As we transition from winter to spring, it’s important to pay attention to our skin and its changing needs. And one of the best ways to refresh and renew your complexion after a long, dry winter is with a chemical peel.
But this poses the question – is it the right time to get one? Let’s find out when is chemical peel season and if there’s a time when this procedure isn’t really favorable.
Why Get a Chemical Peel?
Chemical peels are effective, non-invasive cosmetic procedures that exfoliate the skin by stimulating skin cell turnover and collagen production.
This has many benefits, but mostly it helps remove a superficial, blemished skin layer and replace it with a new, unblemished one that’s beneath.
This improves the appearance of many skin issues such as fine lines and wrinkles, acne scars, age spots, sun damage, and a large number of other concerns. They can also help to even out skin tone and texture and give your skin a healthy, glowing appearance.
This treatment is versatile and highly customizable since acid types and their intensities aid in addressing a range of issues.
You can learn all about the process and different types of peeling agents here.
Image source: Instagram @nodariskin
What Time of Year Should You Get a Chemical Peel?
Since each weather season has a unique effect on the skin, it’s important to understand what changes take place and how you can help your skin stay healthy and work optimally year-round.
Besides, environmental factors can have a huge impact on the results of a chemical peel – and any other skincare procedure, in fact. So, let’s take a closer look at each season and how it relates to getting a chemical peel treatment done.
Chemical Peels During Winter
The air is cooler and dryer throughout the winter, which causes dry, flaky skin. As the humidity drops, the skin’s natural moisture barrier is weakened, resulting in a dull, lackluster complexion.
Plus, indoor heating isn’t helping either as it can further exacerbate dryness.
So a chemical peel might come to mind as a perfect fix for all this.
And while chemical peels do help remove the top layer of dead skin cells, there is a risk of compromising the already compromised skin barrier.
Skin protective barrier helps regulate oil production and retain moisture in the skin, keeping it hydrated and supple. So it’s important to avoid over-exfoliating, as this can further irritate and damage the skin.
So, Is Winter a Good Chemical Peel Season?
Winter might not be the best chemical peel season, but that’s not to say you should avoid this treatment completely.
Superficial chemical peels can be very beneficial during colder months as they help skincare products sink in better when the top skin layer isn’t covered in dead, flaky skin.
By helping with product absorption, chemical peels allow you to get the most out of your moisturizers and keep your skin smooth and plump.
Chemical Peels During Spring
As the temperatures start to warm up and the humidity increases, there are a number of changes the skin goes through. It begins producing more oil and sweat which starts clogging up pores and making skin more prone to breakouts.
A chemical peel can be an effective way to clear out clogged pores, exfoliate the skin and reduce inflammation. And seeing as winter weather may have been detrimental to your skin, it really needs some extra care during the transition to hot summer temperatures.
You read more about what you can do to help your skin adjust here.
So, Is Spring a Good Chemical Peel Season?
Spring is the perfect chemical peel season!
It’s an optimal time due to two key factors: firstly, you get to address any skin damage winter may have caused, and secondly – it’s a great way to prepare for environmental factors that come with the summer months.
Seeing as chemical peels in summer aren’t really recommended, springtime is sort of a final opportunity before the sun and harmful UV rays become too intense. This way you get a more even complexion and flawless skin that lasts throughout the hot summer months.
Image source: Freepik
Chemical Peels During Summer
Summer is a time of increased sun exposure, and this can lead to a number of skin concerns – sunburn, hyperpigmentation, and premature aging can all be a result of prolonged sun exposure.
Additionally, increased sweating and oil production can lead to clogged pores and breakouts.
All these problems can be solved with a chemical peel but should you do a chemical peel in the summer?
While chemical peels can be effective in treating hyperpigmentation and other sun damage, it’s important to avoid getting a peel during the peak of summer. The skin is more prone to sun damage and irritation during this time, and getting a peel can further compromise the skin’s protective barrier.
So, Is Summer a Good Chemical Peel Season?
No, not really. It’s best to wait until the fall or winter months when the sun is less intense and the skin is less sensitive.
Although it’s not recommended, the majority of AHA and BHA peels are safe to get all year round as long as you follow a few basic rules – always use an SPF and keep your face out of direct sunlight as best you can.
Chemical Peels During Fall
Fun fact: National First Day of Peel Season takes place on September 7 every year and it celebrates healthy skin!
But that’s not the only reason fall is considered a good chemical peel season.
It’s because there’s less sun exposure to worry about. So fall is a great time to get a series of peels to exfoliate away some of the sun-related skin changes picked up over the summer season.
But, on the other hand, this is a season that is transitioning toward colder weather. So as the temperatures start to cool down, the skin may become drier and more sensitive due to increased wind and colder air that can lead to chapping and cracking of the skin.
So, Is Fall a Good Chemical Peel Season?
Nonetheless, fall is still a very favorable chemical peel season. It represents a window for revitalization before the harsh winter months.
In fact, not only is it good, but most skincare professionals consider the best chemical peel season to be the fall and spring – when the weather is not too hot but not too cold either, as this helps your skin recover more quickly.
So, When Is the Best Time to Get a Chemical Peel?
Although you can choose to get a chemical peel any time of the year, the best times to book your appointment are springtime and fall. Dubbed chemical peel season, these transitional weather periods are the perfect time to refresh your skin and keep it healthy.
By getting a chemical peel during these neutral weather conditions, you can take advantage of less harsh environmental influences and keep your skin protected during its recovery process.
Especially if you’re receiving treatment in multiple sessions or getting a deeper peel.
Cover image source: Freepik
