Chemical Peel: Before and After Care

Three Days Before

• Avoid exfoliating agents like Retin-A, alpha or beta hydroxy acids, toners or any harsh creams, abrasives or acids on the treatment area.
• Discontinue electrolysis, waxing, threading, tweezing, plucking and chemical epilation in the treatment area.
• If you are prone to cold sores, notify the physician, who will prescribe a course of antiviral prophylactic treatment.

• Arrive at your appointment with a clean, makeup free face. Otherwise, makeup wipes will be provided.

Chemical Peel Aftercare

• Avoid water on the face for five hours following treatment.
• After this timeframe, showering and cleansing the skin are allowed. A gentle cleanser should be used on the treatment area. Apply it to the fingertips with tepid water and use gentle, circular motions on the skin.
• Refrain from use of Retin-A, retinoids or any other similar Vitamin-A infused topical skincare products. Avoid salicylic acid, bleaching creams, abrasive scrubs or harsh ingredients.
• Apply a healing and soothing moisturizer for the duration of the peeling process.
• Do not pick or scrub peeling skin, which could run the risk of causing pigment irregularities or scarring of the skin.
• Avoid exercise or strenuous activity, as well as hot tubs and saunas until the peeling process starts or if the skin is irritated.
• It’s best not to wear makeup. Mineral makeup (non oil, no talc, doesn’t clog pores) is recommended, if necessary.
• Refrain from tanning or prolonged sun exposure for two weeks after the procedure. Apply sunscreen  to the treatment area for up to two weeks to avoid incidental sun exposure.

• Comfort Measures
  • Ibuprofen, acetaminophen or Aleve are indicated for swelling or discomfort
  • Antihistamines, like Benadryl and Zyrtec, may be used for minor itching
  • Cold packs or ice can relieve minor discomfort and reduce swelling. Ice for a maximum of 20 minutes per hour.

Post-Treatment Expectations

• You may return to normal activity immediately following your procedure.
• Most side effects from the treatment should not be cause for alarm. Symptoms are usually minor and should subside in time, as a normal part of the healing process. They may be alleviated with simple over-the-counter measures, as described above.
• Immediately following treatment, your skin may appear flushed or red and feel slightly sensitive, which usually subsides within several hours to two days.
• The peeling or flaking process usually begins 2-3 days following treatment and will last anywhere from 3-7 days.
• If you are concerned about any aspect of your post-treatment recovery, please call Smooth Synergy at 212-397-0111.

Chemical Peel Results

• A chemical peel will immediately remove the superficial layer of dead skin cells, leaving you with instantly healthier and more radiant looking skin.
• However, your skin will continue to improve and look better in 10 days than it does immediately following the treatment.
• If you’re targeting a specific concern like hyperpigmentation or acne scarring, we recommend scheduling your next appointment for a chemical peel in a month to reach your skincare goals. For general skin turnover and general anti-aging, we recommend scheduling an appointment in 2-3 months to maintain results. Speak with your esthetician about an appropriate maintenance schedule for you.