What is an indication that a chemical peel went too deep?

Blanching is a significant indication that a chemical peel has penetrated too deeply into the skin. This phenomenon occurs when the blood vessels constrict due to the effects of the chemical agent, causing the skin to lose its normal color and appear white or pale in the area treated. Blanching suggests that the peel has reached the deeper layers of the skin beyond what is considered a safe or effective depth, potentially leading to adverse effects such as prolonged irritation or damage to the skin.

In contrast, while redness, itching, and dry patches can all accompany chemical peels, they are not as definitive of an overly deep treatment. Redness is a common reaction following a peel and can indicate inflammation but does not specifically denote excessive depth. Itching often occurs as a side effect and can be a sign of irritation rather than an indication of the depth of penetration. Dry patches may appear due to superficial peeling or drying of the skin but are not an indicator of excessive depth in treatment. Thus, blanching serves as a crucial sign that the peel has been applied too aggressively, making it the strongest indication of that concern.