How to Prep for a Chemical Peel in 5 Easy Steps

A chemical peel is one of the fastest, most effective ways to enhance your skin texture. Treatments are personalized to your needs, skin type, and complexion. Our experts have performed hundreds of chemical peels and are always eager to help more clients rejuvenate their skin in our relaxing office.

Read on to discover how to prep your skin for a chemical peel! These tips can help enhance your results and minimize the risk of side effects.

1. Don’t Exfoliate Before Treatment

Avoid exfoliating at least one week before your appointment. Chemical peels are intensely exfoliating themselves, so you do not need to treat your skin beforehand. Over-exfoliating strips your natural skin barrier, leaving your skin more sensitive and vulnerable to irritation.

2. Hydrate!

In addition to drinking enough water, you should apply hydration products to your skin to ensure it’s well-hydrated before treatment. Hydration ensures maximum skin health, which reduces sensitivity and irritation from treatment. It can also accelerate the natural healing process after your peel, leading to even more beautiful results.

3. Avoid Retinoids, Retinols, and Products That Contain Acids

Except for hyaluronic acid, you should not apply any topicals containing acids such as salicylic acid, alpha hydroxy acid, or glycolic acid. Retinols, retinoids, and tretinoin (Retin-A) should also be avoided at least 5 days before treatment.

There are two reasons for this. First, these products can be harsh on your skin and make it more sensitive to the peel. Second, depending on the type of peel you are having, these ingredients could cause adverse reactions.

4. Use a Gentle Cleanser

Ask your aesthetician what products they recommend to prepare for a peel. The right cleanser will remove dirt from your pores without stripping away too much natural oil or disrupting your skin’s pH balance.

5. Do Not Tweeze, Shave, or Wax Your Skin

You should avoid shaving, waxing, or tweezing for at least 24 hours before your appointment. It’s best to avoid having any openings on the skin that could cause the peel to irritate the pores or hair follicles.

Get a Chemical Peel Built for Your Skin Only

We believe that treatment should always be personal. We formulate each client’s chemical peel to suit their skin and needs. Please call the AesthetiSpa at 843-849-9925 with any questions. You can schedule an appointment online when you’re ready to visit our spa in Mount Pleasant, SC.