Chemical Peel Pre- and Post-Care

Pre‑Care (All Patients)

☐ Sun & Tanning:  Avoid sunbathing/tanning beds for 2 weeks before treatment and will not arrive sunburned.
☐ Self‑tanner: Avoid spray/self‑tanner on treatment areas for 2 weeks pre‑treatment.
☐ Active topicals: Stop retinoids/retinol, AHAs/BHAs, benzoyl peroxide, strong vitamin C, scrubs/brushes for 7 days (1 week) prior (longer if sensitive). 
☐ Procedures: Avoid waxing, threading, depilatories and any at‑home or professional chemical skin treatments and/or devices (e.g., strong peels, microderm, energy devices on the area) for 2 weeks prior. 
☐ Isotretinoin: It has been ≥6 months since I finished oral isotretinoin (Accutane®).
☐ HSV history: If I get cold sores (HSV) near the treatment zone, I will notify SOKO; if prescribed, I will start antiviral ~3 days before.
☐ Arrival: Arrive with clean, product‑free skin on the treatment area(s) — no makeup, lotion/oil, fragrance, deodorant, or sunscreen. 
☐ Health: No have active infection, rash, or open wounds on the area; Not pregnant or breastfeeding.

B) Face/Neck — Additional Pre‑Care

☐ Makeup‑free: I will remove all makeup, sunscreen, and facial oils before arrival.
☐ Shaving: If I shave the face/neck, I will avoid shaving the day of (or as instructed) to limit irritation.
☐ Actives window (face/neck): If my provider plans a stronger/superficial‑to‑medium peel, I will extend active‑topical hold to 5–7 days pre‑treatment.
☐ Sun gear: I will bring a hat or plan shade for after my visit.

C) Body (Chest, Back, Arms/Hands, Legs, Other) — Additional Pre‑Care

☐ Clothing: I will wear loose, breathable clothing to minimize friction on the treatment area.
☐ Products: I will not apply lotions, oils, deodorant, fragrances, or self‑tanner on the area for 24 hours before.
☐ Hair removal: I will avoid waxing, plucking, depilatories, or bleaching the area for 2 weeks pre‑treatment (shaving may be allowed if instructed).
☐ Actives window (body): I will stop retinoids/acids/scrubs on the area for 5–7 days prior (body skin is more friction‑sensitive).
☐ Workouts/heat: I will avoid heavy workouts, hot yoga/sauna immediately before my appointment to keep skin cool and calm.

D) Fitzpatrick IV–VI / PIH‑Prone (if applicable)

☐ I understand my provider may recommend pigment‑control pre‑treatment (e.g., hydroquinone or azelaic) for 2–4 weeks prior and/or a test spot to reduce PIH risk. I will follow these instructions if given.

Post‑Care — General

• The first two days your skin will look a little tan, bronzed, or pink. It may also feel a bit tight before the peeling begins.
  
  
• As a rule, treat it like a sunburn: avoid sun exposure, avoid sweating and avoid heat.
  
  
• During the peeling phase you must avoid sun exposure. Even after the peeling has subsided your new skin will be sensitive to UV light. Protect your investment and reapply your sunscreen when outdoors.
  
  
• If any products in the post peel kit sting or irritate beyond your tolerance reach out to your practitioner for options to use instead.
  
  
• The amount of visible peeling you will experience varies greatly. You will peel as much as your skin needs to peel.
  
  
• Each morning, apply the Post Treatment Repair Cream and SPF 50+ Sunscreen, and apply as needed throughout the day. Continue use for the 7-Day peeling process.
  
  
• TOWELETTES Function: 
  • The towelettes included in your post peel kit provide additional stimulation of the skin and expedite the peeling process.
  • Use: First towelette should be used 4 hours after your peel has been applied. Subsequent towelettes will be applied at intervals designated in your aftercare booklet. All towelettes should be spaced a minimum of 4 hours apart and all towelettes should be used in the first 48 hours.
  • Discontinue any unused towelettes if you note any peeling within the first 48 Hours.
  • Side effects: Towelettes are not refreshing towelettes. There are active ingredients in these towelettes and therefore you may note some light stinging upon application. Some people can also experience some itching, especially on night 1 which can be remedied by applying Post Treatment Repair Cream, hydrocortisone cream, or taking oral antihistamine.
    
    
• PEELING
  • Safe products to use during peeling: VI Derm Gentle Purifying Cleanser, Post Treatment Repair Cream, SPF 50+. (From your home you can also use a gentle cleanser, Aquaphor, and sunscreen.
  • Days 3, 4 and 5 are the typical days of peeling. By day 6 most exfoliation has subsided.
  • Typically, peeling begins on the third day, starting around the mouth then peeling outward. The forehead and neck will be the last areas to peel.
  • We recommend cleansing your face prior to showering and keeping your face protected from hot water.
  • When cleansing your face use your fingertips only. Avoid using washcloths or facial machine brushes during the first week.
  • While the skin is exfoliating avoid pulling, picking, rubbing and any premature removal of skin. This could lead to significant irritation and possible hyperpigmentation. Never force or peel the skin off in sheets.
  • When peeling make sure to keep your body hydrated and your skin moisturized.
  • The Post Treatment Repair Cream may cause slight sensitivity when first applied but it quickly subsides.
  • If you are excessively dry or irritated when peeling, add a light layer of Aquaphor to provide a protective barrier.
    
    
• POST PEEL
  • Resuming Skin Care Products:
  • Non-Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided, usually day 6-7.
  • Actives: Can be resumed once peeling has subsided and sensitivity has returned to normal, usually day 7-10.
  • Physical Activity / Exercise:
  • Refrain for 72-96 hours after peel application. Inducing excessive perspiration can lead to PIH or blistering.
    
    
• Scheduling the Next VI Peel:
  • VI Peels should be scheduled every 4-6 weeks (for best results)
  • Additional Skincare Treatments:
  • It is recommended to wait for a minimum of 2 weeks before any treatment that creates exfoliation of the skin. (Includes facials, extractions, waxing, and threading)
  • Consult with your practitioner for other treatment option

When to Contact SOKO

Call/text 913‑232‑2224 if you notice increasing pain, spreading redness/warmth, blistering, drainage/pus, fever, or swelling that worsens after 48–72 hours, or any unusual darkening/lightening of skin. For emergencies, dial 911.