Vichy Retinol day cream

I am 40 and I bought vichy retinol cream to treat minor facial wrinkles. My face is burning, I have red spots around my eyes, I have rash all over my face and chin. My skin is flaking and feels very dry. I am noticing some  wrinkels in the places they never existed. What shall I do?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like irritant contact dermatitis which is common after using some creams or chemical. The treatments of this condition are application of topical corticosteroids which will reduce the inflammatory process. Topical immunomodulators like pimecrolimus and tacrolimus can be used in severe conditions but should be used under a dermatologist’s guidance. Wash the area with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves. Also wear cotton clothes. If the symptoms still persist then you can consult a dermatologist.

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. Treatment can be started only when the diagnosis is confirmed. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
It looks like irritant contact dermatitis which is common after using some creams or chemical. The treatments of this condition are application of topical corticosteroids which will reduce the inflammatory process. Topical immunomodulators like pimecrolimus and tacrolimus can be used in severe conditions but should be used under a dermatologist’s guidance. Wash the area with a mild cleanser with moisturizing properties like Cetaphil. Then apply a good hypoallergenic moisturizer over the area and see if this improves. Also wear cotton clothes. If the symptoms still persist then you can consult a dermatologist.

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. Treatment can be started only when the diagnosis is confirmed. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.

[Aleksa70]

Dear Bhupinder,
thank you for your answer. I stopped using creams and make up and I applied alphacort (corticosteroid) just like you recommended. My skin already looks much better now.
Thank you for your help.
Cheers