The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is urging consumers to avoid at-home chemical peel products, warning of potential dangers such as chemical burns and other serious health complications. The agency has also taken action against major retailers like Amazon and Walmart for selling these unapproved products.
While chemical peels are a valuable tool for improving skin appearance, they should only be administered by trained professionals like dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons. These procedures utilize chemicals to exfoliate damaged skin cells from the outer, and sometimes middle, layers of the skin, resulting in smoother, less wrinkled skin. Chemical peels are commonly used to treat acne scars, wrinkles, sun damage, and hyperpigmentation.
The FDA’s recent warning emphasizes that no at-home chemical peel products have received their approval. Using these products without professional supervision significantly increases the risk of adverse effects. The FDA explains that these at-home peels often contain high concentrations of ingredients like trichloroacetic acid (TCA), glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and lactic acid, making them unsafe for unsupervised use.
The FDA has received reports of adverse events, including severe injuries, linked to the use of these at-home products. Misuse can lead to chemical burns, pain, swelling, infections, permanent skin discoloration, and disfiguring scars. The FDA cautions that these injuries may require emergency or specialized care from a dermatologist or surgeon.
Beyond issuing a public warning, the FDA has sent warning letters to six companies, including Amazon and Walmart, for selling these unapproved products. The FDA states that marketing at-home chemical peels is illegal due to their lack of approval and warns of potential legal action, including product seizure and injunctions, if the issue is not addressed.
The FDA encourages both patients and healthcare professionals to report any adverse events related to at-home chemical peel products. Consumers are advised to seek professional guidance from a licensed dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon for safe and effective skin treatments.
The FDA’s action underscores the importance of prioritizing safety and seeking expert advice when considering any cosmetic procedure. For more information on the risks associated with at-home chemical peels and approved skincare treatments, consult a qualified healthcare professional.
