How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel and Care for Your Skin Afterwards
Chemical peels help exfoliate the skin and may improve the appearance of uneven texture, dullness, discoloration, and certain blemishes.
At Eureka Body Care & Spa, we provide different skin treatments, including professional peeling procedures. Recovery depends on the type, strength, and depth of your peel.
Before Your Chemical Peel
- Avoid tanning and excessive sun exposure.
- Inform your provider about recent laser treatments, waxing, microneedling, or other facial procedures.
- Discuss your use of retinoids, exfoliating acids, acne medications, and prescription skincare.
- Notify your provider if you have active cold sores, irritated skin, or a history of abnormal scarring.
- Avoid additional exfoliation or irritating skincare products for the period recommended by your provider.
- Follow any special preparation instructions for your selected peel.
After Your Chemical Peel
- Do not pick, peel, or pull flaking skin.
- Avoid direct sunlight and protect your skin with broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher when appropriate.
- Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer approved by your provider.
- Avoid scrubs, retinoids, exfoliating acids, and other irritating products until the skin has healed.
- Avoid waxing, aggressive facial treatments, and additional exfoliating procedures until cleared.
- Avoid excessive heat and strenuous exercise during the initial recovery period if your skin is irritated.
- Follow all product-specific instructions provided after treatment.
What to Expect During Recovery
Light peels: Mild redness, dryness, or flaking may occur over several days.
Medium-depth peels: More noticeable peeling, redness, and longer recovery may occur.
Deeper peels: Require specialized medical supervision and a more extensive recovery plan.
Not all chemical peels produce visible peeling. The absence of flaking does not necessarily mean the treatment was ineffective.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I wear makeup after a chemical peel?
It depends on the type and depth of your peel. Ask your provider when makeup can safely be resumed.
Can I use retinol after a chemical peel?
Wait until your skin has recovered and your provider approves restarting retinol.
Should I remove peeling skin?
No. Allow peeling skin to shed naturally to reduce the risk of irritation, infection, or discoloration.
Can I go outside after a chemical peel?
Avoid unnecessary sun exposure while healing and follow your provider’s specific sun protection instructions.
When to Contact Us
Contact your treating provider if you experience severe pain, blistering beyond what was expected, increasing redness, discharge, or signs of infection.
Looking for a chemical peel in NYC?
Contact Eureka Body Care & Spa to learn about available facial peeling treatments and which options may suit your skin concerns.
Eureka Body Care & Spa — 303 5th Ave, 4th Floor, Suite 407, New York, NY 10016 · Call (212) 858-0706 · Text (833) 255-9387
Learn more about this treatment: Chemical Peel — or book your visit at our Appointments page.
VI Peel, Bio Peel, and other branded peels may have different preparation and aftercare requirements. Follow the manufacturer’s approved protocol and your provider’s instructions.