Stay Away From At-Home Chemical Peels, FDA Warns
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a stern warning to stay away from at-home chemical peels, citing potential risks such as chemical burns and other serious complications. The agency has also begun taking action against sellers of these products, including major retailers like Amazon and Walmart.
Chemical peels have been used by dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons to enhance appearance by removing damaged skin cells from the outer and sometimes middle layers of the skin. These treatments are known to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and address issues like acne scars and hyperpigmentation. However, it is crucial that these peels are administered under professional supervision.
The FDA’s warning, issued on Tuesday, highlights that no chemical peel products for home use have been approved. The risk associated with using these products independently is significantly higher. “Chemical peels contain ingredients such as trichloroacetic acid (TCA), glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid in concentrations that are too high to be used safely at home without professional oversight,” the FDA stated.
Adverse events have been reported by individuals who may have been injured by these products, with some cases being severe. Misuse of chemical peels can lead to burns, pain, swelling, infections, discoloration, and even disfiguring scars. Such injuries may require emergency or specialized care from dermatologists or surgeons.
In response to these concerns, the FDA has sent warning letters to six companies, including Amazon and Walmart, regarding the sale of these unapproved products. The marketing of at-home chemical peels is deemed illegal by the FDA, and non-compliance may result in legal actions, including seizure and injunctions.
The FDA has urged both patients and healthcare providers to report any adverse effects related to these products to help address the issue.
