Facial peels employ mild acids to encourage the outermost layer of facial skin to peel off. Softer, newer skin with a more even tone and brighter appearance, results. Facial chemical peels can help to reduce the appearance of blemishes and fine lines on the face. You can visit a dermatologist or plastic surgeon for a professional strength chemical peel, or you can purchase a home version to apply yourself.
Apply to a Clean Face
Start your peel by washing your face with a mild soap or cleanser. Rinse thoroughly or pat dry. Be sure your aren't sunburned and that your skin isn't irritated by a rash. The peel could make these conditions worse.
Do a Patch Test
Make sure you aren't allergic to the ingredients in the chemical peel by first performing a patch test. Choose an inconspicuous spot near your face, such as the side of your neck. Apply a dab of the chemical peel, leave on the prescribed amount of time. Rinse, then apply the neutralizer. You may experience some tingling and a little redness, but there shouldn't be any pain or swelling. Do the test patch the day before you plan to use the peel on your face. This will allow time for any adverse reaction to develop. If the patch seems fine the next day, proceed with your peel.
Use a Timer
The directions for your home chemical peel will specify the amount of time you're supposed to leave the peel on your face. Exceeding this time can result in redness and even a chemical burn. Don't rely on a watch or your best guess. Use a timer that dings or alarms when time is up.
Arrange Your Materials
Lay out all the ingredients in your chemical peel kit on the counter, within easy reach, along with the directions. Open the neutralizer while you're waiting for the peel to work. As soon as your time is up, rinse off the peel and apply the neutralizer. The neutralizer stops the peel from working and helps to soothe your skin.
Wear Sunscreen
After a chemical peel, your skin will be extra sensitive and subject to damage from the sun. Some chemical peel kits include a moisturizer with sunscreen for you to put on right after you peel. If your kit doesn't include this, use any sunscreen made for the face. Cover your face completely with the sunblock and stay out of the sun, especially the first 24 hours after your peel.
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