Accidentally combined an at-home glycolic peel with Retin-A: my face is like a football! How long until it heals? (Photos)

Question

I used an at-home glycolic peel (M-61 Power Peel) and that night I used Retin A - I didn't research what might happen combining these two which was really dumb. My skin is dry, flaking, and very rough. I am moisturizing and using a gentle cleanser (applying SPF several times a day) and everything I wear on my face stings horribly. At first my face was almost blistered it stung so bad but now it seems like it's drying out (FIVE days later)-- my question is, is there anything to speed healing?

Omer Ibrahim, MD · Answer

Unfortunately, chemical peels and retinoids can cause exaggerated skin responses including redness, flaking, and irritation. Thankfully it seems that you have started the healing process by using gentle skin care products. 1) You can try Cortisone ointment (not cream) applied to the red, irritated areas, twice a day for 2 days. And 2) As soon as possible, start applying aquaphor ointment or vaseline ointment liberally to the red, irritated areas to speed up healing, and reduce burning.

Accidentally combined an at-home glycolic peel with Retin-A: my face is like a football! How long until it heals? (Photos)

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