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Facial peel pain after 70% glycolic acid peels. Any suggestions?

loneskateFeb 25, 2015
I've been getting 70% glycolic acid peels at my plastic surgeon's office. They last 30 minutes. They burn and itch terribly while you're holding a small fan to your face in an effort to minimize the discomfort. Is there anything else I can do to alleviate that? I tried taking Advil, Benadryl, and even hydro- or oxy-cordone but none of them help. Someone suggested applying crushed ice to the face a half-hour prior. I am 67 years old, 125 lbs, male, red-haired, fair-skinned.

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Dr. Jason Emer, MD
Dermatologic Surgeon, Board Certified in Dermatology
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Answered on Feb 27, 2015
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Jason Emer, MD

I suggest seeing a cosmetic dermatologist to evaluate your skin to determine what wound care is needed at this point.  It would not be good to use tretinion and/or hydroquinone if you are still healing or are scared.  Best, Dr. Emer.

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Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD

Experiencing burning and blisters after a glycolic peel followed by a Vitamin A micro peel can be uncomfortable and concerning. Here are some steps you can take to soothe your skin and address these symptoms: Cool Compresses: Apply a cool, damp cloth to the affected areas. This can help reduce...

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Jeff Angobaldo, MD

Thank you for your question. it is always recommended to pretreat when doing chemical peels to avoid this type of reaction. we suggest to pretreat your skin 2 weeks before the peel with a melanin inhibitor such as a prescription grade hydroquoine. darker skin types are VERY prone to hyper and...

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