Our skin is designed to handle all seasons—from the hottest and most humid to the most frigid. There's a common misconception that you should avoid getting chemical peels in the summer due to the need to avoid prolonged sun exposure during recovery. However, with proper sun protection and a little TLC, getting a peel in the summer is safe, effective, and even beneficial for your skin. Let's dive into chemical peel safety, myths, and proper aftercare protocols.
The Myth: “You Can’t Get a Chemical Peel in the Summer”
The myth that you can't get a chemical peel in the summer stems from the need to avoid prolonged sun exposure during skin recovery. Since it's typically hotter and sunnier in the summer, people often think peels are a no-go. But our skin can handle a bit of sun exposure safely during peel recovery, as long as you wear sunscreen and take sun protection measures like wearing a hat. These precautions should be part of your routine year-round.
The Truth: The Summer Season Can Be a Great Time for a Peel
First, let's understand what a chemical peel does. Chemical peels, such as the award-winning VI Peel, promote skin regeneration and exfoliation, speeding up skin cell turnover. As we age, cell turnover slows, and peels help bring newer, fresher cells to the surface. The exfoliating acids in chemical peels stimulate new cell generation without triggering melanin production, which can cause dark spots. Improper post-peel care, like not wearing SPF or staying out in the sun too long, is what can lead to issues.
SPF and sun protection after a peel should be as diligent as any other day. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, everyone over the age of six months should wear sunscreen daily to prevent premature aging, sunburns, and skin cancer. So, wearing your SPF and keeping your skin protected from the sun ensures your chemical peel results are unaffected, regardless of the season.
But, What About Chemical Peels and the Summer Heat?
While it's true that prolonged sun exposure and intense heat should be minimized during peel recovery, the key words are "prolonged" and "intense." Everyday activities like running errands, driving, and walking are fine as long as you use SPF. The concern with heat is twofold: environmental heat (summer warmth) and internally generated heat (exercise, saunas). While environmental heat can cause some sweating, it's the internally generated heat from activities causing excessive sweating that you should avoid.
Think about it—if chemical peels weren't safe in warmer temps, states like California and Florida would be off-limits for peels year-round. So unless you're planning an extended tropical vacation, your post-peel skin should handle summer just fine.
The Surprise: Chemical Peels May Be Even Better in the Summer
Summer's humidity can act as a natural moisturizer, reducing dryness and irritation from even the gentlest peel. Dry, dehydrated, and sensitive skin types can benefit from the extra moisture in the air, making summer an ideal time for a peel.
Sun damage can happen any day of the year, but it often looks more pronounced in the summer. Treating dark spots and discoloration as soon as they appear is more effective than waiting, and a summer peel can prevent issues like melasma from settling deeper into the skin.
Important Note
While it's safe to get a peel in the summer, avoid getting one if your skin is sun-exposed or sunburned. If you've just returned from a sunny vacation, wait until your skin has fully recovered before getting a peel. Your healthcare practitioner can help you determine the right time.
When is the Best Time for a Chemical Peel?
The best time for a chemical peel is ultimately a decision between you and your provider. Skincare maintenance is important year-round, and we recommend getting a peel at least once a quarter.
At LuxMode MedSpa, we offer a range of VI Peels ideal for treating sun damage, melasma, and hyperpigmentation on the face, décolleté, shoulders, and more. If you're struggling with sun damage or uneven skin tone, consider the VI Peel Precision Plus treatment.
Ready to rejuvenate your skin? Click here to book your consultation/appointment.
By yours truly - Dr. Hank
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