How to Prepare for a Medium Peel
A chemical peel can work wonders for fine lines, acne scars, hyperpigmentation and other skin conditions. By removing the top layer of skin, the skin can regrow healthier and younger-looking. There are various types of chemical peels, and some are stronger than others. A medium peel will penetrate the upper layers of the skin and can provide treatment for moderate to severe skin problems. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Vitamins (optional)
- Retin-A (may be needed)
- Bleaching cream (may be needed)
- Glycolic cleanser (may be needed)
- Antiviral medication
- Dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon
Instructions
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Educate yourself about what a chemical peel can and cannot do, as well as the possible complications that can arise from the procedure. It's important to have realistic expectations. A medium-depth chemical peel can make your skin look younger and healthier, but it's not a miracle worker.
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Find a doctor who has experience performing chemical peels. Medium-depth chemical peels can only be performed in a medical setting, and it behooves you to find someone who has done many medium peels and has experienced positive results.
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Talk to your doctor about what kind of peel is most appropriate for your skin type and the conditions you would like to treat. Glycolic acid peels, salicylic acid peels, trichloro acetic acid peels and Jessner's peels are just a few of the options you have available to you. Your doctor should be able to recommend which one will be best.
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Prepare your skin for the medium peel up to a month ahead of time. Your doctor should recommend a skin regimen for you to follow, which may include Retin-A, glycolic cleanser and/or a bleaching agent. If you prepare your skin beforehand, you may have less complications and a better overall result.
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Schedule time to recuperate. Medium peels often take up to a week to heal well enough for you to be able to return to work. Some people can return sooner, but you should prepare to be off, just in case your skin remains unpresentable.
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Avoid exfoliating and hair removal for 2 to 4 weeks before the procedure. Exfoliating and undergoing hair removal can cause the peel to penetrate too deeply and burn. That can make recovery longer and more uncomfortable.
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Tips & Warnings
Start taking vitamins to boost your immune system before you have a peel. Vitamins A, C and E all work to strengthen the immune system and to speed healing and fight infection.
Start taking antiviral medications if you are prone to oral herpes.
Stop smoking before the procedure, or at the very least, decrease the amount you smoke. Smoking can make it harder for your body to heal after your peel.
