YOUR TREATMENT GUIDE
Chemical peels
A chemical peel uses a selected solution to exfoliate skin. Depth and ingredients influence which concerns it addresses and how much recovery is needed. Ask which peel is appropriate for your skin; stronger is not automatically better.
General patient education. Your clinician’s written instructions take priority because your device, product, medical history and treatment intensity may differ.
Before your appointment
- Review skin sensitivity, pigment changes, cold sores, isotretinoin use, medicines and recent procedures.
- Ask whether a home preparation routine is needed and when to pause retinoids, exfoliants or waxing. Do not start a strong home peel before your appointment.
What happens at your visit
Skin is assessed and cleansed before the solution is applied and monitored. Tingling or burning may occur. Tell the clinician about excessive discomfort. Get instructions specific to the actual peel used.
Aftercare & recovery
- Recovery depends on peel depth. Follow your prescribed washing, moisturizing and sun-protection plan.
- Do not pick, scrub or pull peeling skin. Resume makeup, retinoids and other treatments only when your clinician clears them. Keep recommended follow-up visits.
Results & follow-up
A light peel may heal within about a week; deeper peels take longer and require more involved care. Visible peeling varies and is not a measure of success. Results should be assessed after healing.
Your questions, answered
What concerns can a peel address?
Depending on the formulation, selected peels may help uneven tone, superficial texture, acne-related concerns or fine lines. A changing spot or unexplained rash needs diagnosis first.
Can it worsen dark spots?
Pigment changes are possible, especially in skin prone to darkening after inflammation. Discuss skin tone, melasma and past reactions before choosing a peel.
What do I stop before treatment?
Bring your skincare list, including retinoids, acids and acne medicines. Ask for an individual pause-and-restart plan. Do not stop prescription treatment on your own.
Should I pull off peeling skin?
No. Avoid picking, scratching and exfoliating. Use the prescribed moisturizer and protect your skin from sun. Removing skin early can contribute to injury or infection.
When can I wear makeup?
This depends on peel depth and healing. Ask for your specific timing and do not apply makeup to broken or irritated skin.
What symptoms need help?
Contact the clinician for worsening burning, swelling, pain, blisters or infection concerns. Stronger peels need planned follow-up and more detailed wound care.
Planning your visit
How much will it cost, and is insurance accepted?
Ask for an individualized estimate before treatment, including the proposed course, follow-up and any separate products or prescriptions. Cosmetic services are generally self-pay; medically necessary care depends on your plan and eligibility. Do not assume a consultation is free.
Can I have treatment at the first visit?
An assessment comes first. Same-day treatment depends on suitability, preparation, availability and informed consent. Tell us about upcoming travel or events when arranging your visit.
What if I am pregnant, breastfeeding or taking medication?
Tell the clinician before booking a procedure. Elective cosmetic treatment may be deferred. Bring a complete medication and supplement list; never stop prescribed medicines just to prepare for a cosmetic visit without the prescriber’s advice.
Can I see before-and-after results?
Ask whether consented, real patient examples are available for your treatment and skin type. Lighting, angle and timing affect comparisons. Illustrative website images are not proof of a treatment outcome or a promise of your result.
Who do I contact afterward?
Call 510-777-1000 during Monday–Friday 9 AM–5 PM or Saturday 9 AM–2 PM Pacific. If we are assisting another patient, leave your name and callback number. For urgent symptoms after hours, seek prompt medical care instead of waiting for a message response. Call 911 for an emergency.
When to get help
Contact your clinician for unexpected burning, swelling, blistering or signs of infection.
For severe or rapidly worsening symptoms, get medical care promptly. Call 911 for breathing difficulty, stroke symptoms or another emergency. The website form is not monitored for urgent medical concerns.
Still have a question?
Our team can help you arrange a visit and clarify your treatment instructions. Hablamos español.
Monday–Friday 9 AM–5 PM · Saturday 9 AM–2 PM · Pacific Time
Patient education sources
Information checked October 28, 2026. These references provide general education, not Osita-specific treatment protocols.