Male grooming has never been as popular as it is now, the demand for great skin for men is growing by the day and just as important for you gents as it is for us girls.

Cosmetic procedures are on the up as well as minimally invasive skin rejuvenation treatments such as the chemical peels.

But you may well be thinking is it OK or even possible for men to have a chemical peel, the very thought of putting acid on your male skin conjures up all kinds of thoughts and questions!

Can you have a chemical peel with a beard? Can you shave before or after a chemical peel? Is it going to be painful?

Don’t worry, I’m here to answer all these questions right here right now whether it be looking to go for a professional chemical peel or whether you can do it yourself at home, I’m here to help!

Can Men Have Chemical Peels?

Yes you absolutely can, although male skin is slightly thicker than female skin you can still get beautiful results from a chemical peel, but there are some extra rules you have to follow before and after to make sure you are not going to make your skin too sensitive or exposed to the peel.

Obviously you guys have facial hair to consider, so here are the rules regarding facial hair and peels.

Can I have a Chemical Peel With A Beard?

This is not a problem but I would advise if possible you trim your beard as short as you can then it is possible the peel can get through to the skin.

There are some exceptions though.

There are different types of chemical peels meaning they contain different acids.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) are the ones that contain Lactic, Glycolic, Malic, Mandelic acid.

Beta Hydroxy Acid (BHAs) are your salicylic acid any peels containing these acids will be fine to go over your beard, however I would avoid any peel that requires layering these include Trichloroacetic (TCA) or Jessners.

So that’s beards covered.

Can I Shave Before Having A Chemical Peel?

Shaving is actually a form of exfoliation so every time you shave you are removing the top layer of surface skin cells so if you do this immediately before a peel, the peel could penetrate your skin deeper than intended and cause irritation.

You can shave but leave at least 24 hours before you have your peel.

Can I Shave After A Chemical Peel?

If you can avoid shaving for a few days this is the best option, if you must shave your 2nd best option is to use an electric razor, if you are desperate for the smooth clean shave you must apply lots of shaving foam and be really gentle!

If you have done a deeper peel and you skin is flaking try not to shave the flakes, definitely don’t pull them off, but with well moisturised skin gently try to message them off before shaving.

Are Chemical Peels Good For Mens Skin?

The reason why men will benefit from chemicals peels is they are not only great for increasing cellular turnover and improving collagen production, unclogging pores and reducing lines and wrinkles, they are great for ingrown hairs so if this is something you struggle with, regular chemical peels can really help.

Should I Avoid Anything After A Chemical Peel?

Ideally you should avoid anything that is going to make you hot and sweaty for the first 48 hours until the skin starts to exfoliate, otherwise sweat can get trapped beneath the skin and cause inflammation or even post inflammatory hyper pigmentation.

So try to keep out of the gym, saunas and steam rooms.

If you’re wanting to try a home peel go for the AlumierMD Enzymatic Peel, you can use this up to twice a week and just on the areas you want.

It can even be used to maintain results inbetween professional treatments.