The Obagi blue peel is a medium-depth chemical peel used to treat fine wrinkles, minor scars, blemishes and sun damage on the skin. It can be used on the face as well as the shoulders, back, neck and chest. A blue peel is done with trichloroacetic acid and a blue dye that helps the doctor or clinician monitor the amount of time the chemical needs to stay on the skin.
Stinging
As with any chemical peel, a burning or stinging sensation during the procedure is a common side effect. The stinging generally subsides within a few minutes, after each layer of skin is lifted off and the acid is neutralized. Sedation or analgesics are generally not needed during a blue peel. Fans or cold compresses might be used during the procedure to reduce discomfort.
Blue Tint
Following a blue peel, the skin might retain a slight blue tint from the dye in the acid. The tint generally doesn't last longer than 24 hours.
Swelling
For a few days following the procedure, there may be some minor swelling and sensitivity in the areas where the chemical was applied.
Peeling
After a medium-depth peel, the skin continues to peel for up to 10 days after the procedure, depending on the depth of the peel. The Center for Oral and Facial Surgery recommends not using make up until the skin is completely healed because this may slow the healing process. The doctor or clinician may prescribe a skin cream, ointment or special cleanser to help the skin repair itself.
Pink Skin
The skin can remain pink for up to four months after a blue peel. The amount of time this side effects lasts depends on the depth of the peel.
Infection
The Mayo Clinic warns that infection is possible after a medium-depth chemical peel. Some people may be prescribed antibiotics before the procedure. Avoid infection by closely following your doctor's after-care instructions.
Pigment Changes
In rare cases, a medium depth peel can cause permanent lightening or darkening of patches of skin, cautions the Mayo Clinic. Pigment changes are more likely in people with darker skin. In order to avoid this side effect, the blue peel is generally recommended for people with fair, thin skin.
After a blue peel, the skin will be much more sensitive to the sun. Use a high SPF sunscreen daily to avoid permanent damage.
Scarring
Scars are another rare but possible side effect of a skin peel. Following the after-care instructions will help prevent scarring. In some cases, the skin is itchy during the time it is peeling. Scratching the face or picking at the peeling skin can increase the chances of scars. Some scars may be permanent while others might be removed or reduced by another chemical peel.
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