I got a retinol chemical peel 5 days ago. Everything was fine but after I put vit c as usual followed with Vaseline (Photo)

Question

It started burning all of a sudden and got red.i don't know what to do. Please help!

Ross A. Clevens, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Some sensitivity and redness is a common side effect from the chemical peel procedure. I suggest that you review your post op recovery instructions and touch base with your board certified facial plastic surgeon.
Best wishes,

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with a cosmetic dermatologist for after care recommendations after a chemical peel including lasers, microneedling/prp and skin care. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Lee B. Daniel, MD · Answer

Although some redness and irritation are to be expected following a chemical peel, it is possible that applying vitamin C to your skin could have contributed to your symptoms. Check in with your plastic surgeon’s office if the redness doesn’t begin to diminish on its own or if it worsens. You might also want to get a list of products that are okay to use on your skin while it’s still in the healing process to help minimize any possible adverse effects.

Michael J. Brown, MD · Answer

Good morning and thank you for your question! After a chemical peel your skin is going to be sensitive, especially to more potent ingredients and products. Vitamin C can be very stimulating and which can make your skin feel a burning sensation resulting in redness. I would recommend using only gentle products with calming ingredients (chamomile, lavender, aloe, etc.) until your skin is completely done healing. Make sure to keep the skin moisturized and always wear sunscreen. Try consulting with a skin care professional for more information on the right products to use during the healing process and thereafter. For more information please feel free to look at our website.

Robert G. Aycock, MD, FACS · Answer

It depends on how deep the peel is. The Vitamin C is pretty stimulating for your skin right now so you should remove everything and use something calming for your skin. Try using a chamomile or aloe vera toner that has no alcohol.  If you have further questions then follow up with your treating provider.

Lenore Sikorski, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. After a chemical peel, your skin can become very sensitive to products you put on it. Alot of serums can have alcohol as an ingredient and while this wouldn't normally irritate your skin, while your still healing from a chemical peel it can. I would recommend just using very gentle cleansers and moisturizers while you are still healing. If you can't find something that is calming I would recommend contacting your provider for a recommendation.

Dennis Gross, MD · Answer

This is nothing to worry about, you just irritated your still sensitive skin. Typically we ask our patients to hold off on any products aside from a basic moisturizer and sunscreen for a minimum of 7 days following a retinol peel to avoid irritating the skin. After 7 days, it's up to you based on how your skin feels - everyone is different so some can return to a normal regimen after a week but others may need to wait another week before restarting anything. Avoid anything but your Vaseline and sunscreen until the irritation subsides. If it is really bothering you, I would follow up with the provider who did your peel - they may prescribe something for you.

I got a retinol chemical peel 5 days ago. Everything was fine but after I put vit c as usual followed with Vaseline (Photo)

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