Retinol Peel

The Retinol Peel is a clinician-supervised, Vitamin A–based cosmetic peel used for suitable individuals to support visible surface renewal. It is planned as part of a broader skin-care approach after appropriate assessment.

What It May Help With

For appropriate candidates, the Retinol Peel may be used with the intention of improving the visible appearance of:

  • Uneven-looking pigmentation or tone

  • Surface roughness and a dull-looking complexion

  • Post-blemish marks and discolouration in the cosmetic sense

Any change in appearance, and how noticeable it is, differs from person to person and cannot be promised.

How it works

Under practitioner supervision:

  • A retinol (Vitamin A derivative) formulation is applied in a controlled way to the skin

  • Retinol is intended to support natural cell turnover in the upper layers of the skin

  • As older surface cells shed and new cells appear, some people notice a smoother, more refined-looking surface over time

The strength of the product, contact time and frequency are tailored to your skin type, medical history, current medications (including other Vitamin A products) and overall treatment plan.

Safety, risks & aftercare

All chemical peels, including retinol peels, carry risks.

Before any treatment, your practitioner will:

  • Take a relevant medical and skin history, including current medications (especially other Vitamin A/retinoid products)

  • Examine the treatment area

  • Explain the proposed peel, potential benefits, limitations and alternatives (including doing nothing)

  • Discuss possible risks and side effects, including less common but more serious complications

  • Provide written aftercare instructions tailored to you

Book a Treatment or a Complimentary Consultation

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re all about transparency and want to provide you with the information you need to make informed decisions about your aesthetic journey. If you have any additional questions or concerns, please reach out – our knowledgeable team is here to assist you every step of the way.

  • It is a clinician-supervised cosmetic peel using a Vitamin A (retinol) formulation to support surface renewal and help improve the visible appearance of fine texture, uneven tone and post-blemish marks in suitable individuals.

  • Many skin types may be considered, but not everyone will be suitable. Suitability depends on:

    • Skin tone and sensitivity

    • Existing pigment issues

    • Current or recent use of other retinoids or strong actives

    • Medical history and other treatments

    Your practitioner will determine if this peel is appropriate for you and may recommend alternative options.

  • Some people notice visible flaking or peeling for around 3–5 days, while others experience only mild dryness or tightness. The extent and duration of shedding vary between individuals and with the strength of the peel.

  • Vitamin A–based treatments are usually avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your clinician will discuss timing and may recommend postponing retinol peels and certain home-care products until these periods have passed, and may advise you to speak with your GP or obstetric provider.

  • Some people feel their skin looks more refined or smoother after about a week, once the main peeling phase has settled. Further changes may develop with repeated, well-spaced treatments. The timing and degree of visible change differ from person to person and cannot be guaranteed.

  • Possible side effects include:

    • Temporary dryness, redness, tightness, itching or mild irritation

    • Several days of flaking or peeling

    • In some cases, a temporary flare of blemishes as the skin adjusts

    Less common but more serious risks include pronounced irritation, prolonged redness, pigment change or, rarely, infection. Your practitioner will explain which risks are most relevant to you.

  • Some people consider a Retinol Peel every 3–6 months as part of a broader skin plan. The interval depends on:

    • How your skin responds

    • Any other treatments being used

    • Practitioner advice and medical considerations

    Frequency is always individualised.

  • Other peels or resurfacing procedures are generally not performed immediately before or after a Retinol Peel, to avoid over-exfoliation. Combination plans may involve spacing different treatments over time. Your practitioner will outline an appropriate schedule if multiple modalities are considered.

  • You may feel warmth, tingling or mild stinging during and shortly after application. These sensations typically lessen as the peel is absorbed or neutralised. Your practitioner monitors comfort and can adjust exposure as needed.

  • Aftercare usually includes:

    • Regular use of gentle, fragrance-free moisturiser

    • Avoiding waxing, scrubs, at-home peels and strong actives (including retinoids) for at least a week, or as advised

    • Avoiding heat and strenuous exercise for a period recommended by your practitioner

    • Applying broad-spectrum SPF 50+ every day and limiting sun exposure

    You will receive a written aftercare plan specific to your peel and skin.