Dangerous side effects of chemical peels: what you need to know before undergoing this skin treatment

Undergoing a chemical peel is a common skin treatment to address issues such as acne scars, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. However, it is essential to be aware of possible side effects before opting for this procedure.

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Chemical peels have been a popular skin rejuvenation method since the 20th century. They are great for exfoliating the skin and promoting cell turnover. Peels consist of a mix of chemicals that are applied to the skin and cause blisters on the skin. This allows the top layer of skin to loosen to heal and leaves the rejuvenated new layer looking flawless and youthful. According to , undergoing a chemical peel is a common skin treatment to address issues such as acne scars, sun damage, and uneven skin tone. However, it is essential to be aware of possible side effects before opting for this procedure.

Side effects of chemical peels

Chemical peels should be done with utmost care under the supervision of experts and then wonders can be done on the skin. Even the slightest inexperienced hand or the wrong use of chemicals can lead to damage to the skin and some of it may even be permanent. According to Dr. Rinky Kapoor, consultant dermatologist, cosmetic dermatologist and dermatosurgeon at The Esthetic Clinics, there are three types of side effects of chemical peels:

Immediately

These include redness, swelling, persistent edema, blistering and a burning and itching sensation on the skin, which is quite normal and usually decreases as the skin heals. With deep peels it can take up to 14 days before the first side effects disappear and the results become visible. Pain and burning sensation are common on sensitive skin and last approximately 2-5 days after treatment. Lack of proper sun protection worsens the condition. To help, the doctor will suggest ice packs, calamine lotion, moisturizers, and sunscreen.

Delayed side effects

Infections: These can be bacterial or herpetic and are usually caused by improper post-treatment care. Great care must be taken when applying and removing the squeak to avoid discomfort.
Scary, delayed healing: This happens when the peel texture is not even on the skin but is applied to a sensitive area or proper care is not taken after applying the peel
Mila or cyst formations
Texture changes in the skin due to uneven removal of the top layer of the skin. Incorrect application of the peel or incorrect skin quality can result in the wound agent not peeling off evenly to the desired depth.
Atrophy or loss of skin thickness is usually caused by a deep peel, but can also occur with light or medium peels.
Skin depigmentation or hyper- or hypopigmentation is often noticed on the skin because in some cases the skin’s melanin can go into overdrive or lose its ability to function properly to produce melanin, causing patches to appear on the skin that are lighter or darker is then the normal skin color.
Allergic Reactions: Contact dermatitis is the most common allergic reaction to peels due to excessive frequency of use, use of very high concentrations, or failure to properly prepare the skin. Using acetone or other degreasing solutions on the skin can also lead to infections.

Accidentally

Ocular complications: Spilling the chemical in the eyes can lead to temporary and permanent eye damage. In case of leakage it must be treated immediately.
Heart, kidney or liver damage: Cardiac arrhythmias and damage to the liver and kidneys can be side effects of phenol peels.

To AVOID side effects of chemical peels:

Only visit a reputable dermatologist who understands your skin type, laxity and other concerns and can suggest treatment accordingly.
Practice good skin care regimens before and after the peel treatment for faster healing and better results
Strictly avoid going out into the sun after the peel and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen before and after the peel. This should be a lifelong practice.
Do not use birth control pills before peels