What should you know about post-chemical peel care?

A chemical peel temporarily weakens the skin barrier while it changes the outer layer. That can make water loss, stinging, and sensitivity more noticeable. The right routine depends on the peel used and the condition being treated, such as acne, melasma, sun spots, or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Scratching or adding strong products too early can prolong irritation and make colour changes more likely.

Wash with a mild cleanser and lukewarm water, using clean fingertips rather than a cloth or brush. Pat dry and apply the bland moisturiser recommended by your clinician. Reapply sunscreen as directed and use shade, a hat, and protective clothing outdoors. Pause scrubs, waxing, shaving over tender skin, retinoids, exfoliating acids, and fragranced products until cleared. Do not peel or pick flakes. Keep hands clean before touching the area, and follow the clinic’s instructions if a dressing or prescribed product is part of your plan.

Ask the treating clinic for advice if discomfort is increasing rather than easing, or if the skin develops extensive swelling, blisters, weeping, pus, spreading redness, or marked colour change. Urgent care is appropriate for eye involvement, facial swelling, fever, or breathing difficulty. A clinician can check whether the reaction is expected, an infection, an allergic response, or a deeper chemical injury.

Find out exactly when to restart each product, how to cleanse the treated area, which sunscreen is suitable, and whether your skin needs a follow-up. Ask when you may swim, exercise, shave, wax, or schedule another cosmetic procedure.