Chemical Peels
A controlled acid solution applied to the skin to accelerate the shedding of pigmented and damaged surface cells, revealing newer skin beneath. Peels vary widely in strength and type, and on Indian skin the selection matters more than the peel itself.
At a glance
| Session time | 30 to 45 minutes |
| Sessions typically needed | 6 to 8, spaced 2 to 4 weeks apart |
| Downtime | None to 5 days depending on strength |
| Comfort | Tingling to moderate stinging for 3 to 8 minutes |
| Results visible from | Week 3 to 4, building across the protocol |
| Maintenance | Every 6 to 8 weeks once complete |
Who it is for
- Pigmentation and uneven tone
- Post-acne marks
- Rough texture and dullness
- Congestion and blackheads
- Fine surface lines
Who it is not for
- Active inflamed acne, until it settles
- Barrier-damaged or highly reactive skin, until repaired
- Melasma, without a dermatologist involved — peels can worsen it
- Anyone with recent sun exposure or a fresh tan
- Anyone on isotretinoin or within six months of stopping
- Anyone unwilling to wear daily sun protection — without it, a peel can leave you darker than you started
- Pregnancy, depending on the agent — tell us at consultation
Why peel selection matters so much on Indian skin
This is the part most places skip. Higher-melanin skin has more reactive pigment-producing cells. A peel that is too strong, left too long, or applied to skin that is already inflamed does not just fail — it causes post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, which is darker than what you came in with and takes months to resolve.
A very large share of the pigmentation we see at Aglow was caused by a previous treatment. That is why we start low, build gradually across a protocol, and refuse to sell an aggressive peel to someone whose barrier is not ready for it.
The Aglow method
- Assessment first — skin type, pigment risk, barrier condition, sun exposure and history, all before an agent is chosen
- Start low, build across the protocol — we would rather run eight gentle sessions than two aggressive ones and spend three months correcting the result
- Barrier repair first if needed
- Season-adjusted — peel strength is reduced during Chennai's highest-UV months
What to expect
- Assessment and cleanse
- Skin prepped and degreased
- Peel applied, with timing controlled to the second
- Tingling or stinging for 3 to 8 minutes, cooled with a fan
- Neutralised and removed
- Calming, barrier support and SPF 50
Aftercare
- SPF 50 daily and reapplied — this is not optional after a peel
- No actives, acids or retinol for 5 to 7 days
- Do not pick or peel flaking skin, however tempting
- No steam, sauna, swimming or hot yoga for 5 days
- No waxing, threading or facial hair removal for 7 days
- Moisturise generously
- Avoid direct sun as far as possible for 2 weeks
Frequently asked
Will my skin peel visibly?
It depends on strength. Light peels often produce no visible peeling at all, just mild flaking. Medium peels can cause visible flaking for three to five days. We will tell you which to expect before you book.
Does it hurt?
There is tingling or stinging for the few minutes the peel is active. Most people rate it three to five out of ten. We cool the skin throughout.
Is there downtime?
Anywhere from none to five days depending on the peel. Light peels have no social downtime.
How soon will I see results?
Brightness within a week. Meaningful pigmentation change from week three to four, building over the full protocol of six to eight sessions.
How long do results last?
With sun protection and maintenance, well. Without sun protection, pigmentation returns, because the trigger has not gone anywhere.
Can peels make pigmentation worse?
Yes, if the peel is too strong for the skin, applied to inflamed skin, or followed by sun exposure without protection. This is exactly why we assess first and start conservatively.
What should I avoid before coming in?
Stop retinol and acids for 5 to 7 days before. No waxing or threading for a week. Avoid sun exposure and do not come in with a fresh tan.
Can I wear makeup afterwards?
Not for 24 hours. After that, yes.
Related concerns
Related treatments
Results vary from person to person. Some concerns need a dermatologist rather than a Wellness treatment we'll say so at consultation.
Every visit at Aglow starts with an honest answer.
A free 15 to 30 minute skin assessment a plain explanation, a protocol and a session count whether or not you book on the day.