Speed Up Chemical Peel Healing

Lindsay posted a good question the other day, and one that needs a proper post (Thanks Lindsay):

"Do you do anything to speed up the process?"

I replied to Lindsay's post, but there are actually several things I have done to speed up the healing process, but there are also some general guidelines that I try to follow to get the best long-term results as well

To accelerate a chemical peel, there are several things I have done:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2024986
http://mychemicalpeel.blogspot.com/2010/10/accelerated-chemical-peel-acne-spot.html


And here are some general guidelines I try to follow for each chemical peel to promote faster healing:
1. Prep for several weeks with tretinoin (retin-a), but don't use at least one week prior to peel application;
2. Avoid drinking alcohol for several days before the peel and discontinue alcohol until the skin is completely healed;
3. Decrease sugar intake, which includes carbs, where possible: try to eat whole foods, primarily vegetables and plant protein, such as beans, legumes, tofu, and whole grains;
4. Get lots of sleep and drink lots of water;
5. Keep skin moisturized throughout the day, but before I apply moisturizer (or oil), I dampen the skin with water;
6. Always wash my hands before I touch my face when it's healing;
7. Avoid the sun, and use a 30+ SPF (and hat where possible) if I must be outside or driving;
8. Avoid all harsh products and use only a mild cleanser, such as Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser
9. Cleanse facial skin very gently, no more than twice daily, and use non-abrasive cloths;
10. If any scabs appear, use an antibacterial ointment and/or vinegar compresses;
11. Do NOT pick at or pull loose skin or scabs;
12. Try to keep stress levels down and avoid strenuous exercise (let the body use its energy to heal);
13. I take some supplements that are thought to promote healthy skin regeneration, including vitamin C; and
14. Although I don't smoke, I try to stay away from areas where there is smoking.

I can't control all of these factors, but I try.

If you have any other suggestions that I can add to the list, please post a comment.

2 comments:

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  2. Nice 14 healing tips! Personally, I want to follow some chemical peels treatments and these are really useful! I had no idea about some of them and I'm glad that I've found your blog!
    I only hope to recover fast after the treatment, because I really have a busy schedule and it's also the month of holidays!
    Kristy Martin

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