Ultimate guide to chemical peels (what to know before you go)

August 12, 2025
Ultimate guide to chemical peels (what to know before you go)

So, what’s the deal with chemical peels?

You’ve probably heard the buzz.

Maybe from a friend who swears their skin’s never looked better.

Or maybe you’ve been noticing some unevenness, stubborn spots, or just that “blah” feeling when you look in the mirror.

Whatever brought you here, you’re not alone. And a chemical peel might be exactly the reset your skin’s been waiting for.

At Siana Aesthetics, we love a good chemical peel...not because it’s trendy (though it is having a moment), but because it works. Truly. But like anything in skincare, it's not one-size-fits-all. Let's walk you through exactly what to expect, so you can feel confident and excited—not confused—about what this treatment can do for you.

First of all, what is a chemical peel?

Despite the slightly intense name, a chemical peel is simply a treatment that uses gentle, medical-grade acids to exfoliate the skin. The goal? Remove that tired top layer and reveal the fresher, smoother, glowier skin underneath.

Depending on the type of peel we use, it can help with:

  • Dull or uneven skin tone
  • Fine lines and wrinkles
  • Breakouts and acne scars
  • Sun damage and hyperpigmentation
  • Rough skin texture

Basically, it’s like hitting the refresh button on your face.

And don’t worry. We’re not talking about that dramatic, red-faced downtime you may have seen in movies. Most of our clients walk out the door looking refreshed, not raw. (The Sex and the City “Samantha peel” is not the vibe here.)

Are all chemical peels the same?

Not at all—and that’s the beauty of it!

There are light, medium, and deep peels, and at Siana, we tailor everything to your skin’s needs and your personal goals.

Whether you’re battling acne or just looking for a little extra glow before a big event, there’s a peel that’s just right for you. And we’ll figure that out together during your consultation.

What happens during a chemical peel?

Here's how it works:

  • Step 1: We cleanse your skin thoroughly (like, really thoroughly).
  • Step 2: The peel solution is applied and left on for a set amount of time.
  • Step 3: You might feel a bit of tingling or warmth—that’s totally normal.
  • Step 4: We neutralize the peel and apply calming serums, SPF, and moisturizer to soothe your skin.

You’re in and out in about 30–45 minutes, depending on the peel. That’s it.

What about recovery? Will I actually peel?

Maybe. Maybe not. It depends on the depth of the peel and how your skin reacts.

Some people experience flaking for a few days, while others just feel smoother with no visible peeling at all.

Either way, here’s what to keep in mind after your peel:

  • Skip the workouts and steamy showers for 24 hours
  • Wear sunscreen religiously (like, even if it’s cloudy)
  • Don’t pick or peel—your skin will slough off naturally if it needs to
  • Use only gentle skincare for a few days
  • Hydrate like it’s your full-time job

Our team will send you home with customized aftercare instructions so you know exactly what to do (and what to avoid).

How long before I see results?

Most people start to notice a brighter, smoother look within a week.

But the full glow-up continues over the next couple of weeks as your skin finishes renewing itself.

Want to really maximize your results? Pair your peel with medical-grade skincare (we’re big fans of ZO Skin Health products) and regular treatments like Hydrafacials or microneedling.

Who should not get a chemical peel?

We always evaluate your skin and health history before recommending a peel, but in general, we may hold off if you’re:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Using certain prescription acne meds (like Accutane)
  • Dealing with an active skin infection or sunburn
  • Experiencing extreme skin sensitivity or compromised barrier function

Not sure where you fall? That’s why we start with a consultation. No guessing—just good, personalized guidance.

Is a chemical peel right for you?

If you're looking for a non-invasive way to refresh your skin, smooth out texture, brighten dark spots, or calm breakouts, a chemical peel might be the perfect step in your skincare journey.

Whether you're prepping for a big event or just want your skin to feel good again, we're here to help you figure it out.

No pressure. No overwhelm. Just honest, expert advice and a treatment plan that fits your skin, schedule, and goals.

Let’s get your glow back

Whether you're brand new to peels or you’ve dabbled before, our team at Siana is ready to guide you every step of the way. We’ll help you choose the right peel, prep your skin properly, and walk out feeling refreshed—never raw.

  • Curious if you’re a good candidate? Book your consultation today and let’s talk about what your skin really needs.
  • Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes peels, results, and skincare education: @sianaaesthetics

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