What is happening to my skin?!

Dec 20, 2014

Maria L.

I've been using the Queen Helene mint julep mask since birth, (maybe not that long but you get the idea) and I just bought a new tube since I ran out.

Now, the packaging is different, but I didn't think anything of it. It only says "new look."

I put it all over my face and left it on for about 45 minutes like usual, even though it does say for only 10 minutes.

Well, I've just washed it off and my face is a nightmare! There are red bumps and almost burn like streaks everywhere! But they don't burn or itch so I'm incredibly confused. What is happening? I did what I normally do. The ingredients are the same, if I remember correctly. What gives?

Dec 20, 2014

China D.

If it a new bottle maybe they changed something in the mask and didnt tell you. Do you always leave it on the long because that could be the problem.

Dec 20, 2014

Maria L.

I always leave it on that long, so I was super shocked.
And it's gone now, thankfully.

The only "new" ingredient listed is spearmint, but it's always been a mint mask, so I'm not sure what's up.

Dec 21, 2014

Nicole R.

Maybe they changed to a higher concentration of mint, that could cause your skin to be irritated.

Dec 21, 2014

Ty R.

Follow directions, they're there for a reason. The new bottle could be an indication of a formula change. 45 min is a little excessive for that mask I'd say. It already tingles a bit so using it for longer than directed would seem like a problem waiting to happen.

Dec 23, 2014

Emily W.

It could also just be your skin. It is possible to have reactions without warning to products you've used a hundred times. I had it happen last time I used my Freeman Avocado mask; I ended up in hives.

You definitely shouldn't leave a mint mask on for 45 minutes. Mint is an irritant (it's what causes the tingling) and can cause chemical burns when left on skin for too long. Wash your face with a gentle soap and lukewarm water, and leave your skin alone. It will probably fade in a couple of hours. If it lingers or starts to get worse (burns, itches) it could be an allergic reaction. Use an antihistamine or calamine lotion. If at any point it becomes difficult to breathe, or you start having blurry vision (rash/irritation spreads to eyes) to the ER.