Don't Panic: 10 Solutions for the Most Common Skin Emergencies

You probably already figured this out, but the first thing to do is to stop using whatever’s causing the problem. Then get that area clean as quickly as possible. Levin recommends using a gentle cleanser first, like Vanicream Gentle Facial Cleanser, $8.99, then apply an over-the-counter cortisone cream to the area having the allergic reaction, then apply a moisturizer and sunscreen.

Also, she recommends avoiding anything irritating while you’re having a reaction, like exfoliating ingredients, retinoids and certain antioxidants like Vitamin C, which can make matters worse. She recommends switching over to a gentle cleanser, a good moisturizer and a good sunscreen until things calm down.