Chemical peels are among the most popular non-surgical skin treatments, offering benefits like smoother texture, reduced fine lines, brighter tone, and improved acne scars. While they are generally safe when performed by qualified professionals, it’s important to understand that chemical peels do carry potential risks and side effects.
Being informed helps you set realistic expectations, recognize what’s normal during recovery, and know when to seek professional help. In this guide, we’ll explore both common and rare side effects of chemical peels, with real-world examples to illustrate how different people may experience the treatment.
Why Side Effects Occur
Chemical peels work by applying an acidic solution (such as glycolic, salicylic, lactic, or trichloroacetic acid) to the skin. This controlled injury removes damaged outer layers and stimulates regeneration.
- Superficial peels only affect the epidermis (outer layer), so side effects are usually mild.
- Medium peels penetrate deeper into the dermis, increasing downtime and risk of irritation.
- Deep peels reach even further, requiring medical supervision and a longer recovery period.
Since peels deliberately trigger cell turnover and exfoliation, temporary redness, dryness, and peeling are expected outcomes. However, improper technique, misuse of strong acids, poor aftercare, or underlying skin conditions can lead to complications.
Common Side Effects (Typically Temporary)
These are normal, short-lived responses that usually resolve within days to weeks.
1. Redness and Irritation
- Almost everyone experiences some level of redness after a peel.
- Superficial peels may cause light flushing for a few hours.
- Medium or deep peels can result in more intense redness lasting up to two weeks.
Example:
A woman in her 30s received a medium TCA (trichloroacetic acid) peel to treat sun damage. For the first five days, her skin looked red and slightly swollen, similar to a sunburn. By week two, the redness subsided, revealing brighter skin.
2. Peeling and Flaking
- Peeling is a natural part of the healing process.
- Superficial peels may cause only light flaking, while medium peels often produce more dramatic shedding.
- The urge to pick or peel skin should be avoided to prevent scarring.
Example:
A college student had a glycolic acid peel for acne scars. By day three, her skin began to flake around the mouth and chin. She followed her therapist’s advice—kept skin moisturized and resisted touching it. Within a week, the flakiness cleared, leaving smoother skin.
3. Dryness and Tightness
- Skin may feel tight or dry for several days post-treatment.
- Using a gentle, hydrating moisturizer helps relieve discomfort.
Example:
A man in his 40s noticed extreme tightness after a salicylic peel. His therapist recommended applying a fragrance-free hyaluronic acid serum twice daily, which significantly reduced discomfort.
4. Sensitivity to Sunlight
- Freshly exfoliated skin is more vulnerable to UV rays.
- Sun exposure can trigger hyperpigmentation or damage healing skin.
- Daily SPF use is essential post-peel.
Example:
A medium peel client skipped sunscreen during a beach trip two days after treatment. As a result, she developed dark patches of hyperpigmentation on her cheeks. With corrective treatments, it faded, but it delayed her results.
5. Mild Swelling
- Especially common after medium and deep peels.
- Typically subsides within 48–72 hours.
Example:
A man undergoing a deep phenol peel experienced swelling around the eyes for three days. His dermatologist prescribed a soothing ointment, and the swelling resolved without complications.
Less Common but Possible Risks
While uncommon, these side effects can occur, especially if aftercare instructions are ignored or if peels are performed by inexperienced providers.
1. Hyperpigmentation (Dark Spots)
- More common in people with darker skin tones (Fitzpatrick skin types IV–VI).
- Can be triggered by sun exposure during recovery or picking at peeling skin.
Example:
A woman with olive-toned skin underwent a medium peel for melasma. She neglected sun protection and developed darker patches post-healing. A series of superficial peels and strict sunscreen use helped even out her tone again.
2. Hypopigmentation (Light Spots)
- Less common but can occur with deep peels.
- The skin may lose pigment, leading to lighter patches.
- Often permanent.
Example:
A man in his 50s received a phenol peel for deep wrinkles. While his skin looked dramatically smoother, he noticed permanent lighter patches on his jawline that required makeup for blending.
3. Infection
- Rare but possible if skin is picked or exposed to bacteria.
- Signs include increased pain, swelling, pus, or spreading redness.
Example:
A woman ignored her therapist’s warning and applied heavy makeup during peeling. Bacteria entered through micro-tears, leading to a mild staph infection. With antibiotics, the infection cleared, but it prolonged her healing.
4. Scarring
- Rare, but improper aftercare (like scratching or peeling skin prematurely) can lead to scars.
- More likely with medium or deep peels.
Example:
A man with acne scars opted for an aggressive TCA peel. He picked at peeling skin on his temples, causing small but noticeable scars that required later laser resurfacing.
5. Reactivation of Cold Sores
- Chemical peels can trigger herpes simplex virus (cold sores) around the mouth.
- Preventive antiviral medication is often recommended before medium or deep peels.
Example:
A client with a history of cold sores developed painful blisters after a peel. Her dermatologist prescribed an antiviral cream, but it extended her recovery by an additional week.
6. Prolonged Redness or Irritation
- For some, redness may persist for weeks (especially with deep peels).
- This is more likely in sensitive skin types or those with inflammatory conditions like rosacea.
Example:
A man with naturally sensitive skin had a medium peel. Instead of subsiding within a week, redness lingered for almost three weeks. His dermatologist recommended calming serums and gentle cleansing to avoid worsening irritation.
7. Allergic Reactions
- Rare, but certain ingredients (like salicylic acid) may cause an allergic response.
- Symptoms include itching, hives, or severe swelling.
Example:
A woman had an unexpected reaction to a salicylic peel, with intense itching and hives on her cheeks. Treatment was stopped immediately, and she was given antihistamines.
How to Reduce Risks
While some side effects are unavoidable, many risks can be minimized with proper care and professional oversight.
- Choose a Qualified Provider – Always go to a licensed dermatologist or skin therapist. DIY peels at home carry a higher risk of burns and complications.
- Follow Pre-Peel Instructions – Stop retinoids, exfoliants, and harsh products a week before treatment unless advised otherwise.
- Disclose Medical History – Let your provider know if you have cold sores, eczema, rosacea, or other conditions.
- Practice Strict Sun Protection – Daily SPF is non-negotiable after peels.
- Avoid Picking or Scratching – This prevents scarring and infections.
- Follow Aftercare Routines – Use only gentle, recommended skincare products.
Who Is at Higher Risk?
Some people are more prone to side effects than others:
- Darker skin tones – more likely to develop post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
- History of keloid scars – higher risk of scarring.
- Active skin infections – should avoid peels until healed.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding women – generally advised against peels.
- People taking acne medications (like isotretinoin) – need to wait at least six months before a peel.
Example:
A young woman on isotretinoin (Accutane) booked a peel without disclosing her medication. Her skin reacted severely, leading to burns. This underscores why full transparency with your provider is critical.
When to Seek Medical Help
Mild redness, dryness, and peeling are normal. However, contact your provider if you experience:
- Severe or spreading redness
- Yellow crusting or pus (signs of infection)
- Persistent swelling or pain
- Unusual scarring or thickening of skin
- Blisters or sores around the mouth
Chemical peels are safe and effective when performed correctly, but like any cosmetic procedure, they carry potential risks and side effects. Most are temporary and manageable—such as redness, peeling, and dryness—but others, like infection, scarring, or pigment changes, are possible without proper precautions.
By understanding these risks, following pre- and post-care instructions, and choosing a qualified professional, you can greatly minimize complications while maximizing the incredible benefits of chemical peels.
Ultimately, informed clients are empowered clients. If you know what to expect and how to manage recovery, your peel can be a safe and rewarding step toward healthier, more radiant skin.
