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, protective clothing and discontinue some products and procedures 7-14 days after your treatment.
Once all flaking has resolved, you may return to your recommended skincare regime and lifestyle.
Keep the treated area clean, calm inflammation, and maintain skin hydration.
Use only appropriate gentle and soothing products.
Stay cool! Both external and internal heat can cause scarring and hyperpigmentation.
Do not put the treated area directly or submerged in hot water while taking showers or baths or place a hair dryer onto the treated area. Discontinue hot tubs, steam rooms, saunas, swimming, exercise, and any perspiration causing activities for 3-5 days.
Throughout the healing period, cleanse skin twice daily using gentle cleanser with soft circular motions with your fingertips while removing with cool or tepid water.
Moisturizer should be applied twice daily but can be applied more frequently for hydration and to decrease the appearance of flaking.
Use a physical daily sunscreen of at least 30SPF and reapply every 2 hours.
Do not use retinol or retinoid products, skin lightening or bleaching creams, Hydroquinone, astringents and Alpha and Beta Hydroxy Acids for at least two weeks.
Do not use over-the-counter skin medications, any exfoliating product or ingredients such as scrubs, loofah brushes, washcloths, Clarisonic devices, facial masks, salicylic and glycolic acids, benzoyl peroxide, and retinoids as they may cause irritation.
What will my skin look like after a peel?
Chemical peel treatments may cause your skin to appear sunburned, uneven/tanned, slightly yellow, tight, tender, and temporarily dry while the top layers of the skin are dehydrating. Sun damaged skin may appear darker as the skin heals prior to possible peeling.
If itching and burning sensations occur you may apply a cool compress and/or hydrocortisone cream onto the treated area and take Benadryl or Zantac (for itching) and Tylenol (for discomfort) as needed.
Visible skin exfoliation “peeling” may or may not happen.
Chemical Peels are designed to work at a cellular level in the skin and target various skin concerns including fine lines and wrinkles, blemishes, rough texture, dullness, and an uneven skin tone. You should not necessarily expect to “peel”.
However, light flaking in a few localized areas starting between days 3-5 for several days is typical, usually starting between your eyes, around your mouth and nose. Most clients may have residual redness for approximately one to 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
It is recommended that self-tanners, extended sun, and heat exposure be avoided at least 10 days post-procedure.
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation can often be avoided with sun protection and sun avoidance. It is usually temporary when it occurs.
It is recommended to discontinue and/or postpone all forms of hair removal of the treated area. This is including but not limited to; electrolysis, waxing, depilatory creams, tweezing, laser hair removal and shaving.
It is recommended to limit caffeine consumption and maintain adequate hydration by drinking plenty of water to avoid topical dehydration and maintain skin health.
Alcohol and blood-thinning antibiotics and pain relievers can prolong the healing process. Avoid alcoholic beverages for 48 hours after your treatment.
Multiple treatments may be necessary for desired results and will vary among individuals and the areas being treated.