How to Prepare for a Chemical Peel and What to Avoid After

A chemical peel can be one of the most effective ways to enhance your skin’s tone, texture, and clarity. However, while the treatment itself does the heavy lifting, how you prepare for it and what you do afterward can make a major difference in your results.

At Empowered MedSpa, we specialize in medical-grade peels like SkinMedica and the Perfect Derma Peel. Whether exploring a chemical peel for hyperpigmentation, managing sensitive skin, or targeting stubborn acne scars, this guide will walk you through what to do before and after your peel.

Let’s break it all down so you can step into your appointment with confidence and leave with radiant, refined, and refreshed skin.

Chemical Peels: What They Do and Why It Matters

A chemical peel works by applying a blend of exfoliating acids to the skin, which helps remove dull or damaged outer layers. Depending on the formula, the peel can target concerns like acne, fine lines, sun damage, and discoloration.

At Empowered MedSpa in Tacoma, WA, we offer several professional options tailored to different skin types and goals:

SkinMedica Peels: Includes Illuminize Peel®, Vitalize Peel®, and Rejuvenize Peel™ for light to moderate rejuvenation.
The Perfect Derma Peel: Known for its glutathione content, this peel brightens and calms inflammation, making it ideal for chemical peel for hyperpigmentation and acne.

Our team customizes each peel, ensuring safe, effective results for various concerns, even for those looking for safe chemical peels for sensitive skin.

Pre-Treatment Prep: What to Do Before Your Appointment

Getting your skin ready is a crucial part of the process. Here’s how to prime your complexion so your chemical peel delivers optimal results.

1. Avoid Exfoliating Products

Two weeks before your peel, stop using at-home exfoliants. This includes scrubs, retinoids, AHAs, BHAs, and anything labeled as “brightening” or “resurfacing.” These substances can increase skin irritation and reduce the efficacy of the peel.

2. Stay Out of the Sun

Exposure to the sun can cause discomfort and inconsistent outcomes. In the weeks before your treatment, use SPF 30+ daily and skip tanning beds altogether.

3. Hydrate Your Skin

A well-moisturized barrier supports more even exfoliation and better recovery. In the days before your peel, stick with gentle, hydrating skincare.

4. Pause Facial Hair Removal

Hold off on waxing, threading, or laser treatments for at least a week prior. Removing hair can make your skin more vulnerable to irritation.

5. Communicate With Your Provider

Be open about your current skincare routine, any medications you’re using (especially acne treatments), and your skin goals. This helps us select the right type of peel and depth, whether you need a light refresh or an acne scar chemical peel treatment.

During the Treatment: What to Expect

A chemical peel in Tacoma, WA, at Empowered MedSpa, is a quick, in-office treatment. Here’s a brief overview of what happens:

Cleaning: To prepare your skin, we begin with a thorough cleansing.
Application: Depending on the kind, the peel solution is applied and kept on for a certain period.
Sensation: You may feel tingling or warmth, which is normal.

The whole process usually takes less than 30 minutes, and many clients return to their daily activities immediately, especially after SkinMedica’s Illuminize or Perfect Derma Peel, which involves little to no downtime.

Post-Peel Care: What to Avoid After Your Chemical Peel

Your skin will go through a renewal process, and your job is to support that healing. Here’s what to avoid to keep your results on track.

1. Don’t Pick or Peel Flaking Skin

It might be tempting, but let your skin shed naturally. Picking can lead to scarring or uneven pigmentation.

2. Avoid Sun Exposure

After a peel, your skin will be more photosensitive. Avoid direct sun and wear SPF 30 or higher every day—even if it’s cloudy. Sun protection is especially critical if you’re addressing hyperpigmentation or acne scars.

3. Say No to Harsh Products

Skip anything with retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, or strong acids for at least a week after the peel. Stick to gentle cleansers and hydrating, fragrance-free moisturizers.

4. Keep Sweat in Check

Avoid strenuous workouts, hot yoga, saunas, or steam rooms for at least 48 hours. Excessive heat or sweat can irritate freshly peeled skin.

5. Don’t Schedule Other Treatments Right Away

Hold off on other facial procedures—like microneedling, waxing, or laser—for at least a week or until your provider gives you the green light.

Common Post-Peel Symptoms

Are you worried about redness or flaking? Here’s what to expect after a chemical peel and when to call your provider.

Mild Redness: This is common, especially after medium-depth peels. It usually fades within a few days.

Peeling or Flaking: The skin typically starts peeling 2–3 days after your treatment. Depending on the depth, this can last up to a week.

Tingling or Tightness: You might feel a bit of tightness or sensitivity—similar to a sunburn. This usually resolves on its own.

When to Reach Out

Swelling
Blistering
Severe discomfort
Signs of infection

Empowered MedSpa is always here to ensure your healing stays on track.

Is a Chemical Peel Right for You?

Whether you’re dealing with dull skin, clogged pores, or discoloration, most people are good candidates for a chemical peel. At Empowered MedSpa, we offer customized options for:

Oily or acne-prone skin
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Fine lines and early signs of aging
Uneven skin tone and rough texture
Clients looking for safe chemical peels for sensitive skin

Before suggesting the best course of action, our team will evaluate your skin type and objectives. For more noticeable chemical peel benefits, some clients could benefit from a course of three to six treatments spaced four to six weeks apart.

Reveal Radiant, Refreshed Skin With Chemical Peels

Ready to boost your skin’s glow and address stubborn concerns like acne scars or dark spots? A chemical peel at Empowered MedSpa can help you get there—safely, effectively, and without guessing your way through it.

Let’s build your custom skincare plan together. Reveal Radiant, Refreshed Skin – Schedule Now and see why our clients across Tacoma, WA, trust us for results-driven skin care.