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What To Expect After A Chemical Peel

April 3, 2023

Have you ever considered a peel but have been nervous about the peeling process or downtime? Keep reading to learn what to expect after a chemical peel treatment. Our providers also break down some of the treatment process as well! Learn more about chemical peels here. Be sure to get in touch if you’re interested in scheduling a treatment!

By: Kaitlyn Hunter, NP

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The Strength of Your Chemical Peel Matters

Chemical peels come in many forms which means downtime varies depending on the strength of the peel applied. Estheticians legally cannot apply peels that are aggressive. This is why most of these peels are light and cause minimal flaking. Nurses, NPs, and PAs commonly apply medium-depth peels, which result in moderate peeling for 5-7 days. The most extreme peels are applied by surgeons under anesthesia and require weeks (or months) to heal. It is important to understand this variation in chemical peels so you feel informed prior to scheduling one for yourself.

At Atalo Aesthetics here in Cincinnati, our providers offer medium-depth peels by a medical-grade chemical peel line called Vi Peel. The Vi Peel line has a variety of peels depending on the skin condition being targeted. The two main categories are (1) acne and (2) anti-aging including the reversal of sun damage and fine lines and wrinkles. Your provider will select the option that is best suitable for your skin condition and skincare goals.

before and after photo of broadband light treatments

What Is The Treatment Process Like?

Most patients at Atalo Aesthetics initially schedule a complimentary skincare consultation to have their photos taken with our Canfield Visa Analysis camera and sit down with one of our medical providers. Vi Peels are a good option for skin that suffers from acne, acne scars, brown spots, and melasma. Vi Peels are also a great initial treatment for patients who haven’t had many treatments done to their skin and would benefit from the exfoliation.

If a Vi Peel is suggested as a treatment option, our providers recommend the patient arrive at the office with a clean face and no makeup. The skin will be cleansed with pre-peel solutions to ensure there is no excess oil or leftover makeup on the skin. The peel solution varies from a subtle orange color to a light brown color. The peel solution is applied in layers on the skin. This process takes about 5-10 minutes depending on the size of the treatment area.

The application process is typically painless but patients may feel a subtle tingling sensation. Once the peel solution is fully applied, a fan may be used to help the solution dry. At Atalo Aesthetics, our providers review the post-care instructions and post-care products prior to the patient leaving the office.

Click here to see a chemical peel in action over on our YouTube channel!

What to Expect After a Chemical Peel

Once at home, it is important to adhere to the post-care instructions as best as possible to ensure optimal results. Vi Peel provides a small kit with cleanser, moisturizer, SPF, and towelettes for the skin. This allows each patient to use the recommended skincare products with the peel, versus products they have at home that may not work as well with the peel.

The skin will not peel until 36-48 hours after the peel application. Peeling typically starts around the mouth due to muscle movement in that area. Over 5-7 days, the peeling gradually spreads up the face to the cheeks, forehead, and finally along the hairline. During the peeling process, the skin can feel tight and dry. Using the post-peel moisturizer helps to combat dryness.

Once the peeling is complete, the skin may feel tight and dry for a few more days. However, most patients immediately notice a youthful glow to the skin. By removing all of the dead skin on the surface, fresh and healthy skin cells rise to the surface. These healthy cells offer a brighter complexion with less redness, brown discoloration, and melasma as well as a smoother surface with softer wrinkles.

How Often Should You Have a Peel Done?

Some patients opt to have multiple peels done each year, scheduled every 3-4 months. Other patients may prefer to schedule a variety of treatments annually including a Vi Peel, micro-needling, BBL, Halo, and facials. Regardless of the treatment plan, it is always important to combine in-office treatments with quality medical-grade products at home.

Again, if you’re not sure where to start or if a peel is the right treatment for you—schedule a complimentary consultation with one of our providers here at Atalo Aesthetics in Cincinnati, Ohio! We’ll scan your face using our VISIA Facial Analysis and get you started with a treatment plan that works for your skin and concerns.

Happy peeling!