Arnica Cream - Allergic Reaction or Wrong Application?

Question

I have nasal allergies and I take perscription meds and an over the counter Claritin. Ragweed is one of my many allergies. I put some Arnica cream around my eyes for swelling from allergies and 3 hours later they were super swollen and red. Day 3 now the skin is peeling and itchy and still some swelling. I put some on the back of my hand and on my neck, nothing no reaction. So I'm thinking after surgery just don't put it around my eyes or should I avoid it altogether? What about the pills?

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for your question! The recommendations for the use of these homeopathic medications are surgeon preference. I typically suggest the use of Arnica Montana to decrease swelling and bruising. It is an herbal medication that is propagated from the seeds of an herb. I, as well as my patients, have seen some benefit with the treatment in the postoperative period. Although there is little evidence to its effectiveness, I believe there is some benefit, and no harm. I recommend 4-5 tablets under the tongue 4x/day for 3-5 days prior and 5-7 days after the procedure. Certainly the topical form - discuss with your surgeon. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

It's probably better to avoid using arnica if you experienced such a reaction to it. The skin on the face can be more sensitive than on the hands. If you are very concerned, please see a dermatologist. All the best!

Michael I. Echavez, MD · Answer

I would say it's better to be safe, so I would avoid the use of the arnica cream all together. The effects from Arnica are controversial, without any clear advantage being shown.  Your final result should not be affected whether you use Arnica (orally or topically) or not, so I would suggest avoiding it completely because of your possible allergic reaction.

Steven Teitelbaum, MD · Answer

Arnica has been repeatedly shown in scientific literature to do nothing.

	So don't use it- neither the pills nor the ointment.

	If your skin is not yet healed, then see a dermatologist.

	Need more be said?

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

You could have a reaction to some component of the cream, arnica or something else in it.  Play it safe, do not use it at all.

Arnica Cream - Allergic Reaction or Wrong Application?

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Arnica Cream - Allergic Reaction or Wrong Application?

Answers (9)

Answer: Arnica is baloney!

Answer: Arnica is baloney!

Answer: Arnica allergy

Answer: Arnica allergy

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Everything you need to know about Facelift

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.