Chemical peels improve the skin's appearance by causing the upper layers of the skin to separate and peel off, which is replaced with fresh, new skin. The depth of the peel is determined by the type of chemical--alphahydroxy acids (AHAs), trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and phenol--its strength, and the amount of time it remains on the skin. AHA peels are the mildest, TCA peels can be used in different concentrations, and phenol peels are the strongest. The side effects--and the recovery time--depend on the type of the peel.
Redness and Irritation
Milder peels cause side effects similar to a sunburn: redness and irritation, followed by dryness and flaking. These symptoms are not serious enough to prevent you from returning to normal activities.
Sun Sensitivity
Chemical peels increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Your doctor will advise using a sunscreen. If you have a deep peel, avoid exposure to the sun for a few months after treatment. Deep peels may also result in more prolonged sensitivity.
Swelling
Peels with a stronger concentration of chemicals may cause swelling. TCA peels usually cause mild swelling that goes away within seven days. A deeper peel causes more significant swelling and water blisters that may break, crust and take up to two weeks to peel off. A phenol peel may cause your eyes to swell shut temporarily.
Change in Pigmentation
After TCA and phenol peels, the skin can't produce normal pigment until it heals. There is a risk of temporary or permanent changes in skin color, with it becoming either lighter or darker. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the risks of pigment changes increase if you're taking birth control pills or are pregnant. The risk of uneven skin color or permanent skin lightening increases with deeper phenol peels.
Infection and Scarring
Chemical peels can result in scarring, but it's usually treatable, states UMM. Deep peels increase the risk of infections and scarring.
Cold Sores
If you're susceptible to herpes simplex infections, a chemical peel may cause cold sores or fever blisters to reappear.
Cardiac
Phenol is a toxic substance that can affect the myocardium and cause heart arrhythmias. According to UMM, a phenol peel may be especially risky for people with a history of heart disease.
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