How to care for your skin after exfoliation

Follow our expert tips for radiant results after a chemical peel.

story highlights

• Depending on your skin's sensitivity, you may experience tingling, burning, itching, dryness, redness or tightness after a chemical peel and notice peeling or flaking within a week.
• Proper post-exfoliation skin care can help minimize the sensations or visible side effects of a peel, making it easier than ever to incorporate this highly effective skin treatment into your lifestyle.

Chemical peels remove the outer surface of your skin to reduce visible signs of aging, acne and discoloration. At the same time, the skin underneath becomes brighter and smoother. Peels range in strength from mild to intense, with some professional formulas available for at-home use, while others are only available at a salon, spa or clinic.

Depending on your skin's sensitivity, it's normal to experience various side effects during your skin's post-exfoliation renewal process.

Side effects of an at-home peel may include a slight tingling or burning sensation, but this should subside quickly. If it doesn't, consult a doctor or professional skin therapist to find out what is causing the discomfort after the peel.

Side effects of a professional peel may include redness, dryness, itching or irritation, as well as swelling, tightness, peeling or scabbing. After 2 to 3 days, the skin may look flaky or brownish as the outer surface peels away to make way for new, glowing skin. You may also notice temporary heavier discoloration or age spots as they come to the surface of the skin before they are removed.

Your skin will be more sensitive after exfoliation, so avoid direct sunlight.

Proper skin care after exfoliation

Whether you use a home peel or a professional peel, you can minimize your skin's downtime after exfoliation by following these expert tips:

Wash your face with cool water. Warm or hot water may not feel as good as cool or cold water, which can help ease post-exfoliation sensations.

Moisturize and hydrate your skin. Since peels can temporarily compromise your skin's protective barrier, it's important to reinforce that barrier with a medium to heavy moisturizer. Also, drink more water to avoid dehydration, which can cause your skin to tighten.

Applysunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. After peeling, your skin is even more sensitive. Therefore, avoid direct sun exposure, which can lead to even more visible signs of aging. If you must expose yourself to the sun, use a broad spectrum physical sunscreen.

Avoid strenuous workouts, dry saunas and steam baths. Increased blood circulation to the face can increase heating, tingling, itching, redness or other unpleasant side effects on freshly exfoliated skin. Skip such activities on the day you're exfoliating.

Don't over-exfoliate. Peels are maximally effective exfoliants, so you don't need to use another exfoliant (such as a scrub, brush, or exfoliating cleanser) within 3 to 4 days of exfoliating. Over-exfoliating can cause more redness or sensitivity, so wait until your skin feels up to it.

Once your skin feels "normal" after exfoliation, it's generally okay to resume your normal skincare routine. If you want more individualized advice, ask your professional skin therapist how to incorporate exfoliation into your lifestyle.

NEW! Rapid Reveal Peel is a professional at-home peel that helps you achieve brighter, healthier skin in just minutes a week.