Alina Godz
Founder & Licensed Esthetician at Facials Bar · La Jolla, CA · 2,000+ facials performed
You've booked your chemical peel — now what? If you're wondering what your skin will look like day by day after a professional peel, this is the guide for you. We'll walk through exactly what to expect before, during, and after a chemical peel at Facials Bar in La Jolla.
Before Your Chemical Peel
3-5 Days Before: Stop using retinol, retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and vitamin C serums. Avoid waxing or tweezing facial hair. Stay out of direct sun or tanning beds.
Day Of: Come with clean skin (no makeup if possible). Inform your esthetician of any medications, particularly Accutane (you must be off it for 6 months before any peel). Eat a light meal before your appointment — you'll be lying down for 30 minutes.
During the Peel (30 Minutes)
Your esthetician starts by cleansing and prepping your skin. The peel solution is applied in thin, even layers. Here's what you'll feel depending on the peel type:
Sensi Peel (mildest): Light tingling, similar to a mild sunburn sensation. Very comfortable.
Acne Peel: Moderate tingling with occasional warm spots, especially around active breakouts. Nothing painful.
Pigment Peel: Moderate tingling. You may feel slightly more intensity around areas with darker pigmentation — this is normal and means the acid is targeting those spots.
Ultra Peel (strongest): Noticeable tingling to mild stinging. The TCA component is working deeper, which means you'll feel more activity. Your esthetician can fan your skin to reduce any discomfort.
After the appropriate time, the peel is neutralized (if needed) and soothing products are applied.
After Your Peel: Day by Day
### Day 1 (Day of Treatment)
Your skin will look slightly pink or flushed — similar to a mild sunburn. This is completely normal. Skin feels tight and warm. You may notice your skin looks brighter immediately as the top layer of dead cells has been dissolved.
Do: Apply the gentle moisturizer your esthetician provides. Keep skin hydrated. Stay out of direct sun.
Don't: Touch, rub, or scratch your face. No makeup. No retinol or active products.
### Days 2-3
Redness typically subsides. Your skin may feel dry and tight. With the Sensi Peel, you may see minimal to no peeling. With Acne, Pigment, and Ultra Peels, you'll start to notice light flaking, usually around the mouth, chin, and nose first.
Do: Continue gentle moisturizer. Apply SPF 30+ if going outside. Let flaking happen naturally.
Don't: Pick, pull, or exfoliate peeling skin. This can cause scarring and hyperpigmentation.
### Days 3-5
This is peak peeling time for Acne and Pigment Peels. Skin may peel in small, papery flakes or larger sheets depending on the peel depth and your skin type. It can look uneven and patchy — this is completely normal.
Do: Keep moisturizing generously. Drink extra water. The peeling means fresh new skin is emerging underneath.
Don't: Try to speed up peeling by scrubbing or using a washcloth. Be patient.
### Days 5-7
For Ultra Peels, peeling may continue through day 7. For lighter peels, you'll be through the peeling phase by now. The new skin underneath is fresh, smooth, and noticeably brighter.
Do: You can resume makeup at this point. Continue with SPF diligently — new skin is more sun-sensitive.
Don't: Jump straight back to retinol or strong actives. Wait until day 7-10.
### Days 7-14
Full results become visible. Skin is smoother, more even in tone, and has a healthy glow. Pore size appears smaller. Dark spots are lighter. Fine lines are softened.
Do: Resume your normal skincare routine gradually. Consider booking your next peel (4-6 weeks out).
Results by Peel Type
After Acne Peel: Clearer pores, reduced oil, fewer active breakouts. Acne marks begin fading. Best results after 3-4 peels.
After Pigment Peel: Visible lightening of dark spots and sun damage. More even skin tone. Optimal results after 4-6 peels.
After Sensi Peel: Calmer, less reactive skin. Improved texture without irritation. Great for building tolerance to stronger peels.
After Ultra Peel: Most dramatic improvement in fine lines, texture, and overall skin quality. Skin looks noticeably younger.
How to Maximize Your Results
1. Don't skip SPF. New skin is vulnerable to sun damage. SPF 30+ daily is non-negotiable for 4+ weeks after a peel.
2. Stay hydrated. Drink more water than usual during the peeling phase. Hydrated skin heals faster.
3. Follow your esthetician's aftercare exactly. They customize recommendations based on your skin and peel type.
4. Commit to a series. One peel is great. A series of 4-6 peels produces transformative results. Each peel builds on the last.
5. Pair with HydroDiamond. Many clients alternate between chemical peels and [HydroDiamond facials](/services) for comprehensive skin maintenance.
Book Your Chemical Peel
All chemical peels at [Facials Bar](/chemical-peel-la-jolla) are $150 for a 30-minute treatment. Your esthetician will recommend the right peel for your skin during a brief consultation. Book at facials.bar or call (619) 772-1308.
