I peeled off my skin when it started to flake. It is now really red, what can I do? (Photo)

Question

I am terrified that the colouring will be Permanant. I had a chemical peel 3 days ago (mild because first time) and yesterday my skin started flaking very badly. I didn’t receive any aftercare instructions other than sunscreen and lots of moisturizer so I started peeling the skin off. I have now read online that peeling the skin can do real damage. I am quite red on my chin and under my eyes and my skin looks awful.

Gabriele C. Miotto, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Because you had a mild peel it seems from your pictures that your redness will improve with no issues. Keep moisturizing the skin and contact the provider that performed the peel to be checked just to make sure everything is all right. Hope this helps,
Best, Dr Miotto

Lichun (Li) Huo, MD · Answer

HI! Some redness is to be expected after certain peels, along with some brown spots which will peel off over time.  Try to avoid picking at your skin.  You need soothing yet boring moisturizer.  I like cetaphil because you can buy it anywhere, and a gentle cleanser (also from cetaphil).  Sunscreen (mineral based) is absolutely essential.
I personally love Avene's Cicalfate post procedure emulsion for after peel care.  Use it twice daily (can be applied more often if necessary) for about a week.

Glenn Messina, MD · Answer

This is a common problem and I give written instructions to my patients so you are not alone. When you peel the unpeeled skin off you are basically tearing adhered skin and at risk to make a scar. That said I can't remember anyone who developed scars and I have had many patients loofa , pick , itch and peel their face prematurely.Best thing you can do is keep it clean, don't apply any drying agents, fragrances and soaps with fragrances. The sunscreen should be used at all times, as the moisturizer. It sounds like you had a Vi if so use the steroid cream liberally.I believe it should be fine but no more picking, avoid the sun and use the products.

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

After a skin peel the skin can get really red. The deeper the peel the redder and more scaley the skin can get.Spf 30+ is really important.Cool compresses with wet cool hand cloth is soothing.Large brimmed hat when going out.Thick ceramide after skin peel insulates the moisture as well.Best. Dr Brecht Seattle, Wa

I peeled off my skin when it started to flake. It is now really red, what can I do? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Post peel redness

Answer: Post peel redness

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

I peeled off my skin when it started to flake. It is now really red, what can I do? (Photo)

Answers (4)

Answer: Post peel redness

Answer: Post peel redness

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Chemical Peel

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.