All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
Don’t let the term “peel” scare you.
These chemical exfoliants gently resurface your skin to treat acne, fine lines, uneven pigmentation and more.
Here’s what you gotta know.
Know the main issue you want to treat.
Either way, your skin looks fresher, smoother and brighter after a treatment.
Plus, peels can actually help treat dry skin.
A peel helps remove those dead surface cells, Rouleau explains, so hydrating ingredients can do their work.
So peels are not one-size-treats-all.
A combination of acids is the most effective.
You’ll need more than treatment one to see the best results.
Peels are progressive and cumulative, so the results build on each other.
With each peel, the ingredients are able to penetrate just the slightest bit further to treat skin concerns.
Leave the job to the professionals.
“I would say go from a trusted brand and a trusted source.
When doubt, go for a lower concentration of the active ingredients.”
And no matter what strength your peel is, you must follow the system instructions to the letter.
You’ll have to lay off your anti-aging products.
Winter is the best time to schedule one.
The months with cooler weather are ideal for scheduling a peel.
“The damage from summer has likely surfaced and you’re not spending time outside causing more damage.”
There doesn’t have to be any downtime.
“But you’re able to still see an improvement in texture and tone.”
There are more intense, deeper peels that can leave you red and peeling for up to a week.
But you don’t have to use such an aggressive treatment to see results.
And if you have a sunburn, forget going in for a peel in the first place.
That skin is damaged and inflamed, so applying chemical exfoliants is a terrible idea.
You’ll need to give your skin a break.
How you handle your skin post-peel makes a big impact on the results you see.
Not only should you avoid the sun, but Dr. Engleman says you should probably up your moisturizing game.
The added hydration helps the skin heal faster and avoid irriation.
In addition, you want to avoid using any other exfoliants including retinols and retinoids, Dr. Schultz says.
Too much of a good thing is dangerous in this case.
Give your skin at least a week to recover between exfoliating or peels.
Photo Credit: Trunk Images
