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"lizard skin" under peeling 2nd-degree sunburn? Can I home treat?
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alinwonder posted:
Long story short, not all "waterproof" sunscreen really is waterproof, and I wound up with a 2nd-degree sunburn all over my chest, shoulders, back, arms, and knees a couple of weeks ago. I was on vacation in a foreign country so I did not go to a doctor, but treated with aloe, cool showers, and drinking lots of water and taking NSAIDS.

Although I didn't go to the doctor, I'm certain it was 2nd degree because I had a lot of wet blisters and the reddest, most painful burn I've ever had. I was also swelling mildly and my skin was very hot to the touch, and i was getting the chills for a couple of days, and could not move my shoulders. (Of course, I am very fair-skinned and on medication that causes photosensitivity)

Fast forward to the last few days, and the top layer of skin has been peeling off in large pieces for a couple of days. The skin underneath is now turning darker than my normal skin color, and has a scaly, very dry texture that I can only refer to as "lizard skin". I am using fragrance-free moisturizer and aloe-gel, but the dark and textured appearance of the skin is making me nervous. Is this normal after a bad sunburn? Am I ok moisturizing at home unless I develop other symptoms?

Appreciate any input!
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alinwonder responded:
Well in case anyone was wondering, another layer peeled off and now it finally looks normal again.
 
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NCmom75 replied to alinwonder's response:
Then there is hope for me, since on I am on my first peel! Glad you are better.


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