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Fine lines and wrinkles, uneven skin texture, and acne scars can all be treated with a chemical peel. If you’re considering your options for skincare treatments with Dr. Ellen, then it can be helpful to know what to expect. After your chemical peel, you’ll need to follow some specific aftercare steps for best results, so here’s what to know about your aftercare process.
Easy Does It
Depending on the sensitivity of your skin — and the depth of your peel — you can expect some tingling, itching, dryness, redness, and mild flaking. But, by treating your skin properly after your procedure, you can minimize your symptoms and visible side effects. Make sure to use mild, unscented products on your skin to avoid irritation, and don’t exfoliate or use active ingredients until Dr. Ellen instructs otherwise. Your skin will be in an especially sensitive state after treatment, so being gentle with your skin is a must.
The Sun Is Not Your Friend
While you should be applying an SPF of 30 or more every day, it’s especially important after a chemical peel. This is because your skin will be especially photosensitive and prone to hyperpigmentation, which can negatively affect your results.
Stay Cool
Since your skin will be more sensitized after a peel, take care to wash your face with cool water and a gentle, sulfate-free cleanser. This can help soothe irritation without causing dryness. Also, you should avoid sweating, aerobic exercise, and swimming in chlorinated water on the day of your peel — and possibly in the days after. Hot showers and steam rooms should also be avoided since these can dry out your natural moisture barriers.
Drench and Quench
This is not the time to use your prescription tretinoin or physical exfoliants like sonic brushes or exfoliating masks – even if your skin becomes flaky after your treatment. Instead, concentrate on maintaining your skin’s barrier by moisturizing at least twice per day. Dr. Ellen can recommend a specific moisturizer or ointment if necessary. Generally, a cream rich in ceramides and hyaluronic acid will nurture and protect your skin. And of course, you should also make sure you’re drinking enough water.
Hands Off
Though flaky, peeling skin isn’t the aesthetic you’re going for, it’s part of the peeling process. (In fact, that’s the whole purpose of a chemical peel — to clear the damaged surface layers of skin and reveal new, healthy-looking skin cells.) A few days of awkwardness is worth it for the results of a professional chemical peel. Don’t pick at your skin. Though it’s tempting, dirt and bacteria from your hands can lead to irritation or even infection.
Schedule a Consultation
Chemical peels are a great way to transform your skin with a customized treatment package. To meet with our skincare team and learn more about achieving your best skin yet, we invite you to contact our Birmingham office by calling or filling out our online form.
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