared, and the color of my face became very dark...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Based on your description, it is difficult to definitively determine the type of skin condition. However, it is known that medications used to treat eczema can sometimes lead to the development of folliculitis. It is possible that the eczema was present first, followed by the ons...[Read More] Understanding Eczema and Folliculitis: Treatment Options and Concerns
Effective Medical Aesthetic Treatments for Acne: Options and Insights
Medical aesthetics What are the current medical aesthetic treatments for acne? I would like to know about options such as glycolic acid, laser treatments, and others. I have been taking medication recently but would like to combine it with some medical procedures.
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Alpha hydroxy acid (AHA) peels can enhance the effectiveness of acne medications and improve the formation of comedones. Additionally, blue light therapy can target inflammatory acne, while laser treatments primarily focus on resurfacing depressed acne scars. My recommendation is...[Read More] Effective Medical Aesthetic Treatments for Acne: Options and Insights
Understanding Acne and Laser Treatments: Common Concerns and Care Tips
Acne & Laser Treatment Every time I extract blackheads, I get a stringy substance that resembles toothpaste. Is this common for most people when they extract blackheads? Doctor, I noticed that after my recent laser treatment, my pores appeared smaller and I had fewer blackhea...
Dr. Jiang Zheen Reply:
Some people experience acne that, when squeezed, appears in a line, while others have pores that are difficult to minimize in any way, even with laser treatment. This should not be related to your skincare routine; whether using masks, steam treatments, or glycolic acid peels, th...[Read More] Understanding Acne and Laser Treatments: Common Concerns and Care Tips
Common Skin Concerns: Acne Laser Treatment and Skincare Myths
Some questions? I had laser treatment for acne at Qianzhen, and after the procedure, I noticed a reduction in blackheads and smaller pores. However, a week later, I still had a lot of blackheads, and my pore size returned to what it was before. Do others experience this as well? ...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello: Due to individual differences in skin types, it is not possible to make a blanket judgment about whether something is good or bad. However, if you experience severe allergic reactions or significant redness, it may not be suitable for you. The best advice is to consult wit...[Read More] Common Skin Concerns: Acne Laser Treatment and Skincare Myths
Understanding Acne: Should You Squeeze Pimples and Treatment Options?
I would like to understand approximately..? Hello Dr. Hong, is it really not advisable to squeeze acne and pimples? Does health insurance cover the treatment for comedones? How long does the treatment take? Although people say I don't need it, I really find it very bothersom...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello: Regarding acne and pimples, from a physician's perspective, I recommend not to squeeze them, as this is generally better for your skin. The best advice is to find a trusted dermatologist and follow their guidance. Thank you for using "Taiwan e-Hospital" to a...[Read More] Understanding Acne: Should You Squeeze Pimples and Treatment Options?
Confusion Over Skin Clinic Appointments: Seeking Help for Foot Growth
Unable to find the dermatology outpatient schedule? Recently, I developed something on my foot that looks like a corn. I heard that corns and warts are different, but I can't tell the difference. I want to visit a hospital in Chiayi, but I just checked, and it seems that the...
Dr. Hong Zhengsheng Reply:
Hello Qiqi: It seems that you may have made a mistake. I am currently only seeing patients at the Changhua Hospital and not at the Chiayi Hospital. As for the online consultation hours, if you cannot find the information, you can directly call the hospital for inquiries. All the ...[Read More] Confusion Over Skin Clinic Appointments: Seeking Help for Foot Growth