Skin FAQ Marathon: 50 Questions, 50 Answers

Skin FAQ Marathon: 50 Questions, 50 Answers

Over the years, patients, readers, and even friends have asked me hundreds of skin questions. So today, I decided to run a rapid-fire marathon of 50 most common questions—with clear, simple answers.

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Acne & Pimples

1. Why do pimples keep coming back?

Because acne is a chronic condition, not a one-time problem. It needs long-term care.

2. Do oily foods cause pimples?

Not directly, but high sugar and dairy often worsen acne.

3. Can toothpaste dry out pimples?

Yes, but it irritates and leaves marks. Avoid.

4. Why do pimples leave dark spots?

That’s post-inflammatory pigmentation. Normal, but treatable.

5. Does stress cause acne?

Yes, stress hormones trigger oil glands.

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Skin Care Basics

6. How often should I wash my face?

Twice a day is enough.

7. Is cold water or hot water better for face wash?

Lukewarm water is best.

8. Do I really need a toner?

Not always. It’s optional unless prescribed.

9. How do I know if my moisturizer is right?

Skin should feel hydrated, not greasy or tight.

10. Is sunscreen needed indoors?

Yes, because UV rays enter through windows.

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Hair & Scalp

11. Does daily shampoo damage hair?

Not if you use a mild one.

12. Does oiling stop hair fall?

It reduces dryness but doesn’t cure baldness.

13. Why do men lose hair faster?

Mostly genetics + hormones (male pattern baldness).

14. Can dandruff cause hair fall?

Yes, if it’s severe and itchy.

15. Do expensive shampoos work better?

Not always. Ingredients matter, not price.

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Pigmentation & Tanning

16. Why does skin tan so fast?

It’s the body’s natural defense to sun.

17. Can tan be removed permanently?

No, but you can fade it safely.

18. Why do some people get dark patches on face?

It may be melasma—common in women.

19. Do fairness creams really work?

They usually contain steroids or bleaching agents—dangerous for long-term.

20. Is pigmentation always permanent?

No, many types can be improved with treatment.

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Children’s Skin

21. Why do kids get rashes in summer?

Sweat + heat = prickly heat. Common.

22. Which cream is safe for baby lips?

Plain petroleum jelly works best.

23. Why do newborns peel skin?

It’s natural shedding, not a disease.

24. When should boys start using face wash?

Around puberty (12–13 years).

25. Should kids use sunscreen?

Yes, above 6 months age, with child-safe formulas.

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Allergies & Infections

26. Why does skin itch at night?

Heat + dryness + allergies often worsen at night.

27. How do I know if it’s eczema or fungal infection?

Fungal has clear edges, eczema is patchy and dry.

28. Can fungal infection spread by sharing clothes?

Yes, very easily.

29. Are skin allergies dangerous?

Some are mild, but swelling with breathing difficulty = emergency.

30. Do mosquito bites leave scars?

Yes, especially if scratched.

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Anti-Aging & Lifestyle

31. When do wrinkles start?

Usually after 30, but sun makes them earlier.

32. Can anti-aging creams really work?

They help but don’t replace sunscreen.

33. Why do dark circles happen?

Lack of sleep, genetics, allergies, or thin skin.

34. Does screen time harm skin?

Blue light can cause pigmentation.

35. Can stress cause hair/skin problems?

Yes, triggers acne, eczema, psoriasis, and hair fall.

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Procedures & Treatments

36. Is laser hair removal safe?

Yes, if done by trained doctors.

37. Do facials cure acne?

No, they often worsen it.

38. Why do we take pictures in clinic?

To track progress honestly.

39. How long does it take to see treatment results?

4–6 weeks minimum for most.

40. Why do some people not improve with treatment?

Because they stop midway or don’t follow instructions.

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Everyday Habits

41. Can dirty pillowcases cause pimples?

Yes, they carry oil and bacteria.

42. Is rose water safe for all?

No, sensitive skin may react.

43. Do ubtans always help?

Not always—overuse dries skin.

44. Can coffee scrubs damage skin?

Yes, they scratch and weaken barrier.

45. Should we share skincare products?

Better not—hygiene matters.

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Serious Concerns

46. What are early signs of skin cancer?

New moles, changing spots, non-healing wounds.

47. Can diabetes show on skin?

Yes—dark patches, infections, slow healing.

48. Should psoriasis patients stop treatment if better?

No, stopping suddenly causes flares.

49. Is vitiligo contagious?

No, it’s not spreadable.

50. When should I see a dermatologist?

If your skin issue doesn’t improve in 2 weeks with home care.

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🌟 Final Words

There you go—50 skin questions answered in one go! If your doubt wasn’t covered here, ask it in the comments or at your next clinic visit.

Because in skincare, the right question leads to the right solution.

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