Phenol Peeling: see what it is, how it works and what the risks are

The entrepreneur Henry Chagas 27, died last Monday (3) after carrying out a phenol peeling at an aesthetic clinic in São Paulo. Understand below what this aesthetic procedure is, what it is for, how it works and the risks involved in carrying it out.

Minutes after undergoing the procedure, the businessman began to feel ill, according to the police report. He aimed to reduce acne marks on his face and reported having felt a lot of pain while applying the technique.

There are different types of peeling, with lower and higher levels of aggression to skin cells. Each of them has different objectives, ranging from renewing the skin and improving light spots, improving skin texture and even reducing deep wrinkles, causing greater rejuvenation.

Phenol peeling (which is an acidic substance) is applied in the last of these cases, with the aim of promoting the denaturation or breakdown of proteins present in the skin, resulting in peeling and stimulating cell renewal and collagen production, as explained by the dermatologist Juliana Toma.

Due to the risks of high toxicity, the procedure was previously carried out only in surgical centers and with strict monitoring, says the doctor, but new formulations of phenol have led to the permission for its application in medical offices in a gentler, safer and more monitored way – and with results. which are seen quickly.

“Its main characteristic is to reach the entire depth of the skin, significantly improving deep wrinkles and blemishes. And that’s why it causes pain, including the use of anesthetics and painkillers may be necessary”, says Toma.

After being applied to the skin, phenol penetrates the skin to the second layer, destroying the epidermis and dermis. Therefore, the application of the substance should not be done at home or without medical supervision.

Furthermore, the dermatologist explains that the substance is not recommended for use in patients with kidney, liver and heart problems, as it is considered cardiotoxic and has harmful effects.

After undergoing a phenol peel, the patient may experience edema and intense peeling of the skin. It is common to have redder skin in the first 15 days. In the second or third month, the redness will be under control, at which point the use of sunscreen will be allowed.

“The skin is sensitive and sore for a few days after the procedure, generally described as moderate to severe. This pain, although persistent, can be controlled with specific medications, such as analgesics and anti-inflammatories”, explains Juliana.

The treatment is not suitable for all skin types: the darker it is, the greater the risk of discoloration or blemishes. People who have cold sores need to undergo prior prophylaxis with Acyclovir, with medical advice and monitoring.

*Published by Pedro Jordão, with information from Guilherme Gama, both from CNN in Sao Paulo