What Are the Dos and Don'ts Before a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are a popular cosmetic procedure that use chemical solutions to remove dead skin cells, promote skin regeneration, and improve skin texture and appearance. At Devlin Cosmetic Surgery, serving Little Rock, AR, Conway, AR, and Hot Springs, AR, we offer light, medium, and deep peels to meet each patient’s needs.
No matter which type of chemical peel you undergo, it is important to properly prepare for the procedure. In this blog post, we discuss the dos and don’ts before a chemical peel.
Tips to Follow Before Your Chemical Peel
Before getting a chemical peel, there are some things you should do to prepare your skin and maximize the benefits of the treatment. Here are some tips to follow before your chemical peel procedure.
Consult With a Skincare Professional
Before getting a chemical peel, consult with our team to determine the type of peel that is best suited for your skin type and concerns. For example, we may recommend a mid to deep peel with a 35 percent TCA (trichloroacetic acid). This peel will result in more obvious side effects and a longer recovery time, but it may be more likely to produce the results you desire.
Stop Using Retinol and Other Exfoliants
Avoid using retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliants at least 48 hours before your chemical peel to avoid over-exfoliation.
Moisturize Your Skin
Use a gentle, non-irritating moisturizer to keep your skin hydrated and plump in the days before your peel.
Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays, even if you don’t plan to spend a lot of time outdoors.
Take Care of Any Open Wounds or Infections
If you have any open wounds, infections, or cold sores, inform us before your chemical peel. We may need to reschedule your treatment until the condition has healed.
What to Avoid Before Your Chemical Peel
Don't Shave or Wax Your Skin
Avoid shaving or waxing the area to be treated for at least 24 hours before your chemical peel.
Don't Use Tanning Beds or Self-Tanners
Avoid using tanning beds or self-tanners for at least two weeks before your chemical peel.
Don't Pick at Your Skin
Refrain from picking, scratching, or otherwise irritating your skin before your chemical peel.
Don't Use Harsh or Abrasive Skincare Products
Avoid using harsh or abrasive skincare products, such as scrubs or toners, for at least 48 hours before your chemical peel.
Don't Apply Makeup or Other Products to Your Skin
On the day of your chemical peel, avoid applying any makeup, lotion, or other products to your skin.
Contact Our Practice
A professional skin care team has the training and experience necessary to perform your treatment safely and effectively. We can monitor your skin during the treatment and adjust the duration of the peel if needed to avoid any adverse reactions, and provide instructions for post-treatment care to ensure that your skin heals properly so you get the best possible results. To schedule a consultation, contact Devlin Cosmetic Surgery today. Call us at (501) 227-8811 or send us a message online.