Pre & Post Chemical Peel Treatment Instructions
Updated: Dec 2, 2021
Chemical Peel Pre-Treatment Instructions
What to expect
Procedure time takes approximately 20-30 minutes.
It is normal to feel a slight tingling or stinging sensation during the peeling process which takes 3-5 minutes.
Skin will immediately feel smoother, but will normally be a little red and irritated in appearance for a few days. It can easily be covered with light foundation and you may resume regular activities.
Over the course of 24-48 hours skin will feel tight and occasionally sting if moistened or sweating. Skin may appear dryer initially and it is normal to have a light peeling of the very top layer of skin. A washcloth may be used to gently exfoliate the dead skin cells from these areas. Occasionally areas with acne may bleed slightly and gentle pressure will be needed. About 10% of the time there will be itching which will resolve within a few days of treatment. You may use an over the counter Hydrocortisone cream over irritated areas twice daily or Bacitracin ointment.
Over the first 1-2 weeks the skin will be rebuilding collagen and tightening helping to improve the youthful appearance of the skin. Skin will feel smoother and refreshed.
Chemical Peel Post-Treatment Instructions
After a chemical peel you can expect to have skin redness, slight weeping, and irritation as the new skin layer is producing collagen and developing a fresh skin layer. Depending on the depth of the peel these skin changes will vary greatly. A superficial peel may produce a slight stinging sensation that will worsen with sweating or when water is applied. A medium depth peel, such as the Perfect Derma Peel, will produce red irritated appearing skin for 1-2 weeks after the peel. Do not worry this is a normal and expected response while the new skin layers are rejuvenating.
After a superficial peel you may wash your skin immediately with a mild soap or skin cleanser. If there are any open acne or skin lesions be gentle as slight bleeding may occur.
The medium depth peel (Perfect Derma Peel) is self neutralizing and if able it is recommended to leave on for at least 6 hours, but overnight is ideal.
An antibiotic ointment, such as Bacitracin, may be applied to any open or dry areas. Occasionally dry patches will occur and these can be treated by applying an over the counter 1% Hydrocortisone Cream twice daily.
Ibuprofen or Tylenol is safe to use if needed.
It is recommended to take a multivitamin daily.
Skin may be sensitive to sun for up to 2 weeks after a chemical peel.
