What To Do Before and After a Chemical Peel

Chemical peels have grown in popularity in recent years thanks to their revitalizing effects on the skin. While the treatment can attain some astonishing results, taking the proper measures prior to and following the procedure is vital for ensuring a successful treatment.

What To Do Before a Chemical Peel

Refrain from using tanning beds

Tanning beds should be avoided for at least two weeks leading up to a chemical peel. In fact, patients are advised to avoid them altogether, as they increase one’s chances of developing skin cancer and exacerbate signs of aging.

Avoid excessive sun exposure

Patients should avoid spending extensive time in the sun for at least 10 days prior to the treatment. An SPF of 30 or higher should be applied daily.

Cease the use of certain skin care products

Medications that are included in acne treatment regimens, such as Renova, Differin, Tazorac, Avage, EpiDuo, and Ziana, need to be stopped at least 5 days before the procedure.

Retinol products such as Retin-A should be avoided for about 7-10 days before a chemical peel. High percentage alpha hydroxy (AHA) and beta hydroxy (BHA) products should also be avoided for at least 5 days prior to the treatment.

Some other notes:

• Avoid going to the gym for at least 24 hours leading up to a chemical peel.
• Avoid aspirin and other blood thinners for at least 7-10 before receiving a chemical peel.
• Refrain from receiving any facial waxing treatments for at least 7 days before the treatment.

What To Do After a Chemical Peel

After undergoing a chemical peel, it is common to notice some changes in the skin before seeing results. Flaking and peeling of the skin are normal and to be expected. Some patients may develop small whiteheads, but it is important to note that these are normal and not breakouts. Patients with lighter skin complexions may find that they develop mild redness following the treatment.

Avoid picking and peeling the dead skin

While peeling away dead skin can be tempting, it is important to let the skin flake off naturally, as peeling the skin can lead to hyperpigmentation. Patients will be provided with a post-procedure kit to be used for a period of 3 to 5 days.

Do not apply anything topically to the skin

While patients may want to mitigate some of the stinging sensations that come with the procedure, it is important to avoid applying ice or water to the treatment areas. Patients should also refrain from wearing makeup for a few days, as the skin requires time to heal and rest.

Avoid sweating at all costs

For the first 48 hours following a chemical peel treatment, patients should avoid activities that cause sweating, such as drinking alcohol, exercising, getting into a hot tub or sauna, taking a hot shower, or swimming. This could lead to hyperpigmentation.

Patients should avoid sun exposure as much as possible

Sun exposure and excessive heat should be avoided at all costs. Just as with the pre-procedural instructions, patients should wear a broad spectrum UVA/UVB sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher.

Stay moisturized

Patients should wear a protective moisturizer every day. It should be applied at least twice a day.

Avoid irritating skin creams

Patients should refrain from using retinoids and glycolic acids for at least 10 days following the peel.

Avoid using harsh materials on the face

Scrubs, loofahs, exfoliating sponges, and other tools for mechanical exfoliation should be avoided for at least 7 to 10 days.

Avoid tanning beds

Avoid tanning beds for at least two weeks after the procedure.

Avoid harsh skin products

Continue avoiding skin care products like Tretinoin, Retin-A, Differin, Renova, Tazorac, Avage, EpiDuo, or Ziana for at least 5 days after the procedure.

Refrain from getting subsequent chemical peels

It is vital that patients avoid further chemical peels until given the clear from their practitioner.

What is the takeaway?

There are various precautions that need to be taken in order to ensure a positive result from a chemical peel. Taking the proper measures leading up to and following the treatment will benefit the process greatly. Patients who notice excessive redness, hyperpigmentation, or peeling of the skin should contact their practitioner immediately.