Chemical peels are an excellent solution for a variety of skin concerns, including acne, sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation. This minimally invasive treatment uses skincare ingredients like salicylic acid and glycolic acid to exfoliate away layers of dead and textured skin, revealing fresh, healthy skin underneath. Among the various types of chemical peels, the Glycolic Acid Chemical Peel is particularly effective for improving skin texture and tone. Your Dermapure specialist will tailor the treatment to your skin type and needs, determining which acids to use and how deeply to exfoliate.
Since chemical peels temporarily weaken the skin’s protective barrier, it’s crucial to take proper care of your skin post-treatment to ensure it heals correctly. Neglecting aftercare can disrupt your skin’s natural healing process, leading to complications such as infection or suboptimal results.
Proper Skin Care After a Chemical Peel
Chemical peels remove the superficial layers of skin, promoting the growth of a new, healthy skin layer. Depending on the strength of the peel and your skin’s sensitivity, you may experience side effects such as redness, dryness, or itchiness, and recovery times can vary. Your Dermapure specialist will guide you on what to expect and how to best care for your skin post-treatment.
Do: Protect Your Skin with SPF
After a chemical peel, your skin will be particularly sensitive to the sun. UV exposure can increase inflammation, irritation, and even accelerate the appearance of aging. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at SPF 50 and try to avoid direct sun exposure for at least a week post-treatment. If you’re outdoors, reapply sunscreen regularly to maintain protection.
Do: Use Gentle Cleansers
Your skin will be delicate and more vulnerable after a peel. Avoid harsh cleansers or cleansing tools, and opt for a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser. Over-washing can aggravate irritation and delay the healing process. Once your skin has fully recovered, you can gradually reintroduce your regular skincare routine.
Do: Moisturize and Hydrate
Following your peel, your skin may feel tight, dry, and itchy due to the temporary disruption of its protective barrier. A hydrating moisturizer or serum can provide relief but avoid over-moisturizing. Excessive hydration can prevent the natural shedding of dead skin cells, reducing the peel’s effectiveness. It’s important to allow your skin to peel naturally to fully benefit from the treatment.
Don’ts for Chemical Peel Aftercare
Don’t: Over-Exfoliate
It can be tempting to speed up the peeling process by scrubbing or picking at flaking skin. However, a chemical peel is already a powerful exfoliating treatment, and additional exfoliation can irritate your skin and disrupt the healing process. Stick to gentle cleansers and let your skin heal at its own pace.
Don’t: Expose Your Skin to Excessive Heat
Avoid activities that increase heat or blood flow to your face, such as exercising, using saunas or hot tubs, and taking hot showers. Excessive heat can heighten redness and irritation, slowing down the healing process.
Don’t: Pick, Scratch, or Touch Your Skin
While it may be difficult, resist the urge to pick or scratch at peeling skin. This can damage the new skin underneath and increase the risk of infection or scarring. Let the skin naturally shed on its own for the best results.
Interested in the Benefits of Chemical Peels?
If you’re ready to experience the rejuvenating effects of a chemical peel, our team at Dermapure is here to help. We’ll customize a treatment plan based on your skin’s needs and guide you through the aftercare process to ensure optimal results.
To learn more about our chemical peel services, visit your nearest Dermapure clinic or contact us today. Our experts are here to answer your questions and provide personalized recommendations.
FAQs
How long does it take to recover from a chemical peel?
Recovery time varies based on the depth of the peel and your skin type. Light peels typically require 3-5 days for skin to fully peel and heal, while deeper peels may take 7-10 days. Your Dermapure specialist will provide a detailed recovery timeline during your consultation.
What are the possible side effects?
While side effects are rare when the procedure is performed by a certified specialist, potential side effects can include:
- Scarring
- Persistent redness
- Itchiness
- Uneven skin tone
If you experience any concerns after your treatment, consult your Dermapure specialist immediately.
How long do the results last?
Results will vary depending on the type of peel, your skin type, and how well you care for your skin post-treatment. Results can last anywhere from a few months to several years with proper care.
