One week before

• Stop retinol, retinoids and prescription exfoliating actives (unless your prescribing clinician advises otherwise).
• Avoid waxing, threading, depilatory creams and dermaplaning on the treatment area.
• Avoid sun exposure and do not use sunbeds or apply self-tan.

On the day

• Arrive with a clean, makeup-free face.
• Disclose all current medications and recent skincare changes at your consultation.
• Reschedule if you have an active cold sore, sunburn, open wound or active skin infection.

First 24–48 hours

• Keep the skin clean and gently moisturised using products recommended by your practitioner.
• Apply SPF 30+ every morning — sun protection is essential while the skin renews.
• Avoid heat, saunas, steam, hot yoga and strenuous exercise for 24–48 hours.
• Do not pick, peel or exfoliate any flaking skin — allow it to shed naturally.

Over the following week

• Avoid retinoids, exfoliating acids and active skincare until your practitioner advises it is safe to resume (usually 5–7 days).
• Avoid waxing or hair removal on the treated area for at least 7 days.
• Mineral makeup may be reapplied after 24 hours once the skin has settled.
• Continue daily SPF and gentle hydration.

During your session

After a consultation and skin prep, the glycolic acid solution is applied. Mild tingling is monitored throughout. The peel is neutralised with a calming mask and SPF to finish.

Downtime

1–2 days of mild flaking.

Results timeline

Smoother, brighter skin within days; cumulative improvement with a course of monthly peels.