9 Insightful Tips for a Radiant Chemical Peel and Aftercare

Getting a chemical peel for the first time can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. It’s normal to feel some uncertainty– especially if you’ve never had one before. However, you can rest assured they offer a safe and effective solution to target some of your most stubborn skin concerns. 

At Buckner Vein & Aesthetics, we are a leading med spa in Eldersburg, Maryland that offers chemical peels and a range of other treatments so you can look and feel more confident in your skin. In this article, you’ll learn what to expect from a chemical peel treatment so you can feel more comfortable before your next appointment. 

1. Picking the Right Chemical Peel Option Is Important

Before your treatment, it’s important to understand there are several different types of chemical peel depths. These include light or superficial, medium, and deep. Depending on your unique treatment concerns will determine which depth may be right for you. 

 

For example, light chemical peels are ideal for a patient looking to improve mild concerns with minimal recovery time required. Meanwhile, patients with more moderate to severe concerns may consider a medium or deep, which requires more downtime but provides more significant improvements. 

2. Slight Burning or Tingling Is Normal During Treatment

Regardless of the type of chemical peel depth you receive, you should expect to experience some slight burning or tingling during your treatment. This is because chemical peels involve applying a chemical solution onto your skin to essentially exfoliate the skin and promote cell turnover so you can achieve improvements to your skin’s appearance. It’s important to understand that this tingling sensation is temporary and most patients have no problem tolerating this sensation. 

3. Mild Chemical Peel Side Effects Are Common Yet Short-Term

Chemical peel side effects such as skin redness, dryness, irritation, and peeling are all to be expected post-treatment. Although side effects are common, these side effects are a natural part of the healing process and will subside within 1-2 weeks after treatment.  

4. Recovery Times Vary By Peel Depth and Patient

Next, depending on the depth you receive and how your skin reacts to the treatment will impact how long your recovery time will be. Below is an approximate breakdown of how long you can expect your recovery time to last:

 

• Light Chemical Peel: 1 week recovery time
• Medium Chemical Peel: 1-2 weeks recovery time
• Deep Chemical Peel: 2-3 weeks recovery time

 

5. Avoid Makeup 1-2 Weeks Post-Treatment

Prioritizing  aftercare is key to speeding up your recovery process and giving you the best possible results. Don’t apply any makeup to your skin for about 1-2 weeks after your treatment. Your makeup products may contain certain ingredients that can irritate your skin and interfere with your skin’s natural healing process. Not to mention, applying used/unclean makeup brushes, sponges, and products to your skin increases your risk of unwanted complications. 

6. Don’t Pick At Your Skin 

There’s a reason why this treatment is called a “chemical peel”. Your skin will generally start to peel within the first few days after your treatment. While it can be tempting to want to pick and peel at your skin– don’t do it! Picking your skin prematurely can slow down your healing process and potentially lead to complications by spreading unwanted bacteria onto your skin. 

7. Don’t Exfoliate At Least 1 Week Post-Treatment

Skip out on exfoliating your face for at least 1 week after your treatment as your skin will be extra sensitive and will need time to naturally heal to produce smoother, clearer skin results. 

8. Apply Sunscreen and Moisturize Frequently 

It’s important to slather up on sunscreen and moisturize your skin frequently after your treatment. Your skin will be very sensitive to direct sunlight; therefore, remember to apply sunscreen with a SPF of 30 or greater to protect your skin. Plus, regularly applying moisturizer to your skin is not only soothing but will help keep your skin healthy and hydrated to support your skin’s natural healing process. 

 

9. Limit Time Outdoors and Avoid Hot Conditions

Finally, limit your time outdoors and avoid any hot conditions, such as taking a hot shower or bath. Your skin is going to be very sensitive in the weeks following your treatment. Therefore, it’s critical you protect your skin and limit any direct sunlight or hot conditions that can interfere with your skin’s healing process. 

 

Schedule a Consultation Today

Now you know more of what to expect from a chemical peel treatment. If you are looking to achieve a smoother, clearer, healthier-looking complexion, chemical peels may be right for you. Contact us to schedule a consultation today!