We all know that chemical peels are one of the most popular skin treatments. They’re great for removing years from your face and giving you a youthful appearance. But many people don’t realize how long it takes for these procedures to heal- which can make them less desirable in some situations! Luckily we’ve got tips on speeding up healing time, so everyone has access to this amazing treatment option.
The chemical peel healing process can be broken down into three main phases: the initial, intermediate, and final.
The initial phase
The initial phase begins immediately after the peel is applied and lasts about 3-5 days. You can expect your skin to look and feel sunburned during this time. It will also be dry, itchy, and peeling. These are all normal side effects of a chemical peel and are nothing to be concerned about. They’re a good sign that the peel is working!
The intermediate phase
The intermediate phase lasts about 2 weeks and is when most of the peeling will occur. Your skin will still look and feel sunburned during this time, but the peeling will be more pronounced. You may also notice some redness and swelling during this phase. Again, these are all normal side effects of a chemical peel and should subside within 2 weeks.
The final phase
The final phase is when your skin will start to look and feel more like its pre-peel self. The redness and swelling will have subsided, and the peeling will have stopped. Your skin may still be slightly dry and sensitive during this time, but it will continue to improve with each passing day.
So, now that you know the basics of the chemical peel healing process let’s talk about how to speed things up! One of the best ways to speed up the healing process after a chemical peel is to use a gentle, non-abrasive cleanser twice daily. Avoid using harsh soaps or scrubs during this time, as they can irritate the skin and slow down the healing process. Instead, opt for a mild, hydrating cleanser to help soothe and protect the skin.
It’s also important to keep your skin hydrated during the healing process. Drink plenty of water and apply a moisturizer regularly. This will help to prevent dryness and irritation. If your skin is particularly dry or irritated, you can use a hyaluronic acid serum to help lock in moisture and promote healing.
Finally, make sure to wear sunscreen every day during the healing process. Chemical peels can make the skin more sensitive to the sun, so protecting it from further damage is important. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it every 2 hours (or more often if you’re sweating or swimming).
Following these simple tips can help speed up the healing process after your chemical peel and get back to your normal routine in no time!
