Chemical Peels: What to Expect Before, During, and After Treatment
Wondering about chemical peels and what to expect from this transformative skincare treatment? At The Med Spa in Fort Myers, FL, we know that taking the leap to try a chemical peel can be both exciting and a little nerve-wracking, especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry—understanding the basics of chemical peels and what to expect before, during, and after treatment can make all the difference!
Let’s dive into what chemical peels entail, how to prepare, and how you can incorporate this treatment into your beauty routine for optimal skin health.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a medical grade facial for men and women that involves applying a specially formulated solution to the skin, promoting exfoliation and revealing fresh, new layers underneath. Chemical peels can address issues like acne scars, uneven skin tone, fine lines, and hyperpigmentation. There are different types of peels—light, medium, and deep—each offering varying levels of exfoliation and results.
The magic of a chemical peel lies in its ingredients, often using glycolic, lactic, or salicylic acids to safely remove dead skin cells and reveal smoother, more radiant skin. This treatment stimulates the skin’s natural healing process, making it a powerful tool for achieving that youthful glow we all crave!
Chemical Peels: What to Expect from This Popular Treatment
The idea of a chemical peel can be a little intimidating, but understanding the step-by-step process can make it feel a lot more approachable. Let’s go through each stage—from prepping your skin to post-treatment care—so you know what to expect.
Before Treatment
Before your chemical peel at The Med Spa, it’s essential to follow a few pre-treatment guidelines.
Avoid Exfoliation: First and foremost, avoid using any exfoliating products or treatments (like retinoids, AHA/BHAs, or scrubs) in the week leading up to your appointment. This helps prevent skin irritation and prepares your skin for a more effective peel.
Use Sun Protection: Make sure to also stay out of direct sunlight as much as possible, as sunburned skin doesn’t react well to chemical peels.
Consider Your Medications: Lastly, if you’re on any medications or have certain skin conditions, consult with your provider to ensure it’s safe to proceed.
Taking these precautions helps prepare your skin and sets you up for the best possible results.
During Treatment
When you arrive for your chemical peel, your provider will begin by cleansing your skin thoroughly. This ensures that there’s no residue on your face that could interfere with the peel’s effectiveness. Then, the chemical solution is carefully applied, typically with a cotton pad or applicator.
The peel is left on for a specific duration, depending on the strength and type of peel selected. During this time, you might feel a mild tingling or warming sensation on your skin. For deeper peels, the sensation can be more intense but remains manageable. The entire treatment usually takes about 30 to 45 minutes, making it easy to squeeze into your day.
Once the peel has been on for the designated time, your provider will neutralize and remove the solution, followed by applying a soothing moisturizer and sunscreen to protect your skin. And that’s it—you're good to go!
After Treatment
After your chemical peel, your skin might feel warm, tight, or slightly tender. It’s completely normal to experience some redness and peeling in the days following treatment—this is part of the process! Think of it as your skin’s way of shedding the old to reveal the new.
To care for your skin post-treatment:
Avoid direct sun exposure and always wear SPF.
Refrain from using any harsh skincare products, such as scrubs or retinoids, until your skin has fully healed.
Moisturizing is crucial to aid the peeling process and reduce dryness, so stock up on a gentle, hydrating moisturizer.
Resist the urge to pick at any flaking skin, as this can cause irritation or even scarring.
By taking extra care of your skin, you’ll ensure that you get the best possible results.
Results of Chemical Peels: What to Expect
After a chemical peel, peeling and redness can last anywhere from a few days to a week, depending on the intensity of the peel. As the dead skin cells shed, you’ll start to notice smoother, clearer skin, often within a week.
Results from a chemical peel can vary depending on the strength of the peel and your skin type. Lighter peels may offer a fresh glow that lasts several weeks, while medium or deep peels can have more significant, longer-lasting results.
Typically, a medium peel provides noticeable skin improvement for a few months, and deeper peels can have effects lasting up to a year!
Making Chemical Peels Part of Your Beauty Routine
For long-term skin health and maintenance, consider making chemical peels a regular part of your skincare routine. However, the frequency depends on the type of peel and your skin’s tolerance.
Light peels can be done every 4 to 6 weeks.
Medium peels might be spaced out every few months.
Deep peels are typically a once-a-year treatment due to their intensity.
You should also adjust your beauty regimen after a peel to maximize its benefits. This might include more hydrating products to support healing, sunscreen to protect the skin, and serums or moisturizers that will nourish the new skin revealed by the peel.
We can discuss a customized peel schedule to maintain healthy, glowing skin all year round!
Book Your Chemical Peel in Fort Myers, FL!
Chemical peels offer an incredible opportunity to reveal healthier, more radiant skin by promoting natural cell turnover. From preparing your skin beforehand to adjusting your post-treatment routine, knowing what to expect from a chemical peel makes the experience smoother and more rewarding.
Ready to see the benefits of a chemical peel firsthand? Contact us today at The Med Spa to learn more about or peel treatments or book an appointment for your next chemical peel. We’re here to help you achieve that fresh-faced confidence!