If you have wrinkles, fine lines, uneven skin tone, or a rough skin texture, and want to improve your appearance, a chemical peel can help you accomplish this goal. A chemical peel is a procedure where a chemical solution is applied to your skin. This chemical solution consists of acids that cause your skin's outer layers to peel away, revealing smoother, brighter skin with a more even skin tone. To get the best results and expedite the healing process, here are some guidelines to follow after your chemical peel. 

1. Stay Away from Exfoliants

Wait at least a week or so before using any type of home exfoliant, like a scrub brush or exfoliating cleanser. A chemical peel is actually a type of exfoliant itself since it causes your skin's top layers to flake off.

You don't want to do a double exfoliation of your skin, or you risk causing irritation and additional redness. See that your skin is completely healed before resuming your normal skincare routine. 

2. Steer Clear of the Sun

Winter is the perfect time to get a chemical peel due to the low amounts of sunlight. The new skin revealed by your chemical peel is ultra-sensitive to UV radiation, making it more likely to burn, even if you wear sunscreen.

With a medium or heavy chemical peel, you'll want to avoid direct sunlight for several months. For surface-level chemical peels, you'll need to stay out of the sun for a week or two.

Once you do venture outside, you'll want to wear a broadspectrum sunscreen with a high SPF. Consult with your skincare provider, but you'll typically want to wear a sunscreen with at least an SPF of 30 or 45. This ensures that you don't damage your new skin.

3. Use Any Products Recommended by Your Skin Care Professional

After your chemical peel, you'll receive instructions about how to care for your skin. These instructions will include any products that your esthetician recommends to aid the healing process.

For example, with a light chemical peel, you'll use a moisturizing product that encourages healing. After a medium or deep chemical peel, you'll use a heavier product that minimizes the risk of scarring. 

4. Schedule Your Next Session

While you'll notice results after a single chemical peel, for the best outcome, try to schedule a chemical peel every month for at least a few months. Once you achieve your desired results, you can maintain them with an annual or bi-annual chemical peel.