What are the options for healing the skin after dermabrasion?

Question

After peri-oral dermabrasion, I had a strong reaction (red, itchy, bumpy rash) to the recommended cream (aquaphor). I also have milia. Doctor thinks it was a reaction to lanolin. I treated with cortizone + benadryl cream and the itchiness is improved, but I still have a lot of bumps. It's been a week since the reaction, but my face is still very pink and bumpy. Also, many of the wrinkles I had prior are still there. This was done in conjunction with face/brow/bleph.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.The skin after a dermabrasion is very sensitive and it is completely normal for it to stay pink for a while. An allergic reaction will set healing back as well. Typically after a dermabrasion patients will remain bright pink for 2 weeks, then fade to a light pink by 4 weeks. The redness will come and go over the second month and can take sometimes 6 months before it goes away completely. That is normal healing, but an allergic reaction can slow that process down even more. The dryness and wrinkles are still present because you are healing, they will continue to improve. The most important thing is to avoid any sun exposure on this area, to prevent hyperpigmentation in this area.

Philip K. Robb Jr., MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thanks for your question- 
Regarding the bumps, occasionally you can have a reaction to something in the Aquaphor. I generally just use vaseline as it avoids these issues. Milia can occur and can be dealt with if it does. Did you use any skin prepping agents? Skin type and tone matter highly in dermabrasion. Regarding the effects, this treatment is completely dependent on the surgeon performing the procedure and how comfortable they are getting deep into the wrinkles. 
I use dermabrasion a lot for resurfacing as it allows me to customize my treatment to my patient's problem areas. The results are equal or superior to the latest and greatest lasers out there. 
Hope this helps and God Bless!
Dr. Robb

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