During the autumn and winter months in Hong Kong, many people face various skin problems. Issues such as itching, redness, and even acne and dark spots can be a concern. These problems not only affect appearance but may also hide underlying health issues. Therefore, understanding how to protect the skin and properly address skin problems is particularly important.
As temperatures drop, many people find their skin becoming more sensitive. Some may experience dry and itchy skin, or even redness. Parents often worry about their children’s skin issues and may try various home remedies to improve the situation, but these might not achieve the desired effect. For instance, there was a child with dry and itchy skin whose grandmother, out of concern, applied sesame oil to his face, which resulted in a severe bacterial infection and worsened the child’s condition.
In fact, skin issues are often related to internal conditions. Acne on the face can reflect problems with internal organ health, and teenagers, who are going through developmental changes, are particularly susceptible to various skin issues due to hormonal changes and lifestyle factors. At such times, seeking professional medical advice is essential.
Doctors indicate that seborrheic dermatitis, xerotic dermatitis, and depressive dermatitis are the most common types. These three skin conditions typically appear during seasonal changes, especially when the weather is dry, causing the skin to lose moisture and leading to itching and discomfort.
What makes seborrheic dermatitis unique is that it tends to occur in areas with higher oil secretion, such as the T-zone of the face, the scalp, and behind the ears. Xerotic dermatitis is commonly found in the elderly, who may have reduced sebum production. This group, due to long periods of soaking in hot water and failing to maintain proper moisture, tends to experience particularly dry skin, exacerbating their skin problems.
So how can we effectively address these issues? First, it’s important to keep the skin clean and fresh, avoiding excessive washing or the use of harsh skincare products. For children, doctors recommend selecting gentle skin care products, such as petroleum jelly or urea-based products, and avoiding greasy items to reduce the risk of bacterial infection. For adults, dietary choices should be considered, reducing the intake of fried and high-calorie foods, maintaining balanced nutrition, and enhancing the body’s resilience.
If skin problems arise, do not use home remedies indiscriminately; consult a doctor promptly. Accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment are key to restoring skin health. During seasonal transitions, choosing the right skincare regimen, from daily habits and diet to maintenance, is crucial for skin condition.
In conclusion, autumn and winter are peak seasons for skin problems. Maintaining a reasonable schedule and a healthy lifestyle, along with seeking timely help from doctors, is a smart way for everyone to protect their skin. I hope everyone enjoys a healthy and beautiful autumn and winter season.