A peel works on skin that is calm, unirritated, and unburned. Everything below is about getting it there — and about making sure the peeling itself does not catch you by surprise.
Plan for the Peeling
- This is a medium-depth peel and the peeling is visible.
- Most of it happens on days three through six — flaking and shedding across the treated area.
- Makeup can be worn once the skin is no longer crusted or tender, but it does not hide peeling well.
- Do not book this within ten days of a wedding, a photograph, a presentation, or anything else that matters.
Three Months Before
- Tell us if you have taken isotretinoin for acne in the past three months. This rules treatment out.
Two Weeks Before
- Stop retinoids and all exfoliating or acidic products on the area — retinol, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, scrubs.
- No other peels, laser, or resurfacing treatment in the area.
- If your skin darkens easily after inflammation, or you have melasma, tell us. We may ask you to use a brightening preparation before and after the peel.
One Week Before
- No sunburn and no significant sun exposure on the area. No self-tanning products.
- If you are prone to cold sores and we will be treating near your mouth, tell us. We can prescribe an antiviral to start before your peel.
Three Days Before
- Stop all hair removal in the area — waxing, threading, depilatory creams, electrolysis.
The Day of Your Peel
- Arrive with the area clean and completely free of makeup.
- Do not apply any product to the area that morning.
- Bring a current list of your medications and supplements.
- Ask us how long to leave the solution on before you go home, and write it down. It varies, and it matters.
What to Have Ready at Home
- You will be given an aftercare kit on the day. It contains a gentle cleanser, a post-treatment repair cream, and sunscreen. You do not need to buy these.
- Add one thing of your own: an ointment such as Aquaphor for overnight use in the first few days.
- Nothing else is needed. Do not add acids, scrubs, or retinoids to your routine until we tell you.
Tell Us Before We Begin If Any of These Apply
- You are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
- You are prone to cold sores.
- You have a history of keloid or raised scarring, or a sun allergy.
- You have ever reacted badly to a peel.
- You have an allergy to aspirin or salicylates.
- Your skin darkens easily after a spot, an injury, or inflammation.
- You have an active cold sore, infection, open area, or a flare of eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea in the area.
- You are unwell today. If you are ill, call us and we will move your appointment. There is no charge for that.