One of the most common concerns regarding the wonderfully effective VI Peel is how to plan your work and social schedule around the after-effects of the treatment. Some people are concerned that they may have to take a week off from work or time with friends, but if you plan it right, you will likely be able to accomplish most of the things on your growing to-do list.
Keep in mind, the VI Peel’s results last longest when you are taking good care of your skin. That means sunscreen and keeping well moisturized (if you are unsure of your current management practices, ask your skin care specialist). I recommend having the VI Peel done several times a year to combat aging and keep your skin looking fresh.
Let’s take a quick look of what happens post-treatment.
Day of Treatment
Immediately after the treatment, you should not wear makeup, or touch or wash your newly peeled skin for at least four hours. If you never leave home without foundation, you may want to schedule work and social activities so you can go home after treatment. About six hours after treatment, you can apply light makeup.
About one hour before bedtime, you may wash your face with a gentle cleanser.
Day 1 Post-Treatment
Not much should be showing today, but you need to take extra care of your tender skin. You may wear makeup, but use a light hand. From here on out, make sure you are using sunscreen if you are going to be outdoors at all.
Day 2 Post-Treatment
You’ll start to notice some flaking today and the redness will be more visible. Again, this can be slightly hidden by wearing makeup, but keep in mind that some flaking will be impossible to truly hide with makeup.
Day 3 Post-Treatment
This will likely be the last day you can still wear makeup and conceal some of the effects of the peel. If it’s a Friday, then you’ve planned well for your recovery! Now, get ready for a relaxing weekend at home.
Day 4-5 Post-Treatment
These are the days you might want to plan to be at home in your PJs and binge-watching your favorite show. It will be hard to conceal the redness and the peeling with makeup, and if you’re worried about what people will think, just stay home.
Day 6-7 Post-Treatment
You might still have some flaking and pinkness. Some patients report slight itchiness. Some people may guess you had a nice weekend in the Bahamas and skipped on the sunscreen.
After One Week Post-Treatment
Your skin should be normal. You might experience some remaining pinkness, but peeling and redness should be gone. You may resume your normal skincare regime.
About Jennifer
Jennifer Curtin is a medical aesthetician, who is nationally recognized for her expertise in medical skin care. With more than 20 years of experience in medical aesthetics, she is dedicated to the aesthetic industry and has received awards of merit including the International CIDESCO Certification, Assistant Cosmetic Laser Practitioner and National Leadership Award. Jennifer is also an expert in VI Peels and the president of Skintherapy, which is located in the Buckhead section of Atlanta. To schedule an appointment with Jennifer, call 404-358-2961.
