If you’re considering a chemical peel, you probably have questions about the recovery process. One of the most common concerns for patients is when it’s safe to go outside and resume their regular activities.
This post will explore what you can expect after your chemical peel treatment at CC Skin Clinic and provide helpful tips for a smooth recovery.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a cosmetic treatment that uses a solution to exfoliate the skin, revealing a smoother, brighter complexion. The fresh, new skin exposed by the chemical peel is susceptible to the sun’s damaging rays for a few weeks after treatment. There are three main types of chemical peels:
- Light chemical peel: Light or superficial peels target the outermost layer of skin with minimal peeling.
- Medium chemical peel: Medium peels penetrate the middle layer of skin to address mild to moderate skin imperfections.
- Deep chemical peel: Deep peels resurface the entire middle layer of skin (dermis) to address moderate to severe scarring, signs of aging, and other skin concerns.
Areas of Treatment
Chemical peels are most commonly used on the face, specifically the cheeks and forehead areas, but they can also be used to treat sun-damaged or aging skin on the hands and chest. At your consultation with our team, we will assess your skin and discuss your aesthetic goals to create a customized treatment plan.
What Can a Chemical Peel Treat?
A chemical peel is an effective solution for a variety of skin concerns, including:
- Acne and acne scars
- Age spots and sun damage
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Uneven skin tone and texture
- Melasma and hyperpigmentation
What’s in a Chemical Peel?
The ingredients in a chemical solution vary depending on the strength of the peel and the specific concerns being addressed. However, most chemical peels contain one or more of the following exfoliating agents:
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), such as glycolic acid and lactic acid, which are derived from fruits and milk
- Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs), such as salicylic acid, which are oil-soluble and can penetrate deep into the pores
- Trichloroacetic acid (TCA), which is a medium-strength peel that can address wrinkles and scars
In addition to these exfoliating agents, chemical peels may contain other ingredients such as antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and skin brighteners to enhance your results further.
Preparing for a Chemical Peel Treatment
Before receiving a chemical peel in Charleston, SC, it is important to protect your skin and keep it healthy. Since chemical peels, especially deeper chemical peels, intensely exfoliate the skin, exfoliating skin care products like salicylic acid, glycolic acid, and retinoids should be avoided for one week before treatment. We also recommend that you stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun to avoid sun burns.
Chemical Peel Recovery Process
While chemical peels are generally safe and effective, following your provider’s post-treatment instructions is essential.
Here are some general tips for recovery after a chemical peel:
- Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2 weeks after your treatment. This means staying indoors or wearing a wide-brimmed hat and broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher if you must go outside.
- Avoid sweating or strenuous exercise for at least 24 hours after your treatment.
- Don’t pick or scratch at any flaking or peeling skin, as this can lead to scarring or infection.
- Follow your provider’s instructions regarding cleaning and hydrating your skin after treatment.
How Long After a Chemical Peel Can You Go Outside?
The answer to this question depends on the strength of your peel and how your skin responds to treatment. Going outside within a few days of your treatment is generally safe as long as you protect your treated skin from the sun and avoid sweating or exertion. However, if you experience significant redness or peeling after deeper peels, it’s best to wait until your skin has fully healed before venturing outdoors.
You can help maintain your results by following a good skincare regimen and using daily sun protection.
Chemical Peel Results
Once the initial healing process is complete, you should notice a visible improvement in the texture and tone of your complexion. Your skin should look smoother, brighter, and more youthful for several weeks after your treatment. Deep chemical peels only require one procedure to achieve long-lasting results but superficial peels can be received every few weeks to maintain the results.
Request a Consultation
If you’re interested in speaking about a chemical peel with one of the experienced nurse aestheticians at CC Skin Clinic, call our Charleston, SC, office at (843) 350-6467 or request a consultation using our online form.
Chemical Peel FAQs
- Who is a candidate for a deep peel?
- Patients with sensitive skin, eczema or psoriasis, or a history of scarring should not receive a deep chemical peel. At your consultation with our expert team, we will examine your skin to determine whether a deep peel or lighter peel is the best choice for you.
- Can a chemical peel treat my acne scarring?
- Yes! Medium or deep chemical peels are especially effective for treating acne scars. The peel will strip away the damaged tissues, revealing a new layer of smooth skin with a more even complexion.
- Are superficial peels worth it?
- Superficial peels are a great option for patients seeking a quick weekend skin rejuvenation with minimal downtime and recovery. If you have superficial wrinkles, skin discoloration, or uneven skin texture, you could benefit from a superficial peel.
