Conventional paint stripping products are either solvent- or caustic based.
In most cases, the main ingredient in paint strippers and coatings removal products is Dichloromethane , also known as Methylene Chloride . This material is associated with health problems and is listed as a class III carcinogen in the European Union. Furthermore, some caustic-based stripper systems contain other ingredients including, in some cases, hazardous solvents. Caustics are corrosive and can cause severe burns to skin and eyes, even on short contact, and are highly toxic if swallowed. Using these highly alkali products can damage glue, raise wood grain and discolour woods.