Q&A with Top Doctors

Can you take a bath with chickenpox?

In general, bathing is not recommended during the acute phase of chickenpox, but may be appropriate during the recovery phase.

During the acute phase, transparent blisters appear on the skin with thin blister walls, which may rupture due to friction or water pressure during bathing, increasing the risk of bacterial infection and affecting healing. The acute phase may also be accompanied by fever and fatigue; catching a chill while bathing could worsen the condition. Once scabs have formed, the skin becomes relatively stable, and bathing can help remove dirt, reduce bacterial growth, and relieve itching. Warm water bathing can promote blood circulation and aid recovery.

Warm water should be used for bathing; hot water should be avoided as it may irritate the skin. Additionally, a mild shower gel or soap should be selected, and products with strong irritants should be avoided to prevent worsening of skin itching. For child patients, bathing can serve as a comforting method, helping them feel more comfortable and secure. Under conditions of safety and hygiene, providing appropriate psychological support and care can help promote recovery.

If the patient's rash is severe, with dense and easily damaged blisters, or if there are severe symptoms such as high fever and headache, it is recommended to bathe under a doctor's guidance or choose alternative methods of cleaning to avoid worsening the condition or causing complications.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
Is eczema itchy?

In general, eczema causes itching. If eczema symptoms are severe or persist without improvement, it is recommended to seek timely medical treatment.

Eczema is a common skin condition characterized primarily by polymorphic skin lesions such as erythema, papules, and vesicles, accompanied by intense itching. Therefore, eczema patients often experience significant itchiness. The itching is closely related to the inflammatory response in the skin caused by eczema. When the skin is irritated or injured, it releases certain chemical substances, such as histamine, which can stimulate nerve endings and result in the sensation of itching.

The severity of itching varies from person to person; some patients may only experience mild discomfort, while others may suffer from severe itching that is difficult to tolerate, significantly affecting their quality of life. For individuals with eczema, controlling itching is very important because excessive scratching can lead to skin damage, worsen the condition, and even cause infections.

In daily life, it is recommended to keep the skin clean and moisturized and to avoid contact with allergens, which can also help prevent and manage eczema.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
Can taking birth control pills cause acne?

In general, taking birth control pills may lead to acne.

The main components of birth control pills are estrogen and progestin, which can alter female hormone levels. Hormonal imbalances may cause endocrine disorders, which in turn can lead to acne. Birth control pills work by regulating hormone levels to inhibit ovulation and achieve contraception. During this process, the hormonal balance in women's bodies is disrupted, potentially causing a relative increase in androgens. This can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more oil, making acne more likely. At the same time, endocrine disorders can also increase sebum production, leading to enlarged pores and recurring acne.

However, after taking birth control pills, hormone levels in women's bodies will gradually adjust and return to normal, and the acne condition will improve accordingly. During this period, it is important to keep the skin clean and dry to avoid secondary infections that could increase the number of pimples.

If acne develops after taking birth control pills, women should consult a doctor promptly to determine whether adjustment of the dosage or switching to another type of medication is necessary. Maintaining good lifestyle and dietary habits, such as keeping the skin clean, avoiding excessive squeezing of pimples, and consuming fewer spicy or irritating foods, can also help alleviate acne problems.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
Can astragalus root (Huang Qi) whiten the skin?

Astragalus has some skin-whitening effects, but the results may not be significant and can vary from person to person. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Astragalus is rich in various skin-benefiting components. Astragalus polysaccharides possess antioxidant and free radical-scavenging properties, which can reduce melanin deposition in the skin, thereby achieving a skin-whitening effect. Meanwhile, components like vitamin E in astragalus also have antioxidant properties and can aid in skin whitening.

The skin-whitening effect of astragalus varies among individuals and may not be suitable for everyone. People with sensitive skin might experience allergic reactions after using astragalus, such as redness, itching, or rashes. Moreover, relying solely on astragalus for skin whitening may yield limited results; it should be combined with other skincare methods and lifestyle adjustments.

If you wish to try using astragalus for skin whitening, it is recommended to conduct a skin sensitivity test first. Apply a small amount of astragalus powder or astragalus water behind the ear or on the inner wrist, and observe for 24–48 hours. If no allergic reaction occurs, it can then be used on the face.

In daily use, an appropriate amount of astragalus can be steeped in water for consumption, helping regulate bodily functions, beautifying the skin, improving blood deficiency, and keeping the skin moisturized. Astragalus powder can also be mixed with honey or egg white to make a face mask, which may help whiten the skin and fade spots with long-term use. However, use in moderation and avoid excessive application.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
Can povidone-iodine remove pimples?

Generally, povidone-iodine cannot completely eliminate acne and only has an auxiliary anti-inflammatory effect on some superficial acne lesions. Moreover, it carries certain risks and is not recommended as the first-line method for acne treatment.

Povidone-iodine has a broad-spectrum bactericidal effect and can inhibit the proliferation of bacteria such as Propionibacterium acnes. It may provide auxiliary relief from inflammation and redness associated with superficial acne caused by bacterial infection, such as papules and pustules. However, it is important to note that povidone-iodine cannot penetrate deeply into hair follicles to eliminate deep-seated bacteria, and therefore has limited effectiveness on deeper forms of acne such as nodular or cystic acne. Additionally, it cannot regulate sebaceous gland secretion or improve abnormal follicular keratinization, which are central to the pathogenesis of acne.

For the treatment of acne, appropriate methods should be selected based on the severity of the condition. Mild acne can be managed by maintaining facial cleanliness and using topical medications containing ingredients such as salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. Moderate to severe acne may require systemic treatments such as oral antibiotics, retinoids, or isotretinoin. Before using any medication, it is advisable to consult a dermatologist and develop a suitable treatment plan based on individual circumstances.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
Is needle extraction effective for removing pimples?

In general, needle extraction for acne removal can be effective, but it is not suitable for all cases and carries risks and side effects. Its appropriateness should be determined based on the type of acne, procedural standards, and post-treatment care.

Needle extraction physically removes accumulated pus and sebum, accelerating inflammation resolution. It works relatively well for open comedones, papular acne, or pustular acne. By clearing debris within hair follicles, it reduces local bacterial counts, thus lowering the likelihood of recurrence. However, needle extraction is ineffective for deep acne lesions such as cysts or nodules and may even exacerbate inflammation.

However, if instruments are not adequately sterilized or post-procedure care is improperly performed—such as touching the treated area with hands or inadequate sun protection—infection, scarring, or hyperpigmentation may occur. This can compromise the skin barrier and increase the risk of infection or pigmentation. Oily skin typically recovers faster, while individuals with scarring tendencies or older age are more prone to scarring or slower recovery.

It is recommended that patients undergo needle extraction for acne removal at professional medical facilities, with procedures performed by experienced physicians who follow post-treatment care guidelines to minimize complications. After needle extraction, proper skincare is essential, including the use of gentle cleansers, avoiding sun exposure, and timely hydration, to promote skin recovery and prevent hyperpigmentation or scar formation.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
How to deal with rough skin on the face

Rough facial skin can be improved through targeted measures such as using exfoliating products, moisturizing, adjusting diet, and improving lifestyle habits. Skin roughness is usually associated with factors such as buildup of dead skin cells (keratin), moisture deficiency, and slowed skin metabolism. A thickened stratum corneum (outer layer of skin) can make the skin surface uneven, appearing rough and dull; insufficient moisture causes the skin to lose elasticity and become dry and coarse. Slowed metabolism prevents old, dead skin cells from shedding timely, also affecting skin smoothness. Therefore, to improve skin texture, it's essential to address these factors.

In daily routines, proper cleansing is crucial. Choose mild exfoliating products and perform exfoliation 1–2 times per week to help remove dead skin cells and restore skin smoothness. However, be cautious not to over-exfoliate, as this can damage the skin barrier. When cleansing your face, use a suitable facial cleanser for your skin type, washing your face twice daily—morning and night—to keep your face clean and refreshed. Hydration is a key step in improving rough skin. Apply moisturizing toner, lotion, and cream morning and night, and regularly use hydrating face masks to replenish and lock in moisture, keeping the skin well-hydrated. Diet also significantly affects skin condition. Consume more foods rich in vitamins and dietary fiber, such as fresh vegetables and fruits, which provide essential nutrients and promote skin metabolism. Additionally, ensure adequate sleep, as staying up late disrupts normal skin repair and metabolism, leading to deteriorated skin condition. Aim for 7–8 hours of sleep daily to allow sufficient nighttime rest for your skin.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
How to Make the Skin Whiter

Skin whitening can be achieved through certain methods and daily care routines. Skin color is influenced by various factors including genetics, environment, and lifestyle habits. To achieve lighter skin, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. Skin dullness may be related to pigmentation, thickened stratum corneum, and poor blood circulation. By adopting appropriate skincare practices and adjusting lifestyle habits, these issues can be improved, resulting in a brighter complexion.

To achieve skin whitening, guidance can be followed from two aspects: daily skincare and lifestyle habits. In terms of skincare, choose skincare products containing whitening ingredients such as vitamin C and arbutin. These ingredients help inhibit melanin formation and brighten the skin tone. Regular exfoliation is also important to remove dead skin cells, promote metabolism, and make the skin smoother and finer. Moreover, sun protection is crucial, as UV rays are one of the main causes of skin darkening. Apply sunscreen before going outdoors and try to avoid exposure to strong sunlight around noon. Regarding lifestyle habits, ensure adequate sleep to support skin repair and regeneration, maintain a balanced diet rich in vitamins and antioxidants from sources like fruits and vegetables, and engage in moderate exercise to improve blood circulation, which also benefits skin tone enhancement.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
How to whiten sun-tanned skin

Under normal circumstances, after the skin has been tanned, the following methods can help lighten the skin: sun protection, healthy lifestyle habits, dietary regulation, skincare maintenance, and cosmetic medical treatments. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Sun Protection: This is a fundamental and crucial step. When going outdoors, always take proper sun protection measures. Choose sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and PA+++. Reapply every 2-3 hours. Additionally, wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and use an umbrella for shade. Minimize UV exposure to reduce further darkening of the skin.

2. Healthy Lifestyle Habits: Sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, moderate exercise, and stress reduction all help improve skin condition, making it healthier and indirectly promoting skin lightening.

3. Dietary Regulation: Eat more foods rich in vitamin C and E, such as oranges, lemons, kiwifruit, strawberries, and nuts. Vitamins C and E have antioxidant properties that can inhibit melanin formation and promote skin metabolism. Additionally, drink plenty of water to keep the body hydrated, which helps in skin detoxification and recovery.

4. Skincare Maintenance: Use skincare products with whitening effects, such as those containing niacinamide, tranexamic acid, or vitamin C derivatives. These ingredients can inhibit melanin synthesis and accelerate melanin metabolism. However, note that consistent, long-term use of whitening skincare products is necessary to see results. Choose reputable brands and avoid products containing harmful ingredients such as hormones.

5. Cosmetic Medical Treatments: If the skin is significantly tanned and a faster whitening effect is desired, consider cosmetic medical treatments such as intense pulsed light (IPL) or chemical peels. IPL uses specific wavelengths of light to break down melanin and stimulate collagen regeneration. Chemical peels promote skin cell turnover and accelerate melanin metabolism. However, cosmetic medical treatments carry certain risks and should be performed under the guidance of a qualified physician.

After sun exposure, skin tends to become dry, so it is important to replenish moisture and maintain hydration to aid skin recovery.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025
What are the methods to improve sallow skin?

Methods to improve sallow skin mainly include comprehensive measures such as adjusting dietary habits, maintaining good作息 (作息 should be translated as "lifestyle habits" in this context), enhancing skincare, sun protection, and moderate exercise. Sallow skin is usually the result of multiple contributing factors, including endocrine disorders, poor liver function, impaired blood circulation, excessive ultraviolet exposure, and unhealthy lifestyle habits. Therefore, single skincare products rarely address the root problem effectively; comprehensive regulation combining internal conditioning and external skincare is necessary.

It is recommended to maintain good lifestyle habits, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid staying up late, as sleep deprivation increases the burden on the skin and leads to dull complexion. Regarding diet, consume more foods rich in vitamin C and E, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, and nuts, which help with antioxidant protection and promote skin metabolism. At the same time, reduce intake of greasy, spicy, and high-sugar foods, which may worsen skin conditions. Engage in moderate physical activity to improve blood circulation and enhance skin nutrition. Additionally, practice sun protection and avoid prolonged sun exposure, as ultraviolet radiation is one of the key factors contributing to sallow skin. Choose skincare products suitable for your skin type and avoid using products containing irritating ingredients. If sallow skin persists or is accompanied by other discomforts, it is advisable to consult a doctor promptly.

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Dr. Liu Wenmin
May 30, 2025