8 Essential Do’s And Don’ts For Chemical Peel Aftercare

Master the art of chemical peel aftercare for maximum effectiveness and safety

Chemical peels are highly effective treatments for rejuvenating your skin, whether you’re addressing fine lines, breakouts, hyperpigmentation, or various other skin concerns. However, it’s crucial to ensure proper care during the healing process to benefit from the chemical peel fully. Here are essential dos and don’ts for chemical peel aftercare to optimize the treatment results.

Do Practice Sun Protection

• Avoid sun exposure and be diligent about applying sunscreen. Your skin is most delicate after a peel as it sheds layers of skin. The newly revealed skin is especially susceptible to harmful UV rays, necessitating extra care. When it’s necessary to go outdoors, opt for a sunscreen with SPF 30+ to protect your skin. Use it consistently for at least 6 weeks after the peel.

Do Opt for Soap-Free Cleansers

• If your current cleanser contains soap, it’s advisable to switch to a soap-free option. Soap-free facial washes are gentle on sensitive skin, which is particularly important post-chemical peel when your skin is likely sensitive.

Unlike soap, which can be drying and leave the skin feeling tight, soap-free cleansers maintain the skin’s natural oils. This is crucial since the skin has already undergone stripping during the peeling process.

Do Wash your Face with cool water

• After a chemical peel, your skin may feel tender, and hot water could exacerbate discomfort and inflammation on your newly revealed skin. Cleanse your face with cool water as a gentle and soothing alternative for your healing skin. However, ensure to pat your skin dry afterward instead of rubbing it to avoid irritation.

Do Maximize Moisturization

• Utilize a moisturizer to replenish moisture and hydrate dry skin. Opt for a moisturizer without harsh chemicals and irritants, such as acids and acne treatments, which could further irritate your sensitive skin. Additionally, choose water-based moisturizers, as they are lightweight and gentle on the skin.

Do Trust Your Practitioner

• The most crucial tip for chemical peel aftercare is to follow the guidance of your practitioner. It’s essential to listen to their recommendations and adhere to their instructions post-peel. Your practitioner will offer personalized advice on caring for your skin based on your specific needs and the type of chemical peel you’ve undergone.

Don’t Exfoliate

• During the phase when your skin becomes dry and flaky, the temptation to reach for an exfoliator may be strong. However, resist the urge to use facial scrubs. Your skin has already undergone the most intensive exfoliation.

It doesn’t require additional exfoliation. Wait at least 3 days after a light chemical peel before considering exfoliation to allow your skin time to heal. For medium or deep chemical peels, it may take weeks before exfoliation is appropriate.

Don’t Peel or Pick

• It’s crucial to avoid picking or peeling any loose skin. This is just as essential as refraining from exfoliation. Interfering with the natural shedding process of the skin can result in bleeding and scarring, which is far more undesirable than any temporary flaking.

Don’t Apply Retinol

• While retinols are effective skincare products for stimulating new cell growth and turnover, it’s important to refrain from using them immediately after a chemical peel. Your skin is already undergoing this process post-peel, so introducing retinol could overwhelm it with cell turnover.

It’s advisable to wait until your skin has fully healed before reintroducing retinol products. Additionally, it’s recommended to discontinue the use of retinol products at least a week before undergoing a chemical peel.

At Alladerm, your chemical peel is customized to ensure you get the most benefits from treatment. Book your appointments at (949) 916-7166 to consult a reliable esthetician to determine the best type of peel for your skin. We are located in Aliso Viejo, CA.