What To Know About Chemical Peel Expect After Medium

What To Know About Chemical Peel Expect After Medium

When you get a chemical peel, you probably want to know what to expect after your treatment. Chemical peels can be used to treat facial wrinkles, acne scarring, and uneven pigmentation. They’re also popular for treating sun damage, but they’re not recommended for everyone.

Before you take the plunge and try one on your own, it’s important that you have a clear understanding of what to expect after your treatment. We’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the post-peel process with ease.

Chemical peel is something that has created a warm place in the world of beauty. The skin bleaching and natural rejuvenation are the most important motivations for having this procedure done, yet many are unsure of how it actually happens and what they should expect to happen afterwards. Today, I want to clear out some of these myths and shed light on chemical peel after medium and its long term impact on the skin. Read on to learn more on Chemical Peel Recovery Time and Chemical Peel Before And After.

What To Know About Chemical Peel Expect After Medium

Take a moment to think about all the concerns you have about the condition of your skin. Is there just one issue, or do you have multiple problems that need to be dealt with? For most of us, having only one skin concern would be a blessing. Is there any way to tackle multiple skin concerns at one time? At Refresh Evolution in Pitt Meadows, BC we know the key to perfect skin is chemical peels, one of the most trusted and reliable cosmetic treatments of all time.

9 Things To Expect About Chemical Peel Results

Chemical peels have a long, lauded history that has withstood the test of time because the results are nothing short of miraculous. Ask any skincare professional and they’ll tell you that the best beauty secrets are usually the most simple. So, what is it about these peels that produces such great results? We’re happy to break it down for you before you call to schedule your initial consultation!

1. Different Peels Have Different Results

How long does a chemical peel last? Frankly, the results of a chemical peel depend on the type of peel used for treatment. Many patients want to know how long they can enjoy results right from the start, so it’s important to understand that how long your results last rely entirely on the exact treatment you have.

Light Peels

Light peels are the most common type of cosmetic chemical peel treatment, but they also have the most variation in terms of results. A light peel generally lasts for about 1 to 2 months at a time when you first start using the treatment. Over time, the results of a light peel can last for about 6 months.

Medium Peels

Medium peels are the second most common type of peel as well as the second most intense peel. The results of a medium peel can last for 2 to 4 months at a time right from the start and can last 6 months or a little more after repeated treatments.

Deep Peels

Deep peels are a more rare peel that is typically used medically rather than cosmetically. The results of a deep peel can last decades at a time, and sometimes even a lifetime. The results of a deep peel are near-permanent because a deep peel is generally only used for serious health concerns.

2. Results Vary Peel To Peel

The results of a chemical peel also vary depending on the type of peel treatment. This is because each type of peel has a different level of intensity, or a different degree to how deeply it penetrates and treats the skin. To understand why the results vary peel to peel, you should also understand what each type of peel does to the skin.

Light Peels

Light peels are the most common type because they are the most generalized peel. Light peels don’t have a particular specialty. Instead, a light peel is helpful in addressing virtually all skin or appearance concerns. Light peels can be used more frequently than other types of peels, and they are also easier to recover from.

A light peel refers to the light intensity of the chemical being used for the peel. It is common to use AHA, lactic acid, or glycolic acid for a light chemical peel. As a lighter peel, these mild intensity chemicals penetrate only the first few layers of skin to exfoliate and treat any issues in the sub-dermal layers. Light peels are used to treat acne, reduce acne scarring, shrink enlarged pores, smooth skin tone and texture, correct sun damage, minimize fine lines, and much more.

Medium Peels

As the second most commonly used chemical peel, medium peels are also used to address multiple skin issues at one time. However, medium peels are also specialized in a way. It is common for medium peels to be used for anti-aging purposes, particularly to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and dark spots. Medium peels can also be used to minimize the appearance of scars, including more severe acne scarring. Medium peels commonly use TCA or refined glycolic acids to exfoliate additional layers of skin and treat the sub-dermal layers.

Deep Peels

Deep peels are not used frequently. In fact, most physicians recommend only using deep peels once in a lifetime. This is because deep chemical peels use high intensity acid to address major health concerns. For example, deep chemical peels are used to removed melanoma cells from the skin and prevent the cancerous cells from returning. Deep peels are also sometimes used for a one-time removal of deep scars or wrinkles.

3. Light Chemical Peels Can Be Frequent

Light peels can and should be used frequently. At our clinic, we recommend patients using light peels have a cluster of several initial treatments to achieve ideal results and then graduate to less frequent additional treatments to maintain results. This is because the results of light peels build on each other over a period of time, gradually improving the appearance and quality of the skin.

Initial Treatments

Most patients require about 4 to 6 light peels, spaced 1 to 2 months apart, to achieve desired results. The time between the peels allows skin cells to renew and turn over, with each subsequent peel exfoliating cells and treating new cells just beneath the skin surface. The number of initial treatments you need will depend on your exact skin concerns.

Maintenance Treatments

After you have reached your desired results, you will need to maintain those results with regularly scheduled maintenance treatments. Most patients schedule these treatments every 6 months, although some patients prefer every 4 months if they have aging skin. We will help you determine the best frequency for your maintenance treatments.

Medium peels can also be used frequently to achieve and maintain results. As a general rule, medium peels will require only 2 to 3 initial treatments, spaced about 2 months apart, to achieve ideal results. Maintaining results of a medium peel can be done using a light peel or a medium peel once every 6 months.

4. Results Depend On Recovery

Regardless of the type of peel intensity of your treatment, the results of your peel will depend on your recovery. Specifically, your results will rely on how you take care of your skin during your recovery period. Although there is no downtime associated with a chemical peel and you are free to return to all normal daily activities, there are some things you should know about your recovery time.

Your Recovery

Your initial recovery will be about 3 to 7 days after your peel, which is when your skin is sensitive and the most vulnerable. To protect your skin, we advise patients to avoid direct sun exposure and to wear SPF 30 or greater. After 7 to 10 days, your new skin cells will have turned over, finished peeling, and will be less vulnerable to sunlight, pollution, or other exposure.

5. Your Results Might Not Include Peeling

Surely every chemical peel will include peeling skin, right? It’s right there in the name! But the truth is that, under certain circumstances, the results of your chemical peel might not include peeling skin. Here are a few reasons why:

Regular Treatments

Regular peels, particularly during your initial cluster of treatments, may mean you won’t have to deal with peeling skin. Why? It’s a simple matter of your surface skin having an appropriate balance of dead skin cells, meaning that the peel doesn’t have much to exfoliate or peel away. But just because you’re not peeling doesn’t mean that the treatment isn’t working. In fact, we consider it an encouraging sign when your skin no longer peels after treatment, as it means that the chemical is compatible with your skin and your needs.

Regular Exfoliation

Patients who exfoliate regularly between peel treatments, either at home or with other cosmetic treatments, may also avoid skin peeling after treatment. This is because, once again, there are fewer dead skin cells that are removed during the peel treatment.

Regular Skin Cells

Patients who don’t experience peeling during their treatment may also simply be blessed with having regular skin cell turn over. While patients with chronically dry or rough skin have an obvious issue shedding dead skin cells, other patients may be able to naturally turn over skin cells without additional help, and that means less peeling after a chemical peel.

6. Good Results Come With Good Skin Care

Good results after a chemical peel also rely on good skincare. As a point of fact, proper skincare habits lead to better skin overall. This is particularly true when you are taking care of the new skin that is revealed by a chemical peel. Here are some tips on how to use good skincare to get good results:

Cleansing

The best cleanser after a chemical peel is one that is gentle, made for sensitive skin, and does not have any harsh chemicals, dyes, or fragrances. This means staying away from cleansers designed for acne-prone skin and opting for oil-based and non-comedogenic products.

Moisturizing

Regular moisturizing is also key to helping your new skin acclimate to the surface. Both day and night moisturizers are recommended to maintain the moisture balance of recovering skin.

Serums

You can also use facial serums to treat new skin, such as serums made with enriched vitamins or hyaluronic acids.

SPF

Wearing daily SPF with a strength of at least 30 or greater is also key to helping new skin recover. This is especially true for patients who are using peels to correct sun damage. Protecting your skin from the sun with SPF is also a way to protect the results of your peel.

Other Home Products

Some patients use other home products, such as sheet masks, to soothe recovering skin. Patients also commonly use Vaseline to protect the skin, particularly from wind and cold weather.

7. You Can Prep Your Skin For Better Results

Some patients find that the best results come from preparing the skin for treatment. There are several ways patients can help make sure they are prepping their skin for the best possible results, including:

Month Before Peel

About a month before your peel it is a good idea to begin a new regular skincare routine. Ideally, you want to select cleansers, moisturizers, and serums that have active ingredients that will complement the acid of your peel. We will work with you to help you find the skincare products that best match the needs of your skin.

Weeks Before Peel

About a week before your peel, we recommend you postpone any cosmetic treatments using lasers or wax. You can schedule treatments such as dermaplaning about 1 to 2 weeks before your treatment. We also encourage you to limit your sun exposure at this time.

Days Before Peel

About 2 to 3 days before your peel, we advise stopping the use of certain skincare products containing active ingredients such as Retinol, AHA, or BHA. We also encourage patients to drink plenty of water to help skin maintain its moisture balance after the peel.

8. Other Treatments Can Enhance Chemical Peel Results

There are other treatments you can use to help enhance the results of your peel as well as your overall appearance goals. We will work with you to help you find any additional cosmetic treatments that will help you achieve your ideal appearance. Some of these treatments may include:

Injectables

Injectable treatments include dermal fillers to restore facial volume and tighten skin as well as neurotoxins such as Botox to reduce the appearance of wrinkles and work best about 4 weeks before treatment.

Skin Tightening

Skin tightening treatments include laser treatments and microneedling, although these treatments should be scheduled at least 3 weeks before your chemical peel.

Dermaplaning

Dermaplaning about 2 weeks before treatment to remove peach fuzz and exfoliate the surface layer of skin can help the chemical peel work better.

9. There Are Countless Beneficial Results

A chemical peel is used to correct any number of skin concerns. Because this treatment is so versatile and customizable, it can:

• Smooth skin tone and texture
• Reduce fine lines
• Correct skin damage
• Eliminate dark spots
• Prevent breakouts
• Boost collagen production
• Diminish acne scars and enlarged pores
• Improve rosacea

Are You A Good Candidate?

All patients who are interested in chemical peel treatments will need to attend a consultation, which includes a skin analysis that helps us select the best peel for your skin needs and your appearance goals. Good candidates include patients who prefer simple, non-invasive treatments and who are seeking to correct multiple skin concerns. Most patients who are interested in this treatment are qualified candidates.

Perfect Your Skin With Long Lasting Chemical Peel Results!

Dating back to Ancient Egypt and Cleopatra’s penchant for using spoiled milk to maintain her beauty, chemical peels are one of the oldest beauty treatments in the world. Modern-day chemical peels have been updated to be more versatile and customizable, but the fact remains that this basic cosmetic treatment deserves its reputation.

Chemical Peel Recovery Time

The depth of your peel also dictates the length of your recovery period. For light and medium peels, you’ll experience flaking and peeling skin for 4-7 days after your procedure. For a deep peel, you can expect to be recuperating for up to 2 weeks, with significant peeling as well as some swelling and redness.

The deeper the peel, the more noticeable your results are after a single treatment. Sometimes, sensitive patients opt for light peels in a series to accumulate the same results deeper peels achieve after a single treatment. Light to medium peels show improvement to your skin’s tone, texture, coloring, and wrinkles around the 2 week mark, while deep peels take around 2 months for results to peak. The treated areas will develop new skin to replace a dull and damaged complexion. Skin cells reset for a youthful, glowing, radiant appearance, shedding years off your age.

Am I a Good Candidate?

There are chemical peels for almost any skin type, even the most sensitive of patients. If you’re concerned about the creep of age and skin damage across your face, a chemical peel may be a good alternative to a surgical procedure like a facelift. In some cases, Dr. Stein may combine a chemical peel and laser skin resurfacing treatment to improve results. A consultation is a great way to learn which chemical peel treatments could be right for you.

What is the Procedure Like?

Chemical peels come in different strengths and depths, which does affect how your procedure is performed. For light and medium peels, a topical anesthetic begins your treatment and once it takes effect, the chemical peel is applied to your skin for a prescribed amount of time. Once the time is up, a neutralizer stops the acid’s effects and your skin is nourished with soothing serum. For patients who choose deeper or phenol peels, your procedure is performed in the accredited state-of-the-art surgical facility under heavy sedation. It’s an outpatient procedure, so you’ll recover in the comfort of your home.

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! 

Chemical Peel Before And After

Chemical peels may seem like a short and simple in-clinic lunch-time procedure, however, results may vary depending on what pre and post-peel care you are taking. Inappropriate care may either lead to dissatisfying results or side-effects like skin burn, sensitivity or worsening of your problems.
Things to do before going for a chemical peel

Prep your skin – Start using hydrating serums/moisturizers and sunscreens inadequate amount 2 to 3 weeks prior. Your dermatologist may also prescribe some products with glycolic acid, a bleaching agent like hydroquinone or retinoid 3 weeks prior to aid the peeling process and prep your skin.

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.