Before providing you with a chemical peel treatment, we will conduct a physical exam and conduct an in-depth skin assessment to ascertain which treatment best suits your tone and texture. We’ll also ensure that you’re eligible for the procedure and give an outline of what to expect during this procedure.
Based on the level of peel, certain activities or products should be avoided to help ensure optimal healing of your condition. Here are a few things you should steer clear of:
Avoid Sun Exposure
If your skin is already tanned, chemical peels may not be as effective and could potentially cause unwanted side effects. To maximize their efficacy and minimize risks associated with chemical peels, it’s wise to limit exposure to sunlight prior to getting one done and wear sunscreen to protect the newly treated areas from further darkening by the sun.
Additionally, it is wise to limit excessive sweating before beginning treatment in order to avoid inflammation, flaking and irritation of the skin. Drink plenty of water and limit exercise, steam rooms, saunas and hot showers that cause sweating in order to minimize excess. Also avoid direct hair dryers from being directed at this area as well as direct hair dryers on it if possible – apply sunscreen frequently (3 hours between applications).
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol should be avoided as it can irritate and redden your skin, impeding penetration of chemical peel treatments.
Within 48 hours after your peel, do not use steamers, saunas, hot tubs or hair dryers near the treated area as these activities can increase body heat and sweat production leading to hyperpigmentation of skin cells.
However, you should avoid waxing and electrolysis without first consulting with a physician or esthetician. Additionally, keeping skin moisturized is key; ask for a sample of hydrating cream that will assist your recovery process and decrease redness while preventing dryness.
Avoid Excessive Sweating
Sweating can hinder the effectiveness of chemical peels and lead to water blisters. Therefore, it is recommended to refrain from sweating excessively for at least three days prior to receiving your peel treatment.
After receiving a peel, it is common for your skin to become red, tight and irritated. You should moisturize and apply a protective ointment, taking care not to pick or rub at it; use an ice pack if necessary for comfort. It is wise to avoid facial waxing
treatments including electrolysis and chemical depilatories until at least four days have passed post-peel; scrubs, loofahs or exfoliating sponges should also be avoided in addition to tanning beds until 7-10 days post-peel.
Avoid Excessive Exfoliation
Do not exfoliate with scrubs, loofahs, scrubbing sponges or any other means of mechanical exfoliation at least 10 days prior to receiving a chemical peel treatment. Also avoid facial waxing and electrolysis as well as hair removal products on the treatment area.
Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day. When possible, wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to further shield yourself from UV radiation.
Your esthetician will provide tailored post-treatment instructions that meet the individual needs of their treatment, failure to adhere to which could impede results and increase risks associated with complications.
Avoid Shaving
Before getting a chemical peel, it’s best to avoid shaving or excessive hair removal as shaving strips away some of your natural oil that helps your skin retain moisture and promote healing post-chemical peel.
As well as avoiding these things, make sure that you moisturize your skin and drink enough water leading up to your peel – this will help ensure the best results! It is also essential that your esthetician know if there are any allergies or medical conditions which might prevent treatment, such as taking Accutane, pregnant/breastfeeding status or open wounds that might compromise this treatment process.
Avoid Excessive Hair Removal
For optimal results, for at least two weeks prior to receiving your peel it is wise to avoid excessive hair removal such as waxing and electrolysis in the area that will be treated. In addition, make sure your skin stays hydrated using your recommended moisturizers.
As part of your treatment process, it is crucial to inform your skin care provider about any medications you are currently taking in order to ensure it won’t interfere with treatment plans and result in adverse side effects for you. This includes anti- acne and oral herpes medication as well as those which could cause cold sores or open wounds. They will provide detailed pre-treatment instructions – this may include specific sunscreen recommendations – with lasting results and safety in mind.