As the weather cools down and the summer glow begins to fade, skincare professionals everywhere start saying the same thing: “It’s almost peel season!” But what does that actually mean—and how should you prepare?
Whether you're a beauty professional educating your clients or someone ready to level up your skincare routine, August is the perfect time to start preparing your skin (or your client's skin) for the deeper work that happens in the fall.
Why Fall Is the Best Time for Chemical Peels
Chemical peels are one of the most effective treatments for:
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Fading hyperpigmentation and dark spots
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Treating acne and post-acne scars
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Smoothing fine lines and texture
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Giving the skin a renewed, youthful glow
But here’s the thing—chemical peels make your skin more sensitive to the sun. That’s why fall and winter are the safest (and most strategic) seasons to go deep with exfoliating treatments.
In August, the sun is still intense and your skin is still recovering from months of heat, SPF, and outdoor exposure. That’s why prepping now is crucial.
How to Prep for Chemical Peel Season (Like a Pro)
1. Strengthen Your Skin Barrier
Before you think about peels, you need a healthy barrier. This means a consistent routine with a gentle cleanser, hydrating serums, and a moisturizer that supports skin repair. Look for ingredients like:
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Niacinamide
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Ceramides
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Panthenol
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Hyaluronic acid
💡 Pro tip: Avoid active ingredients (like retinol or exfoliating acids) for 7–10 days before a peel unless directed by your esthetician.
2. Wear Sunscreen Every. Single. Day.
Sun exposure is one of the biggest risk factors when it comes to chemical peels. If you’re not already using SPF daily, now is the time to build that habit. Choose a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher and reapply every 2–3 hours.
🔥 Bonus: This also prevents new hyperpigmentation from forming before you even begin your treatment plan.
3. Book a Pre-Peel Consultation
Your esthetician should evaluate your skin before performing any chemical peel. A pre-treatment consultation ensures your skin is healthy enough for exfoliation and allows them to customize a treatment plan just for you.
👩🏽⚕️ Estheticians: Use August to promote “Peel Prep Packages” that include facials, homecare kits, and a consultation to boost client results (and revenue!).
4. Invest in Your Homecare Routine
You’ll get better, safer results from your chemical peel if your daily routine supports healing and cell turnover. Talk to your provider about adding a gentle exfoliant, antioxidant serum, or pigment inhibitor to use in the weeks leading up to your first peel.
The Bottom Line: Don’t Wait Until Fall Hits
Think of August as your “warm-up phase.” If you jump into peel season without preparing your skin, you increase the risk of irritation, sensitivity, and less-than-stellar results.
But if you start now? You’ll walk into fall with stronger skin, better product absorption, and a glow that turns heads.
Let’s Get Peel-Ready Together
Whether you’re booking your first chemical peel or educating your clients, now is the time to act. Don’t sleep on peel prep—your fall skin will thank you.
And if you’re a beauty pro looking to offer advanced peel services this season, stay tuned. I have something powerful in the works 👀