Prepare & Aftercare
Facials, Peels & Microneedling aftercare
Facials, peels and microneedling all leave the skin’s barrier temporarily open, so the days afterwards are about sun, heat and leaving actives out of your routine rather than about the treatment itself.
Follow the written aftercare you are given at your appointment first — it is specific to you, and this page is a general guide.
Reviewed by Valleva Body on 12 September 2026.
Before your appointment
- Stop retinol and acid products for three to seven days beforehand — your practitioner will say which applies to your treatment.
- No sunbeds, self-tan or significant sun exposure for two weeks before.
- Do not wax or use hair-removal cream on the area for a week beforehand.
- Come with clean skin and no make-up where possible.
- Tell your practitioner about any medication, particularly anything that affects the skin or your immune system.
Straight after treatment
- No make-up for 24 hours after microneedling or a peel.
- No heat, exercise, saunas or steam for 48 hours.
- Use a gentle cleanser and a simple moisturiser only.
- Sun protection every day without exception — this is what protects the result you paid for.
- Do not pick or help along any flaking.
What healing looks like
- Day 1Redness resembling mild sunburn after microneedling or a peel. Facials and dermaplaning usually settle within hours.
- Days 2–3Redness fades. Skin may feel tight and dry.
- Days 3–5Flaking or peeling, depending on the treatment and its strength.
- Days 5–7Flaking finishes. Actives can usually be reintroduced around now — check with your practitioner.
- Weeks 2–4The skin completes its renewal. Course treatments are usually spaced to this rhythm.
When to contact someone
Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you notice any of the following:
- Blistering
- Spreading redness, heat or swelling after day two
- Discharge or signs of infection
- A rash or hives
- Skin that remains painful rather than simply sensitive
For anything that is worrying you but is not urgent, message us and we will take a look. For anything urgent, contact your doctor or your nearest emergency service rather than waiting for a reply from us.
Information on this site is general and is not a substitute for medical diagnosis, advice or treatment. Speak to a healthcare professional about any health concern.
Treatments this covers
Something not looking right?
Message us with a photograph and we will tell you whether it is normal or whether you should come in.