natural chemical peel - #15206
I am really confused and kinda worried about my skin lately. A while ago, I decided to try this new skincare routine that promised glowing skin, and I heard about this natural chemical peel thing that supposedly works wonders. But honestly, after using it, my skin feels super irritated and really sensitive. Like, I didn't realize I could have a reaction to something natural! I mean, how is that even possible? I did some research and found out that natural chemical peels can be made from fruits and enzymes, and that sounded great, but now I wonder if I used it too often? I applied it every week for a month, thinking I'd get that fresh glow everyone talks about. Now, my face is red and flaky, and I don’t know if I should keep using the natural chemical peel or just stop altogether! Is there a way to kind of reverse whatever happened or soothe my skin? Has anyone else experienced this after using a natural chemical peel? Should I consult a dermatologist or just back off and let my skin heal, or does it need something more specific? Ugh, feeling lost here!
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Doctors’ responses
Your skin irritation and sensitivity after using a natural chemical peel is not uncommon, even though these products are often marketed as gentler options. Natural doesn’t always mean non-irritating; ingredients like fruit acids (like citric acid from lemons or glycolic acid from sugarcane) can still be potent. It’s quite possible you’ve been experiencing irritation due to overuse. Using such peels weekly, especially if they are not specifically designed for frequent use, can indeed lead to the kind of irritation you’re experiencing. Your best course of action now is to immediately halt the use of the peel and any other active ingredients like retinoids or strong acids for the time being. Focus on soothing and hydrating your skin. Here are some specific steps: first, switch to a gentle cleanser that doesn’t strip your skin’s natural oils. Next, incorporate a moisturizer with ingredients like hyaluronic acid, ceramides, or aloe vera to repair the skin barrier. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream can help reduce inflammation, but use it sparingly and not for prolonged periods. Protect your skin from further damage by applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day, even if you’re mostly indoors. If the irritation persists or worsens, visiting a dermatologist is recommended. They can provide tailored advice and potentially prescribe topical treatments to expedite healing. Be cautious in the future with new skincare products and consider patch testing them on a small area of skin before regular use. While it may take time, your skin can recover with proper care and patience.
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