Chemical Peel Aftercare: Do’s and Don’ts

A chemical peel can visibly refresh the skin, improve uneven tone and texture, and soften signs of ageing, pigmentation or congestion. But what happens after your peel is just as important as the treatment itself.

At Eterno Clinic, we offer a range of DermaQuest chemical peels tailored to your skin type and concerns. Whether you are targeting pigmentation, congestion or fine lines, aftercare plays a vital role in how your skin heals, reacts and benefits from the treatment.

This guide explains exactly what to do and what to avoid so your skin stays protected, calm and on track to achieve the best results possible.

Why Aftercare Matters

Chemical peels work by removing the outer layers of damaged skin and encouraging healthy cell renewal. During the days that follow, your skin will be more delicate, more sensitive to light and environmental stress, and in active recovery mode. Proper aftercare helps to:

• Support the skin’s natural healing process
  
• Reduce redness, dryness and irritation
  
• Prevent post-inflammatory pigmentation
  
• Maintain hydration and barrier strength
  
• Optimise the results of the treatment
  

Poor aftercare increases the risk of prolonged irritation or uneven healing. Clear guidance and gentle support are essential.

What To Do After a Chemical Peel

Cleanse gently and stay moisturised

Use a soft, non-foaming cleanser with lukewarm water and avoid rubbing or tugging at the skin. Apply a recommended hydrating product to restore moisture and protect the skin barrier.

Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen daily

After a chemical peel, your skin becomes more vulnerable to sun exposure. Use SPF 30 or higher every morning and reapply during the day if outdoors. This helps prevent discolouration or sun damage during the healing process.

Allow your skin to peel naturally

You may notice flaking or mild shedding within a few days. Avoid picking or peeling the skin, even if it feels dry or tight. This will help avoid scarring or uneven texture.

Avoid heat and sweating

Keep away from saunas, steam rooms and high-intensity workouts for at least 48 hours. Heat can increase inflammation and disrupt skin recovery.

Follow the skincare plan provided by your practitioner

You may be given specific products such as calming creams or antioxidants. Stick to the routine outlined by your skin professional, and avoid introducing new or unapproved products during recovery.

What Not To Do After a Chemical Peel

Avoid exfoliating the skin

Do not use scrubs, facial brushes or chemical exfoliants such as AHAs, BHAs or retinoids for at least one week, or until your practitioner advises it is safe to do so.

Avoid active ingredients

Pause the use of vitamin C, glycolic acid, salicylic acid and any product that increases sensitivity. These ingredients can irritate freshly treated skin.

Avoid heavy makeup

Try to go makeup-free for at least one to two days. When you return to wearing makeup, choose non-comedogenic, breathable options to allow your skin to heal without added stress.

Do not touch or peel at flaking skin

Let the natural shedding process take its course. Interfering with peeling can damage new skin cells and increase the risk of pigmentation or long-term texture changes.

Do not spend prolonged time in direct sunlight

Even with sunscreen, avoid sunbeds, sunbathing or long periods outdoors during peak hours. If you are outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and stay in the shade where possible.

What to Expect During Recovery

The level of peeling and downtime will depend on the strength of your peel and your skin’s natural sensitivity. Most clients experience:

• Mild redness or a warm sensation for one to two days
  
• A feeling of tightness or dryness
  
• Light flaking or peeling between days two and five
  
• Sensitivity to usual skincare products
  

These effects are normal and usually settle within a week. Stronger peels may involve more visible shedding or extended downtime, which will always be explained to you during your consultation.

When to Contact the Clinic

You should always feel supported during your recovery. Contact the clinic if you notice:

• Prolonged redness that lasts more than ten days
  
• Signs of infection, such as swelling, oozing or pain
  
• Intense burning or stinging
  
• Unexpected reactions or severe discomfort
  

Our team is here to answer questions and make sure your healing is on track.

How Eterno Clinic Supports Your Recovery

At Eterno Clinic, your treatment does not end when you leave the clinic. We offer full aftercare support, including:

• A personalised aftercare plan
  
• Access to professional skincare products that promote healing
  
• Optional LED Light Therapy sessions to speed up recovery
  
• Follow-up advice to help you maintain your results
  

We also help you understand what to expect at each stage, so you feel confident and informed throughout your recovery.

What Comes Next

Once your skin has fully healed, your practitioner may suggest a treatment plan that builds on your results. This could include:

• A course of chemical peels to target deeper concerns over time
  
• Microneedling to improve skin structure and reduce fine lines
  
• SmartMeso Mesotherapy to deliver hydration and nutrients deep into the skin
  
• LED Light Therapy to support long-term collagen production
  

Your skin will continue to improve over the weeks following your peel, especially when combined with consistent home care and healthy lifestyle habits.

Book Your Skin Consultation

Thinking about a chemical peel or have questions about aftercare? Book your consultation today and let us guide you through every step of your skin treatment plan.