Homemade Phenol: Risks of Deep Peeling Outside the Hospital

Phenol peeling is a deep dermatological procedure extremely effective against wrinkles and blemishes — but also potentially fatal when applied outside a hospital setting. In 2025, Dr. Fernando Amato was consulted by Folha de S.Paulo and a series of national portals to clarify the risks of the so-called "homemade phenol trend" that went viral on social media.

Why Phenol is Dangerous Outside the Hospital

Phenol is absorbed through the skin and enters the bloodstream, producing cardiotoxic, hepatotoxic, and nephrotoxic effects. It can cause severe arrhythmias (including ventricular fibrillation), liver and kidney failure. Without continuous cardiac monitoring, venous access, controlled hydration, and an anesthesia team, the procedure becomes a Russian roulette.

What Must Be Available

• Surgical center or room equipped with a cardioverter;
• Continuous electrocardiographic monitoring;
• Anesthesiologist present from start to finish;
• Intravenous hydration to protect the liver and kidneys;
• Application in timed stages by facial subunits.

Who Can Apply It

Doctors with specific training — generally plastic surgeons and dermatologists — in an accredited hospital environment. It is not a procedure for aestheticians, biomedical professionals, or pharmacists.