Chemical Peel Pre and Post Treatment Care

01 Oct Chemical Peel Pre and Post Treatment Care

So you’ve decided to get a chemical peel. Chemical peels are in the top five aesthetic procedures worldwide. Peels can be classified as superficial, medium, and deep. The depth of the peel is determined by the desired outcome. Superficial peels are ideal for treating acne, sensitive skin, and hyperpigmentation, especially in darker skin. There is little downtime (visible shedding) associated with superficial peels. Medium and deep peels are great for improving superficial scars and increasing collagen production. These peels have a longer downtime depending on the number of layers applied.

It’s important to consult with your doctor or skin care professional regarding what type of peel (TCA, Lactic, Glycolic, Salicylic, Retinol etc) is right for you. For best results, a series of 3 treatments 4 weeks apart is recommended. Here are some instructions for pre and post chemical peel treatment.

Pre Chemical Peel instructions

• No facial waxing for 7 days prior to treatment

• Stop use of Retin-A (retinol) products or applications for 7-10 days prior to treatment

• Stop use of all glycolic acid products 7-10 days prior to treatment

• Caution the use of autoimmune therapies or products for 2 days prior to treatment. Refer to your specialist regarding pausing this use for 2 days.

• Do not consume aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory products for at least 7-10 days prior to treatment.

• No prolonged sun exposure or sun burns to the treatment area 72 hours prior to treatment.

• Remember to wear a broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30 or higher every day

• Avoid use of tanning beds – Avoid this at all times

• Let your doctor or skincare professional know if you have any allergies to medications or ingredients

Post Chemical Peel Care

• Follow the instructions provided in your post procedure kit and use the kit for 5 days

• Avoid direct sunlight

• Use a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher

• Keep your skin well hydrated with a protective moisturizer

• Avoid using retinols and glycolic acids for 10 days

• Avoid using scrubs or exfoliating sponges for 7-10 days

• It is OK to resume usage of a vitamin C serum after 5 days

• Do not participate in activities that increase body heat and sweat, such as drinking alcohol or exercise for 48 hours

What to expect post peel:

• Mild to moderate peeling depending on the depth of peel and number of layers applied. Peeling typically begins around day 3. Some individuals may not peel at all if a superficial peel (ie. PCA Skin Sensi Peel) is used.

• Small white heads (THIS IS NOT A BREAKOUT)

• Mild redness in lighter skin individuals

• Do not peel or pick at the peeling skin. Allow skin to shed naturally, if at all

• To maximize chemical peels results, use the post procedure kit provided by your doctor or skincare professional, always apply a broad spectrum sunscreen in the morning, and heavily moisturize both morning and night.

If you notice increased redness, increased Hyperpigmentation, or crusting, contact your doctor or skincare professional

Frequently asked question: When can I wear makeup after a peel?

You can wear makeup on post peel day 2, as long as there is no aggressive shedding.