Are Chemical Peels Safe?

Some Facts About Safety, Benefits, and Side Effects of a Chemical Peel

Chemical peels are often used to treat skin conditions like acne scars, wrinkles, or precancerous growths. Chemical face peels are the most common types of chemical peels. There are pros and cons of chemical peels, as there are with any procedure that affects your skin. When performed by an experienced physician, the benefits of a facial peel can outweigh the risks.

Safety of a Chemical Peel

Though no guarantees cannot be given, your chemical peel is generally safe when being performed by a plastic surgeon or dermatologist trained and certified in the procedure. Your age, skin type, and reason for the chemical peel are all taken into consideration and will be discussed with you beforehand.

The deeper your chemical peel, the more risks are involved and the longer it takes for your skin to recover. Chemical peels must always be done by a professional in a medical office. Never try to perform a chemical peel at home.

Chemical peels are not safe:

• If you are pregnant
• If you suffer from frequent cold sores
• If you or a blood relative has had keloid scarring
• If you are taking or have taken certain acne medicine in the recent past.

Preparing for a Chemical Peel

Approximately one week before you have your procedure, your doctor will likely require you to follow some steps to prepare your skin. These steps might include:

• Stay out of the sun as much as possible. If it is unavoidable, your doctor will discuss this with you.
• Do not use any hair removal products in the area where the chemical peel will be performed. This includes waxing, electrolysis, and shaving.
• Do not use any facial mask products.
• Do not dye or bleach your hair, use a hair straightener, or use perm solution.

Chemical Peel Side Effects

• Your skin could change color in the area of the peel. This occurs more often in patients who have darker skin. It is usually temporary but can be long-lasting.
• You might have scarring of the skin where the chemical peel is done. If this occurs, your doctor can prescribe medication to help the scars be less noticeable.
• Infection is possible at the chemical peel site.
• Organ damage is a risk that comes with the use of some chemicals.
• Scabbing, swelling, and redness are common side effects of chemical peeling.

Chemical Peel Benefits

In spite of the risk factors that come with chemical peeling, there are benefits to the procedure. Benefits of chemical peels can include:

• Smoother skin
• Fewer wrinkles
• Fewer acne scars
• Fewer age spots
• Could diminish some scars or other skin irregularities.

Call Premier Dermatology Partners today to make an appointment for a consultation. Learn more about the safety and side effects of chemical peels. We want to help your skin look and feel its best.