Alina Godz
Founder & Licensed Esthetician at Facials Bar · La Jolla, CA · 2,000+ facials performed
You just got a chemical peel. The next 7-14 days are critical for your results.
Days 1-3: Recovery Phase
Your skin is sensitive, slightly pink, and needs gentle care.
Morning: 1) Gentle sulfate-free cleanser 2) Hyaluronic acid serum on damp skin 3) Rich moisturizer 4) SPF 30+ (non-negotiable)
Evening: 1) Same gentle cleanser 2) HA serum 3) Rich moisturizer. Nothing else. No retinol, no acids, no vitamin C.
Days 3-7: Peeling Phase
Visible peeling occurs. Skin may flake in patches. Completely normal.
DO NOT pick, pull, or scrub peeling skin. This causes scarring. Let it fall off naturally.
DO keep moisturizing aggressively. Drink extra water. Avoid washcloths. You can add healing ointment (Aquaphor) on raw areas at night.
Days 7-14: Reveal Phase
Fresh new skin revealed: smoother, brighter, more even.
Day 7-10: Reintroduce vitamin C serum (morning) and eye cream.
Day 10-14: Gradually reintroduce retinol (every other night). Still avoid physical scrubs, hot yoga, pools, and waxing.
Product Shopping List
At [shop.facials.bar](https://shop.facials.bar): Cleansing Gel ($42), Power Luxe ($98), Solar Defense SPF 30 ($64), LumaPro-C Serum ($88), Eye Authority ($68).
The #1 Mistake
Skipping SPF. New skin has zero UV protection. One afternoon of unprotected sun causes hyperpigmentation that takes months to fade. SPF 30+ every morning for 4+ weeks.
Next Peel
Most concerns benefit from 4-6 peels spaced 4-6 weeks apart. [Book your next chemical peel](/chemical-peel-la-jolla) — all peels $150/30 min.
