Skincare Ingredients After Chemical Peel

Asked by: best_singnontad On: June 19, 2017 Product Type: Cosmetics

Question

I plan to undergo a medium-depth chemical peel with a doctor. I have some questions about using certain ingredients afterwards:

  • The website recommends using Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu) after laser treatment for good results. Can it be used after a chemical peel?
  • Is it true that whitening agents should not be used after a chemical peel? Specifically, can Perfect-C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate) be used? I have a cream with this ingredient and find it effective for brightening.
  • Can Retinal (Retinaldehyde) be used after a chemical peel? Is it too strong?

Answer

Subject: Skincare after Chemical Peel

Thank you for your questions regarding skincare after a chemical peel. Based on the staff's reply:

  1. Copper Peptide (GHK-Cu): The staff does not have specific information confirming that using GHK-Cu after a chemical peel enhances its efficacy compared to normal use. GHK-Cu already provides anti-aging benefits. While GHK-Cu is particularly noted for its research on acne scars often linked to procedures like laser or needling, its general anti-aging effect is present regardless of whether a chemical peel was done.
  2. Whitening Agents (Perfect-C): It is true that some whitening agents can be irritating and should be avoided after a chemical peel or when skin is sensitive. However, Perfect-C (Ascorbyl Tetraisopalmitate) is generally non-irritating and can be used.
  3. Retinal: Retinal (and other Vitamin A derivatives) should definitely NOT be used after a chemical peel as they can cause skin irritation.

Regarding your plan to have a medium-depth chemical peel and your proposed skincare formulations:

The staff strongly recommends following the doctor's instructions precisely after a medium-depth chemical peel. Typically, a doctor will provide specific medicated creams or ointments to promote healing during the initial recovery phase. It is crucial to use only these prescribed products until your skin has fully healed before introducing other skincare products.

The staff's reply did not include a review of your two specific formulations.

Regarding pH: After a chemical peel, your skin is very sensitive. It is generally advisable to use products with a skin-friendly pH (around 5.5) to minimize irritation. Some ingredients may have specific pH requirements for stability or efficacy, but the priority post-peel is gentleness.

Regarding additional ingredients or reductions: Since the staff did not review your formulas, specific recommendations cannot be made for your lists. However, during the initial recovery period guided by your doctor, focus on gentle, hydrating, and soothing ingredients. Once your skin has recovered and you are cleared by your doctor to resume your regular skincare, you can gradually reintroduce ingredients. Avoid potentially irritating ingredients like Retinal until your skin is fully healed and can tolerate them.