Master, Doctor Huynh Cong Tri, a specialist in Dermatology - Aesthetic Dermatology at Tam Anh General Clinic District 7, diagnosed Thuy with sebaceous gland hyperplasia. This benign condition involves the proliferation of sebaceous glands, forming papules or benign tumors. Her previous long-term self-treatment with inappropriate products stimulated the sebaceous glands, causing the lesions to spread and increase in number.

Doctor Tri explained that sebaceous gland hyperplasia progresses subtly and causes no pain or inflammation. Many individuals overlook it, only noticing when the lesions grow in size or new papules appear on the skin. The condition commonly affects areas with high sebum secretion, particularly the central face, and tends to worsen over time if not managed correctly.

As sebaceous gland hyperplasia lesions are located in the dermis, common treatments like squeezing or applying acne products are ineffective. Doctor Tri prescribed CO2 laser treatment for Thuy, which directly destroys the hyperplastic sebaceous glands, removes individual lesions, and carefully controls depth to minimize scarring.

A doctor uses a CO2 laser to remove lesions for Thuy. *Photo: Tam Anh General Clinic District 7*

Following the procedure, Thuy received instructions to use anti-inflammatory medication and topical wound-healing agents to reduce the risk of scarring, along with topical products to prevent recurrence. The lesions dried, flaked, and recovered well after treatment.

According to Doctor Tri, sebaceous gland hyperplasia is a benign condition that will not disappear on its own if patients attempt improper self-treatment. Even after intervention, there is a risk of recurrence, especially for individuals with oily skin, necessitating regular follow-up appointments.

If small, persistent, painless, non-inflammatory, pale yellow papules with a central pore appear on the skin and cannot be extracted, individuals should not attempt to treat them at home. Seeking examination at a hospital with a specialized Dermatology - Aesthetic Dermatology department helps accurately diagnose the nature of the lesion and select an appropriate treatment method, preventing prolonged progression that could affect aesthetics.

Minh Huong

*Patient's name has been changed