Deep Chemical Peel Pre/Post Instructions

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Pre- Peel Instructions

  • Purchase a bleaching agent, Elta, and a Sunblock before your procedure.  Please inform your provider of a sensitivity to petrolatum
  • Skin preconditioning is advised prior to treatment.  If this has not been discussed with you, please notify the office immediately. Use your bleaching cream and Retin A to the area to be treated for one month prior to treatment.  Stop the Retin A, glycolic and Vitamin C one week prior to your procedure.
  • You will be given a prescription for Valtrex to prevent an outbreak of cold sores.  Begin taking this medication the day before the peel.  Call the office if you have not received this prescription.
  • Cigarette smoking must be stopped at least two weeks before your peel.

Post- Peel Instructions

  • Cleansing Instructions:
    • For the first nine days, cleanse your face at least 4 times daily with a mild facial cleanser (Toleriane, Cetaphil) using lukewarm water.
    • Use your fingertips and let your face air dry.
    • DO NOT PEEL, RUB OR FORCE OFF ANY SKIN.  Picking at the skin will lead to scarring.
    • Reapply the ointment as soon as your face becomes somewhat dry.
  • Keep your face moist with Elta for the first nine days.  When using the ointment, rub a moderate amount between your hands before applying.  This will warm the ointment.  ALWAYS wash your hands well before touching your face
  • Apply sunscreen beginning on day 10.
  • Do not wear make-up while the skin is healing.
  • Male patients should avoid shaving during the healing period.  If shaving is necessary, use an electric razor, very gently and lightly.  Do not use any pre- or after- shave products until healing is complete.
  • Do not exercise or perform strenuous activities until your peel is completely healed.  Cardio-type workouts and jogging should be avoided for at least one month because increased blood flow can cause broken blood vessels in new skin.
  • Do not allow shampoo products to accumulate on dry or treated skin surfaces.  Avoid using hair spray for the first week after treatment.
  • Avoid prolonged use of constrictive items such as hats, shower caps, eyeglasses, or visors in peeled areas until the skin has healed over.
  • Elevate your head while in bed with two pillows for the first few nights after your peel to relieve discomfort and help prevent swelling.
  • Use cold compresses to your eyes for the first 24 hours, as needed.
  • Liquids or soft foods should be taken for the first few days.  Conversation should be kept to a minimum if the cheeks or lips have been treated.
  • When using the telephone, hold the receiver away from your face for 7 days.
  • Wash your hands frequently.
  • Avoid cooking, due to the heat near your face for 7 days.
  • Start applying bleaching agent twice a day starting 2 weeks post-peel.  Do not use Retin-A until advised, typically 6 weeks post-peel.
  • Absolutely no smoking for one month after peel.
  • NO DIRECT SUNLIGHT. 
  • Redness of skin will vary from person to person.  The fading back to normal color is a very individual process starting around day 10.
  • Skin may feel very dry following the procedure.
    Post-peel appointments will need made to evaluate your progress.

  If you have any questions or concerns, call The Skin Center at 1-800-429-1151

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