Chemical peels are a great way to refresh and rejuvenate your appearance. But, if you’ve never had one before, you may have some questions about what to do before and after your peel. One of the most common questions we get is, “Can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?”
We’ve got your answer below!
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is an exfoliating treatment for the face that uses a solution containing acids or alcohol to remove dead skin cells from the surface of the skin. The goal of this procedure is to give the skin a smoother texture and a brighter complexion by removing the top layers of the skin. It’s also used as a preventative measure against future signs of aging such as sun damage, fine lines, wrinkles and hyperpigmentation (dark spots).
How Does it Work?
The acid or alcohol in the solution penetrates the outermost layer of the skin, where it dissolves the upper layers of the epidermis (outer layer), causing them to slough off. This process takes anywhere from 10 to 20 minutes depending on how deep you want the peel to go. During this time, the area will be slightly red and swollen. After the acid has been applied, the skin will feel tight and dry. You can expect to see results within two weeks.
What Can Chemical Peels Treat?
Chemical peels can treat many different conditions, including:
- Acne
- Fine lines and wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation
- Rosacea
- Sun damage
- Stretchmarks
- Uneven skin tone
How Long Do the Results of a Chemical Peel Last?
After a chemical peel, your skin will look much more even-toned with fewer visible pores and blemishes. Depending on what kind of peel you get, results can last several weeks to a few months. Results of superficial peels can last several weeks, while deep chemical peels may yield results that last several months.
Is There Any Risk Involved With a Chemical Peel?
There is always risk involved when performing any type of cosmetic surgery. We always recommend consulting with our plastic surgeon before having any procedure done. If you’re considering a chemical peel, talk to us about your skin goals and what type of chemical peel is right for you.
Is It Safe?
Yes! A chemical peel is safe for all skin types. There are no known side effects associated with this type of facial treatment. However, there are certain precautions that should be taken when having a chemical peel performed. These include:
- Avoiding direct sunlight exposure for at least two weeks following the procedure.
- Avoiding retinols (Vitamin A derivatives), beta hydroxy acids, alpha hydroxy acids, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, sulfur and other similar products for at least four weeks prior to and after the procedure.
- Avoiding any over-the-counter acne treatments for at least two weeks prior to and after your procedure.
- Using sunscreen every day after your chemical peel to protect your new skin.
Can You Wear Makeup After a Chemical Peel?
Many people wear makeup as part of their regular routines, but what about after a chemical peel? Yes, you can wear makeup after a chemical peel. In fact, many women choose to wear makeup immediately after their peel because they don’t want to wait until their skin heals completely. However, we recommend that you wait at least 48 to 72 hours after your peel to apply makeup.
Why wait to apply makeup after a chemical peel? We recommend waiting because your skin will still be tender and sensitive for a few days after your peel. It needs time to heal after your procedure.
Also, new skin revealed by the peel is susceptible to irritation, and makeup could clog your pores.
Note, if you do choose to wear makeup after your peel, you may find it flakes or peels off because your topmost layer of skin is peeling away.
How Often Can You Get a Chemical Peel?
How often you can get a chemical peel depends on the strength of the peel you choose. If you’re getting a light peel, every six weeks is fine. For a moderate peel, you may need to schedule treatment every few months. Very strong peels require less frequent maintenance.
Can Chemical Peels Be Combined With Other Treatments?
Chemical peels can be combined with other procedures to achieve more dramatic results. For example, a chemical peel can be done along with a microdermabrasion session to enhance the results. Or, a chemical peel can help prepare your skin for laser resurfacing.
Dermaplaning and chemical peels also make a great combination. Dermaplaning is a skin care procedure that removes dead cells and debris from the surface of the skin while leaving the natural oils intact. Dermal peels remove superficial layers of the epidermal skin and stimulate new cell growth. By combining these two procedures, you can have both an exfoliation and a rejuvenation effect.
Other Skin-Rejuvenation Treatments
We offer a wide range of skin rejuvenation treatments, including chemical peels, microdermabrasion, laser skin resurfacing and injectables including dermal fillers and endotoxin treatments. Call us now to schedule your skin consolation.
