Pre Care
- Avoid Sun Exposure
- For at least 2 weeks before the treatment: Avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, or self-tanning.
- Use Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) daily to protect your skin.
- Discontinue Certain Skincare Products
1 week prior to treatment: Stop using any exfoliating or irritating skincare products, such as:- Retinoids (e.g., tretinoin)
- Alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs)
- Beta-hydroxy acids (BHAs)
- Vitamin C serums
- Exfoliating scrubs
These products can make your skin more sensitive and may increase the risk of irritation during or after the treatment.
- Avoid Waxing or Hair Removal
For 1-2 weeks prior: Avoid waxing, threading, or any other hair removal methods in the treatment area, as these can cause skin irritation. - Hydrate Your Skin
Drink plenty of water to ensure your skin is properly hydrated leading up to the treatment. - No Active Acne or Open Wounds
If you have active acne or open wounds in the treatment area, it’s best to reschedule until your skin has healed. - Avoid Other Skin Treatments
For at least 2 weeks before: Do not undergo any other treatments like laser, microdermabrasion, or other chemical peels in the same area to avoid over-exfoliation or irritation. - Inform Your Provider About Medications
Notify your provider if you’re on any prescription medications, especially for acne (e.g., oral retinoids or antibiotics), as these may affect your treatment. - Arrive with Clean Skin
On the day of the treatment, come with a clean face, free from makeup, lotions, or sunscreen. - Plan for Downtime
Be prepared for some peeling, redness, or irritation after the treatment. Try to schedule the procedure when you have 5-7 days for recovery if needed.
Post Care
- Avoid Sun Exposure
- For at least 1 week post-treatment: Strictly avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, or self-tanners.
- Sunscreen: Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50 or higher) every 2 hours, especially when outdoors. Reapply more frequently if sweating or swimming.
- Do Not Touch, Rub, or Pick at Your Skin
For the first week: Avoid touching, rubbing, or picking at your skin to prevent irritation and scarring. Let the peeling process happen naturally. - Follow the Aftercare Skincare Routine
Use the recommended aftercare products provided by your provider, such as a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and hydrating serums to support the healing process. - Hydrate and Moisturize
Keep your skin hydrated by drinking plenty of water and using a rich moisturizer to soothe any dryness or flaking. - Expect Peeling
3-5 days post-treatment: Peeling is a normal and expected part of the process, usually starting around day 2. The skin may flake, peel, or shed in patches. Do not pick at or peel the skin manually. - Avoid Makeup for the First 24-48 Hours
- For at least 24-48 hours: Avoid applying makeup to the treated area to allow the skin to heal and reduce the risk of irritation.
- After this time, if necessary, use makeup that is non-comedogenic and gentle on the skin.
- No Hot Showers, Saunas, or Steam
For at least 48 hours: Avoid hot showers, saunas, or steam rooms, as hot water and heat can irritate the skin and increase redness or swelling. - Avoid Strenuous Physical Activities
For at least 48 hours: Avoid intense exercise, swimming, or anything that might increase sweating or cause excessive friction on your skin. - Be Gentle When Cleansing
Use a gentle, hydrating cleanser and lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or using exfoliating products on the treated skin for 7-10 days. - Avoid Other Harsh Treatments
For 1-2 weeks post-treatment: Avoid using any harsh skincare treatments like exfoliants, retinoids, or other chemical peels until your skin has fully healed. - Monitor for Side Effects
Mild redness, dryness, and peeling are normal, but if you experience severe irritation, blistering, or any signs of infection, contact your provider immediately.