Chemical Peel Guide: How It Works, What to Expect, and Post-Treatment Skincare
- Greta Ryan
- 4 days ago
- 4 min read

Your Complete Guide to Chemical Peels in Auckland
Chemical peels have become one of the most popular professional skin treatments in New Zealand - and for good reason. They refine texture, smooth fine lines, fade pigmentation, and restore a natural, radiant glow.
At Skin Ritual Auckland, we offer medical-grade peels designed to rejuvenate the skin safely and effectively, no matter your concern. From gentle, no-downtime options to more intensive treatments, each peel is chosen to fit your skin’s unique needs.
Ready to experience your best skin yet?Book your chemical peel today.
What Is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel facial uses specific active ingredients to exfoliate the upper layers of the skin, stimulating renewal and revealing fresher, smoother skin underneath.
Depending on the formula and depth, peels can help improve:
Acne and congestion
Dullness and uneven tone
Fine lines and texture
Pigmentation and sun damage
There are three main types of peels:
Superficial peels – gently refresh the skin with minimal to no downtime.
Medium-depth peels – target fine lines, mild scarring, and pigmentation.
Deep peels – provide dramatic rejuvenation, though rarely needed for most clients.
At Skin Ritual, we focus on advanced yet gentle formulations that deliver results without excessive peeling or irritation.
Read more about our signature treatment: BioRePeel – the zero-downtime 35% TCA peel.
How Chemical Peels Work
Chemical peels rely on controlled chemical exfoliation to accelerate cell turnover and encourage collagen renewal.
Key actives include:
AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids)Â such as lactic or glycolic acid for brightening and hydration
BHAs (beta hydroxy acids)Â like salicylic acid to clear pores and reduce congestion
TCA (trichloroacetic acid)Â for deep rejuvenation and pigment correction
One of our most popular peels, BioRePeel, uses a unique lipophilic TCA delivery system that bypasses the skin’s surface barrier to trigger renewal without visible peeling.
That means you can achieve smoother, brighter skin - with no downtime or irritation.
Learn more: BioRePeel at Skin Ritual
What to Expect During a Chemical Peel Appointment
Your experience begins with a comprehensive consultation to assess your skin type, sensitivity, and goals.
The process:
Cleanse and prep – your skin is thoroughly cleansed and prepped for even absorption.
Peel application – the solution is applied evenly to the skin.
Neutralisation – the peel is left to self-neutralise.
Post-care protection – finishing with calming serums and SPF.
Most appointments take around 45 minutes, with no downtime for lighter formulations. You may notice a mild warmth, tingling, or flushing - all normal signs of skin renewal.
Explore our treatment plans for ongoing care.
Aftercare: Post-Chemical Peel Skincare Tips
Your post-peel care determines how well your skin heals and how long results last.
Do:
Use a gentle cleanser and hydrating moisturiser.
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily.
Stay hydrated and avoid direct sun exposure.
Avoid:
Exfoliating acids, retinoids, or scrubs for at least 5 days.
Intense exercise, saunas, or hot showers for 24 hours.
Picking or peeling flaking skin - let it shed naturally.
Your therapist will provide tailored aftercare recommendations based on the type of peel you receive.
Results and Maintenance
Most clients notice visible results within 3–7 days, including smoother texture, improved clarity, and a healthy glow.
For ongoing improvement, we usually recommend a series of 3–6 sessions, spaced 2–4 weeks apart. Consistent treatments help maintain collagen stimulation and long-term skin health.
Keep your glow going with a simple, consistent home routine - gentle cleanser, Vitamin A, and SPF are key.
See our price list for single sessions and packages.
Why Choose Skin Ritual for Your Chemical Peel in NZ
Expert skin therapists trained in advanced chemical peel techniques
Customised consultations to determine the right peel for your skin
Premium formulations such as BioRePeel - exclusive to select NZ clinics
Clinical-grade safety and a relaxing, supportive environment
At Skin Ritual, our goal is to help you achieve lasting results - not temporary fixes.
Chemical Peel FAQs
What is a chemical peel facial? A treatment that exfoliates the skin using controlled acids to reveal brighter, smoother skin beneath.
How do chemical peels work? They dissolve the bonds between dull surface cells and stimulate collagen production beneath the surface.
What to expect after a chemical peel? Mild redness or flaking may occur; most clients notice a glow within days.
How to treat skin after a chemical peel? Hydrate, protect with SPF, and avoid actives or exfoliation for several days.
Can I wash my face after a chemical peel? Yes, usually after 12–24 hours using a mild cleanser.
Why does my skin peel? The shedding process removes dull cells to reveal new, radiant skin underneath.
How many chemical peels are needed to see results? Typically 3–6 sessions, depending on your goals and skin type.
Are chemical peels safe? Yes - when performed by qualified professionals using medical-grade formulations.
How much does a chemical peel cost? Costs vary by peel strength; see our price list for details.
What’s the best chemical peel for wrinkles? BioRePeel’s 35% TCA blend helps refine fine lines and boost collagen without downtime.
Does a chemical peel get rid of freckles? It can fade freckles and pigmentation, but complete removal depends on depth and genetics.
Conclusion
A chemical peel is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to refresh, renew, and restore your skin’s glow. Whether you’re treating acne, pigmentation, or fine lines, professional peels offer consistent, visible results with minimal downtime.
At Skin Ritual Auckland, our team tailors every peel to your skin’s unique needs - ensuring a safe, balanced, and beautiful outcome.
Book your chemical peel today and begin your journey to smoother, clearer, more radiant skin.