Chemical peels have become increasingly popular as an effective treatment for a range of skin concerns, including acne, pigmentation, and signs of ageing. While many patients experience remarkable results, it’s essential to understand that, like any cosmetic procedure, chemical peels come with potential side effects. At Manchester Dermatology Clinic, we believe that informed patients make the best decisions for their skincare. In this blog, we will discuss the potential side effects of chemical peels, how to minimise risks, and what you can expect during the recovery process.
Understanding Chemical Peels
Before we dive into the potential side effects, let’s briefly review what chemical peels are. A chemical peel involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes the outer layer to exfoliate and eventually peel off. This process reveals smoother, healthier skin underneath and can significantly improve texture, tone, and overall appearance.
There are three primary types of chemical peels:
- Superficial Peels: These peels target the outer layer of the skin and typically use alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs). They have minimal downtime.
- Medium Peels: These peels use trichloroacetic acid (TCA) to penetrate deeper into the skin and may require several days for recovery.
- Deep Peels: The most intensive option, deep peels often use phenol and offer significant results but require longer recovery and carry higher risks.
- Redness and Swelling
- Duration: Redness can last from a few hours to several days, depending on the depth of the peel.
- Peeling and Flaking
- Duration: You may experience flaking skin for several days to a week, with peeling peaking around day 3-5 post-treatment.
- Dryness and Tightness
- Management: Keeping the skin well-hydrated with a gentle moisturiser can alleviate these sensations.
- Discolouration
- Prevention: Proper sun protection post-peel is essential to minimise the risk of pigmentation changes.
- Scarring
- Risk Factors: Individuals with a history of keloid formation or sensitive skin may be at a higher risk.
- Infection
- Prevention: Following your dermatologist’s aftercare instructions is crucial to reduce this risk.
- Allergic Reactions
- Symptoms: This can manifest as severe redness, itching, or swelling.
- Choose a Qualified Professional: Always have your chemical peel performed by a licensed dermatologist or skincare professional with experience in the procedure.
- Follow Pre- and Post-Care Instructions: Adhering to your dermatologist’s guidelines regarding sun protection, skincare products, and aftercare can significantly reduce the risk of side effects.
- Discuss Medical History: Inform your dermatologist of any medications, skin conditions, or allergies you may have, as these factors can affect the safety and efficacy of the treatment.
- Start with a Superficial Peel: If you’re new to chemical peels, starting with a superficial peel can help you gauge how your skin reacts before progressing to deeper treatments.
