How Long Does the Peeling Process Take After a Chemical Peel?
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A chemical peel is a popular skin rejuvenation treatment that uses a special blend of acids to remove the top layers of skin, improving the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, acne scars, and other skin imperfections.
After receiving a chemical peel, the peeling process can take several days or weeks, depending on the depth and type of peel used. The good news is that the redness and flaking are temporary and can be alleviated with proper skin care.
Below, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe reviews the three levels of peels we offer and how long to expect peeling after each treatment. Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery also provides tips on caring for your skin after a chemical peel in Dallas, TX.
Light chemical peels
Light chemical peels penetrate the top layer of skin to address mild blemishes and uneven skin tone. Commonly referred to as “lunchtime peels,” this treatment can be performed once a month since there is very little downtime involved. You may experience redness and peeling for a few days as the dead skin cells flake off, but you should not feel any pain or discomfort.
Medium chemical peels
Medium-depth peels produce more dramatic results because they penetrate further into the skin. Patients with wrinkles or pigmentation problems may benefit from this treatment. Many people undergo a medium peel over an extended weekend to allow for the peeling process, which can take up to one week. Moderate flaking, redness, and swelling are expected, and you may need to prepare for some discomfort for one hour after your appointment.
Deep chemical peels
Deep chemical peels are considered aggressive but can produce impressive skin rejuvenation results. They are generally recommended for sun-damaged skin and prominent acne scars. Because the acid penetrates much deeper, our team will provide an anesthetic as a part of the process. This chemical peel in Dallas, TX could leave your face red and swollen for several weeks, and you may experience some discomfort during recovery.
How to care for your skin after a chemical peel
Regardless of the type of chemical peel involved, it is essential to follow our post-treatment instructions to reduce your risk of complications and ensure gorgeous results. Here are some helpful tips from Dr. Dauwe:
- Keep your skin clean and moisturized: Cleanse twice daily using gentle products and avoid scrubbing or exfoliating your skin.
- Drink plenty of water: Proper hydration is key for overall skin health.
- Use sunscreen: Sun exposure can cause discoloration or scarring, so use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher any time you are outside.
What to avoid after a chemical peel
Because your skin will be sensitive after a chemical peel, avoid anything that could cause further irritation or redness. These include tanning beds, waxing treatments, hot showers or baths, chlorinated pools, and direct exposure to UV rays. We understand it is tempting to pick at your skin, but it is best to let it flake away naturally. You can expect smoother, more refreshed skin once all side effects have subsided.
Chemical peels for skin rejuvenation
Whether you have a light, medium, or deep chemical peel in Dallas, TX, Phillip Dauwe, M.D. Plastic Surgery strives to provide the highest level of care. Call board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Dauwe to learn more or to schedule your consultation. We know what it takes to produce beautiful, natural-looking results while keeping your safety and comfort in mind.