Throughout history women have been using chemical facial peels in the fight against aging. Ancient Egyptians were realizing smoother and younger looking skin with facial peels. While the dramatic and nearly instant results can be quite gratifying, there are some side effects that should be considered. Chemical peel side effects stem from the chemical action on the skin as it removes the outer layer of skin to reveal the fresh, new skin beneath. A chemical peel is essentially a chemical burn that causes loss of the outer layer of skin.
Burning or Stinging
The burning or stinging that many women report during treatment is a result of the chemical reaction that removes the outer layer of skin. In some cases, the chemical peel side effects of this burning sensation will last after the procedure has completed, though it is temporary. Most women describe this as more of a mild discomfort, if they mention it at all.
Redness of Treated Area
Redness is one of the most common chemical peel side effects. Temporary redness may affect the treated area. The degree of redness as well as the length of time it lasts is a direct result of the solution strength used. The stronger the solution strength, the more sever the redness and the longer it lasts. Some women experience no redness at all while others may experience extreme redness for up to four weeks.
Irritation and Slight Scabbing
Slight scabbing can develop on treated areas. This is a direct reaction of the skin to the acid that is used to remove the top layer of skin. Not all women will develop scabbing however it is a natural response of the skin to trauma.
Peeling or Flaking skin
Peeling and flaking is quite normal after a chemical peel, though it is usually quite minor and temporary. The important thing to remember here is not to pick and the peeling or flaking skin. Picking off the skin can result in scarring and infection. A fresher more youthful appearance will result if the skin is allowed to heal on its own.
Skin Color Changes
This is one of the most serious chemical peel side effects. Though rare, it is possible to develop hypo- or hyper-pigmentation. Hypo-pigmentation is a lightening of color on dark skinned women and hyper-pigmentation is a darkening of color on light skinned women. This is especially noticeable where untreated skin meets the treated skin. This condition has the ability to remain permanently.
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