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bleach side effects on face
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Skin & Hair Concerns
Question #14584
45 days ago
69

bleach side effects on face - #14584

Arya

I am super worried about using bleach on my face after what happened last week. I was trying to lighten some scars I have from acne, and a friend suggested to mix a bit of bleach with water and apply it to my skin. I thought, why not? But the next morning I woke up with some redness and kind of a burning sensation. I didn’t think much of it at first, but then I noticed some peeling skin where I applied it. I started researching and now I’m freaked out about the bleach side effects on face!! Like, could it get worse? The stinging feeling lasted a few days, and I'm not sure if it's just a bad reaction or if there's long-term damage I gotta worry about. I mean, I know some people use it for spot treatments, but I didn’t expect my skin to react this way. Does anyone else have experience with bleach side effects on face? How long does it usually take for skin to heal? Should I just avoid it completely from now on or is there a way to treat this? Any advice would be super appreciated!

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Doctors’ responses

Using bleach on your face is not recommended due to the risk of irritation, chemical burns, and potential long-term damage. The redness, burning sensation, and peeling you experienced are common signs of skin irritation or a chemical burn from the bleach. Bleach is a strong irritant and not formulated for topical use on delicate facial skin; it can disrupt the skin’s barrier, leading to more severe irritation or even infection. Healing time can vary depending on the severity, but mild irritation may take a few days to a week to resolve, while more severe reactions may need a few weeks or more to heal fully. To aid recovery, avoid further applying bleach or any other harsh substances. Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers designed for sensitive skin. Look for products with calming ingredients like aloe vera, chamomile, or niacinamide. Protect the affected area from sun exposure by using a broad-spectrum sunscreen, as irritated skin can be more sensitive to UV rays. Also, you might consider using over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream to reduce inflammation, but avoid this if the skin is broken. Monitor your skin closely; if you notice worsening redness, swelling, pain, or any signs of infection such as pus or increased warmth, seek medical attention promptly. It’s crucial not to ignore worsening symptoms, as untreated chemical burns can lead to more significant complications. In the future, consult with a dermatologist before trying new treatments on your skin, especially for scar lightening. They can recommend safe and effective treatments tailored to your needs.

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