2% salicylic acid left on my skin too long, and now I have burn marks on my face. what can I do to minimize scarring? (photo)

Question

Hi! 12 days ago i used clean and clear mark treatment with 2% salicylic acid on my pimple mark. I left it overnight, woke up with dark burn like marks on my face. I used aloe vera gel and triple antibiotic oint and 10 days later the burn like scabs fell off revealing a pink skin with a dark discoloration around the new skin. Ive been keeping it moist with vaseline and aquaphor, but im scared it will leave scars :( what can i use or do to minimize scarring? How long will it take to heal?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation and PIH with discoloration can 
resolve over time. Our office treats these hyperpigmentation issues 
conservatively with topical cream depigmentation protocols. In addition,
 light chemical peels and fractional ablation can help expedite the 
process. 
Best, 
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Please see a cosmetic dermatologist who specializes in lasers and burns/scars.  They can give you proper wound care and plan for future treatments.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Jennifer T. Haley, MD, FAAD · Answer

The salicylic acid burned your skin.  Aquaphor or Vaniply are great options immediately until the epidermis (top layer of the skin) heals.  After the wound heals, you should expect to see "post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation".  Basically, all the inflammation caused the pigment cells to migrate to the area.  Strict sun protection (hat + sunscreen with spf 30+ with zinc oxide EVERY AM) and lightening creams (with or without hydroquinone) applied to that spot and blended outwards for 3+ months is recommended.  It will fade over time.  If you are not satisfied with the area at 3 months, I recommend seeing a Board Certified Dermatologist.

Davin Lim, MBBS, FACD - Account Suspended · Answer

The picture you have shown is a burn from leaving salicylic acid on for too long. This is not a scar but rather what you have described as hyperpigmentation. It is best to consult with a dermatogolist who can prescribe you something over the counter such as a topical steriod or lightening agents.All the best,Dr Davin LimDermatologist

2% salicylic acid left on my skin too long, and now I have burn marks on my face. what can I do to minimize scarring? (photo)

Answers (4)