Why would a chemical peel I've been using for a long time suddenly cause a horrible breakout?

Question

I’ve been using the same exact chemical peel brand for one year and follow the same three steps before my peel, and have consistently yield the same amazing results. This application my skin didn’t tingle and appear matte when using a cotton ball to apply. It actually had a major itching sensation. From then on my forehead and only my left cheek just had numerous whiteheads and a few cystic bumps which I literally never get. What are some factors that cause can lead to stubborn skin purging.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Experiencing a sudden breakout after using a chemical peel that has previously worked well can be frustrating. Here are a few potential reasons why this might occur:

Changes in Skin Condition: Your skin can change over time due to factors like hormonal fluctuations, stress, or changes in diet or medication. These changes can affect how your skin reacts to products.

Product Formulation Changes: Sometimes, manufacturers alter the formulation of their products. Even small changes in ingredients can affect how your skin responds.

Environmental Factors: Changes in weather, humidity, or exposure to pollutants can impact your skin's condition and its reaction to treatments.

Over-Exfoliation: If your skin barrier is compromised due to overuse of exfoliating products, it can become more sensitive and reactive, leading to breakouts.

Bacterial Contamination: If the peel product or applicator (like the cotton ball) was contaminated, this could introduce bacteria to your skin, causing breakouts.

Allergic Reactions: Even if you’ve used a product for a long time, you can develop a sensitivity or allergy to one of its ingredients over time.

Skin Purging: Some active ingredients can accelerate the turnover of skin cells, bringing underlying issues to the surface faster than usual. This is often temporary.

To address these issues, consider the following steps:

Pause Use: Stop using the peel temporarily to allow your skin to recover.
Consult a Dermatologist: They can help determine the cause and suggest appropriate treatments.
Patch Test: Before resuming use, do a patch test on a small area to check for reactions.
Review Skincare Routine: Ensure that other products in your routine are compatible with the peel.
It's important to monitor your skin's response and seek professional advice to prevent further irritation.

Why would a chemical peel I've been using for a long time suddenly cause a horrible breakout?

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Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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Why would a chemical peel I've been using for a long time suddenly cause a horrible breakout?

Answers (1)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

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