When Should I Start Moisturizing After a Medium Chemical Peel?

Immediately! The more moisture, the better! It will help the healing process.

I have all of my patients moisturize and treat their skin with Melarase after chemical peels to provide physical sunblock and skin lighteners. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

You should start immediately after your peel.  The moisturizer allow for the skin to heal quicker.  

Dr. ES

You can moisturize right after getting the peel!With all peels, skin can become sun sensitive afterward, why we always recommend that patients, after having a peel, avoid the sun and wear daily broad-spectrum sun protection. For lighter peels, an over-the-counter topical broad-spectrum sunscreen works best. For deeper, more intense peels, we recommend that patients avoid direct sun exposure for several days to two weeks.

Sunscreen daily and every 2 hours when sun exposed; I generally recommend only moisturizing if necessary in between to speed the peeling process. Sunscreen is very important, though. Best of luck with your results.

There is no simple answer for this, but generally speaking, I'd advise wearing sunscreen (which is often moisturizing in and of itself) or better yet a physical sunblock (e.g. titanium dioxide, zinc oxide) immediately after a peel, as well as generally avoiding the sun for 2 weeks, wearing a hat, big sunglasses, etc. A regular moisturizer can be started 1 week after in most cases. ~ Dr. Benjamin Barankin, Toronto Dermatology Centre.

I generally have patients apply a petroleum base ointment to the face after a chemical peel.  Products such as aquaphor or A & D ointment work well and should be used for several days.  You should wash your face 2 -3 times per day with a non-detergent based soap then apply the ointment until your skin peels.  

Thank you for your question. It is important to keep the skin hydrated after a peel. It is best to use a heavy moisturizer such as a post peel balm for the first week, this should get you through the peeling phase. You will still be washing your face morning and evening with a mild cleanser. After that you can incorporate your normal products back in; make sure to avoid using any treatment products such as salicylic and glycolic acid for an additional week or until your skin is completely healed. Always be sure to wear your sunscreen to prolong the results of your peel and prevent further damage.

- Best wishes

You must let the healing process continue until all of the area is pink and clear of crusting.  Then begin moisturizing you face with a cream containing sun block and hydroxyquinone.  In a few week consider adding mild Retin A.  This program moisturizes, protects from sun , and hinders unwanted  pigment production.   My Best,  Dr C