Chemical Peel Downtime and Results: What to Expect
A chemical peel uses a professional-strength solution to remove damaged outer layers of skin, so smoother, more even skin can come through. Light peels have little to no downtime, and medium-depth peels like the VI Peel® usually mean a few days of visible peeling. Most people see brighter skin within about a week. At LightTouch Med Spa in Orlando, our estheticians choose the peel strength based on your skin type, your goals and how much downtime you can handle.
If you’ve been searching for a chemical peel in Orlando and you’re not sure which one you need or what the week after will look like, here’s what to expect.
What can a chemical peel treat?
- Dull, uneven skin tone and texture
- Sun damage, sun spots and freckling (very common in Florida)
- Melasma and other discoloration
- Active acne and mild acne scarring
- Fine lines and enlarged-looking pores
For deeper wrinkles and expression lines, peels pair well with injectables like Botox®. For acne scars with texture, microneedling is often a better fit, or a good partner treatment.
Types of chemical peels
Light (superficial) peels
These work on the outermost layer of skin. Expect mild redness and light flaking at most, so they’re a good “lunchtime” option and can be repeated regularly.
Medium-depth peels
These reach a little deeper for more visible results on pigmentation, acne and texture. The VI Peel® is our most popular medium-depth peel and is suitable for a wide range of skin tones. Expect a few days of visible peeling.
Deep peels
Deep peels need significant downtime and are typically done in a physician’s office. Most people get the results they want from a light or medium-depth peel series.
What happens during your appointment
- Consultation. Our esthetician reviews your skin, history and goals to choose the right peel.
- Prep. Your skin is cleansed so the solution absorbs evenly.
- Application. The peel is applied and left on for the right amount of time. Most people feel tingling or warmth for a few minutes.
- Aftercare instructions. You’ll go home with clear instructions, and with some peels, a post-peel kit.
Chemical peel downtime: day by day
For a medium-depth peel like the VI Peel, a typical week looks like this:
- Days 1–2: Skin may feel tight and look slightly flushed or tan. Most people go about their day as normal.
- Days 3–5: Peeling begins, usually around the mouth and nose first. Plan around social events.
- Days 5–7: Peeling finishes and fresh, smoother skin shows through.
Light peels usually skip the visible peeling stage entirely.
Aftercare tips
- Don’t pick or pull at peeling skin. Let it come off on its own.
- Wear a broad-spectrum SPF every day, and avoid direct sun while you heal.
- Skip retinoids, exfoliants and scrubs until your skin has fully healed.
- Keep skin moisturized with gentle products.
How long do results last?
Results from a peel typically last around 3 to 6 months, depending on the peel and your skincare and sun habits. Many clients book a series of peels for the best results on pigmentation or acne.
Frequently asked questions
Do chemical peels hurt?
Most people feel tingling or mild warmth for a few minutes. It’s very manageable, and the VI Peel is designed to be comfortable.
Are chemical peels safe for darker skin tones?
Many peels, including the VI Peel, can be used on a wide range of skin tones when chosen and applied correctly. That’s why a consultation comes first.
Who shouldn’t get a chemical peel?
Tell us if you’re pregnant or nursing, have an active skin infection or cold sore, recently used isotretinoin, or have a sunburn. We may recommend waiting or choosing a different treatment.
How often can I get a chemical peel?
It depends on the peel depth. Light peels can be repeated more often, while medium-depth peels are spaced further apart. Your esthetician will build a schedule for you.
Book a chemical peel in Orlando
Learn more about our chemical peels in Orlando, or read about chemical peels with the VI Peel. When you’re ready, contact us to book a consultation at our W Sand Lake Rd office.
Read More LightTouch Med Spa Articles
