“You look like beef carpaccio!” All Sex and The City fans will remember Carrie’s (Sarah Jessica Parker) reaction to Samantha Jones’ (Kim Cattrall) angry red face after Jones opts for an impulse chemical peel. If you’re considering a peel but are too nervous to commit for apprehensions of the aftercare, let Mumbai-based aesthetician Dr Bharti Magoo and dermatologist Dr Jaishree Sharad share their top tips on caring for the skin after peels, lasers or other non-invasive but potentially skin irritating treatments.
What exactly is a chemical peel and who can benefit from one?
Chemical peels use a variety of acids to peel the top layer of the skin. These treatments are used for various skin conditions such as acne, melasma, pigmentation and scars, and result in the formation of new skin that shows fewer signs of sun damage and pigmentation, and has the potential to better the appearance of fine lines as well. Aestheticians prescribe different kinds of peels based on the severity of your skin condition—for eg, light, superficial peels are known as party peels that work on the top layer of your skin and offer an instant glow within a day. Some of the popular light peels include lactic acid and arginine. Medium and deep peels penetrate deeper into the skin and can help reduce signs of severe pigmentation, melasma, acne spots and scars.
How to prep for a peel
Once you’ve discussed your treatment options with your dermatologist, there are some precautions that you need to take to make most of these treatments. The first rule would be to inform your dermatologist about your allergies or skin conditions, and if you have any other health issues. “Your skin has to be hydrated. To take some extra precaution, your Vitamin A and haemoglobin levels should be in line, because if they aren’t, the results will not be as good. If your skin is sun damaged or if you have cuts, you should first repair your skin with the help of sunscreen, moisturiser and skin supplements. Those with severe allergies and eczema are not good candidates for a peel either,” says Dr Magoo.
A medium or deep peel cannot be done without priming the skin for at least two weeks before the peel. “We do this with Vitamin C, kojic acid, hydroquinone and other formulations to prevent side effects or post-peel pigmentation. Also, if you apply anti-acne treatments like benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin, or if you are using retinol in any form for acne or anti-ageing, it needs to be stopped at least five days in advance as they all cause microscopic peeling and drying of skin,” warns Sharad. “The skin may burn if you continue to use it till the day of your treatment.” Sharad also advises against bleach or undergoing laser hair removal at least two weeks before the treatment. A week before the peel, one shouldn’t undergo facials, galvanic treatments and microdermabrasion. Most dermatologists say that you should never do a peel before a holiday, as the sun exposure can severely damage your skin. Post vacation, doctors suggest that you wait for at least a week for the tan to fade before you opt for a treatment.
How to care for your post-peeled skin
The sun is your biggest enemy when it comes to both pre- and post-care of your skin, so do not step out in direct sun for a minimum of three days as the deeper layers of your skin are exposed after the peel, and sun damage could lead to burns or pigmentation. Moisturise your skin and use half a teaspoon of sunscreen on your face and neck as much as possible—your skin will need all the hydration it can get. One also needs to rest and sleep well so the skin is rested too. “Do not use any face washes or cleansers on your face for 24 hours,” suggests Dr Sharad. Even moisturisers and night creams can be kept on hold for a week, as they might contain irritating ingredients. “The home remedy to try post a peel is pure aloe vera gel. Don’t experiment with any other natural remedy,” she says. Swimming, tanning and bleaching skin are also no-gos during this time.
“You will have the urge to pick and try to peel your skin, but don’t do that as you will end up removing a deeper layer and that can cause more damage. Let your skin dry and peel on its own. You can consume Vitamin C and Vitamin E tablets and antioxidants that act as oral sunscreen to help your skin heal better,” says Dr Sharad. Dr Magoo adds that Vitamins B12, D3, calcium, collagen and phosphorous intake can also help your skin heal better.
Also read:
Are facial clean-ups really necessary in your skincare regimen?
Salicylic acid vs benzoyl peroxide: What should you use when treating acne?
Why acids need to be an essential part of every skincare routine
The post What you should know before trying a chemical peel on your skin appeared first on VOGUE India.
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