What is a chemical peel? Chemical peels are one of the most popular forms of skin rejuvenation. They can be used to treat everything from acne scarring to age spots and excess pigmentation. The procedure involves applying a chemical solution to the skin, which causes it to exfoliate or peel off. The new, regenerated skin that is revealed underneath is smoother and less wrinkled than before.
How does a chemical peel work? Chemical peels work by removing damaged layers of skin and promoting new growth. This process helps improve your complexion by reducing fine lines, wrinkles and large pores. In addition, it stimulates collagen production which plumps up your skin and reduces the appearance of scars or acne marks on your face. Chemical peels are also effective at treating acne-prone skin because they reduce oil production on your face by bringing down sebum production levels in the pore lining cells (keratinocytes).
Read on to learn more about What To Know About Chemical Peel Does, Chemical peels have been around in one form or another for centuries. and How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Chemical Peel?
What To Know About Chemical Peel Does
A chemical peel for the face is a procedure in which a chemical solution is applied to the skin to remove damaged skin cells, treat wrinkles and correct scars and sunspot discolorations.
Chemical peels contain different types of acids that have varying depths of skin penetration. There are many options depending on your needs and how sensitive your skin is.
What do you need to do to prepare for a chemical peel?
After choosing a reputable board-certified plastic surgeon or dermatologist, the first step is to schedule a pre-procedure consultation to discuss your reasons for wanting a chemical peel and the expectations of treatment. Your health history and medications will be reviewed to ensure you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
This review includes screening for a history of diabetes, nutritional deficiency, photosensitivity, abnormal scarring, prior radiation, recent facial surgery, skin conditions, use of isotretinoin or oral contraceptives, smoking status, pregnancy status and amount of daily sun exposure – these factors can increase the risk of complications.
Next, a physical exam of the skin is performed to assess skin thickness, health and condition. Photographs may be taken to document the pre-procedure skin condition.
During the 2-4 weeks before your scheduled chemical peel, there are a set of preparation activities performed to optimize the efficacy of treatment, called “priming.” UV exposure should be limited, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 50+ should be applied every morning. Certain creams containing tretinoin, hydroquinone, glycolic acid or salicylic acid may be prescribed.
Lastly, waxing and dermabrasion of the face should be avoided. The goal of these activities and recommendations is to thin the top layer of the skin, enhance penetration of the chemical peel, accelerate healing and reduce the risk of complications such as hyperpigmentation and scarring.
The day prior to your procedure, the face should be washed with non-residue soap. Moisturizers and make-up should be avoided.
What should you expect during the procedure?
Chemical peeling is done in a dedicated office room with appropriate lighting and ventilation. You will be lying down in a supine position, and your eyes will be closed for the procedure with appropriate eye protection.
A neutral paste may be applied in areas around your eyes, nose and mouth to prevent the chemical peeling solution from pooling in those areas. For deeper peels, a relaxing or pain medicine may be given right before the procedure.
The application method may be different depending on the chosen peeling agent. Liquid solutions may be applied using a brush, cotton tip applicator, or gauze swab. For gels, usually, a wooden or plastic spatula is used. The peeling agent is first applied to areas with thicker skin, such as the forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. It is then spread to the other areas of the face using firm, even strokes in the same direction.
You may feel some mild tenderness while the chemical peel is on your skin. Upon completion of the procedure, a neutralizing wash or cool compress may be used on the face.
Post-procedure experience
After a chemical peel, your skin will be likely red and appear irritated. Deeper chemical peels may result in increased redness and swelling. It is also normal to feel some continued burning or stinging. A protective ointment such as petroleum jelly can be applied to soothe the area, and symptoms should begin to resolve within one to two weeks.
Makeup can usually be worn the next day for light peels, and after a week for medium peels. It may take a few months for the skin to fully return to normal and show complete results of the peel. Recommendations such as routine cleansing, moisturizing and sun exposure minimization will help prolong the results of the chemical peel.
Chemical peels are a quick, safe and cost-effective method for skin rejuvenation. Successful chemical peeling is dependent on the proper matching of a patient’s motivation for the procedure and the appropriate peeling agent. Your physician can go over the risks and benefits to determine the best treatment plan for you.
Chemical peels have been around in one form or another for centuries.
They’ve maintained their popularity because they’re so effective, helping to reveal healthy, radiant, youthful-looking skin. But there still seems to be a lot of confusion surrounding how a chemical peel works and what the chemical peel process looks like day by day.
Here’s what you can expect before, during and after your chemical peel treatment.
What is a chemical peel, exactly?
Chemical peels are non-invasive cosmetic procedures that use a combination of powerful, skin-safe acids. These acids work together to break down the top few layers of the epidermis, exfoliating the skin and leaving behind the healthier layers underneath.
The chemical peel process takes anywhere from one to seven days, depending on how “heavy” of a peel you have performed. The chemical peel we offer at Skin Pharm is a medium-depth (or TCA) peel. This peel uses a mix of alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHAs and BHAs, including lactic acid and salicylic acid), retinoic acid and trichloroacetic acid to achieve the final results.
What concerns do chemical peels tackle?
Chemical peels are excellent for taking on a variety of skin care concerns, including:
- Chronic sun damage
- Hyperpigmentation (brown spots)
- Melasma
- Scarring
- Acne
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone or texture
- Large, visible pores
While you’ll start to see results after a single chemical peel, the effects are cumulative, meaning maximum benefits are noticeable after a series of peels.
What should I do to prep for my chemical peel?
The prep for a chemical peel starts with timing. We recommend that you schedule your chemical peel at least two weeks before any major events, as the expected side effects are most noticeable during that period.
You want your skin to be as healthy as possible. A week before your appointment, you should avoid doing anything that irritates your skin. This includes tanning, laser procedures, waxing, using depilatory creams, tweezing and using skin care products with topical retinoids.
If you’re experiencing any rash or viral outbreaks on your face, you may need to reschedule your appointment. Doing a chemical peel with either of those factors can potentially worsen the issue.
How does the chemical peel application work?
Before your chemical peel day-to-day process starts, you’ll need to have your provider apply the treatment. People often have many concerns about what it will feel like to get a peel done and if it’ll hurt. We recommend scheduling a consultation before having a chemical peel to discuss what to expect and answer any questions you may have.
When you arrive at the clinic, the first step is to wash your face. Washing your face removes any layers of dead skin cells, makeup and other debris (like skin care products) that may still be sitting on your skin. The result is a clear surface, ready to accept the peel without any barriers in its way.
(Different skin care practices can perform different depths of chemical peels, and the “deeper” the peel, the more discomfort you are likely to feel.) Skin Pharm’s medium-depth chemical peel isn’t uncomfortable, though — most people describe the sensation as “tingling,” “warm” or “tight.” To help with any potential stinging during the treatment, we provide our patients with a handheld fan, too.
Day one post-chemical peel
After your chemical peel is complete and you leave the office, what should you expect on day one?
You’ll leave the clinic with the peel solution still on your face, and you’ll notice your complexion take on a yellow hue throughout the day. (Not to worry — this means it’s working!) After a few hours, you’ll apply the retinol crème your provider sent you home with.
You might notice some redness and sensitivity as the retinol gets to work. Many people describe the feeling as similar to having a sunburn. However, the telltale peeling that comes with a chemical peel won’t start for another day or so.
WHAT TO AVOID THE DAY OF YOUR CHEMICAL PEEL—
While your skin is still healing, keep a few factors in mind. Your skin is incredibly raw and sensitive, and it needs additional protection. To protect it and maximize your results, you should avoid any strenuous exercise or activities that lead to sweating.
In addition, try to stay out of the sun as much as possible and wear sunscreen (with at least an SPF of 30) if you can’t avoid it entirely.
You’ll also want to avoid letting your skin dry out. Although applying product to raw skin can feel uncomfortable, it needs moisture to heal. Allowing your skin to dry too much can lengthen the healing process and make it more likely that your skin will scab or even scar.
Day two post-chemical peel
Day two of the chemical peel process day to day is where you’ll likely start to see your skin peel. The top layers of your skin are beginning to dehydrate and slough off, and you’ll see this more often start between the eyes and in the corners of the nose and mouth.
Although it may be tempting, resist the urge to help your skin peel manually. Wash your skin gently and follow up with a stronger moisturizer, like Recovery Lotion.
For many people, the redness they experience in the first few days is enough to keep them home from work and social events. Expect that your skin will react this way, and don’t schedule anything significant in the few days directly after your chemical peel.
If you deal with breakouts, you may experience some “purging” of any blemishes present under the surface before your peel. While this isn’t common, it is possible to start with a new retinol skin care product.
Day three and four post-chemical peel
Day three and four are when you will likely experience the worst peeling and flaking. Your skin is most likely to feel uncomfortable these days — and it’s also at its most vulnerable. Follow your provider’s skin care recommendations carefully, as they are designed to help protect your skin and assist it with its natural healing process.
Now, more than ever, your skin needs to be protected. You may even want to wear a sun protective hat along with your sunscreen to make sure your skin stays safe and doesn’t burn. Doing that keeps your healing process moving forward.
Don’t be surprised if you notice more peeling in certain areas of your face than in others. This is normal and doesn’t indicate any problem with your skin’s healing process.
Day seven post-chemical peel
A week after your chemical peel is performed, you’ll finally be able to start seeing your results. This is where all of the flaking, peeling and redness starts to pay off. (Professionals consider the results of a chemical peel permanent, so enjoy that new skin you’re starting to see!)
Depending on how well or quickly your skin is healing, you can usually return to your normal skincare routine a week or so after your chemical peel.
Make sure that your skin is completely done peeling before using any harsher or more abrasive skin care products, as the skin may still be sensitive. When your skin stops feeling as tight and dry, you should be ok to switch back.
Our post-chemical peel skin care routine is excellent for helping your skin to heal, but it isn’t meant for long-term use for most of our patients. Unless you have dry, sensitive skin, prolonged use can lead to breakouts or oily-looking skin.
One week post-chemical peel (and beyond!)
Your skin is far less flaky and sensitive by this point in your chemical peel journey. However, because your skin has gone through a process meant to safely “damage” your skin so that it looks better than ever, there may still be some noticeable healing going on.
More sensitive areas of your skin may start to crust and scab or even have a noticeable color change. Usually, this process is complete around two weeks after your chemical peel. However, some redness may persist for months, especially in hotter weather or when you exercise.
How soon can I get another chemical peel?
Once you start to see results from your chemical peel, you’ll probably be ready to book your next appointment! However, you need to make sure to give your skin enough time to heal before you subject it to other chemical peels. If you have another peel too soon, you risk damaging your skin instead of helping it look its best.
We recommend waiting at least four to six weeks between treatments. On average, most of our patients need between four and six treatments total for optimal results.
To wrap things up…
Knowing the chemical peel process day to day can help you understand what to expect if you decide to perform this game-changing cosmetic treatment. While it may take slightly longer to heal than other cosmetic treatments, the results are permanent and often even more impressive than people expect!
Light chemical peel recovery time
For those who desire an individualized, effective treatment for skin issues, at Bentley Skincare and Wellness in Springfield, MO, we offer customized chemical peels targeted to your particular skincare need. So, how long does it take to recover from a chemical peel? There are a whole host of skincare issues that people commonly deal with, so the peel that is recommended for you will be based on your specific skin type.
Your skin may be dry, oily, normal, or sensitive. You may struggle with issues such as scarring, hyperpigmentation, sun damage, or aging skin. Whatever your issue, there is a peel that will work for you, and your recovery time will depend on the type of peel you choose. No matter the regimen that is prescribed, however, your treatment will consist of a pre-peel plan, the peel itself, and a post-treatment plan to promote your skin’s healthy recovery.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
In simple terms, a chemical peel consists of applying a peeling agent to your skin. Although the peeling agent may be left on for as few as three to five minutes or as long as up to an hour, depending on the type of peel, it encourages your skin to shed its outer layer over a period of days.
As a result, new skin growth is promoted over a period of days. The skin will now appear more even in texture, and improvements in pigmentation, scarring, fine lines, and wrinkles will be seen. Skin impurities will be drawn out, and overall, you will notice a brighter, fresher, more rejuvenated appearance.
Types of Peels
Since everyone’s skin is different, the type of peel that is recommended for you will vary depending on your skin type and any issues you may be having. There are several types of peels available, some of which contain Jessner’s solution, trichloroacetic acid (TCA), or retinol.
There are also peel alternatives, or masks, that help facilitate the peeling and rejuvenation process as well. While most peels are applied to the face, they can also be used to promote better skin texture on the back, chest, neck, shoulders, and upper arms.
Peels Containing Jessner’s Solution
Formulated decades ago by German-American dermatologist Dr. Max Jessner, peels containing Jessner’s solution have been shown to improve the appearance of all skin types. Peels with Jessner’s solution can reduce dark patches, age spots, scarring, and discoloration as they promote a bright, even skin tone. Overall, the skin will appear refreshed and revitalized.
If your skin is oily or sensitive, a PCA Peel® (Physicians Care Alliance) that is hydroquinone-free may be ideal for you. It has been found to even skin tone while improving skin that is prone to breakouts. For those patients with normal skin, a PCA Peel® with hydroquinone will brighten and rejuvenate skin while removing discoloration.
If your skin is in need of more potent treatment, a PCA Peel® with hydroquinone and resorcinol can improve the skin’s appearance, as it reduces damage due to the sun or scarring due to acne.
Peels Containing TCA
Many peels nowadays contain TCA. Designed for all skin types, including highly sensitive skin, Sensi Peel® is a gentle treatment that promotes improved skin texture and a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. For those with mature skin, Ultra Peel® I will also provide brighter, more youthful-looking skin as it minimized lines and wrinkles.
If your skin is rather resilient, the Ultra Peel Forte® may be ideal for you. This potent product brightens and restores while it promotes a younger-looking appearance. Finally, the Smoothing Body Peel® is designed to improve the texture and tone of the thicker skin of your body.
Retinoid Treatments
There are two types of treatments available that contain retinol. The 4% Pure Retinol Peel revitalizes skin as it smooths and brightens by increasing new cell growth.
The Advanced Treatment Booster is designed to promote an increase in exfoliation, all the while soothing and reducing redness in the skin of all types. This particular peel will also restore keratinization, which helps protect skin and acts as a barrier.
Peel Alternatives/Masks
There are several alternative peels or masks from which to choose, and each targets a different skin type. For patients with dry skin, the Therapeutic Oat Milk Mask Treatment is designed to hydrate and soothe dull, dry skin. If your skin tends to stay in the normal range, the Therapeutic Papaya Mask can brighten skin tone, rejuvenate, and refresh.
In addition, several treatments are available for oily skin, all of which detoxify, purify, and calm the skin. The Detox Gel Deep Pore Treatment, the Therapeutic Salicylic Acid Mask, and the Therapeutic Charcoal Mask are all offered by our office.
Before the Peel
Eligibility
Prior to undergoing any sort of chemical treatment, it is imperative that our doctors determine if the peel is right for you. In order to determine eligibility, we need to make sure that you are not breastfeeding or pregnant and have no skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, or rosacea.
In addition, if you have an outdoor job, a peel might not be appropriate for you, just as those with a history of poor wound healing should probably not undergo such treatment. Finally, if you are receiving treatment for acne, you should avoid a peel while undergoing this treatment.
A Pre-Peel Plan
Once we have taken your medical history and determined that a peel is appropriate for you, we will provide you with a skincare regimen to follow for approximately two to four weeks prior to your peel. This is designed to make your peel more effective.
You may be asked to use retinol or a product containing Retin-A in order to stimulate cell turnover and increase the peel’s ability to penetrate into the skin. Typically, this pre-peel care would stop at least several days before your treatment. Sometimes, no preparation is necessary prior to having a peel: it depends upon the needs of your skin and the peel.
The Peel
After you arrive for your designated appointment, our staff will begin by thoroughly cleaning your skin in order to remove any oil or products that may interfere with the chemicals in the peel. If your face is being treated, your eyes may be covered with gauze or goggles to protect your eyes, and your hair may be pulled back from your face.
Depending on the type of peel that has been recommended for you, our skin care specialist will then apply the peel with gauze, a brush, or a cotton-tipped applicator. At this time, your skin will look frosted and white, and you may notice a tightness or a tingling sensation.
Many peels are removed within three to five minutes after application, and cool compresses or lotion may be applied to help soothe the skin. Other peels are self-neutralizing and may remain on the skin for up to an hour. Because each peel varies, our team will review the specifics of your peel prior to performing any sort of treatment.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From a Chemical Peel?
The First Day
For the first 24 hours or so after your chemical peel, you will notice that your skin may appear red. This is typical; however, moisturizer can be liberally applied in order to help soothe your skin. Usually, if you have had a medium peel, the shedding begins after those first 24 hours.
The Days After
Your skin will soon begin to appear dry and flaky, but it is best to let this procedure occur naturally and not pick or peel the skin before it is ready to be shed. Peeling skin before it is ready to come off can be counter-productive. After three to four days, most of the peeling should be complete, but it may take anywhere from five to seven days before your fresh, new skin has developed.
Within seven to fourteen days, your skin should be completely healed. If you work in an office or indoor setting, you should require no time off from work after your peel. If you are pleased with the results of your peel, you may even be able to reschedule another one in three to nine months, depending on your skincare condition and goals for your skin.
Peel Aftercare
Moisturize
In order to promote better healing and improve your comfort following a chemical peel, there are several steps that you can take. Immediately after your peel, you may find that ice packs or cool air provide you with a cooler, more comfortable feeling. It is, however, important that you not allow your skin to dry out.
To that end, frequent use of a moisturizer is imperative, and you may find yourself moisturizing ten to twenty times per day. This will allow your skin to continue to peel but will reduce the more obvious flaking that occurs. A moisturizing cleanser may also be recommended by your specialist as well. As previously mentioned, you should also restrict yourself from picking, pulling, or peeling your shedding skin.
Avoid Sun and Heat
Of course, avoiding sun exposure is critical. You should completely avoid the damaging effects of the sun until your skin is entirely healed, and even once it has healed, you should wear a sunscreen at all times in order to protect the new layer of skin.
Extremely hot showers or excessive sweating may also rush the peeling process along too quickly and should be avoided. Since your new skin will be fresh and new, it is important to baby it, especially in the early going.
A Quality Complexion
Since there are so many skincare products and treatments available today, it is important to begin with a visit to the dermatologist to determine the treatment that is best for you. Because skin types will vary, just as skincare issues differ from person to person, only a qualified professional can assess your skin and determine the best plan for your skin.
Remember that even among chemical peels, there are a wide variety of treatment options. Whether you have dry, oily, sensitive, or normal skin, there is a peel available to treat your skin, and within a matter of days, your skin will be on the path to improvement. Once our dermatologists have met with you, examined your skin, and determined your skincare needs, we can then proceed with the peel that is just right for yo