What to know about a chemical peel

Peels vary in ingredient, strength and depth. A superficial peel may target rough texture, blocked pores or uneven tone, while a deeper procedure creates a larger injury and needs more intensive clinical assessment and recovery planning.

Acids such as glycolic acid loosen bonds between surface skin cells. Depending on the formulation, a peel may help comedonal acne, fine textural changes, sun spots or certain patterns of post-inflammatory pigmentation. It cannot erase pores or remove every scar, and the chosen depth must fit the concern and the person's skin.

Pigment-prone skin needs particular care because irritation can trigger or worsen discolouration. Melasma also tends to recur and may darken after an unsuitable peel, so treatment often sits within a broader plan that includes gentle skin care and sun protection.

Tell the clinician about eczema, sensitive skin, cold sores, abnormal scarring, recent procedures and medicines or topical products you use. They should examine the treatment area, select an appropriate chemical and explain the expected redness, flaking and recovery. Do not perform a strong peel at home or combine acids without professional direction.

After treatment, use the recommended bland cleanser and moisturiser, protect the area from sunlight, and let peeling skin detach on its own. Picking, scrubbing and unapproved active products can deepen irritation and increase the chance of colour change or scarring.

Ask the treating clinician for prompt assessment if pain, redness or swelling keeps increasing, or if blisters, open sores, pus, crusting, fever or a cold-sore outbreak appears. Early assessment can distinguish an expected reaction from a burn, infection or inflammatory response.

Get urgent help after chemical contact with the eyes, severe facial swelling, breathing difficulty or rapidly worsening burns. Rinse accidental eye exposure immediately with clean running water while arranging emergency advice.

Ask which chemical and depth suit your diagnosis, how your tendency to pigment or scar affects the choice, what skin products to pause, and what recovery changes are expected. Confirm who to contact if the treated area becomes more painful or changes colour unexpectedly.