After a professional chemical peel, microdermabrasion, or an at-home exfoliation treatment, post-procedure skin care plays a critical role in the results you see and how your skin heals. Peels are designed to reveal fresh, new skin by removing the outermost layer of dull, damaged cells. But after that fresh layer is exposed, it needs extra care and protection to fully recover without irritation or damage.

If you’re searching for expert advice on how to care for your skin after a facial, how to care for sensitive skin, or how to protect your skin in the summer post-treatment, we’ve got you covered.

Step 1: Gently cleanse

After a peel, your skin is in a fragile state. Avoid anything foaming, fragranced, or formulated with exfoliating acids or active ingredients (think glycolic acid, salicylic acid, or retinol).

Instead, stick with something simple, likeSC+ Sensitive Cleanser. This gentle formula is ideal for post-peel care. It effectively removes debris and buildup without stripping your skin’s natural moisture barrier. Its non-active formulation ensures a thorough, irritation-free cleanse, which is exactly what sensitive, vulnerable skin needs.

Dr. Miller's Tip: Avoid using hot water while cleansing. Lukewarm water is best to soothe skin and prevent further redness.

Step 2: Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate

Hydration is your skin's best friend post-procedure. When your moisture barrier is compromised (as it often is after a peel), your skin loses water more quickly and is more prone to irritation, flaking, and tightness.

Our go-to product for this stage isHydro BF Moisturizer. This calming, deeply hydrating formula is enriched with moisture-locking ingredients that restore the skin barrier and deliver lasting comfort. It’s lightweight, non-comedogenic, and ideal for dry, sensitive, or post-treatment skin.

Why Hydro BF Moisturizer is a post-peel hero:

• Fragrance-free and gentle on sensitized skin
  

• Provides deep hydration without clogging pores
  

• Helps reduce redness, dryness, and inflammation
  

• Works seamlessly under makeup or sunscreen

Use it morning and night, applying generously to the face and neck.

Step 3: Sun protection is non-negotiable

Once you’ve exfoliated or had a professional peel, your skin is much more sensitive to the sun. That new skin you just revealed? It’s highly vulnerable to UV damage. 🌞

That’s why a daily mineral sunscreen is an essential step in your post-peel recovery routine.

We’re thrilled to tease our upcoming lightweight mineral sunscreen, launching this fall. Formulated with zinc oxide and ceramides, it provides powerful sun protection while soothing and supporting the skin barrier.

Here’s why it’s about to become your new daily essential:

• Sheer and non-greasy: Leaves no white cast, absorbs easily into skin
  

• Tinted or clear: Choose the option that suits your routine best
  

• Physical sunscreen for sensitive skin: Zinc oxide provides broad-spectrum protection without chemical filters
  

• Hydrating and gentle: Ideal for dry skin, sensitive skin, or skin recovering from treatments
  

• Makeup base approved: Smooth, radiant finish that layers beautifully under foundation
  

Whether you’re recovering from a treatment or just looking for a better daily SPF, this one will become a staple in your routine (and your travel bag).

What to avoid after a peel

Until your skin is fully healed, avoid the following:

• Harsh exfoliants (physical or chemical)
  

• Retinol or retinoids
  

• Hot showers or saunas
  

• Direct sun exposure without SPF
  

Instead, think minimal, soothing, and protective.

As always, consistency is key

Healing takes time, and the results of a peel don’t happen overnight. Stick to a simplified routine of gentle cleanser, hydrating moisturizer, and mineral SPF to keep your skin healthy and protected as it renews itself.

In the days that follow, your skin will begin to reveal a smoother texture, improved clarity, and better tone. With the right care, the glow you were hoping for will last far beyond the procedure. Post-treatment care is just as important as the procedure itself. With the right products and a little patience, you can enjoy your smoothest, healthiest skin yet.

Try Hydro BF Moisturizer as your recovery essential, and keep an eye out for our launch of the new mineral SPF, coming this summer. Your post-peel skin will thank you.

Shop gentle favorites now or explore moretips for sensitive skin on our blog.