Chemical peels are a popular and common non-invasive cosmetic procedure that has been used since the 18th century. They are classified into superficial, medium and deep peels, and can be used to reduce the appearance of facial defects such as fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and even acne scars. However, it is important to understand that all chemical peels carry some risks and uncertainties. Common side effects of chemical peels are temporary and include redness, dryness, stinging or burning, and mild swelling.
With deep peels, you may permanently lose your ability to tan. Additionally, a bacterial, fungal, or viral infection such as an outbreak of the herpes virus can occur. Deep peels using carbolic acid (phenol) can also damage the heart muscle and cause the heart to beat irregularly. Superficial chemical peels are generally safe when used correctly, but they can cause itching, erythema, increased skin sensitivity, epidermolysis, irritating allergic contact dermatitis, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH).
All peels can trigger herpes viral infection, while medium and deep peels can cause scarring. Deep peels are no longer popular on Indian skin as they can cause milia, secondary infection, and scarring. If you have problems with wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, or acne scars elsewhere on your body, it's worth asking your dermatologist if a chemical peel is a viable treatment. Staff should also receive extensive training on the benefits, risks, choices, and timing of chemical peels.
Patients should be advised that lesions such as solar lentigines may disappear initially and then reappear after chemical peeling. Accidental spillage of any chemical exfoliating agent into the eyes can result in eye damage in the form of corneal damage. It can occur with phenol peels but has not generally been seen with superficial or medium-depth TCA peels. If you want to learn more about how chemical peels could help you achieve your skin goals, schedule an appointment with North Pacific Dermatology.Chemical peels are a flexible and useful tool for improving skin texture and the effects of aging.
In addition, a licensed dermatologist or esthetician will be able to tell you if a chemical peel is a good idea for your skin or not. If you're wondering if chemical peels are safe for your skin or not, the truth is that they are 100% safe when administered by your dermatologist or esthetician. If you have dull skin, a chemical peel is exactly what you need to make everything look luminous again. So if you're considering getting a chemical peel to improve your skin's appearance and texture, make sure to consult with a professional first.
