After a chemical peel, keep your routine gentle, keep your skin hydrated, protect it from the sun and let any peeling happen on its own. How long this takes depends on the depth of the peel.
Types of chemical peel
DermNet describes three broad depths of peel, each with a different recovery.
| Peel depth | Common ingredients | Typical recovery |
|---|---|---|
| Superficial | Glycolic acid, salicylic acid, Jessner solution | Mild redness, usually settling within about 48 hours |
| Medium | Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) | Redness and swelling for around a week |
| Deep | Phenol | Longer recovery; rarely used today |
The first 48 hours
- Leave on any product your practitioner applied
- Keep skin cool and avoid heat, saunas and hot baths
- Cleanse gently with lukewarm water
- Skip make-up until your practitioner says it is fine
- Avoid exercise that makes you sweat
When the peeling starts
Peeling usually begins a few days after treatment. It can be tempting to help it along, but DermNet is clear that you should not pick at peeling skin. Picking can slow recovery and leave marks. Let it come away naturally, and keep skin hydrated to make flaking feel more comfortable.
Products to avoid
- Exfoliating acids and scrubs
- Retinoids and retinol, unless your practitioner has advised otherwise
- Fragranced products
- Waxing, threading or hair removal creams on the treated area
Some practitioners prescribe specific products before or after a peel. If yours has, follow that plan rather than general advice.
Sun protection after a peel
Newly exposed skin is more sensitive to the sun. DermNet advises protecting skin from the sun, especially in the months after a peel. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen every day and reapply when you are outdoors.
Supporting your skin after a peel
A simple routine of gentle cleansing, hydration and sunscreen covers most needs. Many clinics also apply a professional aftercare serum at the end of treatment. Sekretome is designed for this step, pairing secretome with hyaluronic acid to help skin feel comfortable and hydrated. Learn more about how secretome works.
When to contact your clinic
Speak to your practitioner if you notice blisters, crusting, spreading redness, or any change you are unsure about. Always follow the aftercare advice your practitioner gives you.
Frequently asked questions
How long does peeling last after a chemical peel?
It depends on the peel. Light peels may cause little visible peeling, while medium depth peels often peel over about a week.
Is it normal not to peel after a chemical peel?
Yes. Light peels do not always cause visible peeling, and that does not mean the peel has not worked.
Can I wear make-up after a chemical peel?
Wait until your practitioner confirms your skin is ready, which is often at least a day after a light peel and longer after deeper peels.
Should I moisturise after a chemical peel?
Yes. Keeping skin hydrated helps it feel more comfortable while it peels. Use the products your clinic recommends.
Can I pick at peeling skin?
No. Picking can slow recovery and leave marks. Let the skin come away on its own.
When can I use exfoliating acids again after a peel?
Pause them until your practitioner says it is fine to restart, as treated skin is more reactive than usual.
How important is sunscreen after a chemical peel?
Very. Newly exposed skin is more sensitive to the sun, so wear broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.
When should I contact my clinic after a peel?
Speak to your practitioner if you notice blisters, crusting, spreading redness or any change you are unsure about.
Sources
Having a treatment? Ask your clinic about Sekretome aftercare.
