Post-Treatment Skincare: What to Avoid After a Facial or Peel

A facial or chemical peel can leave your complexion feeling smoother, refreshed, and radiant — provided you take the proper care after it. These procedures clean and exfoliate the skin deeply, and even peeling off the very top layer of skin to expose newer skin beneath. Although this process is amazing, it does make your skin more delicate and exposed for a little while.

To get the best out of your facial or peel and prevent any irritation, it is important to understand what not to do after your treatment.

1. Steer clear of Direct Sunlight

Following a facial or peel, your skin is more reactive to UV exposure. Direct sunlight can lead to redness, irritation, or hyperpigmentation. If you have to go outside, use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that is at least SPF 30 and put on a wide-brimmed hat. Remember — your skin is healing, and it's best to have that little extra protection to keep your results looking their best.

2. Avoid Harsh Skincare Products

For at least 48–72 hours after treatment, try to stay away from products with harsh active ingredients like:

• Retinol or Retinoids

• High concentration Vitamin C

• Alpha Hydroxy Acids such as glycolic acid

• Beta Hydroxy Acids such as salicylic acid

These are too harsh for freshly treated skin and can lead to stinging, dryness, or peeling. Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers during this healing time.

3. Avoid Heavy Makeup

Your skin must be allowed to breathe and heal following a treatment. Heavy foundation, concealer, or powder application can clog pores and hinder the healing process. If makeup has to be worn, use lightweight, non-comedogenic products and wait at least 24 hours before putting it on.

4. Don't Pick, Scratch, or Touch Your Skin

It may tempt you to rub your face to experience the smoothness, but your hands contain bacteria that can agitate sensitive skin. Following a peel, you may experience slight flaking — don't pick at it because it can result in scarring or uneven texture. Allow your skin to naturally shed.

5. Avoid Intense Workouts and Saunas

Profuse sweating after a facial or peel may cause irritation of the skin and breakouts. Sauna, steam room, or hot shower heat may also enhance redness and sensitivity. Try to skip high-level exercise, hot yoga, or heat activities for at least 24–48 hours after treatment.

6. Avoid Exfoliating for a Few Days

Your facial or peel already causes deep exfoliation, so introducing scrubs, brushes, or exfoliating cleansers immediately afterward is too much and will hurt your skin barrier. Let your skin have at least 4–7 days before reviving gentle exfoliation in your regimen.

7. Postpone Other Treatments

If you're planning other skin procedures like waxing, laser hair removal, or microdermabrasion, wait at least one to two weeks. Combining these too soon can cause irritation, inflammation, or even burns, as your skin is still in its recovery phase.

8. Avoid Hot Water

Although a hot shower is acceptable, don't wash your face with hot water immediately after treatment. Hot water can dry out the skin and exacerbate sensitivity. Clean your face using cool or lukewarm water.

Pro Tips for Quick Recovery and Improved Results

• Apply a calming, hydrating moisturizer to restore the skin barrier.

• Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated from the inside out.

• Sleep on a fresh pillow to avoid bacterial irritation of your skin.

• Stick to your skincare practitioner's aftercare recommendations — they understand what suits your skin type and procedure.

Conclusion

Chemical peels and facials are great means of rejuvenating and reviving your skin, but good aftercare is essential to bringing out the best in them. Skip sun, harsh products, heavy makeup, and activities that might irritate your skin for a while, and you provide your skin with the space and time to repair beautifully. Be gentle to your skin in the days after your treatment, and you'll enjoy healthy and radiant glowing skin for a much longer time.