10 Tips for Your First Chemical Peel
There’s no better way of rejuvenating your skin than a chemical peel. If you’ve never undergone a chemical peel, then it can cause some nervousness – no need to worry! Chemical peels are an extremely safe and effective skincare treatment in the hands of a board-certified plastic surgeon. Here’s what to know about chemical peels and what you can expect from your aftercare process.
1. Skip Cosmetics and Harsh Products
After your chemical peel, it’s best to avoid wearing makeup or using harsh skincare products while your skin recovers. Depending on the depth of your peel this may be anywhere from a few days to weeks. Once you begin wearing makeup again, start out with light mineral products that won’t irritate or clog the skin.
2. Be Patient – Excellent Results Take Time
It takes time to see the full results of your chemical peel. Not only does a chemical peel get rid of dead and damaged skin cells, but it can also stimulate the production of healthy new collagen. Depending on your unique treatment, it can take a few days or weeks to see the compounding benefits of a chemical peel.
3. Stay Away from High Temperatures
Hot environments like showers, hot tubs, or saunas can irritate the skin after your chemical peel, so they’re best avoided. Additionally, when you cleanse your face, avoid using hot water. Hot temperatures can also damage and strip the skin’s natural moisture, causing it to dry out and compromising your results.
4. Sunscreen is a Must
Sun protection is essential every day, and even more so when you undergo cosmetic treatments like a chemical peel. Going without sunscreen can come with a much higher risk of hyperpigmentation, so make sure to apply sunscreen of at least SPF 30 every day.
5. Adjust your Skincare Routine
After a chemical peel, it’s best to stick to gentle, unscented cleansers and moisturizers. If you have any active ingredients in your skincare regimen, it’s best to consult your skincare specialist or skip them altogether until your skin is healed. If you use prescription-strength retinols, you’ll need to avoid them ahead of your procedure, too.
6. Know When to Schedule Your Next Appointment
Chemical peels work best as a package of treatments to continually treat your concerns. However, the length of time between peels will depend on their strength. For surface-level peels, you may be able to schedule appointments monthly. For deeper peels, it may be longer. Make sure to consult your skincare specialist about when to come back for your next treatment.
7. The Skin Will Peel
As the name suggests, chemical peels will cause your skin to peel. This typically begins after a few days, depending on the depth of your peel. As for how long peeling lasts, it can also depend on your unique treatment. It may be only a couple days or could last for a week.
8. There May Be “Frosting”
Certain kinds of chemical peels can produce an effect called “frosting.” This isn’t something to worry about – it’s simply the skin reacting to the chemical solution after your treatment. However, if you’re concerned about your skin’s appearance in relation to social activities after your procedure, it may be best to reschedule.
9. Several Chemical Peels Deliver Maximum Results
For some patients, a single chemical peel can produce substantial results. However, you may need a few appointments to fully treat your concerns. Make sure to stick to your skincare specialist’s recommendation based on your unique goals.
10. Discuss Side Effects
There’s an assumption that chemical peels are painful and that the side effects are severe. This isn’t always the case – after mild peels, for example, you may simply experience some slight peeling like sunburn. For deeper peels, peeling, flaking, and crusting may be more significant. Make sure to discuss what you can expect from your peel during your appointment with our team.
Schedule an Appointment
Chemical peels are one of the best ways to transform your skin. To meet with our skincare specialists and learn more, contact our Arlington, TX office by calling or filling out our online form.
Dr. Y. Anthony Nakamura is a recognized expert in plastic surgery and body contouring, providing excellent care while taking a personal approach with each and every patient.
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