Chemical peels are effective treatments that help to address acne, the signs of ageing, and pigmentation, through targeted chemical exfoliation. Because this chemical exfoliation is a little harsher than your usual exfoliation in skincare products, though, there is a little bit of aftercare you need to perform to keep your newly cleansed skin comfortable and free from damage. Your chemical peel is absolutely worth the week or so needed in little aftercare steps, as they are truly transformative, so let’s discover what you should you do to keep your skin glowing and protected after treatment.

Don’t pick at the treatment area

Chemical peels enact a controlled chemical exfoliation and wounding on the surface of the skin, further damaging the already damaged and dying skin cells there. These begin to take on the form of dry skin as they die that will peel and flake in areas. It’s very tempting to pick at this dry skin as it may be itchy and you just can’t help yourself, but it’s important you don’t pull at it! Leave this drying skin to peel and shed naturally. If the drying skin hasn’t naturally shed yet, it’s because the new skin beneath it is not ready to come to the surface and the body hasn’t finished cutting itself off from the damaged cells. This means the connective part of your flaking skin is technically still alive, so picking at it will sting and cause redness. You could even risk developing hyperpigmentation and pigmentation scarring if you pick at skin that isn’t ready to come off, and the oil and dirt from your fingers could cause complications for the new skin, so do try to refrain from fiddling with your peel results.

Moisturise

Your skin may be flaking, shedding, and feeling dry, but it’s still important to moisturise it. Your body will still reject this damaged skin no matter how moisturised it is, so it doesn’t have a reverse effect, but it may help to relieve any itching you might be feeling. It won’t really affect the top layer of skin, but the developing layer that is getting ready to come to the surface will appreciate a little added moisture boost.

Wear broad-spectrum sun protection

Your chemical peel forces your skin into a positive skin cell turnover, meaning that it sloughs away the damaged cells on the surface much more proactively than your body usually would. This also means that the fresh layer of skin beneath the damaged skin cells isn’t always ready to come to the surface, so it can be a little vulnerable to the environment. Being exposed to the sun can cause skin inflammation, hyperpigmentation, and burning, so it’s important you wear a broad-spectrum sun protection for at least a week after your chemical peel while your skin heals and adjusts.

Weaker facial cleansers

You can still use at-home skincare products, but it’s recommended you forego harsh cleansers with alcohol in them and steer well clear of exfoliators. A light daily cleanser that is perfume- and alcohol-free will do just fine, as its still important to wash your face, but your skin will become irritated and inflamed if you use anything more aggressive than a light facial wash.

Your chemical peel appointment

Chemical peels are a great way of treating complex skin conditions and even just reinstating a fresh glow to your complexion. If you’re considering a chemical peel in Milton Keynes, come to the professionals at R3 Aesthetics. Book your initial consultation on 07930 248 708 today!