Facial peels, also known as chemical peels, are helpful in removing wrinkles, scars and blemishes on the skin by peeling off the top layers of the skin. While it may be possible to return to work on the same day if you have a light peel, you can expect to undergo a longer recovery period if you have a medium or deep peel, due to the strong chemicals used in these peels. Following your doctor’s recommendations can ensure that you experience minimal discomfort during your facial peel recovery.
Step 1
Wash your face with a gentle facial cleanser to avoid irritating sensitive skin. Avoid getting tape or bandages wet if you return home from the procedure with either of these dressings. You doctor may advise you to clean the skin several times a day to prevent crusts from forming on your skin.
Step 2
Allow the old skin to peel off by itself once peeling begins. If you try to peel off skin yourself, you may accidentally pull off healthy skin or injure the fragile new skin.
Step 3
Apply ointment and change the bandages or tape on your face as often as your doctor advises. Ointment helps keep your face moist and prevents scabs or crusts from developing.
Step 4
Use pain relief medication as recommended to control pain. Your doctor may suggest over-the-counter pain medication for mild to moderate pain or may prescribe stronger medication, depending on the type of peel.
Step 5
Elevate your head if you have swelling in your face or around your eyes. If swelling is severe, your doctor may use corticosteroids to reduce swelling, notes NYU Langone Medical Center.
Step 6
Take the full course of antibiotic and antiviral medications that your doctor prescribes. Taking antibiotics will help prevent infection, while taking antiviral medication will prevent an outbreak of cold sores or fever blisters during the recovery period. If fever blisters or cold sores spread to other areas of your face, scarring may occur.
Step 7
Wear a broad spectrum sunscreen every time you are outside to protect your skin after a chemical peel. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons warns that blotchy or irregular skin coloring can occur if you don’t protect your skin from the sun.
Tips and Warnings
- Expect recovery to take several days to two weeks following the facial peel. The exact length of your recovery will depend on the type of chemicals used.
- Don’t skip post-peel doctor appointments. During these visits, your doctor will change your dressings and determine if there are any problems with healing or signs of infection. If infection isn't caught early, scarring could result. Facial Plastic Surgery recommends resisting the urge to tug on skin, scabs or crusts on your face because severe scarring and excessive damage can occur if you do.
Things You'll Need
- Facial cleanser
- Ointment
- Bandages
- Over-the-counter pain medication
- Sunscreen
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