I'm an expert in the field of material science with a particular interest in textiles and leather goods. Leather is a versatile and durable material, but it can experience wear and tear over time, which can lead to peeling or cracking. Let's delve into the reasons why leather might peel off.

Leather Composition and Structure: Leather is primarily made up of collagen fibers, which give it its strength and flexibility. The natural structure of leather allows it to be quite resistant to damage under normal conditions. However, the outermost layer, known as the grain, can be more susceptible to damage.

Factors Leading to Peeling:

1. Environmental Exposure: Leather can be affected by various environmental factors. Exposure to sunlight can cause the leather to dry out and become brittle, leading to cracking and peeling. Similarly, extreme temperatures and humidity can also have detrimental effects on the leather's integrity.


2. Chemical Damage: Leather can be damaged by contact with certain chemicals, such as solvents, detergents, and certain types of oils. These substances can break down the proteins in the leather, weakening its structure and causing it to peel.


3. Improper Care: Using inappropriate cleaning or conditioning products can harm the leather. For instance, products that are too harsh or not specifically designed for leather can strip away the natural oils, leading to dryness and peeling.


4. Physical Wear and Tear: Constant friction and rubbing against other materials can cause the surface of the leather to wear down, eventually leading to peeling. This is especially true in areas that experience high levels of use, such as the bottom of a bag or the back of a jacket.


5. Aging: Over time, the natural oils in leather can dry out, causing it to lose its suppleness and elasticity. This can result in the leather becoming more prone to cracking and peeling.


6. Quality of Leather: The quality of the leather itself plays a significant role in its durability. High-quality, full-grain leather is more resistant to peeling than lower-quality, treated or coated leathers.

7.
Finishes and Coatings: Sometimes, the issue may not be with the leather itself but with the finishes or coatings applied to it. These can wear off or become damaged over time, giving the appearance of peeling leather.

Prevention and Repair:
- Proper Care: Regularly cleaning and conditioning the leather with products specifically designed for it can help maintain its natural oils and prevent dryness.
- Protection: Using leather protectors can shield the material from environmental damage.
- Avoiding Abrasion: Minimizing contact with abrasive surfaces can reduce the risk of wear and tear.
- Professional Help: For significant damage, it's often best to seek the help of a professional leather care specialist.

In conclusion, while leather is a robust material, it requires proper care and maintenance to prevent peeling and cracking. Understanding the factors that contribute to these issues can help in taking the necessary steps to protect and prolong the life of leather goods.

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Cracks and Peels. In some cases, it may appear the leather is cracking or peeling on the surface. Leather itself does not crack or peel under normal conditions, but an applied finish or colorant upon its surface may. This generally can be fixed with a leather repair kit.read more >>