Vent: I got a bad reaction from a client after using a new peel at 15% strength

Last Thursday, I was excited to try a new glycolic acid peel from a brand I trust. The client had done a patch test with no issues, so I went ahead with a full face treatment at 15% concentration, which is what I normally start with. About two minutes in, she started complaining of intense burning, way more than the usual mild tingling. I neutralized it immediately, but her skin was bright red and felt hot for over an hour after. I learned that even with a trusted product and a clear patch test, some clients can have a delayed or more intense reaction to active ingredients, especially if they've used certain medications or other treatments I didn't know about. Now I'm doing a much longer consultation and asking specifically about any new prescriptions or over-the-counter products used in the last two weeks. Has anyone else had a client react strongly to a peel strength they normally tolerate?

2 comments

2 Comments

black.amy6d ago

Honestly, I always do a second patch test behind the ear 24 hours before the actual peel now. That extra step caught a reaction for me last month.

milar466d ago

Was I the only one who thought patch tests were foolproof? After a scare like yours, I totally get why @black.amy does that second test now.