What is the healing time after a chemical burn with 20% Salicylic acid. (photos)

Question

It burned for about 30 minutes after the treatment then the pain subsided and it turned red and gradually brown. I'm only assuming it's a "burn" because it has scabbed over and that has never happened before. I have experienced extreme peeling but never this. It has now been 3 days and my skin is extremely tight and beginning to peel at the corners. Will this be permanent damage? Or will this heal as my other peels have? Thank you!

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Our office specializes in chemical peels and we often see patients who have had burns from chemical peels elsewhere. I would be concerned about post inflammatory hyperpigmention and would recommend you exercise proper wound care and use Melarase creams thereafter to prevent discoloration of the skin. Best, DR. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It is very rare for salicylic acid to burn the skin.  I suggest you go to a cosmetic dermatologist for an evaluation of what the appropriate wound healing would be at this time.  The most important thing is to prevent hyperpigmentation and scarring.  In the future only go to a board certified physician for cosmetic treatments.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Robert Kotler, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear ebur93;Of
course, you should immediately see the doctor who performed the procedure. That doctor could reassure you that there
probably will not be permanent damage, but it's impossible to tell without
seeing you in person.Hopefully, it will
heal, but remember, there is also the issue of texture and color as a result of
an area where the penetration has been deeper. You do want to get this checked out, and the sooner the better, because
the doctor has some medications that would help neutralize the process of
inflammation that is taking place.Do
not wait to see your doctor.

Best wishes,
Robert
Kotler, MD, FACS

Michael E. Ciaravino, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

It will heal it just will take a little longer, but should not be permanent. Keep the area moisturized and just let the skin slough off on its own, and avoid prematurely removing the skin by picking at it. I recommend applying a thick layer of aquaphor at night and even throughout the day if possible. This will restore moisture to the skin and help speed up the healing to process. Another important recommendation as you probably are aware of is to stay out of the sun without applying protection to the skin such as SPF.

What is the healing time after a chemical burn with 20% Salicylic acid. (photos)

Answers (4)

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