What should you know about post-chemical peel?

A peel uses a selected chemical solution to loosen or remove part of the outer skin. The reaction depends on the ingredient, strength, contact time, and your skin condition. Mild tightness, warmth, dryness, and visible flaking can be part of healing. Darker or lighter patches, prolonged irritation, infection, or scarring are not changes to ignore. A peel may be chosen for acne, comedonal acne, keratosis pilaris, melasma, sun spots, or sun-damaged skin, but it does not suit every rash or unexplained lesion.

Follow the exact aftercare supplied by the treating clinician. Cleanse gently, pat dry, and use the recommended bland moisturiser. Do not pick, pull, scrub, wax, or use exfoliating acids, retinoids, fragranced products, or unapproved lightening products while the skin is sensitive. Limit heat and direct sun, wear protective clothing, and use the sunscreen advised for your skin. Avoid applying makeup to raw or open areas unless your clinician says it is acceptable. Do not repeat a peel until the skin has recovered and the treatment plan has been reviewed.

Contact the clinic if pain is strong or increasing, swelling is marked, blisters or open sores develop, or redness spreads beyond the treated area. Get urgent advice for pus, fever, rapidly worsening tenderness, facial swelling, eye symptoms, or breathing difficulty. Prompt assessment can distinguish expected irritation from a chemical injury, allergic reaction, or infection.

Ask which cleanser, moisturiser, and sunscreen to use, when active products can restart, how much peeling is expected for your chosen solution, and what to do if pigmentation changes. Confirm when exercise, swimming, shaving, or another treatment is safe.