What does skin look and feel like after peeling of chemical peel? It looks pink and raw. Is it normal? (Photo)

Question

On 3rd august i just did at 12% fruit (chemical) peel on my legs. Skin felt dry and itchy , some area starts to flake and as i wasn't aware of the after care, i went to peel the flaking skin and my skin looks pink, smooth and rather raw. (As shown in the attached picture) does that look normal to you ? Or is there a complication? Will it cause further scarring Or is that just part of the normal process of healing? Please help!

Christopher Costa, MD, MPH · Answer

What you are describing sounds very standard for a peel*.  Peels eliminate the top layers of skin and help promote collagen and formation of the skin thus making it look younger.  It is not uncommon at 3-5 days after a peel to have a pink sunburn appearance.  For aftercare a thin layer of moisturizer once a day followed by sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher should be all you need.  
Disclaimer* - photos can be deceiving and the response to this question is not medical advice.  If you have concerns you should go to be seen by a physician in person so that they can evaluate you to make sure you are not developing a complication.

Eric Shreder, DO, MS · Answer

Hi, your legs appears to show a "normal" post peel appearance which should fade over time. Remember, a peel causes a "controlled injury" which at the beginning is "inflammatory." Didn't you receive a "post-procedure protocol?" At this point, I would use a weak hydrocortisone 1% cream on the red areas twice daily for a week, and extreme sun protection (SPF 30 or greater). The legs should recover just fine. Next time - ask for the post treatment protocol! Good luck, Dr Eric Shreder - Full Circle Wellness

What does skin look and feel like after peeling of chemical peel? It looks pink and raw. Is it normal? (Photo)

Answers (2)

More Chemical Peel Questions

Permanent scar or temporary indentation? 20 years old, male. (Photo)

What is the best treatment for my face? Trying to get a chemical peel.

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS

Answers (2)

More Chemical Peel Questions

Permanent scar or temporary indentation? 20 years old, male. (Photo)

What is the best treatment for my face? Trying to get a chemical peel.

WE SEND PRETTY EMAILS

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS