Chemical Peel

How it works

A peel applies an acid solution, such as glycolic, salicylic, lactic or trichloroacetic acid, to loosen and remove the outer layers of skin. As the skin renews, texture, tone and clogged pores may look improved. Superficial peels work on the surface and are often repeated; deeper peels reach further and need more recovery. The doctor chooses the type and strength based on your skin tone, sensitivity and goals.

Who it may suit

• Dull or uneven-looking skin
• Mild acne, blackheads and congested pores
• Light surface discoloration under a doctor's guidance
• Travelers who want a short, low-downtime option on a light peel

The treatment day

1. Skin check. The doctor reviews your skin type, sun exposure, medicines and recent treatments before choosing a peel and strength.
2. Cleansing and application. The skin is cleansed, the solution is applied for a timed period, and it is then neutralized or removed. A warm or stinging feeling is common.
3. Calming and protection. A soothing product and sunscreen are applied. Stronger peels may be followed by an ointment or a dressing.
4. Peeling phase. Light peels may cause fine flaking over one to three days. Stronger ones can cause visible peeling for up to about a week.

Aftercare

• Do not pull or scrub flaking skin; let it shed on its own.
• Use a gentle cleanser, a plain moisturizer and broad-spectrum sunscreen every day.
• Avoid direct sun, hot yoga, saunas and public hot baths while skin is sensitive.
• Hold retinoids, exfoliating acids and scrubs until the doctor says they are fine.
• Wear a hat and seek shade on outdoor days during the first week.

Things to know first

• Peels can cause redness, stinging, dryness and, in some skin tones, temporary darkening of the skin.
• Active cold sores, open wounds, sunburn or very irritated skin are reasons to postpone.
• Recent isotretinoin use, pregnancy and breastfeeding call for extra caution and a doctor's decision.
• Stronger peels carry a higher risk of pigment change and scarring and are not suited to everyone.
• Results vary by person, and several light peels are often needed to see a difference.

Planning a chemical peel around a Seoul trip

Choose the strength to match the calendar. A light peel can sit comfortably in the middle of a trip, while a medium peel is better placed early, so flaking is finished before departure and before any formal photos. Placing it right before a flight leaves you with tight, flaking skin in dry cabin air.

Sun is the practical issue in Seoul. Palace grounds, hillside fortress walks and river paths offer little shade, and freshly peeled skin burns and darkens easily. Plan indoor days for the first few days, and carry sunscreen to reapply during the day.