What To Expect Before and After a Chemical Peel
Preparing for your first chemical peel? You’re in for a treat! These cosmetic treatments can revitalize your complexion, smooth your skin’s surface, and minimize many signs of aging without the need for plastic surgery. But knowing what to expect before, during, and after a chemical peel can help you achieve optimal results and minimize adverse effects. Stick with us as we explore everything you need to know about these transformative aesthetic services.
What is a chemical peel?
Chemical peel treatments break down the older, outermost layers of skin to reveal a more youthful glow. Here’s how they work:
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels use expertly crafted solutions of topical chemicals such as salicylic, glycolic, lactic, alpha-hydroxy, and trichloroacetic acids (TCA). These break the bonds between dead skin cells, sloughing off the outer layers and encouraging faster cellular regeneration. This process also stimulates the production of collagen and elastin to support healthy skin that looks and feels more radiant.
What do chemical peels treat?
These revitalizing treatments can address a wide variety of cosmetic concerns and skin conditions, including:
Sun damage, dark spots, and hyperpigmentation
Fine lines and wrinkles
Uneven skin tone and texture
Enlarged pores
Dull, tired complexion
What types of chemical peels are there?
There are countless types of chemical peels out there offering something for everyone. While some deep, invasive options require local or even general anesthesia, most are more superficial, delivering gradual results with a series of gentle treatments.
Related: Types of Facials and What To Book
What to expect before a chemical peel
In order to achieve the best results after your chemical peel, it’s essential to properly care for your face before your appointment. Here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Consulting with your provider
Before your chemical peel, you’ll meet with your esthetician to discuss your goals for treatment, any existing skin conditions, and your medical history. Bring a list of medications you take and any topical skincare products you use to ensure that nothing will interfere with your treatment.
This is a great time to ask questions, so don’t hold back! Remember, just because a salon, spa, or hair removal clinic offers chemical peels, it doesn’t mean the provider is highly skilled or experienced. Be sure to vet your skincare specialist to make sure you’re comfortable putting your skin in their hands.
How to prepare your skin
In the weeks before your chemical peel, expect to make a few adjustments to your normal routine. Stop waxing and using harsh actives like retinoids and strong exfoliants, as these can increase sensitivity.
Sun-damaged skin increases the risk of complications like scarring and hyperpigmentation, so wear broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF. As your chemical peel approaches, stop shaving, skip intense workouts, and avoid any new skincare products.
What to expect during your appointment
During a chemical peel, your esthetician will cleanse the skin, apply the acid solution, and allow it to sit for an allotted amount of time. You may feel a tingling, stinging sensation, or a gentle heat as the product breaks down dead skin cells. Then, they may apply a neutralizing agent to stop the process, followed by a soothing cream, balm, or sunscreen.
Related: Your Complete Guide to Bikini Wax Prep
What to expect after your chemical peel
Once your treatment is complete, the healing process begins. Here’s what you can expect after your chemical peel:
How long does it take to see results?
Depending on the depth of your chemical peel, you can expect to see the earliest improvements as soon as a few days after treatment. As soon as redness, inflammation, and peeling subside, you should notice brighter, smoother, radiant skin. Your body will continue producing more collagen for months, so it may take time to reap the full rewards of treatment.
Keep in mind that it generally takes four to six treatments to achieve optimal results, so work with your esthetician to schedule the right treatment series for your skin.
How to care for your skin after a chemical peel
During the first few days after your chemical peel, your skin may feel red, itchy, and inflamed. Use a cool compress or soothing topicals like hyaluronic acid to calm the area. Skip the makeup and allow your skin to recover until redness and tenderness subside.
In the weeks after your chemical peel treatment, protect your face from sun exposure and keep your skin hydrated with a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer. Flaking and peeling are common, but it’s important to keep your hands off your skin as it recovers.
How long does the healing process take?
Superficial enzyme peels are often incredibly gentle, causing minimal redness for a few hours or a couple of days. As the intensity increases, you can expect a longer recovery time after your chemical peel. Medium peels may cause redness, swelling, and peeling for up to two weeks.
Related: How Long Does a Lash Lift Last?
Experience our Signature Peel at Stormie Skin & Wellness!
Ready to create your own before-and-after chemical peel transformation? The skincare specialists at Stormie Skin & Wellness are here to help. Book a consultation today to get started!