By Dr. Jill Salyards, Owner & Founder of Refine Dermatology in Knoxville, Tennessee

Hi everyone! I’m Dr. Salyards, owner and founder of Refine Dermatology in Knoxville, Tennessee. If you’ve been considering a chemical peel, understanding what happens before, during, and after treatment can make the process feel much more comfortable.

Chemical peels are one of my favorite ways to improve skin texture, fine lines, pigmentation, acne, and dullness. In my practice, I use a range of peel strengths, from gentle peels with minimal downtime to deeper, more transformative options. Here’s what you can expect at every stage. 

Before Your Peel: How to Prepare for the Best Results

A successful peel actually begins before you walk into the office. It’s important to avoid tanning, waxing, exfoliating treatments, and harsh products in the days leading up to your peel. Chemical peels are great for most skin types, but your individual plan will always be personalized. Whether you struggle with stubborn dark spots, acne scars, or early signs of aging, peels can be tailored to address your concerns.

The Day of Your Chemical Peel

To begin, we thoroughly cleanse your skin and then apply the customized peel solution.

If you’re receiving a mild peel:

• You may feel a slight tingling or warming sensation.
• Your skin may look lightly pink, similar to a mild sunburn.
• Most patients return to normal activities immediately.
• Sun protection is essential the moment you leave the office.

If you’re receiving a deeper peel:

• Expect a stronger stinging or burning sensation.
• You may notice frosting, a temporary and normal whitening of the skin. This indicates that the peel is penetrating to stimulate significant renewal.
• After frosting, the skin may appear red, inflamed, or mildly swollen. We send you home with ice packs to ease the burning sensation.
• Someone on our team will go over post-care instructions with you. It’s crucial that you follow them!

Understanding the difference between peel depths helps set realistic expectations for your healing journey.

Days 1–2: The Early Healing Stage

During the first couple of days, your skin may feel different depending on the peel strength.

What to expect:

• Tightness or sensitivity
• Mild dryness
• Early flaking with gentle peels
• Earlier, more noticeable peeling with deeper peels. Your skin might feel tender.

How to care for your skin:

• Use gentle cleansers
• Keep the skin well moisturized
• Avoid picking at any flaking skin — this can cause irritation or pigmentation

These early changes mean the renewal process is beginning.

Days 3–5: The Peeling Phase

This is when most patients notice the biggest changes.

Mild peels:

• Light, fine flaking
• Gradual brightening and smoothing

Deeper peels:

• More dramatic peeling
• Sometimes shedding in larger sheets or patches
• Continued tenderness or warmth

Your skin is vulnerable at this stage — so:

• Avoid harsh products or exfoliants
• Keep moisturizing consistently
• Stay out of the sun completely
• Follow all post-care instructions carefully

This part may look dramatic, but it’s a sign the treatment is working.

Days 5–7: Recovery & Visible Results

By the end of the week, most of the peeling is complete.

Expect your skin to feel:

• Softer
• Smoother
• Brighter
• More even in tone

Results vary depending on peel depth:

• Gentle peels: subtle radiance, refined texture
• Deeper peels: more significant improvements in pigmentation, pores, and overall clarity

Tips for the best outcome:

• Moisturize frequently; Vaseline can help protect healing skin during deeper peels
• Avoid sun completely and apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen daily
• Avoid exfoliating products until fully healed
• Follow your provider’s instructions exactly

How Long Results Last — and When to Repeat Your Peel

Many patients enjoy their results for weeks to months, depending on the peel depth and their skincare routine. Gentle peels can be repeated every 4–6 weeks for ongoing brightening, while deeper peels may only be needed a few times a year. Combining peels with a good skincare routine (including vitamin C, sunscreen, and retinoids) helps preserve your glow and extend your results.

Is a Chemical Peel Right for You?

Chemical peels are a versatile, effective way to refresh and rejuvenate your skin. Whether you want a quick glow or deeper, more corrective results, we’ve got a peel for you! Understanding the process day by day makes the recovery predictable and stress-free.

If you’re considering a peel, I’d love to create a personalized treatment plan based on your skin type, goals, and timeline.

Thank you for reading—and I hope this guide helps you feel confident and informed about your chemical peel journey!