What to Expect Before and After Chemical Peel Treatment Q&A

Following a chemical peel, your skin will undergo a healing process that involves various stages and durations depending on the depth of the peel.

After any chemical peel, your skin may appear red, tight, irritated, or swollen. It is crucial to adhere to your doctor’s instructions regarding sun protection, cleansing, moisturizing, and the application of protective ointments. Refrain from picking, rubbing, or scratching the treated skin. It may take several months for your skin color to return to normal and for you to witness the full results of the peel.

For a light chemical peel, the treated skin will be red, dry, and mildly irritated. However, these effects tend to diminish with subsequent treatments. Your doctor might apply a soothing ointment like petroleum jelly, and you can typically resume wearing makeup the next day if desired. Healing usually takes about one to seven days, during which new skin may initially appear lighter or darker than usual.

After a medium chemical peel, the treated skin will exhibit redness and swelling accompanied by a stinging sensation. Your doctor will likely apply a protective ointment and might suggest pain relief measures.

Within five to seven days, you can use cosmetics to conceal any remaining redness. As the swelling subsides, a crust may form on the treated skin, potentially leading to temporary darkening or the development of brown blotches. Complete healing typically takes around seven to 14 days, but redness might persist for several months.

Deep chemical peels involve a more intensive recovery process. Treated skin will experience severe redness, swelling, burning, and throbbing, with the possibility of eyelid swelling.

Your doctor will apply a surgical dressing and may prescribe pain medication. Soaking the treated skin and applying ointment multiple times a day for approximately two weeks will be necessary. Within two weeks, new skin will have formed, although redness can persist for an extended period.

The number of sessions required for a chemical peel varies depending on the type and desired results. Light peels usually involve 4 to 6 sessions spaced 1 to 2 months apart.

This interval allows for the renewal and turnover of skin cells, with each subsequent peel targeting new cells beneath the surface. The number of initial treatments depends on individual skin concerns. For medium peels, the results can last 2 to 4 months initially and up to 6 months or more with repeated treatments.

Deep peels, which are primarily used for medical purposes rather than cosmetic reasons, are less common. The results of a deep peel can last for decades or even a lifetime, as they are typically employed for serious health concerns. The near-permanent effects of a deep peel are attributed to its intensive nature and targeted treatment approach.

The signs of aging can manifest as early as our 30s or late 20s, prompting individuals to seek ways to maintain a youthful appearance. Chemical peels offer a viable solution for young people aiming to rejuvenate their skin or address mild scarring, wrinkles, or discoloration. Light peels are particularly suitable for this demographic due to their minimally invasive nature.

Light chemical peels can be an effective preventive measure against the onset of aging signs, helping to preserve a youthful appearance for a longer period of time.

The versatility of chemical peels makes them suitable for individuals of any age, providing a cost-effective option for skin revitalization and treatment of acne scarring. However, deeper chemical peels are generally more appropriate for older patients.

Chemical peels are available at Glo Med Spa. With the use of a chemical peel, the outer layer of skin can be removed without harming the healthy, attractive skin beneath. We are conveniently located at 9801 Anderson Mill Rd, Suite 120, Austin, TX 78750. For more information, please contact us or book an appointment online. We serve patients from Austin TX, Cedar Park TX, Volente TX, Pflugerville TX, Round Rock TX, Leander TX, Volente TX, Brushy Creek TX, and Williamson County TX.