Benzoyl Peroxide Reaction

[thisiskelcy]

Six and a half weeks ago, I bought Clinique's three step acne treatment system to eliminate a recurring whitehead problem on my face. The first product was a salicylic acid foam cleanser, the second was a salicylic toner, and the third was a benzoyl peroxide lotion. (I have used salicylic acid before, so I don't think that was the cause of the reaction.) After two days of use, my skin was extremely dry and my eyes were swollen. I stopped using the benzoyl peroxide, but continued with the salicylic acid because I was out of town with no other products. After six days, I stopped using the products entirely. I have been rinsing my face with water and drenching it in Eucerin several times a day. Eucerin is the ONLY product that does not sting. I sometimes use unscented glycerin soap.

Six weeks later, I see no improvement. My skin is so tight dry, it feels like it's in shrink wrap. It flakes every day. My eyes are swollen and flaky. Everything stings, even touch.

What can I do for real relief? How long will this last?

[Gaurang Krishna, MD]

Dear thisiskelcy,
  
Thank you for writing back.

I think you may need to use potent steroid creams for a short while. You should consult a local dermatologist to get one prescribed.

As for burning with hydrocortisone, it usually does not happen. It may be related to the carrier in the formulation rather than hydrocortisone itself. If you have used a gel based formulation in the past, try a cream based formulation. Continue using a lot of moisturizer.

Please see a Dermatologist for a prescription as potent steroids are not available over the counter.

Hope that this information helps and hope that you will get better soon.

Best Regards
Dr. Gaurang Krishna

[thisiskelcy]

I have used Hydrocortisone cream (it burns),  Triamcinolone acetonide, and Benadryl. None have been effective. This has been going on for nearly two months.

[Gaurang Krishna, MD]

Hello thisiskelcy,

As rightly pointed out by you, you do seem to have developed an allergic or irritant reaction to benzoyl peroxide which may happen with sensitive skin.

The problem may have got compounded by continued use of salicylic acid based products.

It is good that you stopped using them shortly after the reaction.

For relief, use a mild steroid cream (hydrocortisone or desonide) twice a day. Use a lot of hypoallergenic moisturizer. I think you will be fine after a week or so.

Hope that this information helps and hope that you will get better soon.

Thank you for using MedHelp's "Ask an Expert" Service, where we feature some of world's renowned medical experts in their fields. Millions have benefitted from our service to get personalized advice for them and for their loved ones.

Best Regards,
Dr. Gaurang Krishna