Did salicylic acid pad damage my skin?

Question

I used a 2% salicylic acid pad several times and it burned badly. Now the skin inbetween my eyebrows has a redder pigmentation, but it's been like this for a month. Have I burned my skin? Up close it looks like some small patches may have peeled, or burned off, from when I originally applied the pads, but a new fresh layer of skin doesn't seem to be emerging. The area has not burned since the original incident, nor is it itchy or painful. Will it heal, or will the redness eventually go away?

Deborah M. Longwill, DO · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. Salicylic acid is a keratolytic-peeling agent. Salicylic acid causes the shedding of the skin’s outermost layer, as well as relieving clogged pores. At times depending on the concentration and application frequency, it can be drying and irritating. I suggest you break and use gentle products on you skin, a calmin skin barrier repair moisturizer and daily use of a physical SPF. Best of luck

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  You might want to see your dermatologist so they can take a look at the area and help recommend any healing creams or treatments that might be needed.  Sometimes with sun damage and aging skin, redness can become more noticeable, and if you have underlying rosacea, that could have been exacerbated by using salicylic acid on that area.  Please see an expert, and best of luck!

Sheetal Sapra, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Thank you for your question and photograph. Some cleansers and acne treatments can be mildly irritating to the skin because of how aggressive the products can be. Its best to discontinue in order to give the skin a break. The irritation that is present will fade away with time. Make sure to moisturize the skin heavily and only apply the Salicylic acid on break outs or affected areas if needed. 
I hope this helps.
Regards,
Sheetal Sapra, MD, FRCPC

David Z. Gay, MD · Answer

The most important thing for your skin right now is time. You want to avoid any harsh cleaners, chemicals, or irritants to the skin. I recommend keeping the area moisturized with cetaphil. If you want an excellent product for skin healing then I recommend bio-cream by Neocutis.

Did salicylic acid pad damage my skin?

Answers (4)