09 Jul How To Manage Burns From A Chemical Peel

How To Manage Burns From a Chemical Peel

Keep reading to learn more about how to manage burns following a chemical peel. Here at Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness, we understand the importance of effective, yet safe treatment. After the performance of a chemical peel treatment, our licensed skin care professionals are sure to provide all clients with the necessary products needed to care for a peel during the recovery process. We are also sure to go through important aftercare tips such as avoiding direct sunlight, discontinuing the use of certain active ingredients, and use of SPF 50 each morning. Failing to abide by these instructions can cause the treated skin to burn. Burns following a chemical peel can also be a result of improper application by the practitioner. While burns from a chemical peel can be scary, they are manageable. Follow these 3 steps to best manage burns from a chemical peel.

Avoid Exfoliants & Non Gentle Products

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) such as lactic acid or glycolic acid are great for treating hyperpigmentation and fading scars. However they should never be used on injured skin that is trying to heal. Using physical exfoliants or chemical exfoliants on the skin can worsen your condition and lead to longer healing time. It is also important to avoid lightening agents such as hydroquinone, Beta Hydroxy Acids (BHAs) such as salicylic acid, Retinoids such as OTC retinol and tretinoin, or tyrosinase inhibitors such as arbutin, vitamin c, or kojic acid. Again, these are great products to consider using once the skin has healed to treat conditions such as post inflammatory hyperpigmentation, but during the healing process it is important to keep things gentle yet effective.

Keep Skincare Gentle Yet Effective

Healing skin still needs to be cared for. Start with a gentle cleanser that won’t irritate the skin. Topical steroids such as hydrocortisone are great for providing relief from irritation, inflammation, or itching. If something stronger is needed, topical Benadryl is great for treating burns and reducing pain and inflammation. Lastly, sun protection is a must. Make sure that you are wearing SPF 30 or higher each morning and reapplying every 2 hours during the summer months. Also be sure to avoid direct sun exposure by wearing a hat with a sun visor while outside to prevent worsening the burn.

When To Seek Help

When noticing an adverse reaction following any treatment it is important to notify your practitioner immediately. However, keep in mind that with chemical peels sometimes skin may darken due to oxidation. Clients often confuse this natural occurrence with a burn, so a good rule of thumb is to seek an in person evaluation within 48 hours if no improvement to the area of concern has been noticed.

Chemical Peels Performed by Licensed Professionals in Philadelphia

Here at Serenity Aesthetics & Wellness, we believe in giving our clients the safest and most effective skin care treatments. We also understand the importance of educating our clients on how to properly care for their treatments out of the office. Contact us today to learn more about our chemical peel services.