12 Jul Chemical Peels and Summer. Are They a Match?

Summer is a time when most people spend their time outdoors, swimming, beach time, travel, soaking in the warm sun any way we can.  You may not think this is a good time to get a chemical peel, in fact many estheticians will steer their guest away from it. I’ll let you in on a little secret, the real reason they do that is because as estheticians we know that our clients don’t always listen to our advice about post peel care and avoiding the sun, so to save ourselves and the guest a lot of grief, we say “no peels in the summer”.

Truth be told, most chemical peels are fine any time of year if you are willing to follow the steps to care for your skin. Great results from a chemical peel depend on sun avoidance, which makes summer a tricky time of year. But, where there is will there is a way! And the way is committing to holing up in your house for several days to sometimes two weeks (depending on the peel) to prevent re-pigmenting skin.

What is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a “controlled chemical burn”.  This controlled burn triggers the wound healing response in the skin which signals collagen stimulation along with improving skin concerns like hyperpigmentation, fine lines and wrinkles, uneven texture, and acne. After a chemical peel, the top layer of your skin literally sheds off, revealing an untouched and smooth new layer of skin underneath. This supple skin is incredibly sensitive and susceptible to the UV rays from the sun, which is why post-procedure care is paramount to a good result.

Should I get a Chemical Peel in the Summer?

Ok, it’s summer, you want to refresh your skin before your best friend’s wedding or that Tinder date. What’s a girl to do?

“When I get that feeling, I need chemical peeling”

While increased sun sensitivity could be a reason to avoid a chemical peel in the summer, there are plenty benefits and plenty of chemical peels that are safe for summer – if you are willing to follow the post procedure recommendations given by your skin practitioner. Let’s take a look.

Chemical peels with Alpha or Beta Hydroxy Acids such as Lactic, Mandelic, Glycolic or Salicylic can be light and are designed to slough off the dead cells to reveal a brighter, plump and rejuvenated complexion. These types of chemical peels are generally mild and some sloughing may occur 2-3 days following the treatment. You may also experience dryness and mild sensitivity. However, healing time is quick, and downtime is minimal.

Ultraceuticals offers both Lactic and Mandelic peels. Ultraceuticals is an Australian brand developed by Dr. Geoffrey Heber and is designed for the harsh climate of Australia, making these peel options a good choice for summer here in the states.

Mandelic Acid

Mandelic acid is generally better option for anyone with sensitive or acneic skin. Because of its larger molecular structure (compared to some other AHAs), it penetrates the skin more slowly, making it a gentler solution. There are many benefits to a Mandelic peel, including exfoliation, cell turn over, skin brightening and reducing hyperpigmentation. Since acneic skin often gets impacted and clogged, Mandelic acid is typically a good choice for its ability to clear skin debris and smooth the complexion.

Lactic Acid

Ultraceuticals Lactic peel is mainly designed to treat hyperpigmentation, age spots, dehydration and dull and uneven complexion. As an AHA, Lactic Acid also provides additional benefits such as improved skin tone, increased hydration, and reduced pore appearance. If I had to choose between any of the chemical peels mentioned, my choice would be lactic acid because not only does it reveal younger looking skin, it also helps improve the skin’s natural moisture factor which is the way the skin keeps itself hydrated. Because lactic acid helps to keep the skin moisturized and feeling less dry, it’s a good choice for summer.

The lactic acid peel can customized and boosted with a special hyaluronic acid serum called Ultra B2 Hydrating Serum which will boost moisture content during the peel itself.  What I love about the Ultraceuticals brand is that it focuses on a progressive not aggressive approach. Which, in my opinion, is a great philosophy year-round.

Post-peel Guidelines for Summer Chemical Peel

Following any chemical peel, post procedure guidelines are crucial to success! These include:

• No sweat inducing workouts post peel for 48 hours
• No saunas, tanning beds or hot tubs for 2-3 days
• Do not pick at any skin that begins to slough
• Use a gentle cleanser for 5-7 days as your skin may feel more sensitive
• Moisturize often, avoid letting the skin become too dry will soothe discomfort
• Do not use any Retinoids, AHA’s Hydroquinone or Benzoyl peroxide for 2 weeks
• Do not use a facial scrub or any kind of coarse sponges for 2 weeks

The MOST important rule is to avoid sun exposure for two weeks. If you must be in the sun, be sure these summer skincare essentials are apart of your skincare routine. Always wear SPF 50. Apply bi-hourly and wear a hat to protect your face. I would also like to highlight one of the best finds for post procedure, the Ultraceuticals Ultra B2 Hydrating Mask. It is a unique hydro-gel mask with Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate and Peptides to help calm, comfort and restore hydration to the skin.  I would recommend stocking up on this mask for homecare following any peel. It comes in a pack of 5 and would be great to use the week after your peel to hydrate and soothe the skin.  

Moral of this Summer Story

Anytime of year is a good time for a peel if you are willing to take the necessary steps to care for your skin following the procedure. I would encourage you to work with your esthetician and listen to their recommendations! Your esthetician and your skin will thank you!