Complements #AskLashelle: Is it safe to get a chemical peel in the summer?

07/30/19

By Lashelle Kuhlman, licensed aesthetician, reconstructive & cosmetic surgery, Mount Nittany Physician Group

Summertime usually means vacations, outdoor adventures and a lot of time spent in the sun. One of the most frequent questions I’m asked is, “Is it safe to get a chemical peel in the summer?” The answer isn’t a simple yes or no.

A chemical peel is a skin rejuvenation or skin resurfacing treatment that makes the texture of your skin smoother by removing the top layers of dead skin. Because of this, it is important to avoid any irritation or inflammation to the skin following a chemical peel. For example, you don’t want to get a peel and then leave for the beach the very next day. You should be mindful of your activities and your exposure to the sun, even on cloudy days.

If you choose to get a chemical peel in the summer, I recommend choosing a lighter depth peel and diligently follow post-procedural care:

  • Stay out of the heat and sun
  • Do not work out, swim, use a hot tub or steam room/sauna for at least two days
  • No exfoliating or waxing for five to seven days

As a reminder, it’s not necessary to see visible peeling following a chemical peel. Improvements in the texture, tone and overall appearance of the skin take place whether or not peeling occurs, so go ahead and schedule that chemical peel year round!

If you need faster results than a traditional chemical peel, our Fire & Ice facial might be the facial for you. This treatment offers similar benefits as chemical peels, but there is no downtime following treatment. Right now, the Fire and Ice treatment is on special at Mount Nittany Reconstructive & Cosmetic Surgery for $99 and includes a lip plumping application. Schedule your treatment today by calling 814.231.7878.