Utah Master Esthetician Practice Exam

What is a sign that a chemical peel has penetrated too deeply?

1. Redness

2. Itching

3. Blanching

4. Puffiness

The correct answer is: Blanching

Blanching is a sign that indicates a chemical peel has penetrated too deeply. This occurs when the skin temporarily turns white or pale due to the constriction of blood vessels in response to irritation or trauma. In context, blanching suggests that the peel may have affected deeper layers of the skin, which could lead to complications such as prolonged redness, irritation, or even scarring. Redness may be a normal response to a chemical peel, representing inflammation as part of the healing process. Itching can also occur due to irritation but does not specifically indicate excessive depth of penetration. Puffiness can arise from various causes, including allergic reactions or other skin responses, but similar to redness and itching, it is not a definitive sign of over-penetration. Understanding these distinctions helps maintain safe practices when administering chemical peels and ensures effective, healthy outcomes for clients.