Chemical Peeling are an increasingly popular skin rejuvenation treatment, helping to improve fine lines, wrinkles, sun damage and acne scars. Unfortunately, applying makeup too soon post-peel may cause issues like irritation.
To achieve optimal results and minimize complications, it’s important to follow certain guidelines prior to resuming makeup application. Your specific timeline may depend upon the type and depth of peel you chose.
Wait for the Peeling Process to Complete
Chemical peels are cosmetic procedures designed to exfoliate dead skin cells in order to enhance the look and feel of the face, including fine lines, hyperpigmentation and acne scarring. A chemical peel may also help with reduction of fine lines, hyperpigmentation and acne scars; typically this procedure is carried out by dermatologists, licensed estheticians or skin specialists.
Before getting a chemical peel, there are certain steps you should take to prepare your skin. First, cleanse with a mild cleanser, followed by applying moisturizer with sunscreen protection.
Your skin needs time to recover after receiving a chemical peel. At first, it may appear tight and shiny before flaking and crusting form – this is completely normal and important to follow the doctor’s advice in order to avoid complications such as infections.
Your doctor may advise that you avoid cosmetics for 7 to 10 days post-treatment or longer as they see fit; the extra time will allow your skin to heal properly.
Clean Your Face
Use gentle cleansers and follow your skin specialist’s instructions when taking part in medium or deep chemical peels, especially those who remove three times more surface skin layers through medium and deep peels.
Avoid rubbing your face, particularly around the mouth area, as this could accelerate peeling and flaking as well as lead to scarring.
As part of your healing process, it’s vitally important to shield the face from sunlight with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Direct sunlight can burn skin cells quickly, increasing sensitivity. Even on cloudy days it is wise to wear sunscreen, as UV rays reflected off clouds may still pose dangers to health.
Avoid heavy workouts that increase blood flow to the face as this could worsen skin condition. Instead, opt for light cardio exercises like walking or swimming; saunas and steam rooms should also be avoided as much as possible.
Apply a Moisturizer
Once a chemical peel treatment is over, your skin can feel tight and dehydrated. At this time, it is crucial that you apply a thick layer of moisturizer as directed – choosing gentle products designed to promote healing without irritation is key for successful outcomes.
Be careful when applying too much face oil or moisturizer, as this could impede the process of peeling your skin. After all, peels are designed to get rid of old and dead skin layers – so making things harder by over-hydrating is counter-productive!
Remember to use daily sunscreen on newly resurfaced skin to protect it, preferably one with SPF 30 or higher for optimal protection against sunburn and unwanted side effects post peel. Also look for products containing ceramides, cholesterol and fatty acids to strengthen and support its barrier function, helping ensure its continued health and strength.
Apply Makeup
After receiving a chemical peel, skin can become sensitive and susceptible to irritation. Allowing time for healing before applying makeup helps restore its natural balance while helping avoid potential complications like infections.
How long you must wait before wearing makeup after receiving a chemical peel depends on its type. Light peels may allow immediate wearability after treatment, whereas medium and deep peels require additional time for healing.
Before applying any makeup, it is vitally important to cleanse the face properly before beginning. A gentle cleanser and hydrating moisturizer is best at prepping skin for makeup application; products containing exfoliating ingredients should be avoided as these could irritate healing skin. Instead, choose light mineral-based makeup which is gentle on skin before layering tinted moisturizer to match skin tone, tinted sunscreen to protect from UV rays, and finally sunscreen for protection from the sun.