Patient Instructions for Chemical Peels
Before your chemical peel treatment at The Skin Center, it’s important to follow specific guidelines to ensure the best possible results and a smooth treatment experience. Here’s what you need to know:
Pre-treatment Care
For more details on how to prepare for your chemical peel, download our Patient Instructions for Chemical Peels.
- Avoid Sun Exposure: Minimize sun exposure for at least two weeks prior to your treatment to prevent sunburns, which can affect your skin’s healing process and increase the risk of unnecessary skin irritation after the peel.
- Stop Using Certain Skincare Products: Discontinue the use of retinoids, exfoliating agents, and any products containing alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs), beta hydroxy acids (BHAs), or benzoyl peroxide at least one week before your appointment.
- Do Not Wax or Use Depilatory Creams: Avoid waxing, depilatory creams, or any other hair removal methods that affect the skin’s surface in the treated area for at least a week before your peel.
- Inform Your Specialist About Your Medications: Some medications can impact the peeling process. Share your current medication list with your specialist, especially if you’re taking any acne medications.
- Hydrate Your Skin: Ensure your skin is well-hydrated by using a gentle moisturizer leading up to your appointment. Well-hydrated skin can handle the peel better and recover more smoothly.
- Postpone If You Have Active Skin Issues: If you have any active skin infections, or cold sores, please call us to reschedule your appointment until after they have fully healed: 716-712-1050.
Post-Treatment Care for Your Chemical Peel
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Protect your new skin from sun damage by avoiding direct sunlight, especially in the first week post-treatment. When going outside, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.
- Resist Peeling or Picking: As your skin begins to peel, it may be tempting, but avoid picking or peeling off the flaking skin. This can increase the risk of scarring and uneven skin tone.
- Use Mild Skincare Products: Stick to gentle, non-irritating skincare products without any active ingredients like AHAs, BHAs, or retinoids until your skin has fully healed. Additionally, wait at least 24 hours after your peel before applying makeup to allow your skin to breathe and recover without any blockages.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps your skin heal and regenerate more efficiently, contributing to the overall health and appearance of your complexion.
- Skip Strenuous Activities: For the first 24 to 48 hours, avoid activities that cause excessive sweating or heat exposure, as this can irritate the treated skin.
