At the practice of Dr. Jack Peterson, we receive many questions about how to use makeup after a chemical peel. We respect your desire to enhance your skin’s renewed appearance, and we want to demystify the process to help you maintain your revitalized skin healthily and safely.
Chemical peels are powerful procedures we perform at our practice, which involve the use of a chemical solution to exfoliate and rejuvenate the skin. However, the process also means your skin will be extremely sensitive afterward. How you treat it post-procedure can make a huge difference in your results. But fear not, you can indeed wear makeup after a chemical peel, albeit with some precautions. This guide is designed to guide you through the process of safely using makeup following a chemical peel.
The Healing Phase After a Chemical Peel
Your skin undergoes a healing process after each chemical peel, which typically takes one to two weeks. By following Dr. Jack Peterson’s instructions, which often involve using delicate skin products and avoiding sunlight, you can help your skin recover and reveal a glowing, youthful complexion.
Stages of Healing
- Day 1-2: Impact phase – your skin may appear red and feel tight.
- Day 3-5: Peeling phase – the top layer of your skin will start to peel off, revealing the fresh skin underneath.
- Day 6-14: Recovery phase – your new skin will be sensitive; however, the redness will reduce, and your glow will start to show.
When Can I Start Using Makeup After a Chemical Peel?
Before reintroducing makeup into your skincare routine, it’s crucial to allow the skin to heal entirely. Applying makeup too soon can irritate your sensitive skin and potentially lead to an infection.
You can generally start wearing non-irritating and hypoallergenic makeup products 72 hours after your chemical peel. However, if your skin continues to be sensitive or flake during this time, we recommend waiting until these symptoms subside. Always refer back to Dr. Jack Peterson’s individualized post-procedure instructions.
Precautions When Using Makeup After a Chemical Peel
When it comes to wearing makeup post-peel, it’s all about the gentlest, most skin-friendly products.
Choose Hypoallergenic, Non-comedogenic Products
After a chemical peel, your skin will be more sensitive and reactive than usual. So it’s crucial that the makeup products you use are hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores), reducing the chance of causing irritation or acne.
Focus on Hydration
Look for makeup products that focus on hydrating your skin. The best are those that provide a boost of hydration to help minimize dryness and flakiness—common side effects of chemical peels.
Use Sunscreen
Again, your skin is incredibly sensitive after a chemical peel and more vulnerable to the sun. Makeup with built-in SPF can provide an added layer of protection.
Cleanse Gently
Cleansing your skin properly is just as vital as the makeup you put on it. Be sure to cleanse gently, using your fingers instead of a scrub or brush to avoid irritation.
In the end, remember that while makeup can enhance your appearance, nothing beats the natural, healthy glow of well cared-for skin. Stick closely to Dr. Jack Peterson’s after-care instructions and treat your skin gently in the weeks following a chemical peel. You’ll be left with smooth, radiant skin that barely needs any makeup at all.
