Let’s get one thing clear: chemical peels aren’t just another exfoliation trend. They’re the real deal when it comes to skin resurfacing—helping you shed dull, damaged skin and reveal a brighter, smoother, and fresher complexion underneath.
But here’s the thing no one talks about enough. What happens after your peel is just as important as the peel itself. Post-peel care is the difference between getting that head-turning glow or ending up with irritation and setbacks.
So if you’re ready to let your skin shine like the icon you are, let’s dive into everything you need to know—the dos and don’ts after a chemical peel.
What Are Chemical Peels?
A chemical peel is a professional facial treatment where a carefully formulated solution is applied to your skin to exfoliate the outer layers. Depending on the type and depth of the peel, this solution can target everything from fine lines and uneven tone to stubborn acne scars and pigmentation.
Common peeling agents include:
- AHA (Alpha Hydroxy Acids) like glycolic and lactic acid for brightening and hydration.
- BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid), like salicylic acid, for decongesting oily, acne-prone skin.
- TCA (Trichloroacetic Acid) for medium-depth peeling and more intense resurfacing.
- Glycolic Acid, a fan-favorite for treating wrinkles and dullness.
The magic? These acids dissolve dead skin cells, stimulating the skin’s natural repair process and encouraging the growth of new, healthier skin. The result? Exfoliation that actually delivers—hello, smoother texture, reduced breakouts, and an undeniable glow.
THE PERFECT DERMA™ PEEL
It is a medium-depth chemical peel formulated to rejuvenate the skin from the inside out with a powerful blend of ingredients, including Glutathione, Kojic Acid, TCA, Retinoic Acid, Salicylic Acid, Phenol, and Vitamin C. This unique combination not only improves skin clarity, tone, and texture, but also addresses stubborn concerns like hyperpigmentation, acne, and fine lines.
Safe for all skin types and ethnicities, it delivers visible results after just one treatment with minimal downtime—making it a popular go-to solution for patients looking for brighter, smoother, and more youthful skin.
The Do’s and Don’ts After a Chemical Peel
Your chemical peel did the heavy lifting by removing dull, damaged layers. Now? It’s your turn to protect that investment and make sure the glow lasts. Here’s how to keep your skin winning.
DO: Keep Your Skin Hydrated
Moisture is your skin’s power tool after a peel. Hydration speeds up recovery, soothes any tightness, and helps your skin rebuild its protective barrier. Choose moisturizers packed with hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and calming botanicals like aloe or chamomile. The goal? Seal in moisture without clogging pores or stressing the skin. You’ll notice less peeling and a softer, plumper texture as you heal.
DON’T: Pick or Peel Flaking Skin
That flaking? Totally normal. It’s your skin’s way of saying, “Out with the old.” But peeling or picking at those flakes can cause microtears, scarring, or dark spots (hyperpigmentation). Even if it’s so tempting, let the shedding process happen naturally. Trust—your patience will pay off with an even, polished finish.
DO: Protect Your Skin from the Sun
Your fresh, new skin is like baby skin—vulnerable and super sensitive to UV damage. Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen SPF 30 or higher every single morning, and reapply if you’re outdoors for extended periods.
Pair it with a wide-brim hat or seek shade when you can. Unprotected sun exposure can reverse your peel results and trigger pigmentation issues faster than you can say “SPF.”
DON’T: Use Harsh Skincare Products
Retinoids, exfoliating acids (like glycolic or salicylic), and even some vitamin C serums can irritate post-peel skin. For at least 7 to 10 days, stick to gentle, non-fragranced cleansers and moisturizers. You want to support the healing process, not complicate it.
Your powerhouse actives will still be there once your skin is fully recovered, and they’ll actually work better after all that dead skin has cleared away.
DO: Follow Your Provider’s Aftercare Instructions
Every peel is a little different. Your provider customized your treatment for your skin’s specific needs, and they know how it’ll behave post-treatment. Whether they recommend certain products or a specific healing timeline, stick to it like it’s your skincare gospel. Deviating can delay your glow or worse—cause a setback. This is the time to follow expert advice to the letter.
DON’T: Overheat Your Skin
For the first 48 to 72 hours, avoid anything that heats up your skin—no saunas, steam rooms, hot yoga, or super hot showers. Heat can increase inflammation, leading to redness or even broken capillaries. Keep your skin cool and calm, so it can focus on what it does best: regenerating and glowing up.
DO: Be Patient
Skin resurfacing takes time. You may not see peak results until one to two weeks post-peel (longer for deeper peels). It can be tempting to want instant perfection, but healing is a process. Stick with your gentle aftercare routine and trust the journey. That glassy, even complexion is just around the corner.
DON’T: Schedule Another Peel Too Soon
More treatments don’t mean faster results. Your skin needs 4 to 6 weeks between peels to fully recover and regenerate. Piling on treatments without enough healing time can lead to skin sensitivity, inflammation, and even long-term damage. Play the long game—your skin will thank you for it.
Bonus Tips for Next-Level Post-Peel Care
If you want that next-level, paparazzi-ready skin (without the paparazzi drama), a few extra pro moves can take your post-peel results from good to jaw-dropping. Here’s how to upgrade your glow:
Sleep Like a Queen (On Your Back)
Your pillowcase might be plotting against your peel. Friction from rough fabrics or even just pressing your face into your pillow can irritate healing skin or cause uneven exfoliation. Sleeping on your back not only protects your glow but also helps prevent sleep lines and creases. For an extra bougie move? Swap out your cotton pillowcase for silk or satin. Less friction. More fabulous.
Ice, Ice Baby
If you notice mild swelling or warmth post-peel, a cool compress (NOT direct ice) can be your secret weapon. Wrap an ice pack or bag of frozen peas in a soft cloth and apply it gently for a few minutes at a time. This helps calm inflammation and soothe any discomfort without disrupting the healing process. But remember—don’t overdo it. We’re calming, not freezing.
Stay Chill with Makeup
Even if you’re tempted to cover redness or flaking, let your skin breathe for a few days post-peel. Heavy foundations, powders, and even some BB creams can clog pores or interfere with healing. When you do go back to makeup, choose lightweight, non-comedogenic formulas and skip the heavy contouring. Your skin is the star now—no need to hide it.
Hydration Is a Lifestyle
Your post-peel moisturizer isn’t just a suggestion—it’s non-negotiable. But don’t stop there. Drink plenty of water to support your skin from the inside out. Hydrated skin heals faster, looks plumper, and holds onto that dewy finish longer. Glow is an inside job, too.
Don’t Be Shy About Touch-Ups
It’s okay if you need a little extra help between peels. Talk to your provider about hydrating facials, LED light therapy, or even light enzyme masks once your skin has fully healed. These add-ons can extend your results and keep your skin balanced between peel sessions.
Book Your Next Peel Strategically
Planning an event? Give yourself enough time between your peel and the big day. Light peels may only need a week, while deeper peels might require two weeks or more for peak results. Flawless skin should never be rushed.
Flawless Skin Takes Strategy—And You’ve Got This
Chemical peels aren’t one-size-fits-all. At Skyn Alchemy in San Diego, CA, we tailor every peel to your skin’s exact needs—whether you want to brighten, clarify, firm, or all of the above. But our real flex? The aftercare.
Exfoliation is just the beginning. What you do after a chemical peel determines how boldly you’ll glow tomorrow—and for weeks to come. So protect that investment. Follow the do’s and don’ts. Let your skin heal in peace. And when you’re ready to hit the world with that fresh, radiant energy? You’ll be unstoppable.
Call us today to book your appointment!
