Before you undergo a chemical peel, your doctor may prepare your skin to accept the peel. This preparation generally involves pre-treating your skin for several weeks with Retin-A or AHA creams. Pre-treatment optimizes the peel’s beneficial effects.

Doctors often apply chemical peels without an anesthetic when they treat small facial areas, such as the lower eyelids or upper lip. Lighter-strength peels, like those with up to 35% TCA, may cause a mild burning sensation. Doctors typically require sedation for full facial resurfacing to minimize discomfort. They perform phenol peels under cardiac monitoring due to the potential risk of heart rhythm irregularities during rapid application.

Once the doctor administers sedation (if needed), Dr. cleanses your skin thoroughly. Then apply the chemical solution using a cotton-tipped applicator. With TCA peels, the depth of treatment is achieved by mechanically rubbing the solution into the skin. Phenol peels, on the other hand, penetrate the skin to a consistent depth without the doctor needing to modify them mechanically.

Recovery From a Full Facial Peel Immediately After Surgery

After you undergo a full facial peel, avoid social situations for 7–10 days because the treated areas may ooze and form crusts during healing. The doctor provides detailed instructions on how you wash and care for your skin daily. Avoid sun exposure during the early healing phase, as your sensitive, healing skin risks severe sunburn. Refrain from tanning for at least six months after your full facial peel to protect your skin and ensure optimal results.