Chemical peels are a great way to improve uneven skin tone, mild acne symptoms, fine lines, wrinkles, and loose skin. They can also be used to reduce the appearance of scars.
However, following the proper skincare regimen is essential to ensure the best results. Here are some tips for utilizing chemical peels effectively: 1. Listen to Your Practitioner!
Avoid Sunlight
Summertime can be the best time for many skin types regarding chemical peels. The increased humidity in the air acts as nature’s moisturizer and offsets dryness and irritation that even the gentlest peel can trigger. In addition, a proper priming regimen that involves using a depigmenting agent like hydroquinone and diligent sunscreen use for 2-4 weeks before a chemical peel can help maximize the efficacy of treatment.
Following your doctor’s instructions for cleansing and protecting the skin is also essential. This may include avoiding certain products or activities, including exercise and hot showers. It is also a good idea to avoid harsh face cleansers and scrubs, as they can further irritate the skin.
It is also essential to stay hydrated, as this helps the skin recover more quickly. Finally, avoiding picking at the skin is critical, which can lead to scarring and infection. Instead, allow the skin to heal naturally and only use ointments and moisturizing creams that are gentle on the skin.
Stay Hydrated
Chemical peels help the skin shed dead cells, revealing fresh, healthy skin. If you want to get a peel, you should know that avoiding the sun and using sunscreen every day afterward is essential. This helps keep the newly formed layer of skin from becoming too thin and damaged, leading to a darker appearance.
Your skincare professional can recommend a suitable sunscreen for your skin type. Hydrating your face daily with moisturizer is also a good idea, especially if you receive a peel. It would help if you also tried avoiding facial waxing, electrolysis, and other depilatories, as these can cause the skin to thinner and increase your risk of hyperpigmentation.
If you receive a medium or deep peel, your skin care specialist may suggest applying dressings and healing ointments. Following their instructions is essential, as they will be tailored to your skin type and treatment. They may also tell you to avoid heavy workouts as this can cause your body to produce excess sweat, which could intensify post-peel discomfort.
Don’t Pick at Your Skin
Chemical peels can reduce fine wrinkling, improve acne, remove uneven skin coloring, and smooth, rough, sun-damaged skin. They can be very effective, and the best way to get results is to follow the advice of your dermatologist or skin care professional for proper preparation and aftercare.
The most important thing to remember is to avoid picking at any peeling or flaking skin. This can cause scarring and will slow the healing process. It would help if you also tried to avoid using abrasive scrubs or other exfoliants after a peel, as this can irritate the skin. It is also important to avoid rubbing or scratching the skin, as this can damage it and make it difficult for the skin to heal.
It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor or skin care professional about any medications you are taking, as they may need to be stopped before you receive a chemical peel. Depending on the type of peel you receive, there may also be special instructions for aftercare.
Don’t Exfoliate After a Peel
If you exfoliate after a peel, you could irritate the fresh skin. Instead, moisturize to help your skin heal.
Moisturize at least twice a day. This will help your skin heal and reduce the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and acne breakouts.
It’s also essential to use a gentle cleanser with warm water that doesn’t dry the skin. Avoid scrubs, facial brushes, and sonic cleansing brushes, as these can damage the delicate new skin after your chemical peel.
Your skin care professional will be able to give you tailored instructions for post-peel aftercare, depending on the type of peel you have and your skin tone. They can also advise you on what medication you should disclose, as some medications, such as anti-seizure drugs, can increase your risk of a reaction.
Don’t Over-Exfoliate
You may be tempted to exfoliate your face when your skin peels, but that’s a bad idea. It will only irritate and disrupt the healing process. Instead, please wait until the flakes come off independently and use gentle cleansers that don’t require scrubbing. Exfoliate once or twice a day, depending on your skin type.
It’s also essential to avoid any products that promote excess sweating or clogging, such as heavy face scrubs or anything containing retinol. Also, steer clear of saunas and steam rooms as they will increase the blood flow to your skin and intensify any redness and itching you may experience post-peel.
Chemical peels are practical and can help fix skin issues like fine lines, breakouts, and hyperpigmentation. The key to ensuring a successful peel is being prepared and adhering to the specific instructions given to you by your esthetician. By following these simple dos and don’ts, you’ll be on your way to revitalized skin in no time!
