What To know Before A Chemical Peel
A chemical peel is defined as. A chemical peel is a method of exfoliating the skin using chemicals. Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels are the most prevalent type of chemical peel. Only persons with healthy, unblemished skin, with minimum sun damage, wrinkles, and fine lines, should undergo chemical peels. If you have acne or another skin condition that needs medication, you shouldn’t get a chemical peel. The operation also necessitates medical supervision, so you shouldn’t do it on your own at home.
What are the potential risks of the operation and its aftermath? You may have up to three weeks of skin irritation, redness, flaking, swelling, crusting, and scabbing after a chemical peel. There is a chance that your skin’s color will change temporarily after treatment, albeit this change will eventually disappear. The procedure itself takes approximately an hour and costs between $300 and $600 per session, however some doctors offer discounted prices for patients who purchase numerous sessions at once on the route to smoother skin.
Chemical peels are a common and effective cosmetic procedure. Some people might be reluctant to give it a try since they don’t know what goes into selecting it and receiving the results they’ve always desired, despite the fact that it has been shown to fade blemishes, lessen and eliminate discolouration, remove acne scars, and tighten pores. However, there are always details to iron out before a surgery. Read on to learn more on chemical peel aftercare/chemical peeling at home.
What To know Before A Chemical Peel
A chemical peel is a method of exfoliating the skin by applying a chemical solution to the surface. The new skin that forms is silkier. To get results from a light or medium peel, you may need to have it done more than once.
Wrinkles, discoloration, and scarring, especially on the face, are all targets for chemical peels. They are versatile enough to stand on their own or complement other esthetic treatments. And they can be performed on a spectrum from superficial to profound. The results of a deeper chemical peel are more spectacular, but the peel’s recovery time is also lengthier.
The Reason Why
One way to rejuvenate the skin is with a chemical peel. You can get a chemical peel in one of three different depths, depending on the severity of your skin problems.
Mild peeling agents.
The outer layer of skin can be shed with the help of a mild chemical peel (epidermis). It helps with dryness, dullness, uneven tone, and fine lines and wrinkles. Every two to five weeks, you could get a little peel.
Retinol chemical peel medium.
Your epidermis and some of your dermis will be exfoliated during a medium chemical peel (dermis). Wrinkles, acne scars, and discoloration can all be improved with this. In order to reach or keep the desired state, you may need to repeat the process.
Substantial chemical peel.
A deep chemical peel is an even more effective kind of exfoliation. If you have deep wrinkles, scars, or precancerous growths, your doctor may suggest one. There is no need for additional sessions to achieve the desired results.
Deep scars, wrinkles, and drooping skin are all things that chemical peels can’t fix.
Risks
There are many potential negative outcomes associated with chemical peels.
Swelling, redness, and scabbing.
Skin redness is a normal part of recovering from a chemical peel. The redness that might accompany a medium or deep chemical peel can last for weeks or months.
Scarring.
Scarring is an extremely rare side effect of chemical peels, and occurs more often on the lower face. These scars can be treated with antibiotics and steroid drugs to make them less noticeable.
Discoloration of the skin.
Skin treated with a chemical peel may darken (hyperpigmentation) or lighten (hypopigmentation) (hypopigmentation). After a superficial peel, hyperpigmentation is more common, while a deep peel is more likely to cause hypopigmentation. Brown and black people have a higher incidence of these issues, and they can sometimes be irreversible.
Infection.
An outbreak of the herpes simplex virus (the virus that causes cold sores) is just one example of the bacterial, fungal, or viral infection that can result from getting a chemical peel.
Injury to the heart, kidneys, or liver.
Carbolic acid (phenol), which is used in deep chemical peels, has been linked to heart muscle damage and arrhythmia. Phenol’s toxic effects extend to the kidneys and liver. In order to reduce the amount of phenol absorbed by the skin, a deep chemical peel is performed in 10- to 20-minute increments.
Some people just shouldn’t get chemical peels. Chemical peels, or specific types of chemical peels, may not be recommended by your doctor if you have:
Have used isotretinoin (Myorisan, Claravis, and others) for acne in the previous six months and are now using it
You or a member of your family has a history of scar tissue hyperplasia, which causes ridged skin (keloids)
Having a baby
suffer from cold sore breakouts that are frequent or severe
How you get ready
Find a dermatologist or a dermatologic surgeon who understands the skin and the procedure. The effectiveness of a peel varies from person to person, depending on their skill level. Incorrect application of a chemical peel increases the risk of infection and scarring.
Your doctor is likely to undertake the following before recommending a chemical peel:
Take a look at your medical records.
There is a good chance that you may be asked about your present and former medical issues, medications, and cosmetic operations.
Get a full physical.
Your doctor will examine your skin and the treatment region to make a determination about the best peel for you, taking into account factors like your skin’s tone and thickness.
Talk about your anticipations.
Discuss your goals, expectations, and any concerns you may have with your doctor. Carefully consider the potential number of treatments, recovery time, and end result.
You might want to do the following before getting a peel:
Use antiviral drugs.
To reduce the risk of contracting a virus before and after treatment, your doctor may recommend taking an antiviral drug.
Start using a retinoid cream.
For optimal healing, your doctor may suggest using a retinoid cream like tretinoin (Renova, Retin-A) for a few weeks prior to treatment.
Put some sort of bleach on it.
Before or after the surgery, your doctor may suggest using a bleaching agent (hydroquinone), retinoid cream, or both to lessen the likelihood of undesirable consequences.
Stay out of the sun without protection.
Overexposure to the sun before surgery might lead to uneven pigmentation that will not fade. Talk to your doctor about how much sun exposure is safe for you.
You should stay away from certain forms of hair removal and cosmetic procedures.
Stop utilizing any methods of hair removal, including electrolysis and depilatory creams, about a week before the peel. Also, in the week leading up to your peel, you shouldn’t get your hair colored, get permanent waves or straightened, use a facial mask, or scrub your face. Stop shaving the treated area(s) at least 24 hours before your peel.
Get yourself a ride. Schedule a ride home if you will need to be sedated for the procedure.
What to be prepared for
Before the procedure
A chemical peel is usually done at an office or in an outpatient surgical facility. Before the procedure, your doctor will clean your face, protect your hair, and cover your eyes with ointment, gauze, tape or goggles.
Pain relief isn’t typically needed for a light chemical peel. If you’re having a medium peel, you might receive a sedative and painkiller. For a deep peel, you might have a sedative, something to numb the treatment area and fluids delivered through a vein.
During the procedure
During a light chemical peel:
- Your doctor will use a brush, cotton ball, gauze or sponge to apply a chemical solution typically containing glycolic acid or salicylic acid. The treated skin will begin to whiten.
- You might feel mild stinging while the chemical solution is on your skin.
- Your doctor will apply a neutralizing solution or wash to remove the chemical solution from the treated skin.
During a medium chemical peel:
- Your doctor will use a cotton-tipped applicator or gauze to apply a chemical solution containing trichloroacetic acid, sometimes in combination with glycolic acid. The treated skin will begin to whiten.
- After a few minutes, your doctor will apply cool compresses to soothe treated skin. You might also be given a hand-held fan to cool your skin. No neutralizing solution is needed, however.
- You might feel stinging and burning for up to 20 minutes.
During a deep chemical peel:
- You’ll be given intravenous (IV) fluids, and your heart rate will be closely monitored.
- Your doctor will use a cotton-tipped applicator to apply carbolic acid (phenol) to your skin. Treated skin will begin to turn white or gray.
- To limit your exposure to phenol, your doctor will do the procedure in portions at about 15-minute intervals. A full-facial procedure might take about 90 minutes.
After the procedure
After a chemical peel of any depth, your skin will be red, tight, irritated or swollen. Follow your doctor’s directions for sun protection, cleansing, moisturizing and applying protective ointments to your skin. And avoid picking, rubbing or scratching your skin. It may take several months before your skin color returns to normal and you can see the full results of the peel.
After a light chemical peel, treated skin will be red, dry and mildly irritated — although these effects might be less noticeable with each repeat treatment. Your doctor might apply a protective ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to soothe the skin. You can usually wear makeup the next day if you wish.
Treated areas take about one to seven days to heal after a light chemical peel. New skin might temporarily be lighter or darker than normal.
After a medium chemical peel, treated skin will be red and swollen. You’ll feel stinging. Your doctor might apply a protective ointment, such as petroleum jelly, to soothe the area and prevent dryness. After five to seven days, you can use cosmetics to cover any redness.
Use ice packs for comfort. Over-the-counter pain-relieving medication, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others) and naproxen sodium (Aleve, others), may help reduce any discomfort. You’ll likely schedule a checkup soon after your treatment so that your doctor can monitor your healing.
As swelling decreases, treated skin will begin to form a crust and might darken or develop brown blotches. Treated areas take about seven to 14 days to heal after a medium chemical peel, but redness might last for months.
After a deep chemical peel, you’ll experience severe redness and swelling. You’ll also feel burning and throbbing, and the swelling may even make your eyelids swell shut.
Your doctor will apply a surgical dressing to treated skin. He or she might also prescribe painkillers. You’ll need to soak the treated skin and apply ointment several times a day for about two weeks.
Treated areas will develop new skin within about two weeks after a deep chemical peel, although redness might last for months. Treated skin might become darker or lighter than normal or lose the ability to tan.
You might prefer to remain at home while you’re healing from a chemical peel. You’ll likely need several follow-up visits soon after your treatment so that your doctor can monitor your healing.
Once new skin completely covers the treated area in about two weeks, you can use cosmetics to conceal any redness. Use sunscreen every day.
Results
A light chemical peel improves skin texture and tone and lessens the appearance of fine wrinkles. The results are subtle but increase with repeated treatments. If you have a medium chemical peel, treated skin will be noticeably smoother. After a deep chemical peel, you’ll see a dramatic improvement in the look and feel of treated areas. Results may not be permanent. Over time, age and new sun damage can lead to new lines and skin color changes.
With all peels, the new skin is temporarily more sensitive to the sun. Talk with your doctor about how long to protect your skin from the sun.
Chemical Peel Aftercare
How to Care for Your Face or Body After a Chemical Peel. 1) Let the peel sit for four to six hours, and then rinse it off carefully with warm water. 2) During the first two days, use only warm water to wash your face and body TWICE each day. After that, use a sunscreen moisturizer (with at least an SPF of 44) on your face and body as often as necessary during the day.
Chemical Peel Aftercare Instructions For Face OR Body
Wash the peel off with warm water only after letting it sit for four to six hours.
2) During the first two days, use only warm water to wash your face and body TWICE each day. After that, use a sunscreen moisturizer (with at least an SPF of 44) on your face and body as often as necessary during the day.
Third, apply sunscreen after washing with a mild cleanser (such Cetaphil or Dove, fragrance-free) on days three through five.
4) Between days 6 and 10, you can wash your face TWICE a day (either with a mild cleanser or Eternal Clarifying Polish), and then apply sunscreen before going outside.
5) Once 10 days have passed since your chemical peel, or after all peeling has decreased, you can return to your regular skin care routine.
If you have any concerns following the procedure, please contact the office at (301) 679-5772 right once.
A FOLLOWING YOUR PEEL: If you want your peel to turn out well, you must strictly adhere to following rules:
Please wait at least 24 hours after treatment before entering the water.
Until the skin has healed, avoid any activities that will make you sweat, such as exercise, the Jacuzzi, sauna, or steam bath.
Makeup should not be applied for at least 24 hours after treatment.
A slight yellowish hue will appear on your skin right after a treatment that includes Retinoic Acid. In one to two hours, this will be gone. It’s best to avoid washing your face until the evening, but if you must, try to hold off until after dinner.
Avoid direct sunshine for at least a week, and include the use of a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 40 into your regular routine permanently.
Individuals with photosensitivity should avoid direct sunlight for a while after the peel, as their skin may be more sensitive than usual.
The redness could last for up to a week.
-Skin peeling will begin between 24 and 48 hours following treatment. This peeling usually lasts anywhere from 2 days to a week. The skin should not be picked or pulled.
To ease dryness and tightness, apply a sunscreen-containing mild moisturizer as often as necessary.
You should wait at least two weeks before getting any other face treatments after getting a peel.
Although facial peeling is a common side effect of Chemical Peels, not all patients experience this phenomenon. The absence of peeling is NOT evidence of a failed peel. You are still reaping the benefits of the peel, including the unclogging of pores, the stimulation of collagen production, the increase in cell turnover, the improvement in skin tone and texture, and the reduction in fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots, even if you do not experience any visible peeling.
If you’ve ever been hesitant to reach for a chemical exfoliant to help fade unwanted hyperpigmentation, there’s a good reason. “In general, chemical peels are intentionally irritating and not essential to balanced skin, unless indicated otherwise by a board-certified dermatologist for things like acne vulgaris or melasma,” dermatologist Dr. Ellen Marmur tells Elite Daily, adding, “Self-directed treatment is rife with overdoing it.” When needed, the best at-home chemical peels for hyperpigmentation contain a lower concentration of chemical exfoliants to lessen the chance of irritation. “If you’ve ever experienced hyperpigmentation, as I have in my 20s from patches of melasma on my upper lip and face, you want to do anything bionic to remove it,” Dr. Marmur says of her own experience. “But slow and steady is the only way to conquer hyperpigmentation, so be patient,” she advises, while stressing the importance of checking in with your dermatologist before using any at-home chemical exfoliants.
Dr. Marmur explains that a combination of sun protection and LED green light, as well as the slow and steady effects of mic acid, can help you treat hyperpigmentation at home. She also mentions that glycolic acid and salicylic acid, two more alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids, are widely used as at-home chemical therapies for hyperpigmentation.
Hyperpigmentation can be made worse by the use of mechanical exfoliants, such as scrubs, which Dr. Marmur advises should be avoided. She goes on to say that “fingers perform far better than pads, which create waste,” when it comes to applying and massaging in liquids and serums to the skin. She emphasizes never brushing, scrubbing, or rubbing chemical exfoliants on skin prone to excess pigment because this will backfire and bring you back to square one. “Treat your skin like a baby, always wear sunscreen, and ask your dermatologist for advice on how to fight hyperpigmentation.”
Here are five of the most effective at-home remedies for hyperpigmentation, including serums, cleansers, and face masks.
For hyperpigmentation, the best tranexamic acid serum is Naturium. Tranexamic Acid, 5% Topical
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When it comes to eliminating undesirable hyperpigmentation and avoiding the formation of new dark spots, tranexamic acid is normally a well-tolerated substance.
The Tranexamic Topical Acid 5% from Naturium provides a high concentration of the active ingredient, and it is bolstered by the brightening benefits of kojic acid, licorice root extract, and niacinamide. While glycerin, panthenol, and hyaluronic acid keep your skin from drying out, this combination makes it one of the best hyperpigmentation treatments you can buy for under twenty dollars.
- Honest Beauty Resurfacing Serum – Best AHA Serum For Hyperpigmentation
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The glycolic, lactic, and citric acids in Honest Beauty’s Resurfacing Serum all work together to lighten unsightly hyperpigmentation. Hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and aloe leaf juice all aid in soothing and hydrating skin, while niacinamide treats hyperpigmentation and reduces inflammation for a double whammy of skin care benefits. It’s a fantastic low-cost introduction to chemical exfoliants, costing less than $25. Use it at night for optimal effects, and don’t forget to put on sunscreen in the morning (as is the case with any AHA product).
The Three Top BHA Skin Lightening Products
Paula’s Choice Liquid BHA Exfoliant, 2% by Paula’s Choice
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There are dozens of reviews on Amazon praising Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant for its effectiveness against hyperpigmentation, and the product has received over 40,000 five-star ratings overall. Green tea extract calms and provides antioxidant protection while a tried and true blend of 2% salicylic acid unclogs pores and removes dead skin. If hyperpigmentation, acne, or blackheads are your main skin concerns, this is an excellent option thanks to the pore-clearing properties of salicylic acid.
The Discoloration Repair Serum, which includes tranexamic acid, niacinamide, and bakuchiol extract, is another great option for treating hyperpigmentation, despite receiving fewer ratings on Amazon.
Juice Beauty’s Green Apple Peel Full Strength Exfoliating Mask, the Best Exfoliating Mask for Hyperpigmentation,
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In just 10 minutes, the Green Apple Peel Full Strength Exfoliating Mask from Juice Beauty will leave your skin feeling smoother and looking younger. The BHA salicylic acid works in tandem with the AHAs malic, glycolic, and lactic acids to exfoliate dead skin and smooth the skin’s surface. Aloe leaf juice, grape seed extract, and glycerin all aid in hydration, while bakuchiol and vitamin C brighten the skin. The mask is made with largely natural (and organic) ingredients, however it could potentially irritate sensitive skin. This is why the manufacturer advises first trying the mask out on your arm.
- Top Extravagance
Sunday Riley’s Lactic Acid Gene Therapy
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This versatile treatment can be used as a leave-on serum in the morning and evening, or as a mask for hypersensitive skin that is left on for 15 minutes before being rinsed off.
Sunday If you want to improve the clarity and texture of your skin without irritating it too much, try Riley’s Good Genes Lactic Acid Therapy. Licorice root extract and lactic acid, an alpha hydroxy acid, work together to lighten dark spots and uneven skin tone, while squalane, arnica, aloe leaf, and prickly pear, all calming and moisturizing, help keep the formula in check. It’s great for use right away and in the long run, and its feathery consistency makes it easy to wear alone or combine with other products.
Dermalogica’s Daily Glycolic Cleanser is another great option.
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An effective first step is to use a cleanser with chemical exfoliants, such as Dermalogica’s Daily Glycolic Cleanser, rather of a peel (as opposed to treatments and serums that are left on and therefore pose a higher risk of irritation). This cleanser contains glycolic acid, which works as an exfoliant to remove dead skin cells that, if left on the skin, can cause hyperpigmentation. Skin-conditioning jojoba seed oil, hydrating hyaluronic acid, soothing glycerin, soothing calendula, and soothing allantoin are also included.
Chemical Peeling At Home
pat the skin dry after washing it.
Use the peel solution on a cotton pad and wipe over your dry, clean skin, being careful to avoid the eye area. Leave on for two minutes up to five minutes, according on strength.
Use lukewarm water for the initial rinsing, then cool water for the final rinse.
Remember how Samantha’s skin went lobster red and blotchy in that episode of Sex and the City when she used a facial peel right before Carrie’s book release party? Don’t be alarmed; at-home chemical peels have come a long way since their early days.
Less invasive than professional peels, at-home treatments can nonetheless remove the “glue” that keeps dulling dead skin cells attached. “The goal of getting a facial peel is to get rid of the top layer of dead skin so that your face looks fresher and healthier. They wipe away dead skin cells, therefore reducing the appearance of blocked pores, acne, dullness, and dryness “a dermatologist, Dr. Howard Sobel, adds. They help reduce the look of wrinkles and fine lines and tighten pores.
Dermatologists advise not using an at-home peel more frequently than twice weekly to get the maximum benefit out of it without irritating the skin. Take a vacation from your retinol product on the days that you use a peel, and always apply sunscreen and a thick moisturizer afterward. Although peels are generally safe for even the most sensitive skin types, those with extremely delicate skin may experience discomfort and should speak with a dermatologist before incorporating peels into their routine.
To be used routinely and safely, “home chemical peels have to be necessarily delicate,” says dermatologist Dr. Linda Chung Honet. I enjoy offering them as a maintenance treatment to be used in between visits to the doctor.
Disposable pads, masks, and nighttime serums are just some of the forms in which at-home peels can be found. Remember that many of the essential acids found in these products come from fruit, so the term “chemical” is a bit of an exaggeration, and that your skin shouldn’t truly “peel” after using them. You’ve gone too far if you do. Choose products with brightening ingredients like vitamin C and ferulic acid, as well as AHAs like glycolic, lactic, and citric acids. We’ve compiled some of the best at-home skin care solutions specialists recommend below.
Dullness. Lack of light. scars left by acne. Facial wrinkles and fine lines. What is it about these skin issues that they all share? Chemical peels of a medical grade can be used to treat them. Chemical peels can resurface the skin for more equal tone and texture, and their potencies range depending on the cosmetic goals and needs of the patient. Dead skin cells can be sloughed away with less potent chemical exfoliators for a more radiant complexion at home. Here, we explain the differences between chemical peels performed in a medical office and those performed at home.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
Professional chemical peels employ chemical solutions of varying strengths to target and remove the outer layers of the skin. “The benefits of a medical-grade chemical peel are endless,” says Lizette Ludwig, RN, an aesthetic nurse and injector in southern California. As she explains, they are a good option for anyone looking to address skin imperfections. “Chemical peels allow you to remove dead skin cells and address fine lines, hyperpigmentation, and uneven skin tone in a safe and effective way,” she shares.
Professional chemical peels can be broken down into three categories:
- Superficial chemical peels
- Medium chemical peels
- Deep chemical peels
The chemical solution and the strength of the peels inform these categorizations. Alpha hydroxy acids (such as lactic acid and glycolic acid), beta hydroxy acids (such as salicylic acid), trichloroacetic acid (TCA), and phenol are common components in medical-grade peels, as noted by Ludwig. Here’s a quick rundown of each type:
CHEMICAL PEELS AT THE SURFACE
The epidermis (the outermost layer of skin) is removed during a superficial chemical peel, making it the least aggressive of the group. Ludwig explains that “alpha hydroxy acids and beta hydroxy acids are the main constituents in most peels,” but that enzymes and other natural exfoliants are also often used. Slight skin improvement is the result of superficial peels, which target the epidermis; for best results, a series of treatments is recommended. The healing phase includes temporary dryness and flaking that can last up to five days.
SPOT CHEMICAL EXFOLIATIONS
The results of medium-depth chemical peels are more noticeable after just one session than those of light peels. Ludwig asserts, “Skin will be noticeably smoother with even tone and blemish removal.” To remove skin cells from deeper layers than the epidermis, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) is commonly used in chemical peels. After a peel, it’s normal to have some peeling, redness, and swelling that can last anywhere from three days to a week.
Exfoliating Chemical Peels
Naturally, the most potent and invasive chemical peels are the deep ones. The TCA or phenol used in these procedures is typically highly concentrated so that it can reach the dermal fatty layer. Ludwig says that the increased depth helps them to create skin that is “dramatically smoother” and “younger-looking.” She explains that deep peels are effective against sun spots, scars, and wrinkles. Deep peels are effective, but they can be unpleasant and take a long time to heal because of their intensity. Full healing may take several weeks or months, requiring several weeks of rest.
Peel Chemicals Used in Medical Practice
A chemical solution is applied to the face and (perhaps) the neck during a medical-grade chemical peel. Using a gauze pad, the chemical solution is either dabbed onto the skin or rubbed in more vigorously. Tingle (mild to medium peels) or burn (deep peels) during application is normal (deep peels). If a client is experiencing tingling or burning, “I like to give them a little fan,” Ludwig says. After the recommended amount of time has passed, the solution may need to be “neutralized” for some chemical peels, though this is rarely necessary.
Patients are typically given after-care instructions upon discharge, regardless of the peel strength they selected. If you want to know how to take care of your skin after a peel, Ludwig recommends talking to your doctor about it. You may need to alter your normal skin care regimen for a few days before and after even the mildest peel. Antiviral medication may be recommended before a mild or deep peel.
RISKS OF CHEMICAL PEELING
Chemical peels are best administered by a trained dermatologist or esthetician in a medical setting. As we’ve observed, some people have tried medical-grade procedures (such TCA peels) at home with risky and devastating outcomes as part of the DIY dermatology movement fostered by social media and social alienation. When it comes to chemical treatments, Ludwig says, “beware of chemical solutions supplied online, as they are frequently marketed illegally and can cause irreparable damage to your skin.” Chemical peels require the expertise of a trained technician.
Comparing Chemical Peels Performed by a Professional to Those Used at Home
The primary distinction between a light in-office peel and chemical exfoliators or treatments purchased from, say, Sephora, is that the latter do not deliver the same chemical concentration as the former. There may be some overlap in the active components between the two forms, but the effectiveness is very different. According to Ludwig, glycolic acid concentrations used at home are limited to roughly 10%, whereas those used by medical professionals can reach as high as 70%.
Chemical Scrubs for the Bathroom
At-home chemical exfoliators and enzyme treatments can give you a subtle and maintained shine if you use them regularly to cure moderate cases of uneven skin tone and texture or to preserve your complexion in between professional treatments.
If you want Ludwig’s advice on picking a treatment, read the label. She notes that pumpkin, papaya, and pineapple are excellent sources of active enzymes and antioxidants, and that you should look for products containing these nutrients. Make sure you read the ingredient list carefully because each item has a specific function.
SAFETY & OUTCOME STUDIES ON CHEMICAL EXFOLIANTS
Exfoliating at home may cause discomfort, but it is unlikely that your skin will peel or flake like it would following a professional treatment. When it comes to DIY peels, “read all instructions carefully,” Ludwig advises. Most instructions call for washing it off after 10–15 minutes, with eventual overnight wear being encouraged.
Is there anything else you can do to avoid getting a reddish complexion? If you opt to exfoliate at home, Ludwig suggests skipping active serums like retinol on such days. She recommends exfoliating once or twice weekly, preferably on days that you don’t use any other actives. I think less is more,” she opines. The microbiome of our skin might be upset by excessive exfoliation.