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Applied 40% glycolic peel. Now have red/dark brown splotchy marks on cheeks. Will this scar or heal? Should I see a derm?(Photo)

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Topknot1975Nov 22, 2014
Applied it last night for 5 min. Burned a lot on cheeks but expected this since its acid. Washed it off using baking soda/water combo. Immediately noticed my R cheek had red/brown spots-almost like a rash-& my L cheek appeared to be missing spot of skin. Applied neospoirn & aquaphor. Woke up w/no change-skin is smooth still but discolored. Almost looks like discoloration is below surface, like it "bled" under skin. Today applied cortisone & more aquaphor. I'm Korean w/golden/tawny undertones.

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From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS profile photo
Dr. Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
4.9 | 230 Reviews
Answered on Jul 31, 2015
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Jason Emer, MD

I am so sorry this happened to you.  My suggestion is you see a cosmetic dermatologist immediately to get proper post procedural wound care to prevent scarring and skin pigmentation.  Best, Dr. Emer.

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Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS

Rather than a chemical peel, you may want to use a milder daily peel such as Melapads, which contain glycolic and salicylic acid in addition to kojic acid. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian 

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Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS

Our office specializes in chemical peels to help treat body discoloration. A combination of a Melapeel + topical skincare including Melarase creams can help improve skin quality and tone in your armpits. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian Los Angeles

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