Contact Us 713.322.7265

Contact Us 713.322.7265

Chemical Peel Recovery Time

Chemical Peel Recovery TimeRecovery in case of a chemical peel non cosmetic surgery treatment will depend on the strength and type of chemical peel used. The treatment provider will explain to the patient the approximate downtime as well as the symptoms they may experience during the recovery phase.

The provider will also highlight the possible signs of complications, especially for deep peels. This will enable the patient to identify such symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if necessary.

Superficial peels will typically not entail an extended recovery period. However, for medium and deep chemical peels, patients must prepare for downtime as well as recovery. Board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak provides chemical peel treatment to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding communities.

Avoiding Sun Exposure

To ensure a safe recovery after any chemical peel procedure, the patient will need to avoid direct or indirect sunlight till the redness in the skin resolves. Even after the redness subsides, the treatment provider may ask the patient to protect their facial skin from sun exposure. The patient should apply an SPF 30 or higher sunscreen and wear wide-brimmed hats wherever possible.

These precautions are even more vital if the patient has received a particular chemical peel treatment that involves phenol. Phenol inhibits the ability of the skin to tan. The patient should also preferably wear high-quality sunglasses when they step out. Certain peels also warrant the avoidance of exposure to chlorinated water for some time.

Initial Recovery Phase

After a deep chemical peel treatment, the provider may cover the skin with a protective cream or petroleum jelly. In some cases, the treatment provider may use dressing on the area as well. Deeper peels may involve some post-treatment discomfort and pain. The patient should reach out for medical advice to review the condition if the swelling, redness, or pain persists or is abnormally high.

Timeframe for Recovery

The time frame for recovery in the case of various types of chemical peels is as follows:

Superficial Peels

A superficial or light peel typically does not involve any downtime. The patient can resume their routine immediately.

Medium to Deep Peels

Deeper chemical peels involve a more extended recovery period. The dermatologist may prescribe ointments if necessary and explain the skin cleansing procedure for the recovery phase. Men will have to delay shaving the face for some days.

The patient should follow the surgeon’s guidelines carefully while recovering. The downtime will be between 4 days to 2 weeks depending on the depth and strength of the chemical peel.

Scab Formation

The formation of scabs over the treatment area may or may not happen with medium and deep chemical peels. This scab formation will depend on the post-procedure treatment routine advised by the surgeon. Between week 2 and week 8, the skin may still appear pink. However, the patient can use makeup to hide the pinkness depending on the surgeon’s recommendations.

Full outcome of the chemical peel treatment will become more noticeable over a few months. Experienced female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas and nearby areas for chemical peel treatment.

For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.