One of the most common questions we get asked at Aesthetics & Wellness London is — what actually happens after a chemical peel? It's a completely understandable concern. The word "peel" can sound daunting, and nobody wants to book a treatment without knowing exactly what the recovery process looks like. In this guide our GMC-registered clinician Rosie walks you through everything — day by day — so you know exactly what to expect.
First — What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a skin resurfacing treatment in which a medical-grade solution is applied to the skin, causing the outer layers to exfoliate and shed. This stimulates new cell turnover and collagen production, revealing fresher, smoother and more radiant skin beneath.
At Aesthetics & Wellness London we use the AlumierMD range of medical-grade peels exclusively — a globally respected brand formulated by scientists and doctors, available only through certified practitioners.
Immediately After Your Peel
The first thing most clients notice immediately after their AlumierMD peel is that their skin looks brighter and feels slightly tight. You may also experience:
Mild redness — similar to a light sunburn in appearance
A warm or flushed sensation — completely normal and temporary
Slight sensitivity — skin may feel a little tender to touch
A subtle glow — the immediate brightening effect of the peel
At this stage the skin looks good — often noticeably more radiant than before treatment. Most clients leave the clinic feeling pleasantly surprised by how well their skin looks straight away.
Before you leave, Rosie will apply a soothing post-peel serum and SPF — and walk you through your aftercare instructions in detail.
Day 1 After Your Peel
On day 1 your skin may still appear slightly pink or flushed. This is completely normal and typically resolves within a few hours to a day. You should:
Keep skin clean and well moisturised
Apply SPF every morning — this is non-negotiable
Avoid makeup if possible — or use a clean, minimal coverage product
Avoid touching or picking at the skin
Avoid heavy exercise, saunas and swimming
Drink plenty of water to support skin hydration
Most clients feel comfortable going about their normal day on day 1 — the redness is usually mild and easily managed.
Days 2–4 — The Peeling Phase
This is the phase that most clients are curious — and sometimes nervous — about. Between days 2 and 4 you will likely notice the skin beginning to flake and peel. Here's what to expect:
Flaking typically begins around the mouth, nose and chin first — areas of most movement
Peeling may be mild and barely noticeable or more visible depending on the strength of peel used
The skin may feel slightly dry or tight during this phase
Some mild itching is normal — this is the skin renewing beneath
The most important thing to remember during this phase is — do not pick. Picking at peeling skin can cause irritation, uneven results and in some cases post-inflammatory pigmentation. Let the skin shed naturally.
Your skincare routine during this phase should be simple and gentle:
A gentle, non-foaming cleanser — morning and night
A rich, fragrance-free moisturiser — applied liberally throughout the day
SPF 50 — every single morning without fail
Nothing active — no retinol, AHAs, BHAs or vitamin C during the peeling phase
"The peeling phase can feel a little uncomfortable — but it's a sign that the treatment is working. What comes through the other side makes it completely worth it."
Days 5–7 — Settling and Revealing
By days 5 to 7 the peeling phase typically begins to settle. The flaking reduces and the fresh new skin beneath starts to become more visible. During this phase:
Skin begins to look significantly smoother and more even
Redness and sensitivity reduce considerably
The true glow of the peel starts to emerge
Most clients feel comfortable returning to their normal makeup routine
You can gradually reintroduce your normal skincare from around day 7 — though we recommend waiting until any peeling has fully resolved before reintroducing active ingredients.
Days 7–14 — Full Results
Between days 7 and 14 the full results of your peel become visible. This is when most clients really notice the difference:
Skin tone is visibly more even and bright
Texture is noticeably smoother and more refined
Pores appear smaller and less congested
Any targeted concerns — pigmentation, acne, fine lines — show measurable improvement
Skin has a natural, healthy radiance that's difficult to achieve with skincare alone
This is the stage where clients typically message us to say how delighted they are with their results — and where many decide to book their next session.
How to Get the Most From Your Results
To maximise and prolong your peel results:
Always wear SPF 50 — sun exposure is the single biggest enemy of peel results, particularly if treating pigmentation
Stay hydrated — drink plenty of water to support skin renewal
Use AlumierMD home care — using the recommended AlumierMD retail products at home between sessions significantly enhances your results
Book your next session — results build cumulatively. The improvement after your second and third session will be even more significant than after your first
Avoid picking — at any stage of the process
When Can I Wear Makeup After a Chemical Peel?
We recommend avoiding makeup for the first 24 hours after your peel. From day 2 onwards, a clean, light coverage product is fine if needed — though many clients find their skin looks good enough without it during the immediate post-peel period.
During the peeling phase, applying makeup over flaking skin can look uneven and may cause irritation. If you need coverage, a tinted SPF or light BB cream is a good option.
When Can I Exercise After a Chemical Peel?
We recommend avoiding strenuous exercise for 48 hours after your peel. Sweating can irritate the skin during the initial recovery phase and may cause sensitivity or breakouts. From day 3 onwards light exercise is generally fine — but always cleanse the skin thoroughly afterwards and reapply SPF.
What Should I Avoid After a Chemical Peel?
For the first 7 days after your peel, avoid:
Direct sun exposure — wear a hat outdoors where possible
Heavy exercise and saunas
Swimming — particularly chlorinated pools
Active skincare ingredients — retinol, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C
Picking or pulling at peeling skin
Waxing or threading in the treated area
Other facial treatments
How Often Can I Have a Chemical Peel?
AlumierMD peels can be repeated every 4 weeks. For most skin concerns we recommend a course of 3 sessions spaced 4 weeks apart — which is why our buy 2 get the 3rd free offer is so popular. For ongoing maintenance, a peel every 6–8 weeks is a great option.
How Much Do Chemical Peels Cost at Our Muswell Hill Clinic?
AlumierMD Chemical Peel — £145 Buy 2 peels and get the 3rd free — £290 (save £145) Buy 5 peels and get the 6th for free — £725 (save £145)
All peels include a complimentary skin prep facial. Consultations are available for all new clients.
Ready to Book Your AlumierMD Peel in Muswell Hill?
If you've been considering a chemical peel but have been nervous about the downtime — we hope this guide has put your mind at ease. The recovery process is very manageable, the results are genuinely impressive and Rosie will support you every step of the way.
Book your consultation today at aestheticswellness.co.uk or call / Whatsapp us on 07424 777352. We're open 7 days a week and there's no pressure or commitment involved.
About the Author Rosie Ginger — GMC Registered Clinician · Aesthetics & Wellness London, Muswell Hill