A chemical peel can be used to improve the appearance of the skin, remove scars, and achieve a younger-looking complexion.The outer layers of skin are stripped away by chemical peels to allow younger looking skin to grow in its place.A light peel, a medium peel and a deep peel are all used to target one of the three skin depths.A skin care regimen leading up to the day of the peel is required.It is possible to ensure a successful treatment session by knowing how to prepare for it.
Step 1: Don't use any other chemical peelings.
You should not have any other chemical peel treatments in the two weeks leading up to the peel.You should wait at least 14 days if it has been less than two weeks since your last peel.
Step 2: Microdermabrasion treatments can be avoided.
The Microdermabrasion treatment uses a gentle abrasive tool to remove the outer layer of skin.If you are planning on having a chemical peel, you should not have a microdermabrasion treatment for at least 14 days before the procedure.
Step 3: Cut out tanning booths.
Artificial UV radiation in tanning booths can cause damage to the skin.If you are going to have a chemical peel, you should avoid tanning for at least two to three weeks before the treatment.
Step 4: Don't expose yourself to the sun.
You should limit all sun exposure for at least ten days before a chemical peel, as you should not engage in tanning for two to three weeks before.If you have to be in the sun for any length of time in two to three weeks before a treatment, you should wear sunscreen and limit your time outside.When the sun's rays aren't as strong, it can be helpful to schedule your chemical peel for the fall or winter.
Step 5: You should be gentle on your skin.
If you want to get ready for a chemical peel, you need to refrain from waxing your skin or using chemical depilatory treatments for at least five to seven days.For at least one week before the treatment, you should avoid chemical injection treatments.
Step 6: Take the medication if you need it.
Some people who are preparing for a chemical peel don't need to take medication.If you have a history of infections around your mouth, your doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication for you to take before and after the treatment.Zovirax is a common medication used to prevent cold sore/herpes outbreak prior to a chemical peel.It takes between two days and one week before the treatment and up to two weeks after it.The medication is dosed five times a day.Valacyclovir is a common medication.Three times a day, it is dosed at one gram.Before and after the treatment, Valacyclovir should be taken for at least two days.
Step 7: It's a good idea to apply prescribed lotion.
Depending on the depth of chemical peel you will be undergoing, your doctor may recommend that you use a healing lotion on your skin.Light chemical peels can be done with glycolic acid lotion.It is recommended that you use this lotion for two weeks before your skin peel.It is possible to shorten the duration of your treatment with the use of a retinoid cream.Three days before the treatment, retinoid use ceases.
Step 8: A bleaching agent can be used.
Depending on your skin complexion, your doctor may recommend the use of a bleaching agent like hydroquinone in conjunction with a retinoid cream.If you use a bleaching agent before your treatment, you can prevent your skin from turning dark.People with darker skin complexions are recommended to use hydroquinone to prepare for a chemical peel.You will most likely be told to stop using the products for a week before the treatment.
Step 9: There are medication interactions.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications, your doctor may recommend that you stop taking them.Photosensitizing drugs, which increase your sensitivity to sunlight and may cause inflammation, are the most common medications that must be discontinued before treatment.Some contraceptives include birth control pills and female sex hormones.
Step 10: Don't smoke.
If you are a smoker, you will need to stop smoking before your procedure.Talk to your doctor if you want to quit smoking.
Step 11: Administer antibiotics.
It is recommended that you take antibiotics at least 24 hours before the procedure.If you have to take antiviral medication, you should be taking it for at least 24 hours before your treatment.
Step 12: If you have allergies, learn about them.
Patients undergoing a deep-tissue chemical peel will need to be in a state of relaxation prior to the procedure.If you have any known allergies to sedatives or pain medications, you should inform your doctor right away.
Step 13: Pick up a ride home.
If you are undergoing a deep-tissue chemical peel, you may be required to take a nap in order to penetrate to deeper skin depths.You will not be able to drive home after your procedure if you arrange for a ride home ahead of time.