Some of the common side effects of chemical facial peels are redness, stinging and peeling of the skin. This is due to the result of chemical action on facial skin which removes the upper layer that is old and is replaced with a younger looking skin. If you want to undergo this treatment you should know more about possible chemical facial peel side effects because it will help you to understand the procedures and also decide if you need to take up on or not. The treated skin will be subject to burning or stinging sensation when it comes in contact with AHA, TCA or phenol solution. Even if you use the lightest of AHA peel, it can cause temporary stinging. However, most often patients do not find the chemical peel side effects as painful and some of them take it very positively. The following are some of the likely effects:
1. Temporary redness: The redness depends on the strength of solution used. It will also determine how long the redness will last. There may be no redness for some people when an AHA peel is used. While using a TCA chemical peel may cause redness for about 3-4 months for some people.
2. Skin irritation and crusting: Sometimes the area may develop scabs or crusts because the skin may react to the mild acid solution the chemical peel uses. If phenol peels are used, crusting of old skin can occur as the underlying new skin is being formed. The treatment for this will be suggested to you by your dermatologist to take care of this. He may also give you instructions to clean facial skin and protect it with a sunscreen.
3. Peeling and flaking: These are normal side effects and are comparatively minor in nature. The patient will be advised not to pick the flakes or peel before it is ready. This will cause skin infection and scarring. You may also be given an ointment or a lotion to protect the skin as it peels and flakes. The treated skin will take time to heal and will give rise to a new, young and fresh looking skin.
4. Changes in skin color: This is rare and only sometimes you may develop increased or decreased color. This condition is temporary and can be taken care of if you take the help of a qualified dermatologist.
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