Care Guides · Skin
Chemical Peel Pre-Care & Aftercare Instructions
Everything you need to know before and after your chemical peel at Revel Beauty Club, including what to pause beforehand and how to care for your skin while it peels. Having a Fire & Ice Facial? Most of these steps apply to you too, but always follow your provider’s instructions.
Clinically reviewed by our Medical Director, Kelly Ross, NP
Before your appointment · After your treatment · When to contact us
3–7 days
of peeling or flaking is normal
Pause actives
retinoids and acids 5–7 days before
Do not pick
let your skin shed naturally
No sun or tanning
for 2 weeks after treatment
Pre-care
Before your chemical peel appointment
Peels work best on calm, healthy skin. Book at least a week before a special event so any peeling has time to settle.
- Stop retinoids and exfoliating acids 5–7 days before your appointment, including retinol, tretinoin, glycolic or salicylic products and scrubs.
- Avoid waxing, threading, laser and other facial treatments for 1 week before.
- Do not book a peel if you have taken isotretinoin (Accutane) in the past 6 months.
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and self-tanner for 1 week before. Please reschedule if you have a sunburn.
- If you are prone to cold sores, let us know before your appointment.
- Arrive with a clean face and no makeup.
- Tell us about any changes to your health, medications or skincare, including if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Aftercare
After your chemical peel
Tightness, redness, dryness and peeling are normal for 3–7 days, depending on the peel and your skin. Follow this routine to help your skin recover and get the best results.
First 24 hours
- No makeup.
- Do not wash your face for at least 4–6 hours, or as your provider advises.
- Avoid touching your face with unclean hands.
24–48 hours
- Wash your face with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser.
- Apply a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer as often as needed.
Every morning
- Apply a physical (mineral) SPF 30 or higher every morning.
First 72 hours
- No strenuous exercise or heavy sweating.
- No saunas, steam rooms or hot showers.
Days 3–7
- Let your skin peel on its own. Do not pick, pull or scrub flaking skin.
- Avoid retinols, acids, vitamin C and exfoliants until peeling has stopped.
First 2 weeks
- Avoid sun exposure, tanning beds and self-tanner.
When to contact us
Some redness, dryness and peeling is normal after a chemical peel.
Please call us at (416) 766-0066 if you notice:
- Signs of infection, such as increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus or fever
- Blisters, open sores or a cold sore outbreak
- Pain or swelling that is severe or getting worse instead of better
- A rash, hives or itching that feels like an allergic reaction
- Redness or irritation that is not improving after 7 days
Call 911 or go to your nearest emergency department right away if you have difficulty breathing, or swelling of your face, lips or throat.
Chemical peel aftercare FAQ
Is it normal for my skin to peel after a chemical peel?
Yes. Tightness, redness, dryness and peeling are normal for 3–7 days, depending on the peel and your skin. Lighter peels may cause only mild flaking.
When can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?
Avoid makeup for the first 24 hours after your treatment.
When can I go back to retinol or vitamin C?
Wait until your skin has completely stopped peeling, usually 5–7 days, before returning to retinols, acids, vitamin C or exfoliants.
When can I exercise after a chemical peel?
Avoid strenuous exercise, saunas and hot showers for 72 hours after your treatment.
When can I go in the sun after a chemical peel?
Avoid sun exposure and tanning beds for 2 weeks, and wear a physical (mineral) SPF 30 or higher every day. Freshly peeled skin is more sensitive to the sun.
Prefer a printable copy? Download the Chemical Peel care guide (PDF, 105 KB)
Learn more about chemical peels and facials at Revel · All care guides
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