Prior to applying a chemical peel, what is the necessary preparatory step?

Degreasing the skin is a crucial preparatory step before applying a chemical peel. This process involves cleansing the skin to remove excess oils, makeup, dirt, and any other impurities that may be present on the surface. By thoroughly degreasing the skin, the absorption of the chemical peel is enhanced, ensuring that the active ingredients penetrate effectively and uniformly. This maximizes the treatment’s efficacy and minimizes the risk of adverse reactions.

Exfoliation could seem like a relevant step, but it is typically performed in the days or weeks leading up to the peel rather than just before the application. Similarly, applying moisturizer directly before a chemical peel could create a barrier that impedes the peel from working optimally. Using a toner may also help prepare the skin, but it does not specifically address the removal of grease and impurities as effectively as degreasing does. Therefore, degreasing is essential for ensuring a successful chemical peel procedure.