What skin care products do I need after a chemical peel?

Our treatments use combination therapy to improve the epidermis and dermis for most deep scars. The options available for acne scars depend on the character of your scars, in terms of topography and contour. We see atrophic and hypertrophic acne scars, as well as scars that have hypo and hyperpigmentation. We begin each scar evaluation with an assessment of scar quality and subtype. Our main concern is rebuilding collagen and that is why we use a HIDEF protocol that includes combination therapy. Morpheus 8, scar subcision, fibrous release, fractional laser, CO2 laser, Thulium laser, PDL Vbeam laser, and fractional resurfacing can be used in addition to TCA Cross and chemical peels to further improve skin. Patients should start Melarase AM and Melarase PM for active hyperpigmentation. Always begin with a consultation to decide whether early subcision should be started.

Best,
Dr. Karamanoukian
Realself100 Surgeon

Your treating physician should review with you care after a chemical peel since the proper care is very important.  Gentle moisturizers such as Eucerin, Aquaphor, and sunscreen with strict sun avoidance is essential.  Please consult an expert.  Best, Dr. Green

Thanks for your question. The basics will be intense moisturization for the first few days to a week after. I typically use bacitracin antibiotic ointment for the first 24 hours, then have patients use Aquaphore. After that, you can use a quality sunscreen and light moisturizer. A retinol product would also be good after a week. Just as an example, the product lines we carry in our skin center tend to be on par w/ department store prices, but with physician-strength ingredients and the expertise of counseling by our medical aestheticians. Best wishes.

Some great, but over the counter products such as the CeraVe line are amazing. After a chemical peel, you face should remain free of products until the next day. Afterwards, CeraVe hydrating lotion is a great ever-day moisturizer and they also carry a sunscreen- which will be very important post chemical peel. You’ll want your face to stay hydrated and protected from the sun during this time of healing.