⚠️ The Hidden Dangers of At-Home Chemical Peels

Dr. R. P. S. CHOUHAN (MD DERMATOLOGY)

11/13/20252 min read

a dropper filled with a liquid sitting on top of a table
a dropper filled with a liquid sitting on top of a table

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a skin treatment that uses safe chemical solutions to remove the top layers of damaged skin. It helps reduce acne scars, pigmentation, fine lines, and dullness, revealing fresh and glowing skin underneath.

When performed by a qualified dermatologist, chemical peels are one of the most effective and safe aesthetic procedures.

What Happens When You Use Chemical Peels at Home?

A recent study in the Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology (2025) revealed serious skin injuries caused by people using chemical peel products (CPPs) at home without professional guidance.

The study found 18 reported cases between 2018 and 2023 where people suffered burns, swelling, and scarring after using high-strength peels purchased online.

Most victims were women aged 16–54 years. Some of these peels contained very high acid levels (up to 100% TCA) — strengths that are meant only for clinic use by dermatologists.

Why At-Home Peels Are Risky

Many “DIY” chemical peel kits available online claim to remove wrinkles, scars, or pigmentation. However:

  • They often contain unregulated or unsafe acid concentrations.

  • There are no clear instructions or neutralization steps.

  • Users don’t know how long to keep the peel on or which skin types are safe.

  • Some products even advise applying peels on eyelids or sensitive areas, which is extremely dangerous.

  • None of these products are approved or evaluated by the FDA for safety or effectiveness.

Common Side Effects of At-Home Peels

Using chemical peels incorrectly can lead to:

  • Chemical burns and blisters

  • Skin swelling and redness

  • Pigmentation changes (dark or white patches)

  • Infections or scarring

  • Long-term skin sensitivity

Even mild peels like glycolic acid can cause deep burns if not neutralized properly. The risks are higher for people with medium to darker Indian skin tones (Fitzpatrick types III–VI).

Safe Chemical Peel Treatment at Tejasa Skin Hair and Laser Centre

At Tejasa Skin Hair Laser and Centre, all chemical peel treatments are performed by Dr. R. P. S. Chouhan (MD Dermatology) under strict medical protocols.

We ensure:

-Personalized skin assessment before treatment

-Use of medical-grade, dermatologist-approved products

-Gentle application and neutralization for safety

-Detailed pre- and post-peel care guidance

-Supervised healing for smooth, radiant results

Whether your goal is to treat acne scars, sun damage, pigmentation, or uneven tone, our clinic provides the safest and most effective peel for your skin type.

Takeaway Message

  1. Chemical peels can give you glowing, youthful skin — but only when done professionally.

Avoid using high-strength peels at home or buying “medical-grade” acids online.

  1. Your skin is precious — trust it only to a qualified dermatologist.

  2. For safe and effective chemical peel treatment in Udaipur, Rajasthan, visit Tejasa Skin Hair and Laser Centre — where science meets skin care.

Book Your Consultation

Dr. R. P. S. Chouhan (MD Dermatology)

Tejasa Skin Hair and Laser Centre, Shobhagpura,Udaipur, Rajasthan.

Contact- +919929169211, and booking link- https://wa.me/message/CA6WC4LRXL6EK1]