After a light or medium chemical peel, no covering or ointment is needed, and downtime is minimal to none. However, following a deep chemical peel, a coat of protective ointment will be placed over the treatment area. Dressings or bandages may also be applied. Some discomfort may be experienced with deeper peels, as well as redness and swelling. Your overall recovery time will depend on the depth of your treatment.
During the first two weeks, a scab may form on the treated area in medium and deep peels. Over time, this scabbing will begin to peel off, revealing healthy skin.