reddish skin between scales

[xAnthemia]

For those curious, the following PDF is a safety data sheet regarding the chemical Benzalkonium Chloride aka. Alkyl Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride.

Safety Data Sheet PDF

From the PDF, it is stated...

Do not use for squirting or spraying. Do not use
for products which come into direct contact with
the skin. Do not use for products which come in-
to contact with foodstuffs. Do not use for private
purposes (household)

The hazard assessment notes skin corrosion and irritation as a category 1B hazard. This explains the scale conundrum and the red skin. It should also be noted that serious eye damage is noted as a symptom as a category 1 hazard — it would appear that you are lucky your snake is not blind.

I have added this issue to a document I am working on documenting health issues relating to ball pythons as issue #1:1?1.