Post Chemical Peel Instructions

Stop smoking. If you smoke, try to stop at least two weeks before and after your treatment. This improves your chance of avoiding complications and helps your body heal.

• DO wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and liberally apply a simple moisturizer (such as Cetaphil, Aquaphor or CeraVe) after cleansing and throughout the day as needed to prevent dryness and formation of crust
• DO NOT vigorously rub the skin and DO NOT pick at the flaking skin as they may cause scarring
• Stop smoking. Smoking slows down wound healing. If you are a smoker, we highly advised you to avoid smoking a few weeks prior to the procedure and during the wound-healing phase.
• Sun protection is critical. You should NOT have any prolonged sun exposure. When going outside wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF 30 and a hat. This includes driving to work.
• AVOID laser treatments, waxing, tanning, or microdermabrasion treatments for 3 weeks.
• DO wait 7 days before resuming the use of Retin-A (Tretinoin), Differin, Tazorac, Ziana, Adapalene, glycolic acids, or any other exfoliation agents such as a Clarisonic brush.
• AVOID swimming, sauna, or jacuzzi use for at least 7 days after the peel.
• If you were instructed to take an antiviral medication, DO complete the prescribed course.
• The procedure may cause swelling, redness, crusting, dryness, skin sensitivity, itching and peeling of the site which could last for 1-2 weeks.
• In the days after the peel, the skin may feel and look tight with parchment-paper like changes or darkening. These are expected reactions.

We care about your satisfaction and want you to have an excellent result. If you have any questions or unexpected concerns or changes please call the office for assistance, or after hours please call Dr. Parvin Shafa at (949)551-1113.