Chemical Peels offered in Cleveland, OH

It is said that those with fair skin are the best candidates for a chemical peel, but it really depends on the depth of your peel. For medium and dark skin tones, the concern is that a chemical peel may activate certain cells that are involved in the skin’s pigmentation, resulting in hyperpigmentation. 

Talking to one of our clinic’s providers about your goals and concerns about the potential side effects of a chemical peel will help you discover the ideal treatment for you.

Avoid any substances or activities that could increase your skin’s sensitivity before treatment. Stop exfoliating your skin at home one week prior to your chemical peel. Hold off on using any products that will increase your cellular turnover like vitamin C or retinol. Do not schedule a chemical peel within a week or two or having laser or light treatment on or around the area of focus.

It’s also important to avoid excessive sun exposure. When outside, wear broad-spectrum sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat. If possible, refrain from wearing makeup for a day or two before your treatment. Do not pluck, wax, or shave the area receiving a chemical peel. Be sure to drink plenty of water and moisturize your skin. Staying hydrated helps your cellular turnover occur more efficiently.

Side effects associated with most chemical peels are mild and short lived. As your skin regenerates, you may notice a shift in the side effects you see. After treatment, your skin may look red like a sunburn. Slight swelling that looks like general puffiness may develop too. 

As your old skin cells become dislodged and begin to fall away, your skin may look dry and flaky.  If you’ve had a deeper peel, your skin might flake and peel for a few days. In order to see the full effects of your chemical peel, you can not pick or pull dead skin! Don’t worry, you will be provided with after care instructions in regards to washing and moisturizing your face.

If you’ve had a strong peel, it will take about 5-7 days until your side effects begin to fade, revealing new and healthy skin. Lighter peels are known to take about 2-4 days of recovery time.

How long your results will last depends on how strong your chemical peel is. Results remain visible for several months and, in some cases, several years.

To learn more about the benefits of chemical peel treatment, contact the Cleveland Plastic Surgery Institute today. Call or click to schedule your visit with us!