Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed — Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetic & Laser

Aftercare: Chemical Peels & Cosmetic Laser

Last reviewed 1 July 2026 — Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed

A patient advice sheet — 8 practical points. Reviewed and updated by Dr. Abdulaziz AlRashed, July 2026.

Last reviewed: July 2026

The advice

Redness, tightness and mild heat for the first 24–72 hours is normal; peeling then starts within 2–4 days depending on the depth of the session.
Do not peel or rub the flaking skin — let it fall on its own; pulling it off causes pigmentation and scars.
Wash gently with lukewarm water and a mild fragrance-free cleanser, pat dry, and moisturize several times daily (Vaseline or the recommended ointment for deeper sessions).
SPF 50+ daily and avoid direct sun and heat (sauna, steam, hard exercise) until fully healed — new skin pigments quickly, especially in darker skin.
Stop retinoids, exfoliants and vitamin C until your doctor allows (usually 5–7 days; longer for deep sessions).
Make-up only after peeling is complete and the skin has healed.
If an antiviral was prescribed (for those with a history of cold sores), complete it fully.
Contact us immediately for: increasing pain, pus-filled blisters, yellow crusts (a sign of infection), or any ulceration.

See also the full treatment page: Chemical peel — options, evidence and expected timelines.

My private clinic at Kuwait Hospital (Sabah Al-Salem) — direct assessment and a treatment plan built around your case.