DermNurse Medical Aesthetics

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Pre-Care and Aftercare for Chemical Peels

Chemical Peels: How They Work

Chemical peels use concentrated solutions of acids to exfoliate the skin and promote regeneration. Common acids include:

  • Glycolic Acid
  • Lactic Acid
  • Citric Acid
  • Malic Acid
  • Tartaric Acid
  • Salicylic Acid
  • Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA)
  • Phenol
  • Retinoic Acid (Vitamin A Acid)
  • Jessner’s Solution (lactic acid, salicylic acid, and resorcinol)
  • Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C)

Benefits:

  • Improves texture and tone
  • Reduces imperfections (scars, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation)
  • Stimulates collagen production

Types of Peels:

  • Superficial: Targets the outer layer of skin.
  • Medium: Reaches deeper layers.
  • Deep: Penetrates the dermis.

Pre-Care Instructions

  1. Avoid exfoliants: Stop retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and other active ingredients 5-7 days prior.
  2. Limit sun exposure: Avoid tanning, prolonged sun exposure, and self-tanners for 1-2 weeks.
  3. No hair removal: Refrain from waxing, threading, or depilatory creams for 1 week.
  4. Hydrate: Drink water and moisturize daily.
  5. Arrive with clean skin: No makeup, lotions, or sunscreen.
  6. Disclose medical history: Inform your provider of any medications, allergies, or procedures.
  7. Avoid recent treatments: Skip microneedling, laser, or peels for at least 2 weeks.
  8. Stop Accutane: Discontinue isotretinoin 6 months prior unless advised otherwise.
  9. Consult your provider: Mention any photosensitizing medications (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline).

Post-Care Instructions

  1. Avoid water/steam: For self-neutralizing peels, avoid water/steam on treated areas for 8 hours.
  2. Protect from sun: Wear SPF 30+ daily and avoid direct sun for 1-2 weeks.
  3. No exfoliants: Skip retinoids, acids, or scrubs until peeling stops (7-10 days).
  4. Don’t pick: Avoid peeling or rubbing flaking skin to prevent scarring.
  5. Hydrate: Use a gentle moisturizer as recommended.
  6. Avoid heat & sweat: Skip hot showers, saunas, and exercise for 48 hours.
  7. No makeup: Refrain from makeup for at least 24 hours.
  8. Cleanse gently: Use a mild, non-irritating cleanser.
  9. Skip treatments: Avoid injectables, lasers, or abrasive procedures for 2-3 weeks.

What to Expect

Immediately After:

  • Redness: Mild redness similar to a sunburn.
  • Warmth/Tingling: A burning sensation that subsides within an hour.
  • Dryness: Tight and dry skin.

Next Few Days:

  • Peeling/Flaking: Starts 2-3 days post-treatment and lasts up to 7 days.
  • Sensitivity: Skin is more sensitive to touch, products, and the sun.

1-2 Weeks:

  • Improved Texture: Smoother, more even skin.
  • Continued Peeling: Patches of peeling may last up to a week.

Long-Term:

  • Bright, Radiant Skin: Renewed glow with improved tone and texture.

Signs of Infection

  • Persistent redness or swelling beyond 72 hours.
  • Pus or yellow/green discharge.
  • Increased pain or tenderness.
  • Fever or chills.
  • Red streaks from the treatment area.

Burn:

  • Severe redness lasting hours.
  • Blisters or open sores.
  • Excessive pain or stinging.
  • Deep peeling or sloughing.
  • Intense swelling or heat sensation.

Tip: Always follow pre- and post-care instructions to minimize risks and maximize results.

Experience smoother, healthier skin with a chemical peel. Book your session today!

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