Severe facial wax reaction

[MommaNicki]

Hello, I tried a facial hot wax that drys and then can be removed without the need of strips.  Anyway in hindsight I should have tested the product before use, but I did not.  I now have a severe facial rash, my eyes are starting to swell shut, and a rash runs my entire check area.  I only tried to wax a small strip on my brow and lip.  Any tips you have to reduce redness, swelling and iching that will work would be greatful.  I bought this home product to try to save money and time, I am a mom of three and hard to get stuff for me done with all the kids.  I will note that I have the same type reaction after my c-section when medical tape was used I broke out on my belly.  This did not go away for nearly 5 weeks...and hope to not have the same timeframe on my face!!  

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

I cannot confirm anything without examination but it sounds like irritant contact dermatitis. Irritant dermatitis, the most common type of contact dermatitis, involves inflammation resulting from contact with acids, alkaline materials such as soaps and detergents, cosmetics, or other chemicals.

Avoid using any lotions and creams over the face for the meantime. Wash your face with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Pat your face dry. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves.If the symptoms still persist then you can apply mild steroid like dermacort.Calamine lotion will also soothe the skin a lot.Take oral antihistaminic like benadryl or Claritin for the itching.

If the irritation persists then pls get it evaluated from a dermatologist.
Hope it helps.Take care and pls do keep me posted on how you are doing or if you have any additional queries.