Superficial Chemical Peel Pre/Post Instructions

Pre-Treatment Instructions

• Avoid direct sun exposure for 2 weeks prior to treatment.  
• Apply a daily sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater and reapply as needed.   
• Passive sun exposure is acceptable, but tanning either outside or in a tanning bed, is not. You cannot be treated if you have a sunburn, recently tanned, or have sunless tanner on your skin.   
• Avoid the following active ingredients in treatment areas 7 days prior to treatment: topical retinoids (e.g. Retin-A, tretinoin, adapalene), vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid. If you are concerned about any of the products you are using, please ask your provider.  
• If you have had other skin rejuvenation procedures in the past month, please discuss with your provider to ensure adequate spacing of treatments.     
• Come to your appointment with clean, product-free skin.   
• If you have a history of herpes simplex virus (HSV) in any treatment areas, notify your provider, as pre-treatment with an anti-viral medication will be required. Your provider will give specific instructions. 
• We recommend you wait at least 6 months after isotretinoin (Accutane) treatment before having a chemical peel. 
• Peeling can range from very mild to moderate and can last up to 7 days, depending on the chosen treatment. Please discuss any plans or upcoming events with your provider prior to treatment. 

Post-Treatment Instructions

FOR THE NEXT 24 HOURS

• A physical sunscreen will be applied in sun-exposed treatment areas immediately following the procedure.  
• Skin may appear pink and feel tight and dry.   
• Do not wash your face for at least 4 hours.  
• Do not apply makeup.   

FOR THE NEXT 72 HOURS

• Keep the skin cool and avoid higher body temperatures that might result from hot tubs, saunas, or intense exercise. Let your provider know if you experience irritation as you resume normal activities.  
• If irritation occurs with makeup application, please discontinue until skin is completely free of peeling.   

FOR THE NEXT 7 DAYS

• Do not rub, exfoliate, or pick the treated areas. 
• Avoid the following active ingredients in treated areas: topical retinoids (e.g. Retin-A, tretinoin, adapalene), vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid.    
• Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer in the morning and evening throughout the peeling process. Moisturize more frequently, if needed. 

FOR THE NEXT 14 DAYS

• Prior to going outdoors, apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or greater on all treated areas and reapply as needed. Please continue safe sun practices throughout the duration of your treatments.    
• Avoid any treatment that causes exfoliation of the skin including facials, extractions, waxing, and threading.