How to Prep Your Skin for a Chemical Peel (and What to Expect After)
Make It Stand Out.
If you’ve been thinking about refreshing dull skin, softening fine lines, clearing acne, or improving overall texture, a chemical peel can be a game-changing treatment. But here’s something most people don’t realize: your results start long before the peel itself.
Prepping your skin properly — and caring for it afterward — is what helps you achieve that radiant, smooth, glowing complexion chemical peels are known for.
Whether this is your first peel or you’ve had them before, here’s your complete guide on how to prepare your skin for a chemical peel and what to expect afterward.
Why preparing for Chemical Peels matter
Think of a chemical peel like a workout for your skin — you’ll get the best results when you warm it up beforehand.
Proper prep helps your skin:
Respond better to the peel
Minimize irritation or sensitivity
Heal smoothly and evenly
Achieve glowing, longer-lasting results
A little effort now = a bigger glow later.
How to prep your skin before a Chemical Peel
To get the most out of your peel, start preparing 7–14 days beforehand:
Pause Retinol + Exfoliants
Avoid retinol, retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, scrubs, and exfoliating products.
These can make your skin more sensitive and reactive.
When to stop: 5–7 days before your peel
Hydrate - Inside and Out
Well-hydrated skin responds better to treatment.
Drink plenty of water
Use a gentle, hydrating moisturizer daily
Protect your skin from the sun
Sun exposure can cause irritation and uneven results.
Avoid tanning or sunburns
Wear SPF 30+ daily
Keep your routine simple
Use gentle, fragrance-free products the week before your appointment.
Think: cleanse → moisturize → SPF
Avoid Facial Hair Removal
Skip waxing, threading, dermaplaning, or hair removal creams before your peel.
When to stop: 5–7 days before your peel
Communication with your provider
Share your skin concerns, current routine, and any medications you’re using — especially acne medications.
This helps us choose the right peel strength for you.
What to expect during your peel?
Most appointments last about 30–45 minutes.
Here’s a simple breakdown of what happens:
Your skin is cleansed and prepped
The peel solution is applied and left on for a short time
You may feel mild tingling or warmth
The solution is neutralized and soothing products are applied
You’ll leave with aftercare instructions tailored to your skin.
What to expect after your peel?
Everyone’s skin is different, but here’s what’s normal in the days following a chemical peel:
Days 1–2:
Skin may feel tight, dry, and slightly sensitive — similar to a mild sunburn.
Days 3–5:
Peeling and flaking may begin. Do not pick or pull at it.
Days 5–7:
Skin begins to smooth, brighten, and glow.
After 1–2 weeks:
You’ll notice a clearer, more even complexion with improved texture.
Post Peel Do-Not’s
To protect your skin and results, avoid:
Sun exposure
Tanning beds
Retinol and exfoliants (for 5–7 days after)
Hot yoga, saunas, steam rooms for 24–48 hours
Picking or peeling the skin
When will you see results?
Many clients notice a visible glow within the first week, with continued improvement over 2–4 weeks. For deeper concerns such as acne scars, wrinkles, or pigmentation, a series of peels often delivers the best results.
