Skin care
What your skin needs after a peel
The first seven days after a medical peel, from cleansing to sunscreen, explained by our doctors.
A medical peel does most of its work in the week after your appointment. Here is what to expect, day by day.
Days one to three
Your skin may feel tight and look slightly pink. Cleanse with lukewarm water and a gentle cleanser, then moisturise as often as you need.
Your routine this week
A gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
A plain moisturiser, as often as you need
A broad-spectrum sunscreen every morning
Days four to seven
This is when light flaking usually starts. Keep moisturising and avoid scrubs, retinoids and acids until your doctor says otherwise.
Let flaking skin come away on its own. Picking it is the quickest way to uneven results.
Sunscreen matters most this week, even indoors. Read more about medical peels.