After an enzyme or chemical peel, your skin undergoes a significant renewal process, and how you care for it afterward is crucial for achieving the best results. To help you maintain that radiant glow, here are five essential tips for post-peel care that will keep your skin looking its best.
1. Keep It Simple on Treatment Day
After your peel, it's best to let your skin rest and recover. If possible, avoid applying any additional products or touching your face for the rest of the day. This allows your skin to absorb the treatment fully without interference. Plan your workouts for before your treatment or on another day—exercise can cause sweating, which may irritate your fresh, delicate skin.
Pro Tip: Swap out your pillowcase for a clean one before going to bed that night to minimize any risk of bacteria or irritation.
2. Calm and Soothe Your Skin
Post peel, your skin is going through a process of cellular renewal. It’s essential to use gentle, soothing products for at about three to four days to help calm reduce inflammation and support the skin's barrier. Look for ingredients like arnica, goldenseal, chamomile, or calendula in your skincare routine. These can aid in promoting healing and soothing, allowing your skin to recover beautifully.
Pro Tip: Avoid using retinol, or alpha hydroxy products, or any further exfoliation for at least 4 days post peel, as these can increase sensitivity and disrupt the healing process. I recommend trying Botnia Gentle Cleanser, Wisdom oil, Soothing Repair Mask, or IS Clinical Pro-Heal from my collection to help soothe and hydrate your skin post-peel. These are formulated with calming ingredients to support your healing process.
3. Protect Your Skin from the Sun
After a peel, your fresh new skin is revealed and is vulnerable, so it’s essential to protect it from UV rays. Always apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 every day, even if it’s cloudy. Consider wearing a wide-brimmed hat and seeking shade whenever possible to provide your skin with additional protection during this healing period.
Pro Tip: Opt for mineral-based sunscreens that contain zinc oxide and titanium dioxide as a healthy option to protect your skin. Check out Tizo SPF 40 from the products I offer, for effective sun protection.
4. Revitalize Your Skin
After the initial four to five days post-peel, once your skin has calmed and soothed, it’s time to focus on revitalization. This is the perfect moment to use products that support skin renewal and repair. Look for formulas rich in peptides, antioxidants, and restorative botanicals to help enhance your skin’s collagen production and vitality.
Pro Tip: Incorporate a revitalizing serum with ingredients like peptides or vitamin C to boost your skin’s recovery process. I recommend IS Clinical Genexc, IS Clinical Retinol and to remove any micro-flaking that has occurred, a mask of Botnia Essential Enzyme will be a lovely enhancement.
5. Prioritize Inner Wellness
True radiance is also an inside job! To keep that post-peel glowing bright, nourish your skin from the inside with a vibrant diet, stay hydrated, and embrace self-care rituals. Think of your meals as a canvas—fill it with colorful fruits and veggies that not only delight your taste buds but also feed your skin. For tips on incorporating skin-loving foods into your diet, check out my blog on nutrition and discover how food can boost your glow from the inside out. When you care for your inner world, your outer glow will be unstoppable!
Pro Tip: Aim for a diet rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, and vitamins to boost your skin's recovery. Leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fatty acids are excellent choices!
If you’re ready to elevate your skincare routine, let’s schedule your next treatment and develop a plan for your skin. Click here to book your appointment!
To Summarize
Peels come in different strengths, and most these days require little to no downtime. They offer your skin much-needed exfoliation and a deep reset. To fully enjoy the benefits of your peel, consider this: the aftercare tips provided here are just as important as the pre-care steps I outlined in my previous blog. Together, they will ensure your skin reaches its full potential. If you missed it, take a moment to read about how to prepare your skin for a peel.
Meet Summer: As a licensed Esthetician and owner of Ritual Skincare by Summer in San Rafael, California, I specialize in guiding clients toward their skincare aspirations through personalized treatments. I believe that healthy, glowing skin begins with knowledge. I'm dedicated to sharing my insights and expertise, empowering you on your skincare journey.
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