Preparing Your Skin For A Peel: Tips For Success From Our Dermal Clinicians

TCA Chemical Peels and other skin peels are an effective way to create vibrant, rejuvenated skin, and are one of our most popular treatments here at Body Recon Cosmetic Clinic in Geelong. Skin peel facials can be used to improve pigmentation, reduce redness, reduce breakouts, improve skin texture and provide a brighter and more youthful appearance.

While peels are suitable for women and men of all ages and skin types, different peels are formulated for different skin conditions. If you’re thinking about getting a peel, we recommend booking a skin consultation with our dermal clinicians to determine your skin’s suitability, inform you on which peels will address your concerns and advise you on any pretreatment skincare routine required.

In the meantime, here is an introduction to skin peel facials and how to look after your skin post-treatment for optimal results.

How exactly do Skin Peels work?

The application of a peel during treatment encourages a rapid exfoliation to remove damaged skin cells, which renews and improves the appearance of the skin. When a peel is applied to the skin, it also stimulates a proinflammatory skin response. This encourages the production of collagen and elastin which helps to plump the skin, reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, reduce signs of ageing and lessen any sallowness or roughness in the skin.

What do the different depths of Skin Peels mean?

Varying types of peel depths create different effects and entail a different downtime. If we are introducing peels to your routine- a superficial peel is commonly used initially and progressively we will work our way to medium or deep penetration peels. Superficial peels work on the superficial epidermis to improve skin luminosity and texture. Medium depth peels improve superficial scarring, pigment and texture. Deep peels affect the deeper layers of the skin and are commonly used for severe photodamage, wrinkles and deep scarring.

How much downtime should I prepare for?

Each peel has a different down time: 

• Light flaking of skin is common with a superficial peel
• Flaking of skin can be increased when a medium depth peel is applied
• Deep peels involve a higher amount of flaking of the skin that can be expected to last 5-10 days. These require a longer healing time, and the complete healing process can take up to a few months.

How should I care for my skin after a peel?

Caring for your skin after a peel is highly important! Here are the top tips from our dermal clinicians:

• Wear a sunscreen every day, even on overcast days, as peeling agents increase the skin’s sensitivity
• Use a gentle cleanser
• Focus on hydrating the skin to aid healing 
• Avoid exfoliating the skin for 5 days 
• Avoid using retinoid for 5 days
• Avoid picking or scratching at any flaking skin
• Avoid exercise for 24 hours – in some cases 48 hours – after your peel

Maintenance is important when treating your skin concerns. Depending on the treatment, it is recommended to schedule appointments every 4 -6 weeks.

Have more questions?

We believe in the power of knowledge at Body Recon. Our goal is to give you all the information you need in order to make an educated decision about the best treatment for you. If you’re interested in learning more, book a free skin consultation with us here or by calling  (03)5221 1747 and we’ll give you our expert advice.