What should you know about a gentle chemical peel?

A clinician applies a measured solution for a planned contact time, then removes or neutralises it according to the product. Superficial peeling can help shed dull surface cells and may soften the look of fine texture, some blemishes, and uneven colour. Glycolic Acid is one possible material, but the concentration and formulation matter as much as the name.

Stinging, warmth, redness, dryness, tightness, and light peeling are possible. A gentle peel is still an active treatment: irritation can trigger darker marks, especially when skin is inflamed or exposed to sunlight during recovery.

Discuss your skin tone, history of Melasma or Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation, cold sores, eczema, active infection, recent waxing, retinoids, and other procedures. A clinician can decide whether the peel fits concerns such as Acne, Comedonal Acne, Keratosis Pilaris, Sun-Damaged Skin, or Sun Spots.

Use gentle cleansing, moisturiser, and broad sun protection as directed. Do not pick peeling skin, scrub, wax, or add acids and retinoids until the barrier has recovered. Report severe burning before applying anything that was not included in your aftercare plan.

Contact the provider for intense or worsening pain, swelling, blistering, raw areas, pus, fever, or colour change that is spreading or becoming pronounced. Urgent care is needed for facial swelling with breathing difficulty.

Ask which acid and strength are planned, why it suits your concern, how pigmentation risk will be managed, which products to pause, and what recovery should look like.