Chemical peels are powerful skincare treatments that can be used to correct common complexion concerns, including signs of again, dryness, acne and sun damage. More and more people are opting to undergo professional chemical peels from estheticians, dermatologists, and other skincare professionals.
For the best possible results, it’s critical to treat your skin with extra time and care following a chemical peel. Here, we’ll go over a handful of tips to keep in mind post-peel so that you can enjoy bright, healthy skin.
Skip Exfoliants
Exfoliants are an essential component of any effective skincare routine, but you should steer clear of them for approximately three to seven days following your chemical peel. This includes facial scrubs, retinoids, and acids (salicylic acid and glycolic acid are the most common). The chemical treatment will cause the top layer of skin to peel away, so additional exfoliation may cause burning, redness and irritation.
Consult your skincare professional for an exact timeframe before exfoliating again. It will largely depend on the depth of the chemical peel in which you were treated.
Apply a Sunscreen with SPF 30 (or Higher)
Sunscreen is one of the most underrated skincare products around. We should all apply sunscreen before leaving the house every day to protect our skin from the sun’s harsh rays, but doing so is especially crucial following a chemical peel.
Chemical peels result in the shedding of the top layer of the epidermis, and your skin will be temporarily more sensitive and exposed than usual. Wearing sunscreen will ensure that the sun won’t irritate the treatment area.
Moisturize, Moisturize, Moisturize
Apply a gentle, sensitive, skin-friendly moisturizer after every time you wash your face. This will boost your skin’s ability to bounce back quickly after a chemical peel and keep hydration levels in check. Peeling and flaking is, of course, to be expected after your peel, but applying a moisturizer will keep excess dryness at bay.
Cleanse with Mild Water
When the top layer of skin sheds after a chemical peel, your skin is temporarily thinner and more delicate than normal. It’ll also be more sensitive to heat, and warm temperatures may cause burning or discomfort. So cleanse your face with cool water in the days immediately following the peel. If you’re taking a warm shower, do your best to keep your face away from the high-temperature water.
Three to seven days following your chemical peel, the old, damaged skin will shed away to reveal clearer, smoother and more luminous skin. Following the post-treatment tips above will enhance these positive results and increase the effectiveness of your chemical peel.