Skin peeling is a technique that is quite effective in removing fine wrinkles, as well as some of the coarser wrinkles, of the face. The procedure itself uses a laser that removes the outer layers of skin, allowing the new growth of smoother, healthier and more youthful skin. The most important thing that we emphasize with all our patients is that your involvement in post operative care of the wounds is critical to achieving a satisfactory healing course. The following instructions are provided so that you, as a patient, are aware of your role and contributions necessary to ensure that your procedure goes smoothly.
Pre-Treatment Instructions
4 Weeks Prior
- Start Tretinoin 0.025% applied nightly or every other night if sensitive skin.
- Use AHA/BHA foaming cleanser (Pelle Deep Cleanse) twice daily
1 Week Prior
- Pick up your prescription medications.
- Please discontinue products containing these active ingredients 1 week prior to treatment: Retinol (Retin-A, Tretinoin, Vitamin A), Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid, AHAs (Alpha-hydroxy acids), BHAs (Beta-hydroxy acids), LHAs (Lipo-hydroxy acids) and Benzoyl Peroxide.
- Drink at least 5 or 6 glasses (8 ounces) of water a day the week before your procedure. It is most important that you are well hydrated prior to the procedure.
- Do not shave your face and neck within 3 days of your procedure.
- All patients having resurfacing treatments done around the mouth should take an oral antiviral agent to prevent any cold sore virus getting into the treated areas. Start anti-viral medication one day before treatment and continue for 6 days post treatment (7 days total).
- Bring ALL of your prescribed medications with you.
- Bring a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses with you for when you leave the office.
Post-Treatment Instructions
Day 1 – 6
- Vinegar Soaks 3-4x day
- Aquaphor ointment – keep skin coated with ointment
Day 7-10
- Gentle Cleanser
- Aquaphor ointment – keep skin coated with ointment
Day 10+
- Gentle Cleanser
- Moisturizer – your surgeon will discuss this with you
- Apply Aquaphor ointment the evening of your procedure. The use of this ointment improves comfort and reduces the sensation of pain and burning by preventing air from contacting the treated region.
- Apply cool compresses (clean gauze soaked in ice water) immediately after treatment.
- Take your anti-viral medication (acyclovir or valtrex) as directed on your prescription.
- If you were provided with an antibiotic and/or an antifungal, take as directed. Not everyone receives an antibiotic or antifungal for their procedure.
- Start vinegar soaks the day after the procedure and perform 3-4 times daily. Then immediately reapply occlusive ointment (Aquaphor) until you are instructed to stop by your provider.
- Vinegar Soaks
- Mix one teaspoon of white vinegar (food grade) in one cup of luke warm water.
- Soak several pieces of gauze in the solution and squeeze lightly and then lay across treated areas of the face. Do not rub or try and scrape the skin.
- Afterwards, apply a fresh coat of ointment.
- Vinegar Soaks
- You may shower the next day but avoid hot water/steam on treated area.
- Do NOT “pick at” or scrub the exfoliating skin.
- You may experience itching in the treated areas, avoid scratching. You may take 25-50mg of Benadryl. If this does not provide relief after a day or two, please contact the doctor.
- Sleeping with your head elevated on pillows the first few nights post treatment can help minimize swelling.
- Avoid eating excessive salt pre/post treatment to help minimize swelling
- Avoid sun exposure. Apply sun block SPF 30+ when your provider instructs it is okay. Sun block with titanium oxide and zinc oxide provide broader protection. We advise wearing a protective hat while outdoors for at least 3 weeks; avoid being in direct sunlight.
- Avoid dirty, dusty environments while skin is healing, as well as hairspray and perfumes.
- DO NOT use any exfoliation techniques on treated skin for 6 weeks.
- You may use mineral make up after the skin has healed.
- Your doctor will give you specific instructions customized for your skin type after one month. Treatments may include the addition of anti-pigment creams and antioxidants for your specific situation.
What To Expect After Your Procedure
- Small acne-like bumps called milia may appear; these are temporary and will resolve on their own.
- A “hot” feeling will last a few days. Primary healing is complete in most patients in 7-14 days. The redness may last 3-6 months. Results are accrued gradually over the ensuing 6-12 months. Be patient, your skin will noticeably improve.
- Your skin is as sensitive and delicate as a newborn baby, so please use good judgment. As healing progresses, your skin will become more resilient.
