Q&A with Top Doctors

Can acne scars be restored to normal skin?

In general, if the pockmarks are mild and cover a small area, they may gradually recover to a normal condition on their own. However, if the pockmarks are deep and extensive, they are unlikely to return to normal naturally.

If the pockmarks are mild and limited in area, improving lifestyle habits and practicing proper skincare may help them gradually recover naturally. For example, maintaining adequate sleep, eating a light diet, and regularly using moisturizing skincare products rich in hyaluronic acid can help enhance skin plumpness and reduce the visibility of pockmarks. Shallow pockmarks usually can self-repair within about three months.

If the pockmarks are deep and cover a large area, it is difficult for them to recover naturally. In such cases, timely medical consultation is recommended, and topical medications such as tretinoin cream or asiaticoside cream may be considered. These medications can help fade scars but require long-term use to achieve noticeable results. For particularly severe and difficult-to-repair pockmarks, medical aesthetic treatments such as laser therapy or microneedling may be more effective options. These treatments stimulate collagen regeneration in the skin to fill in the pockmarks and improve skin texture, although post-treatment results may only bring the facial skin close to a normal appearance.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Can white pimples on the face be squeezed?

In general, it is not recommended to squeeze white pimples on the face by oneself.

White pimples are keratin plugs formed after pores become blocked, with a layer of epidermis covering the surface. Squeezing manually may damage the skin barrier, allowing bacteria to penetrate into the dermis, causing worsened inflammation, redness, swelling, pus-filled bumps, or even cysts. This squeezing might injure the dermis, leading to collagen loss or excessive proliferation, resulting in depressed acne scars or hypertrophic scars. Particularly in the facial "danger triangle," squeezing may lead to intracranial infections, although rare, which can have severe consequences. Inflammatory responses after squeezing may also stimulate melanocytes, causing post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or dark spots, especially in individuals with darker skin tones.

Forcibly squeezing may cause the keratin plug to break, spreading its contents to surrounding tissues and triggering further inflammation. Improper squeezing may damage the dermis, making scarring or pigmentation more likely after healing, which can affect appearance. If acne is severe or persists, it is advisable to seek timely medical attention from a professional dermatologist. The doctor will develop a personalized treatment plan based on individual conditions, such as topical medications, red and blue light therapy, chemical peels, or laser treatments.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Can normal saline solution help remove pimples?

In general, normal saline has a certain auxiliary effect in reducing pimples, but it cannot completely rely on it to remove pimples; it needs to be combined with other treatment methods.

Normal saline can gently wash away dirt, excess oil, and some microorganisms from the skin surface, keeping the skin clean. For existing pimples, cleaning the skin surface helps reduce the chance of bacterial growth, thus alleviating pimple inflammation to some extent. Normal saline has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness, swelling, and discomfort around pimples. When applying normal saline as a wet compress on the pimple area, it can provide hydration to the skin, regulate the skin's water-oil balance, and help improve the condition of acne-prone skin. After a pimple ruptures, cleaning the area with normal saline can help keep the wound relatively clean, promote wound healing, and reduce the risk of infection.

Pimple formation is a relatively complex process involving various internal factors such as hormonal imbalances, excessive sebum production by sebaceous glands, and abnormal keratinization of hair follicles. Relying solely on normal saline cannot fundamentally address these internal issues. Although normal saline has certain antibacterial properties, its antibacterial capacity is relatively limited. Different individuals have different skin types and causes of pimples, so the effectiveness of normal saline in improving pimples may vary from person to person.

It is recommended to adopt a comprehensive treatment approach, including but not limited to using topical creams containing anti-inflammatory and antibacterial ingredients, adjusting dietary habits, maintaining good lifestyle practices, and using oral medications or undergoing physical therapy under the guidance of a dermatologist when necessary. Additionally, while maintaining skin cleanliness is important, choosing suitable cleansing products and methods while avoiding excessive cleansing that may damage the skin barrier is the key to scientific skincare.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Can I apply sunscreen when I have pimples?

In general, it is okay to apply sunscreen when experiencing pimples, but product selection and application methods should be carefully considered.

Ultraviolet rays can irritate the skin, worsen pimple inflammation, and potentially cause pigmentation, leaving dark spots after the pimples fade. Therefore, practicing sun protection and applying sunscreen during breakouts can effectively shield the skin from UV damage. As long as an appropriate sunscreen is selected and applied correctly, individuals with pimples can safely use sunscreen. Suitable sunscreens will not clog pores or worsen acne; instead, they help protect the skin and promote pimple recovery.

However, avoid sunscreens containing irritating ingredients such as alcohol, fragrances, and preservatives, as these components may aggravate pimples and increase inflammation. Products containing physical sun-blocking agents like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are preferable, as they tend to be less irritating to the skin. It is recommended to choose lightweight, non-greasy sunscreens, such as lotions or gels. Overly thick sunscreens may block pores and exacerbate acne. For oily and acne-prone skin, oil-free formulations are a better option, as they can reduce excess sebum production and lower the risk of pore blockage.

Remember, sun protection is an essential part of daily skincare, especially for those with acne or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. It prevents UV rays from worsening skin conditions and helps prevent sun-induced pigmentation.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Can I wash my face when I have chickenpox?

In general, it is okay to wash your face when you have chickenpox, but you need to be especially careful.

Maintaining clean skin is important when you have chickenpox, so face washing is necessary. However, be sure to use warm water and avoid hot or excessively cold water. Hot water may irritate the chickenpox lesions, causing increased itching, pain, or even rupture of the blisters; excessively cold water may also trigger a skin stress response. Choose a mild, non-irritating facial cleanser specifically designed for sensitive skin, or simply use plain water. Avoid using products containing alcohol, fragrances, or other irritating ingredients, as well as facial cleansers or other cleansers that may cause facial allergies, to prevent skin irritation and worsening of chickenpox symptoms.

When washing your face, be gentle and avoid rubbing or scrubbing forcefully to prevent rupture of the blisters. If a chickenpox blister is accidentally broken, the discharge may spread the virus to other areas, and the broken blister is more susceptible to secondary bacterial infection, which could lead to complications such as scarring. After washing, gently pat your face dry with a clean, soft towel—avoid rubbing back and forth. Alternatively, you may allow the water to air dry or gently dab your face with a soft towel.

If there are many chickenpox rashes on the face and they are in an ulcerated state, under a doctor's guidance, you may apply some topical medications with anti-infective properties and that promote wound healing before washing your face.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Is it helpful to see a dermatologist at the hospital for acne?

Generally, visiting a dermatologist for acne is highly effective, as dermatologists can provide professional diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and follow-up care along with prevention advice.

Acne comes in various types, including whiteheads, blackheads, papules, pustules, nodules, and cysts. Different types of acne have distinct causes and require different treatment approaches. Dermatologists can accurately identify the type of acne by examining its appearance, distribution, and severity, which provides a basis for subsequent treatment. There are many causes of acne. In addition to common factors such as excessive sebum production, abnormal keratinization of hair follicles, and infection with Propionibacterium acnes, acne may also be related to hormonal imbalances, improper diet, excessive mental stress, genetic factors, and inappropriate use of cosmetics. Dermatologists will thoroughly inquire about the patient's medical history, lifestyle, and other relevant information, and may perform related tests such as hormone level testing and dermatoscopy when necessary to identify underlying triggers.

Based on the type and severity of acne, dermatologists will select appropriate topical medications. They will guide patients in choosing suitable facial cleansers according to their skin type and acne condition. Doctors will advise patients to avoid using irritating cosmetics and skincare products, such as those containing alcohol, fragrances, or dyes. Additionally, patients should avoid squeezing pimples with their hands to prevent infection spread and scarring.

Dermatologists can also offer professional guidance on daily skin care, helping patients choose appropriate cleansing products and skincare items, avoiding ingredients that may irritate the skin or clog pores, thereby reducing acne occurrences. During treatment, doctors will monitor the progression of the condition and adjust the treatment plan as needed to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Can a person get chickenpox again after having had it once?

Generally, people who have had chickenpox usually do not get infected again. However, under certain circumstances, reinfection may still occur.

Chickenpox is an acute infectious disease caused by the initial infection of the varicella-zoster virus. After recovery from chickenpox, the human body produces specific antibodies against the virus, which can help defend against subsequent infections. Usually, individuals who have had chickenpox will not contract it again.

Individuals suffering from certain diseases such as HIV/AIDS, leukemia, lymphoma, or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapy may experience decreased immunity, thereby increasing the risk of reinfection with chickenpox. Some elderly individuals may also have insufficient production of protective antibodies due to weakened immunity, leading to possible reinfection with chickenpox.

Close contact with a person who has chickenpox, particularly from one to two days before the rash appears until all the skin lesions have completely crusted over, may result in infection. However, reinfection in such cases is relatively rare because the body has already developed antibodies against the varicella virus. Due to individual variations among viral subtypes of chickenpox currently circulating, a small number of people may become reinfected with a different subtype of the varicella virus and develop chickenpox again. Nevertheless, this scenario is also relatively uncommon.

After the initial infection with chickenpox, the body typically develops long-lasting immunity, making reinfection unlikely. However, the possibility of reinfection cannot be completely ruled out, particularly for individuals with compromised immune function. Such individuals should take enhanced preventive measures, avoid contact with people who have chickenpox, and consider varicella vaccination when necessary to strengthen immunity and reduce the risk of reinfection.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Will pimples go away on their own?

In general, if acne is mild or caused by hormonal changes during puberty or menstruation, and proper skincare is maintained, including keeping the skin clean, following a light diet, avoiding late nights, and ensuring adequate sleep, acne may gradually fade on its own. However, if acne is severe, or if proper skincare is neglected, and spicy or irritating foods are frequently consumed—leading to increased sebum production and clogged hair follicles—the acne may persist or even worsen, presenting as cystic acne, which is unlikely to resolve spontaneously and may become infected.

For persistent or recurrent acne, it is recommended to seek professional advice from a dermatologist. The doctor may prescribe medications, physical treatments, or biologic therapies based on the individual patient's condition. Additionally, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, such as eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, refraining from squeezing pimples, and using gentle skincare products, can also help control the occurrence and progression of acne.

The formation of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and acne scars is closely related to skin inflammation. It is important to maintain proper cleansing and hydration in daily skincare and to avoid using irritating cosmetics. It is advisable to choose mild facial cleansers, exfoliate regularly, maintain the skin's oil-water balance, and reduce the formation of post-acne marks and scars.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
How Does Laser Treatment Repair Acne Scars?

In general, laser resurfacing for acne scar treatment works through photothermal and photochemical effects to stimulate collagen proliferation and remodeling, thereby improving the appearance of acne scars.

Laser treatment for acne scars mainly utilizes the photothermal and photochemical effects of the laser. Laser energy penetrates the epidermis and acts on the deeper layers of the skin, creating microthermal zones of injury on the skin surface. This triggers the skin's natural healing process, stimulating collagen proliferation and remodeling, promoting skin repair and regeneration, thus filling in acne scars and making the skin smoother.

Fractional laser stimulates the skin's self-repair mechanism through microscopic thermal injuries, promoting collagen regeneration and improving acne scars. Mild redness and swelling may occur during treatment; therefore, it is recommended to avoid direct sunlight after treatment and to use skin-repairing skincare products. CO₂ laser smooths the skin surface by removing layers of skin around the acne scars. However, this method requires a longer recovery period, typically ranging from several weeks to months. Intense pulsed light (IPL) technology stimulates collagen growth and reduces the appearance of acne scars, while also improving skin pigmentation.

It should be noted that the effectiveness of laser treatment for acne scars varies from person to person. While it can generally improve the appearance of acne scars, making the skin smoother and finer, it cannot completely eliminate them. For mild acne scars, undergoing 3–5 sessions consecutively can gradually flatten the scars, while deeper scars can also achieve significant improvement.

When undergoing laser treatment for acne scars, it is important to choose a reputable medical facility and an experienced, qualified physician to ensure both treatment effectiveness and safety. Additionally, post-treatment skincare is crucial, including avoiding direct sunlight and keeping the skin clean, to promote recovery and minimize complications.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025
Is it necessary to get the chickenpox vaccine?

In general, it is necessary to receive the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.

The varicella vaccine activates the immune system by simulating a natural infection, prompting the body to produce specific antibodies. After vaccination, even upon exposure to the virus, the immune system can quickly recognize and eliminate it, significantly reducing the risk of infection. Chickenpox can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, or secondary bacterial infections, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems. Vaccination effectively prevents the occurrence of these severe diseases. For children, the vaccine also reduces school absences and the burden of family care caused by chickenpox.

Infection during pregnancy may result in fetal malformations or neonatal varicella. In older adults, infection may lead to herpes zoster (shingles). Vaccination provides additional protection for these populations, reducing health risks. Varicella is highly contagious and easily spreads in group settings such as daycare centers and schools. Vaccination not only protects the individual but also contributes to herd immunity, reducing viral transmission within communities and protecting susceptible individuals who have not been vaccinated. The protective effect of the varicella vaccine is long-lasting, providing durable immunity after administration.

For susceptible individuals, such as children and those with weakened immune systems, timely vaccination with the varicella vaccine is an important preventive measure. Therefore, individuals who meet the criteria for vaccination are advised to actively receive the varicella vaccine to protect both their own and others' health.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
Jun 04, 2025