- Begin daily SPF 35+ on all treatment areas — consistent sun protection before a peel reduces post-treatment hyperpigmentation risk
- Avoid prolonged sun exposure and tanning beds
- Do not use self-tanner on the face
- Stop waxing, electrolysis, depilatory creams, and laser hair removal on the treatment area
- Avoid elective facial procedures (facials, dermabrasion, aggressive treatments)
- If you have a history of cold sores (HSV-1): notify us — antiviral prophylaxis will be prescribed (starting 1–2 days before, continuing 7–10 days post-peel)
- Stop all retinoids (tretinoin, retinol, adapalene, tazarotene)
- Stop AHAs (glycolic, lactic), BHAs (salicylic), benzoyl peroxide, and prescription brighteners
- These sensitize the skin and can cause uneven peel penetration or excessive irritation
- Arrive with a freshly cleansed face — no makeup, moisturizer, SPF, or perfume
- Do not shave the treatment area the morning of your appointment
- Eat a light meal beforehand
Application
- Duration: approximately 15–20 minutes in-office
- Your provider cleanses and degreases the skin, then applies one to two passes of the peel solution
- You will feel moderate stinging or tingling that subsides within 30–60 seconds
- The peel is not neutralized — you leave the office with the solution on your face
Peeling Timeline
- Day 1: skin feels tight, may appear slightly darker or bronzed
- Day 2: continued tightness; may feel like mild sunburn
- Days 3–4: peeling begins, typically starting around the mouth, chin, and nose
- Days 4–6: visible large-sheet peeling — fresh pink skin beneath is normal
- Day 7: peeling generally complete; skin is noticeably smoother and brighter
- Weeks 2–6: results continue improving as collagen remodeling proceeds
For melasma or severe pigmentation: a series of 2–3 treatments spaced 4 weeks apart is recommended.
Please notify us before your appointment if any of the following apply:
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Accutane (isotretinoin) within the past 6 months
- Active cold sore, open wound, sunburn, or skin infection in the treatment area
- Active eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea flare in the treatment area
- Known allergy to any peel ingredient (TCA, kojic acid, retinoic acid, salicylates, phenol)
- Photosensitizing medications
- Significant cardiac or renal disease (phenol is absorbed systemically)
- History of keloid or hypertrophic scarring
- Radiation therapy to the face