How do I treat this rash caused by an at home chemical peel and what is it?

Question

I did a medium strength superficial chemical peel at home (Dr Gross AHA/BHA peel pads) on Saturday morning. The results were fantastic and my skin looked great until I woke up Sunday morning. My eyes and face were swollen, my skin was burning, itching, and I have tiny raised bumps on my face. I have taken Benadryl daily and used 1% hydrocortisone cream. It’s day 3 and the s/s have improved minimally. What is this and will it go away? What should I do to help my skin?

Lamia Wassef, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question 
It looks like contact dermatitis 
It will go away it might take 1-2 weeks
Get a prescription hydrocortisone cream 1% and take traction and don’t use anything else
Good luck
Dr lamia Wassef

Anjali Dhar, MD · Answer

it almost looks like an allergic reaction. I can not for sure day to what. You could try an antihistamine over the counter and ser if that will help. If it does not give relief please see a doctor/ dermatologist near you. It should resolve completely. One of the features of an allergic rash is it hing. If you do have an itch it likely is allergy. So difficult to say with that picture alone. Good Luck!

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Dear Atlanta,Thank you for the inquiry.A moderate medical grade peel depth will typically start sloughing the surface skin after 2-4days, and persist upto a week. Your otc peel may be less strong, and just causing the skin to bubble at the surface but not peel.The biggest concern with deeper peels is skin scarring and infection.Continue oral Benadryl and see your local skin specialist.Best. Dr Brecht Seattle, Wa

How do I treat this rash caused by an at home chemical peel and what is it?

Answers (3)