A chemical peel can help brighten the skin of the face and turn back the clock on the natural changes that occur with aging. However, a chemical peel is just the first step in restoring the natural health and appearance of facial skin. Following a dedicated chemical peel aftercare plan is an important way to ensure the treatment promotes the greatest amount of restoration, with the fewest side effects.
Read on to learn about chemical peels, as well as six important tips for chemical peel aftercare.
What Is a Chemical Peel Treatment?
A chemical peel treatment is a procedure that helps refresh the appearance of the skin by reducing fine lines, scars, wrinkles, and age spots. It works by applying a chemical to the surface of the skin and then removing it after a specific period of time. Over the next few days, the top layer or layers of skin will peel off, revealing more youthful and rejuvenated skin beneath.
There are a few different intensities of chemical peels, ranging in intensity from light to medium to deep. Depending on the depth of the peel, a person may need pain medications or light sedation during this minimally invasive procedure.
What Are the Benefits of a Chemical Peel Treatment?
A chemical peel has a number of benefits. First, chemical peels can be tailored to a person’s specific skin type and needs. They are minimally invasive and require very little downtime. The additional benefits of a chemical peel treatment include:
- Reduction of sun damage
- Reduction of scarring left by acne, as well as wrinkles
- Reduction of skin discoloration and mild scarring
- Reduction of wrinkles
- Reduction of acne and acne scarring
What Negative Effects Could Happen from a Treatment Without Proper Aftercare?
A chemical peel introduces intentional inflammation to the skin in order to promote the peeling of the top layer or layers of skin. However, it is possible to promote further inflammation of the skin without proper aftercare following a chemical peel. Negative effects such as prolonged healing time, excessive discomfort, infections, excessive dryness or skin peeling can occur without a plan in place.
Six Important Tips for Chemical Peel Aftercare
To maximize the benefit of a chemical peel, it’s important to follow these aftercare tips, especially in the first week following the treatment:
- Tip 1: Wear proper sun protection and use sunscreen when appropriate. The skin is at its most vulnerable state after a chemical peel, and it is more likely to be damaged by UV radiation.
- Tip 2: Avoid exfoliating or scrubbing the skin. It may be tempting to exfoliate in order to expedite the peeling process; however, removing the dead skin cells before they are ready can cause more inflammation.
- Tip 3: Refrain from picking at or manipulating the skin of the face as it’s peeling off. It’s important to know that the top layer of skin will come off on its own time when it is ready.
- Tip 4: Avoid using abrasive soaps on the skin while it is peeling. After a peel, the skin is already very sensitive, and soap can make things worse by reducing the skin’s natural oil barrier.
- Tip 5: Use cool water when cleansing the skin, as hot water can be irritating. Hot water can also cause the skin to dry out excessively, which can cloud the healing process.
- Tip 6: Use a moisturizer approved by the practitioner who performed the procedure. Depending on the depth of the peel, this may include an ointment or a specialized gel that contains a steroid.
How to Learn More About Chemical Peels and Aftercare
At North Shore Med Spa in Long Island, a number of treatments are available to help restore the natural luster and glow to the skin. This includes one of the most popular services, the chemical peel. To learn more about the benefits of Long Island chemical peels and aftercare for a chemical peel, contact us today.