Are Chemical Peels Safe in the Summer?

Many people believe that chemical peels are not safe during the summer due to higher risk of burning. But the risk is the same regardless of the season. Direct sun exposure and being outside for long periods of time is not permitted after a chemical peel whether it’s the summer or winter.

The skin care during any peel process requires meticulous routines that include protecting the skin from direct sunlight or heat exposure with SPF and hats.

So whether you do a peel in the summer or in the winter, it is essential to follow strict directions and protect your face from direct sunlight.

Lighter chemical peels are safer to do during the summer and sometimes involve less downtime than true medium-depth peels, which penetrate the skin deeper and tend to have more downtime and significantly more peeling.

All that said, chemical peels are safe during the summer, so long as you follow the proper protocols.

If you’re thinking about getting a chemical peel during the summer, remember to reapply your SPF during the day every two hours if you intend to be outside running errands, for example. Zinc oxide with a 30 SPF or above is recommended to block the damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Dr. Zoe Gazola is the owner and medical director at The Indigo Clinic in Miami, which draws patients from all over the globe.