What to Expect During a Chemical Peel (Ottawa Licensed Medical Aesthetician Explains)

Chemical peels are one of the most effective treatments for improving texture, brightness, and overall skin clarity — but if you’ve never had one before, it’s normal to feel unsure about what actually happens during the appointment. As a licensed medical aesthetician in Ottawa, I’m breaking down everything you need to know before booking your first peel.

What Is a Chemical Peel?

A chemical peel is a professional exfoliating treatment that uses safe, controlled acids to remove dead skin cells and stimulate healthier, fresher skin. At Barry Beauty Aesthetics, I offer both gel-based peels and ethanol-based peels, allowing me to customize the strength and depth based on your skin type and concerns.

Chemical peels can help improve:

• Acne + congestion

• Hyperpigmentation and dark spots

• Melasma

• Rough texture

• Dullness

• Fine lines

• Mild scarring

Your Consultation: The Most Important Step

Before applying any peel, we’ll assess:

• Your current routine

• Skin sensitivity

• Breakout patterns

• Past reactions

• Lifestyle triggers (stress, sleep, hormones, etc.)

• Medications or products you're using

This ensures the peel is safe, effective, and customized to your skin.

What Happens During the Treatment?

A typical chemical peel appointment includes:

1. Cleanse + Prep

Your skin is cleansed to remove makeup, SPF, and oil. A prep solution is applied so the peel can absorb evenly.

2. Peel Application

The solution is layered onto the skin. You may feel:

• Tingling

• Heat

• Slight tightness

These sensations are normal and temporary.

3. Neutralization

Some peels deactivate on their own; others require a neutralizer.

4. Soothing + Hydration

Professional serums and moisturizers are applied to support healing and barrier repair.

What to Expect After Your Peel

Your skin may experience:

• Mild redness

• Tightness

• Light flaking (depending on the peel strength)

• Extra sensitivity

Peeling is not required for results — even no-peel peels can create incredible brightness and clarity.

Aftercare Tips

• Avoid heat, sweating, and heavy workouts for 24 hours

• No exfoliating for 5–7 days

• Use gentle cleansers + hydrating products

• Wear SPF daily

• Do not pick at flaking skin

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Chemical peels are ideal for clients with:

• Acne

• Hyperpigmentation

• Sun damage

• Texture

• Early signs of aging

• Dullness

If you have highly sensitive skin, a custom medical facial or Rezenerate NanoFacial may be better.

Ready to Experience a Chemical Peel?

If you're looking for chemical peels in Ottawa that are customized, safe, and results-driven, I’d love to help.

✨ Book your peel and start your skin transformation today. ✨