Step-by-step: what to do before and after a chemical peel
1) The week before: reduce irritation risk
Plan to pause irritating “actives” unless your provider instructs otherwise—especially retinoids/retinol, exfoliating acids, and acne medications that can increase sensitivity. Also avoid aggressive scrubs, at-home devices, and anything that leaves the skin sunburned or inflamed.
2) Day of peel: keep it simple
Arrive with clean skin and skip anything that could sensitize (heavy exfoliation, strong acids, or fresh waxing). Expect some stinging or warmth; the intensity depends on peel depth and formulation.
3) First 48 hours: calm, hydrate, protect
Your priorities are gentle cleansing, a bland moisturizer, and avoiding heat (hot yoga, saunas, long hot showers). Expect tightness and dryness; cool compresses can feel great. If you’re red and puffy, keep plans flexible.
4) Days 3–7: peeling is normal—picking is not
Flaking and peeling commonly show up around day 2–5 for many light-to-medium peels. Let the skin shed naturally. Picking can increase the risk of prolonged redness, irritation, and uneven pigment.
5) Sun protection: this is where results are protected
UV exposure after a peel can trigger unwanted pigment changes and delay healing. Once your provider says your skin is ready, use broad-spectrum SPF daily and reapply when outdoors. Hats and shade matter, too—especially during Idaho’s high-sun months.
Timing tip: If you have an event, schedule your peel with downtime in mind. Light peels may look “presentable” quickly, while medium peels can have more obvious shedding before they look polished.