Should I Get a Chemical Peel in the Summer?
Summer often brings an influx of fun, sun, and warmer temperatures, but when it comes to skincare, the change in season can raise questions—especially if you're considering a chemical peel.
A common misconception is that summer isn’t the best time for a chemical peel due to increased sun exposure and heat.
Should you get a Chemical Peel in the Summer? Here’s What You Need to Know:
With the right precautions, getting a chemical peel during the warmer months can be both safe and beneficial for your skin. Let’s dive into the myths, the truths, and everything you need to know about summer chemical peels.
The Myth: "Chemical Peels Aren't Safe in the Summer"
The belief that chemical peels should be avoided during the summer stems from concerns about sun exposure during the recovery process. It’s true that sun protection is a critical part of chemical peel aftercare, but this doesn’t mean you should avoid peels altogether when the weather gets warmer. With the right precautions—chiefly, wearing sunscreen and limiting prolonged sun exposure—undergoing a chemical peel in the summer is not only possible, but it can actually enhance your skin’s health.
How Summer Heat Affects Chemical Peels
While sun exposure should be minimized, what about the heat? It’s true that intense heat can affect the skin's recovery post-peel, but this is more about avoiding extreme temperatures that cause heavy sweating—such as exercising or using saunas—rather than the ambient warmth of summer itself.
When we talk about heat, it’s important to distinguish between two types: external heat (like summer’s hot temperatures) and internal heat (like sweating from exercise or saunas). For your chemical peel recovery, external heat won’t be a major issue as long as you take appropriate measures like staying hydrated and wearing sunscreen. The real concern comes from internal heat—sweating excessively can lead to irritation. However, if you’re just doing normal outdoor activities, a little sun exposure (with sunscreen, of course) is perfectly fine and won’t harm your results.
If your local to St Louis, MO like us, the summer heat can get HOT!
The Reality: Summer Can Be a Great Time for a Chemical Peel
First, let's break down what a chemical peel does for your skin. Chemical peels as a whole promote exfoliation and skin regeneration. As we age, our skin’s natural ability to shed old cells slows down, which can lead to dullness and uneven texture. A chemical peel accelerates this process, helping to reveal smoother, fresher skin by removing dead skin cells and promoting new skin cell growth.
It’s important to note that chemical peels, while they promote exfoliation, do so without stimulating melanin production, the pigment responsible for dark spots. In fact, one of the primary causes of post-peel hyperpigmentation is failing to follow proper aftercare, like skipping sunscreen or overexposing your skin to the sun. That’s why maintaining a solid sun protection routine—regardless of the season—is critical.
The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends that everyone over the age of six months use sunscreen every day, not just in the summer. This daily habit can protect your skin from premature aging, sunburns, and even skin cancer. As long as you’re diligent about applying sunscreen and avoiding direct sun exposure for extended periods, a summer chemical peel can yield excellent results.
Surprising Benefits of Chemical Peels in the Summer
Summer's increased humidity can actually enhance the benefits of chemical peels for some skin types. For dry or sensitive skin, the added moisture can ease irritation from exfoliating treatments. If your skin tends to get dry, this moisture can calm it, making the peel more effective.
Summer can worsen skin problems like dark spots and melasma from more sun exposure. A chemical peel during this time can help treat these issues early, making them easier to manage. It can reduce persistent pigmentation and even out your skin tone, leaving you looking fresh for summer activities.
When Not to Get a Chemical Peel in the Summer
You can safely get a chemical peel in summer, with a few exceptions. Try to avoid a chemical peel in the summer if your skin is sunburned or has had too much sun. If you've just come back from the beach or spent a whole day in the sun, wait until your skin has healed. For the best results, ensure your skin is in good condition and consult a skincare professional if you’re uncertain.
The Bottom Line: Is Summer the Right Time for Your Chemical Peel?
Ultimately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best time for a chemical peel depends on your skin's needs and the guidance of your skincare professional.
However, chemical peels can be safely and effectively performed in the summer, as long as you practice proper sun protection and follow your aftercare instructions. In fact, with humidity helping to keep your skin hydrated and sun damage being more prominent during this season, summer can be an ideal time to treat hyperpigmentation and rejuvenate your complexion.
For those struggling with sun damage or pigmentation issues, a Chemical Peel can be particularly beneficial in addressing these concerns. Whether you're looking to combat wrinkles, dark spots, or other signs of aging, a chemical peel is a fantastic option to consider year-round.