We all want glowing, healthy looking skin, but can’t always afford the downtime associated with laser or some of the more aggressive cosmetic procedure.
“Let’s be realistic,” says dermatologist Dr. Adam Mamelak from Sanova Dermatology in Ausitn, “not all of us can afford to take a few weeks off to recover.”
A common question asked when patients are considering getting a chemical peel is, “how long is the recovery time?”
“Whether it’s work, or a social schedule, downtime is always a critical issue.”
Whether it’s acne or scarring, dark spots, or uneven skin texture, chemical peels are a great way to treat unwanted blemishes and spots, and reveal a new, healthy layer of skin to refresh your appearance. As with any procedure, there is some of a recovery time.
The strength of the peel is a key factor in determining recovery time. Peel strength is categorized by how deep they penetrate the skin. The three basic categories are superficial, mid and deep.
Superficial peels are by far the most common. They can effectively address a number of skin concerns and are associated with they least amount of downtime. Typically the peeling process starts 1-2 days after the procedure, and the skin peels for just a few days after the treatment. With mid and deep peels, the downtime can extend for weeks. During this time you’ll want to stay out of the sun, but if you absolutely can’t you will want to wear a highly effective sunscreen and protective sun wear, like a wide brimmed hat.
“The responses can also be quite variable,” says Dr. Mamelak. “I always tell people to plan the worse, but more often than not, patients are back to their regular routines after just a few days.”
If you would like more information, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dermatologists, please contact Sanova Dermatology today.