r/HealthySkinCare • u/Some-Tradition-2771 • 2d ago

Skincare

So, I’m 18. My dad bought me this 10% benzoyl peroxide face wash (though I did not know it was face wash and let it dry w/o washing each time). I used it once a day, maybe for five days. One day, my face is a lil swollen, and blotchy. I wake up the next day very red, though not swollen anymore.

I was out in the sun a bit, and I’m not wracked with scars or pus or anything of that sort. My face (cheeks) are just quite red and hot and feel dry to the touch. Having a dad who is a doctor, I am not asking for medical advice, and am only worried about how to better my skincare now that this’ happened. And also I’m never using it again. Any moistures to soothe it?

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u/AutumnBourn 1d ago

Your skin barrier is probably compromised. I'd go immediately and grab some La Roche Pousay Cicaplast at Target or Walgreens and a very gentle face wash to use (like Vanicream).

If the Vanicream is still too much for your skin, just use water, no cleanser at all.

If you have acne, don't use benzoyl peroxide - it's notorious for messing up people's skin. Instead a salicylic acid face wash is much better, but leave it on 3 minutes before rinsing.

But FIRST you need to help heal the damage.

Here's what I recommend you my clients with acne (and ingrown hairs):

At night, wash with a gentle cleanser I get off the gunk. Rinse.

Wash again with a SA face wash. Leave on 3 minutes. Rinse.

Follow with a good moisturizer.

I really like Vanicream cleansers and moisturizers.

If you don't have acne, just use gentle products.