Chemical Peel Tips

CHEMICAL PEEL AFTERCARE

Taking care of your skin during the healing process is crucial to maximize the benefits of your chemical peel. Here are some essential chemical peel aftercare tips:

* Be sun savvy: Avoid direct sunlight and use plenty of SPF 30+. The skin is highly sensitive post-peel due to the removal of skin layers, making the newly revealed skin vulnerable to harsh UV rays. Incorporating sunscreen into your daily skin care routine is a healthy habit year-round.

* Use soap-free cleansers: Invest in a mild, soap-free facial wash that is gentle on sensitive skin. This type of cleanser won’t over-dry or tighten your skin after the peel, which is important because the skin has already been stripped enough.

* Opt for cool or lukewarm water: When cleansing, use cool or lukewarm water instead of hot water to avoid further inflammation. Pat your skin dry instead of rubbing it during the cleaning process.

* Moisturize your skin generously: Keeping your skin hydrated is vital for restoring moisture. Choose a water-based moisturizer free of harsh chemicals and irritants like acids or acne treatments. A lightweight moisturizer with high water content will feel soothing. However, keep in mind that moisturizing may prolong the peeling process as it softens the skin and slows down flaking.

* Avoid other exfoliators: Your skin has already undergone significant exfoliation from the chemical peel, so wait at least 5 days before introducing any home care exfoliators. For medium to deep chemical peels, you may need to wait several weeks.

* Steer clear of retinol: Regardless of the percentage (0.1% to 1%), retinols promote new cell growth and turnover, which can lead to cell turnover overload post-peel. It is best to stop using retinol a week before your chemical peel treatment and wait about 2 weeks after the peel before resuming.

* Avoid peeling, picking, or prodding: If possible, refrain from interfering with any loose skin. This can disrupt the skin’s natural shedding process, potentially leading to micro-tearing, bleeding, or scarring, which is worse than any temporary flaking of dry skin.

PREPARATION FOR A PEEL TREATMENT

If you are lactating, pregnant, or may be pregnant, consult your physician before receiving any treatment. To ensure the best results, follow these pre and post care tips:

* Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for at least two weeks prior to the treatment.

For 14 days post-peel treatment, refrain from the following activities:

* Microdermabrasion

* Laser hair removal

* Photofacials, laser, or RF skin treatments

* Additional chemical peels

For 7 days post-treatment, avoid:

* Waxing, threading, or other depilatories

* Neurotoxin injections (such as Botox or Dysport)

* Dermal filler injections

* Use of retinoids or mechanical exfoliants

* Topical AHAs/BHAs and all other exfoliating skincare products

* Sunless tanning products

* Acne topical treatments

* Disclose all prescription and non-prescription products to your skincare professional

* Follow all post-procedure protocols recommended by your skincare professional

* Use the recommended sun protection product (SPF 30 or higher) on the treated area for at least 14 days post-treatment.