Post Peel Instructions
How do I treat my skin after a peel?
For best results and to reduce the risk of complications, it is recommended to avoid sun and UV exposure, wear hats, and discontinue some products and procedures until 7-14 days after your treatment.
Once all flaking has resolved, you may return to your skincare regime and lifestyle.
Keep the treated area clean, calm and maintain skin hydration.
Use only gentle and soothing products.
Stay cool! Both external and internal heat can cause complications.
Cleanse skin twice daily using gentle cleanser and soft circular motions with your fingertips. Remove with with cool water.
Moisturize twice daily.
Use 30SPF or higher sunscreen, and reapply every 2 hours.
Do not use retinol or retinoid products, skin lightening or bleaching creams, hydroquinone, astringents or acids for at least two weeks.
Do not use any exfoliating products like scrubs, washcloths, facial masks or topical acne medications.
What will my skin look like after a peel?
Peel treatments may temporarily cause your skin to look sunburned, tanned, yellow, tight, tender, and dry. Sun damaged skin may appear darker as the skin heals.
If itching and burning occur apply a cool compress or hydrocortisone cream onto the treated area. Take Benadryl (for itching) and Tylenol (for discomfort) as needed.
Visible skin exfoliation “peeling” may or may not happen.
Light flaking in a few areas may start between days 3-5, and last for several days. It usually starts between your eyes and around your mouth and nose.
You may have redness for approximately 1-12 hours that can linger for up to 2 weeks post-procedure.
Do not pick, pull, scratch, or rub any loose or peeling skin.
This can lead to scarring, hyperpigmentation, and infection.
You may carefully use sterile manicure scissors to clip away any hanging skin if needed. You can also use Aquafor to adhere any peeling skin until it is ready to come off.
Other recommendations
Avoid self-tanners, extended sun and heat exposure for at least 10 days post-procedure.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can often be avoided with sun protection and sun avoidance.
Discontinue all forms of hair removal of the treated area until it is fully healed. This includes electrolysis, waxing, depilatory creams, tweezing, laser hair removal and shaving.
Limit caffeine intake and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration and maintain skin health.
Alcohol, blood-thinning antibiotics and pain relievers can prolong the healing process. Avoid alcoholic beverages for 48 hours after your treatment.
Multiple treatments are necessary for best results and will vary among individuals and the areas being treated.