Face Turned Yellow after applying Arnica

I had Blepharoplasty surgery on March 3rd.  I had too much time before surgery to read articles of what to do before and after surgery.  I bought Arnica gel and Arnica Montana 30 sublingual pellets.  I put the gel on my face many times thought out the day.  I took the pellets more than recommended because as the old saying goes more should make it heal faster.  I had been taking photos to show a friend and keep a diary.  On the day I was to get my stitches out May 9th; I had them removed but didn't notice until my husband said your face is yellow.  Then when I looked at the photos for that day I was shocked how yellow my face was.  I think it is a combination of taking Arnica internally and externally that caused my situation.  I didn't read that the gel came from a yellow flower.  Duh  I feel that it acted like a dye that caused my face to turn yellow.  Does anyone have an idea how long this will take to resolve?  I may have to stay inside forever!!!!  Today is May 12th

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It is true that prolonged use of Arnica may irritate the skin, causing eczema, peeling, blisters, or other skin conditions. But I have not heard of yellowing of face as a result of this because it is a herbal drug. One condition which can cause yellowing of skin is carotenemia caused by excessive intake of vitamin A precursors in foods. Other causes can be beta carotene dietary excess, hyperthyroidism, pernicious anemia or uremia. My sincere advice would be to consult a dermatologist and get all these possibilities evaluated.

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 dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.