Creams cause skin peeling and rashes

My skin can't tolerate any kinds of creams recently, even natural ones without parabens. Whenever I apply a small amount of moisturizer to my face, my skin peels ( alot) and I end up with a rash on my cheeks and around my eyes. Its very embarrassing situation, all the peeled skin is so obvious on my face. My skin feels dry all the time, and it feels like it's burnt but I avoid the sun almost entirely. The only thing my skin can tolerate is panthenol cream which is good because it cools the skin and reduces dryness...
What is the cause of my strange skin condition and can I ever get back to using regular moisturizers again??? Is it possible that I have a type of skin disease???

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
This peeling is due to dry skin and applying cosmetics may be causing a contact dermatitis. Dry skin results when there is not enough water in the stratum corneum for it to function properly. Too much soapy water, exposure to harsh chemicals, the normal aging process and certain types of skin diseases are some of the causes of decreased amounts of protective skin oils which in turn causes dry skin.

The mainstay of management is liberal use of moisturizers after washing with luke warm water. Soap should be used minimally. Moisturizers should be reapplied liberally during the day and apply it after washing your face with fresh water. You can also use a topical cortisone (steroid) cream or ointment.

If there is any itching of the area then eczema needs to be ruled out.
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.