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Chemical peels are performed to improve the appearance of the skin of the face. During a chemical peel, a chemical solution is applied to the skin. The solution causes old skin to peel off, resulting in better-looking skin. Before a chemical peel, it might be necessary to take certain antibiotics, stop taking some medications if the doctor advices so, and take several other actions to prepare. This page is a guide on how to prepare for a chemical peel.
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Disclaimer
The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.-
Introduction
- To prepare for a chemical peel, be sure to know what to expect, what medications you need to stop or start taking and be aware that your skin will look red and flaky before starting to improve.
Step 1: What to Expect
- If you are preparing for a chemical peel, you have already chosen a specific treatment and clinic. This is quick overview on what to expect:
- You might feel stinging or burning sensations during the treatment.
- You will need protect yourself from too much sun exposure after the treatment.
- AHA (Alpha hydroxy acids) and BHA (Beta hydroxy acid) peels are made from natural ingredients and are reasonably mild compared to other peels. They typically don't require anesthesia.
- Trichloroacetic acid peels usually require several treatments. It will take a few days to recover and your skin will need extra sunblock for the next few months. You might need anesthesia.
- Retinoic acid peels are stronger and you will therefore most likely be put under some type of anesthesia. Your skin will need a few days to heal.
- Phenol peels are strong chemical peels which can cause changes in skin pigment. You will most likely be under general anesthesia. It takes several month to heal and you might need to take extra steps to protect your skin from sun for the rest of your life.
Step 2: Medications and Smoking
- Your doctor might ask you to stop taking certain medications before a chemical peel.
- You might also be asked to start taking other medications to prepare for the treatment, such as antibiotics.
- In order to prepare the skin for the chemical peel, you might be prescribed medical creams to apply to your face.
- If you smoke, you should stop before the treatment, as nicotine interferes in the healing process. Ask your doctor how advice on when and how to quit.
Step 3: Other Preparations
- You might need to take several other steps to prepare for the treatment.
- Depending on the treatment, you might not be able to drive. If so, arrange for someone to take you home afterward.
- Before your skin starts to improve, the short-term result will usually be redness and peeling of the skin. If you are not comfortable with others seeing you like this, you should schedule some time off and don't commit to social gatherings immediately after the treatment.
Conclusion
- Getting a chemical peel can have a dramatic impact on the appearance of your skin. Be sure to not only be prepared for the improved results, but also the redness and peeling immediately after the peel. Follow your doctor's instructions on medications and smoking and make sure what to expect during the treatment.
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