What should I be aware of before getting a facial peel?

There are numerous potential side effects to peels and the severity is generally related to the depth. Depending on the type of peel this can be a function of the concentration or the relative proportions of the ingredients.
Side effects include hyper or hypopigmentation, prolonged redness, herpes activation with infection, secondary bacterial infection, ulcers, hypertophic scars, pain, firmness, delayed healing, itching, and prolonged inflammation.
No one really knows how often peels can be repeated and the risks of repeated peels are difficult to quantitate..

I perform several deep chemical peels per week and firmly believe that they represent an important modality for facial rejuvenation. The risks of chemical peeling include hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, blistering, pain, scarring, and foliliculitis. These risks are minimized with an experienced practitioner.

Thank you for your message! I would definitely recommend an in person consultation with a provider in your area prior to getting any type of chemical peel done. Sometimes, especially with darker skin tones, caution has to be taken to avoid hyperpigmentation. Sometimes a skin preparation is required. We typically recommend doing the peels when you are at your lightest skin color and are not going to be in the sun soon after the peel. Peeling usually starts within a few days of having it and can last about 1 week or so, depending on the strength of the peel. The ideal regimen after a peel includes gentle cleansers morning and night, sunscreen during the day, and lots of moisture to the skin, using something gentle such as Cerave/Cetaphil/Eucerin! 

Chemical peels do have complications and side effect potential. These tend to go up if the chemical peel is more potent, ie. deeper peels are more likely have complications than superficial ones. Side effects also depending on your skin type and tone; darker skin tones are more likely to have pigmentation post-procedure. Also, more sensitive skin may react more to acids in the peel. There is always the possibility of herpes outbreak especially if getting treated around the mouth and if you have a history of cold sores. I would recommend that you go to a facility that spends the time to assess your goals and your skin type and chooses an appropriate peel accordingly. Remember, the stronger the peel, the deeper it will penetrate, and the more likely you are to see potential side effects. However, things can be done minimize the chance of pigment issues such as use of a bleaching agent ( ie. hydroquinone) for several weeks before the procedure. Hope this helps!

Some side effects of a chemical peel include irritation, peeling, redness and dryness. After a chemical peel your skin will be very sensitive you should avoid direct sunlight. You should wear a broad spectrum sun protection. For deep peels you should avoid direct sunlight for several days to 2 weeks. 

The main side effect of a chemical peel is local irritation and peeling after the peel.  Your physician should prescribe the proper emollients and sunscreens to use after your chemical peel.  The right chemical peel should be tailored to your skin type and the down time and results that you are seeking.  Best, Dr. Green

With all peels, skin can become sun sensitive afterward, why we always recommend that patients, after having a peel, avoid the sun and wear daily broad-spectrum sun protection. For lighter peels, an over-the-counter topical broad-spectrum sunscreen works best. For deeper, more intense peels, we recommend that patients avoid direct sun exposure for several days to two weeks.

The side effects of peels include:rednessdrynessflakinessirritationhypersensitivityitchinesssome swelling, especially with deeper peelsinfectionYour practitioner will go over them during your consultation so you can make an informed decision.

You first want to go to a qualified establishment and express your concerns and desires.  Some side effects can be peeling, blanching or discoloration.  Most of this depends on the depth of the peel, so you will probably need a series of peels to get the best results.  The first peel should be less intense with little or no burning or side effects, and then you can go up to a higher strength from there as your provider feels is safe and necessary.  Protecting and taking care of your "new" skin afterwards is imperative, so use sunscreen and follow any post procedures with each peel you have done.  Good luck!

"Dr.D"

There are very few risks to getting a chemical peel. Just make sure you go to a skilled provider who can explain to you the different strengths and what your downtime will be. The most important thing to do after a chemical peel is to wear a good sunscreen to protect your new skin.