Chemical Peel Aftercare Instructions

There are several different kinds of chemical peels that require different aftercare instructions. Please refer to the information provided to you after your appointment, in the form of a handout and/or phone app. The instructions below are only general chemical peel aftercare instructions

Hands Off the Peeling

As tempting as it may be, do not pick, scratch, or peel the flaking skin. Some may come off naturally while cleansing. You may trim the peeling skin carefully with cuticle scissors. For the most part let your skin shed naturally — picking skin that is not ready to come off can cause scarring or uneven healing. If you purchased a package you will be provided with an oil to mix with your anti-itch cream to sooth itching and help conceal peeling starting on day 3, if you wish. If you did not purchase a package you may purchase the oil in office or purchase Aquaphor on your own and combine with your anti-itch cream for the same effect.

Keep Skincare Gentle

Only use the skincare that was provided with your peel for best results.

Sun Protection is Essential

Your new skin is delicate and extra sensitive to UV rays. Wear a broad-spectrum, physical (mineral) sunscreen daily, and avoid direct sun exposure, tanning beds, or hot environments until your skin fully recovers.

Redness or Discomfort

Mild redness, tightness, or tingling is normal after a peel. If needed, you can apply a cool compress briefly to soothe the skin. Avoid ice directly on the skin and skip anti-inflammatory gels or creams unless directed otherwise by the provider. If needed, you can take OTC (over the counter) Zyrtec as directed, as long as it is not contraindicated (or ill-advised by your physician).

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water and keep your skin moisturized. Healing skin can feel dry or tight — hydration inside and out will keep it comfortable. Don’t forget to add a pinch of salt!

Recovery Timeline

Peeling and flaking usually begin within 2–3 days and can last up to a week. Full results reveal themselves within 2-3 weeks — be patient and let your skin do its thing. It is going to be so worth it!

Why you may not see visible peeling

As we age, it’s common for skin treatments to produce little to no visible peeling, and this does not mean the treatment didn’t work. Matureskin has a slower cell turnover rate and a thicker, more compact outer layer, so dead skin cells are often shed on a microscopic level rather than flaking off visibly. Additionally, older skin tends to be drier with fewer oil glands, which can reduce dramatic peeling. The active ingredients are still working beneath the surface to stimulate renewal, support collagen, and improve overall skin function, with results appearing more gradually as smoother texture, improved tone, and healthier-looking skin rather than visible peeling.


***Chemical peels are all about revealing fresh, healthy skin underneath. With the right aftercare, your results will be smooth, even, and glowing. Remember: gentle care, sun protection, and patience are key. If you ever notice unusual irritation or have concerns, reach out to us right away — we’re here for you!

Porcelain Skin Combo Booster Towelettes

Enhance and maintain your glow after your Porcelain Skin Combo treatment with your take-home Post-Peel Towelettes.

Begin using your Booster Towelettes 14 days after your chemical peel or Porcelain Skin Combo treatment to help continue improving tone, texture, clarity, and overall skin radiance.

Instructions:

  1. Cleanse your face and neck thoroughly and pat dry.

  2. Apply the Post-Peel Towelette evenly over the face and neck.

  3. Allow the solution to remain on the skin for 30 minutes. Do not wash it off.

  4. After 30 minutes, apply your moisturizer generously to stop the action of the peel and support your skin barrier.

  5. Leave the product on overnight and go to bed.

Important:

  • Do not use retinol or retinoids for 5 days after using a Post-Peel Towelette.

  • You do not need to stop your retinol prior to using the towelette.

  • After the 5-day retinol break, resume your normal skincare routine.

  • Wait approximately 9 more days before using the next Post-Peel Towelette.

Special Instructions for Certain Peel Kits:

Some peel kits include both a white packet and a green packet depending on the type of peel you received (such as hyperpigmentation or acne-focused treatments).

If your kit includes both:

  1. Apply the white specialty Post-Peel Towelette first and allow it to sit on the skin for 30 minutes.

  2. Then apply the green retinol Post-Peel Towelette and allow it to sit on the skin for an additional 30 minutes.

  3. After both applications are complete, apply moisturizer generously and leave everything on overnight.

***Most peel kits include 3 Booster Towelettes total, which may be used over time to continue enhancing your results between treatments.