WizOzKansas - Aftercare for your peel

The information below includes a review of the basics about chemical peels and some tips for care of your skin following your peel.

How does it work?

A chemical peel is a controlled burn. "Very light" and "light" chemical peels do not penetrate the skin deeply (to the dermis) and can also be thought of as a "refreshening peel" or similar to exfoliation. As the chemicals penetrate your skin they cause controlled damage that your body then heals. During the heeling process you may shed or peel a layer of skin that looks similar to a sunburn peeling. The new, fresh layer of skin is softer, with less freckles, and fine lines. Acne is improved by the removal of debris that clogs pores deeper within the pore.

Areas of skin irritation (areas that have been picked, cuts from shaving) will allow the peel to penetrate deeper and may cause a "medium" or "deep" peel.

What does it feel like?

Peeling gives the sensation of a stinging or burning. This sensation builds the longer the chemicals are on the skin. When the chemicals are neutralized there may be a slight increase in the intensity of the stinging sensation followed by a rapid cessation of all stinging and burning.

How much downtime should I expect?

Generally after a peel your skin will be pink or red for the remainder of that day. You may have prolonged redness for the next 2-7 days in certain areas or on the entire treated area. The skin may begin to darken and have a stiff feeling like a sunburn that is healing and about to peel. The skin will then begin to peel like a sunburn. Some individuals experience more peeling while others do not. The degree of peeling is dependent on the concentration of chemicals, the length of time that they are applied, and on your skin.

Generally, if is recommended that you get your first peel on a day when you do not have to go to work the next day. You will likely be fine the next day and without any redness but it is good to see how long your skin takes to recover.

You should not get peels before you go anywhere that you may get prolonged sun (the desert, the beach, skiing). It is very important that you protect peeled skin from the sun. If you chose to get a peel to even out skin pigment and then are exposed to the sun, all the benefits of the peel will be reversed.

What side effects can I expect?

Immediate redness is very common and a sign that a chemical peel is working. There is the possibility of a lightening, darkening or reddening of your skin that could last a few months or be permanent. This is very rare and in your consultation you will receive a test spot to see if a peel is safe for you.

In the heeling process of a peel, you may have some scabbing that looks like a brush burn, crusting or blisters. This is most common in areas that prior to the peel had any irritation. Individuals who have a tendency to pick at their skin excessively are not good candidates for a peel. Any picking at crusts, scabs or possible blisters caused by a peel can cause permanent scarring.

Sun sensitivity may be a result of a peel. It is recommend that you stay out of the sun and use sunscreen SPF 30 or higher before and after a peel. It is recommended that in general, you protect your skin from the sun with sunscreen. It is also recommended that you reapply sunscreen every 2 hours with prolonged sun exposure.

What to expect post-procedure?

Swelling and crusting of the skin may occur. You may use an antibiotic ointment to apply to your skin for seven to 10 days following the peel to keep it supple and to help in healing. Depending upon your peel and skin type, the skin might crack.  Use your antibacterial ointment or allow it to dry, crack and fall away naturally. 

What should I do if I develop small blisters or other red spots?

Small closed blisters contain protective chemicals, serve as a dressing and reduce pain.

Pain Medicine: For pain, apply cold compresses and take acetaminophen or ibuprofen for a few days.

Cleansing: Rinse the area gently with cool water.  Avoid soap.

Blisters: Don't open any small closed blisters - the outer skin protects the burn from infection.

Antibiotic Ointment: For open burns, apply an antibiotic ointment (over-the-counter).

Expected Course: It will probably hurt for 2 days and peel like a sunburn in about a week. Fortunately, first- and second-degree burns don't leave scars.

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Seller makes no cosmetic or medical claims about this product and assumes no responsibility for skin damage or any other health problem which may result from proper or improper use.  Use this product at your own risk. Keep out of eyes and out of reach of children. Use only as directed.