Skin redness after chemical peel. How long will it take to heal? Is there anything I can do to heal it faster?

Question

I applied Marie France Oil (Lactic acid + Citric acid) on my thighs and knees. The skin peeled off but left redness. The redness has faded to pink over 3 weeks but it is still there. I showed it to a dermatologist and she said it will fade completely over 3-6 months, and I should keep applying hydrocortisone and moisturizer. Any insight into how long will it take to heal and if there is anything I can do heal it faster? Also, can there be any permanent redness? If yes, what can I do about it?

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Redness after chemical peels tend to fade with time.  If you need a more rapid clearance of redness, we suggest the pulsed dye laser for the hyperemia. Best, Dr. Karamanoukian

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I suggest going to a cosmetic dermatologist who is specialized in laser and peels.  There are many options to decrease redness and speed the healing process.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Laura E. Skellchock, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

The inflammation caused by the peel causes the redness.  Hard to get the skin to peel off without causing erythema.  It will gradually resolve, but to hasten the process I'd use the Intense Pulsed Light treatment (PhotoFacial) to close down the little blood vessels in the surface of the skin.  This is why I usually will not do peels on people who are already prone to redness.

Skin redness after chemical peel. How long will it take to heal? Is there anything I can do to heal it faster?

Answers (3)