Review in peeling complications

Abstract

Chemical peeling, a procedure wherein a chemical agent is applied to the skin to cause controlled destruction followed by regeneration and remodeling, is a dynamic tool for the treatment of acne, pigmentation issues, and photoaging [Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery vol. 5 (2012) 254-260]. The results and complications are related to the depth of the procedure, with deeper peels producing more marked results and higher rates of complications. Complications are more likely with darker skin types, certain peeling agents, and sun exposure after treatment [Journal of cutaneous and aesthetic surgery vol. 5 (2012) 254-260]. They can range from minor irritations and uneven pigmentation to permanent scarring. In extremely uncommon cases, the complications can be life-threatening. This knowledge is essential to prevent, reduce, and eliminate the occurrence of complications [Cirurgia dermatológica em consultório. São Paulo: Atheneu; 2009]. Swelling, pain, persistent erythema, pruritus, allergic reactions, folliculitis/acne, infection, herpes recurrence, hypopigmentation and hyperpigmentation, demarcation lines, and scarring are some of the complications that will be discussed in this article. The first step in preventing complications is to identify the patients at risk. By doing so, complications can be anticipated, prevented, and, if they still occur, treated as early as possible.

Contact urticaria caused by salicylic acid in a chemical peel solution

“…SA (2‐hydroxybenzoic acid) is one of the beta‐hydroxy acids used widely in chemical peels and medicaments . Although many topical SA preparations are frequently prescribed, allergic contact dermatitis is uncommon . It has been suggested that cases of contact dermatitis due to salicylates might be overlooked …”

“…Although chemical peeling is a safe procedure for the treatment of many dermatological conditions, some complications have been described . Cases of contact urticaria (CU) caused by chemical peels have rarely been reported …”

Chemical peels in the treatment of acne: patient selection and perspectives

“…Complications that are common a few days or weeks following the procedure for every type of agent, include swelling, erythema, pain and burning, pruritus, ecchymoses, blistering or infection, milia, and telangiectasia. 11 , 38 , 57 Some patients may develop skin textural changes and appearance of enlarged pores. 11 These complications are usually mild and resolve within weeks but tend to be more serious for deep peels.…”

“… 7 Superficial peels are most commonly used for mild skin disorders such as dyschromia, acne, postinflammatory hyperpigmentation, melasma, and actinic keratosis. 8 , 11 Medium depth peels are used for solar keratoses or lentigines, pigmentary disorders, and superficial scars. Deep chemical peels are used for the treatment for photoaging, deep scars or wrinkles, and precancerous skin lesions.…”

On the Intricacies of Facial Hyperpigmentation and the Use of Herbal Ingredients as a Boon for Its Treatment: Cosmeceutical Significance, Current Challenges and Future Perspectives

“…Persistent erythema, swelling, pain, allergic reactions, herpes recurrence, acne, dyspigmentation, etc. are some of the various after effects associated with treatment strategies like chemical peeling, dermabrasion, laser therapy, and cosmetic camouflage [50,51].…”