I woke up yesterday with burns all over my cheeks from a product with 2% salicylic acid in it.

Question

Hey, I was using it to get rid of acne but it made my skin red and patchy. I have been using Vaseline and Aloe Vera trying to keep it moisturizer, not to mention using Cetaphil's moisturizer as well. It doesn't hurt that much, but if it's dry it starts to hurt, what should I do?

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about healing after salicylic acid treatment. The skin is in a very fragile state immediately after a peel.  It is not uncommon to sometimes have an area or two that becomes irritated or raw, especially if you peel rather than trim the dead skin away.  To avoid hyperpigmentation or scarring it is important that you keep these areas moist with Aquaphor or Vaseline...or any post-procedure ointments your provider may have recommended.  Also, do not pick or scrub these areas, and avoid the sun.  If you notice any discharge from the area, you need to contact your provider.
To be sure, see two or more experienced, licensed and board-certified providers in your area for a complete evaluation to make sure you are a good candidate and that it is safe for you to have treatment. I hope this helps.

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  Salicylic acid can be very useful for acne management, but also can be tricky to manage if the skin becomes irritated or inflamed.  Keep doing what you are doing and give it time.  Don't get direct sun on the face - always use a good quality sunscreen with Zinc or Titanium Dioxide in it, and hold off on the acne products for awhile.  
Best of luck!

I woke up yesterday with burns all over my cheeks from a product with 2% salicylic acid in it.

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