How to Prepare: Chemical Peel

To protect your health and find out what results you want, a dermatologist always offers a consultation before performing a chemical peel. To help you get the most benefit from this consultation, dermatologists recommends that you:

• Ask questions.
• Gather important information before your consultation.

This page tells you what to ask and what information to gather.

Questions to ask before getting a chemical peel 

You should ask the following questions before getting a chemical peel:

• Will a board-certified dermatologist perform the chemical peel?
• What will I need to do before and after the peel to get the best results?
• What results can I expect?
• What are the potential side effects?
• Do I have a higher risk for any complications?
• Will I have downtime?
• May I see before-and-after photos or speak with patients you treated with a chemical peel?
• How much will the treatment cost?

During the consultation, your dermatologist also can tell you whether another treatment would be a better option for you. You may find that your dermatologist recommends using more than one treatment. Results from many research studies show that combining treatments can lead to better, longer-lasting results. 

Information to tell your dermatologist before getting a chemical peel

Before you get a chemical peel, be sure to tell your dermatologist the following information:

• If you are taking or have ever taken isotretinoin, a medicine prescribed for severe acne. 
• All other medicines you take. Be sure your dermatologist knows about antibiotics, acne medicines, and over the counter medicine.  
• If you frequently get cold sores or have had cold sores in the past.
• If your skin scars easily.
• All surgeries and cosmetic treatments you have had.

Don’t omit anything — even if it seems unimportant.

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