Skip to content 
Chemical Peels in Washington, DC
Professional Exfoliation Treatments
Revitalize your skin with the power of chemical peels at Ritual. Our chemical peel treatments are designed to gently exfoliate and renew your skin’s surface, revealing smoother, brighter, and more youthful-looking skin underneath. Whether you’re looking to minimize fine lines, reduce hyperpigmentation, or improve overall skin texture, our range of chemical peels offers a solution tailored to your skin’s needs. Experience our professional-grade peels’ immediate and long-term benefits, performed by our expert team who prioritize safety and efficacy. Take the first step towards radiant skin—schedule your consultation today and discover the rejuvenating effects of our chemical peel treatments.
Types of Chemical Peels Available
Perfect 10 Chemical Peel
ZO Skin Health 3-Step Chemical Peel
- Step 1: Apply the 5% lactic acid, 17% salicylic acid, and 10% TCA peel solution.
- Step 2: Applying a 6% Retinol Crème for fine line reduction, tone and texture improvement.
- Step 3: Continue applying the Hydrating crème, which promotes collagen and hyaluronic acid production while protecting the skin during healing. It is ideal for hyper-pigmented skin (melasma, sun damage), mature skin, and acne.
Level 2 peel. Peeling begins on days 2-3, on average.
Perfect Derma Peel (Chemical)
Benefits of Chemical Peels
- Reduces wrinkles around the mouth and under the eyes
- Age-related wrinkles can be treated with this product
- Mild scars are improved
- Helps to treat certain types of acne
- Reduces age spots, freckles, and melasma
- Improves the overall texture of the skin
- Can make the skin look fresher and more rejuvenated
- Helps skin care products work better by allowing them to penetrate deeper
- Can improve minor skin imperfections
- Offers some clients a refreshed appearance with minimal downtime
CHEMICAL PEEL PRE/POST TREATMENT CARE
7 days before: Avoid waxing, laser, dermaplaning, microneedling, exfoliating facials, and other aggressive procedures on the area. Avoid excess sun and self-tanner on the area.
2–3 days before (or as directed): Stop retinoids/retinol, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, and topical acne meds. Avoid exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA/PHA), scrubs, and at-home peels. Use only a gentle cleanser + simple moisturizer.
Day of: Arrive with clean skin if possible (no heavy makeup). If you have a history of cold sores, tell us before your peelto discuss prevention.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Redness, dryness, and flaking are normal; peeling often starts 2–4 days after and lasts about 3 days (varies by peel).
- Mild tightness/itching/sensitivity can occur.
- Results continue to improve over several days to 2 weeks.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Provider-directed products
Use only the products recommended by your provider. Follow the instructions given at your visit and avoid introducing new skincare until you’re cleared.
Cleanse (AM + PM)
Wash hands. Cleanse with a mild, soap-free cleanser (ex: Cetaphil/CeraVe) using fingertips and lukewarm water. Rinse and pat dry. No scrubbing, washcloths, or cleansing brushes.
Moisturize
Apply Cetaphil or CeraVe twice daily or as needed. Cool compresses may be used briefly for comfort.
Sun protection (critical)
Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors. Avoid direct sun as much as possible, especially 10 AM–3 PM. No tanning beds.
Makeup: Makeup after 24 hours if skin feels calm; mineral makeup preferred.
AVOID
Until peeling/irritation fully resolves (usually 5–7+ days)
- Do not pick or peel
- Avoid retinoids/retinol, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, topical acne meds (unless directed).
- Avoid exfoliating acids, scrubs, at-home peels, and “active” masks.
- Avoid saunas/steam rooms/hot tubs/very hot showers.
- Avoid exercise/heavy sweating for 24 hours (longer if very red/irritated).
- Avoid pools/ocean until skin feels calm and intact.
Other treatments
- No waxing/facials for at least 1 week (longer if directed).
- No laser or aggressive procedures until cleared by your provider.
Restarting actives
- Many clients can restart retinoids/acne products after 7 days only if skin is no longer irritated and you’re cleared.If burning/stinging occurs, stop and call us.
WHEN TO CONTACT US
Call the office if you have worsening redness/warmth/swelling/pain after Day 2–3, blistering, open sores, oozing/crusting, fever/chills, pus, or anything concerning.
Emergency warning: If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)—trouble breathing, swelling of lips/tongue/throat, widespread hives, dizziness/fainting, chest tightness—call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Office: 202-844-2655
CHEMICAL PEEL PRE/POST TREATMENT CARE
7 days before: Avoid waxing, laser, dermaplaning, microneedling, exfoliating facials, and other aggressive procedures on the area. Avoid excess sun and self-tanner on the area.
2–3 days before (or as directed): Stop retinoids/retinol, hydroquinone, benzoyl peroxide, and topical acne meds. Avoid exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA/PHA), scrubs, and at-home peels. Use only a gentle cleanser + simple moisturizer.
Day of: Arrive with clean skin if possible (no heavy makeup). If you have a history of cold sores, tell us before your peelto discuss prevention.
WHAT TO EXPECT
- Redness, dryness, and flaking are normal; peeling often starts 2–4 days after and lasts about 3 days (varies by peel).
- Mild tightness/itching/sensitivity can occur.
- Results continue to improve over several days to 2 weeks.
POST-TREATMENT CARE
Provider-directed products
Use only the products recommended by your provider. Follow the instructions given at your visit and avoid introducing new skincare until you’re cleared.
Cleanse (AM + PM)
Wash hands. Cleanse with a mild, soap-free cleanser (ex: Cetaphil/CeraVe) using fingertips and lukewarm water. Rinse and pat dry. No scrubbing, washcloths, or cleansing brushes.
Moisturize
Apply Cetaphil or CeraVe twice daily or as needed. Cool compresses may be used briefly for comfort.
Sun protection (critical)
Use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ daily and reapply every 2 hours when outdoors. Avoid direct sun as much as possible, especially 10 AM–3 PM. No tanning beds.
Makeup: Makeup after 24 hours if skin feels calm; mineral makeup preferred.
AVOID
Until peeling/irritation fully resolves (usually 5–7+ days)
- Do not pick or peel
- Avoid retinoids/retinol, benzoyl peroxide, hydroquinone, topical acne meds (unless directed).
- Avoid exfoliating acids, scrubs, at-home peels, and “active” masks.
- Avoid saunas/steam rooms/hot tubs/very hot showers.
- Avoid exercise/heavy sweating for 24 hours (longer if very red/irritated).
- Avoid pools/ocean until skin feels calm and intact.
Other treatments
- No waxing/facials for at least 1 week (longer if directed).
- No laser or aggressive procedures until cleared by your provider.
Restarting actives
- Many clients can restart retinoids/acne products after 7 days only if skin is no longer irritated and you’re cleared.If burning/stinging occurs, stop and call us.
WHEN TO CONTACT US
Call the office if you have worsening redness/warmth/swelling/pain after Day 2–3, blistering, open sores, oozing/crusting, fever/chills, pus, or anything concerning.
Emergency warning: If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis)—trouble breathing, swelling of lips/tongue/throat, widespread hives, dizziness/fainting, chest tightness—call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
Office: 202-844-2655
FAQ
Can all skin types undergo Chemical Peels?
While Chemical Peels are suitable for various skin types, individuals with darker skin should consult a professional to avoid discoloration.
Are Chemical Peels safe for sensitive skin?
Chemical Peels can be tailored for sensitive skin with milder solutions and specific techniques. Consultation with a professional is recommended.
What distinguishes light, medium, and deep Chemical Peels?
Light peels target the outer layer with minimal downtime, medium peels address deeper imperfections with a few days of recovery, and deep peels penetrate extensively, improving severe wrinkles and scars with more extended downtime.
Can Chemical Peels reduce acne scars?
Yes, medium to deep peels can effectively diminish acne scarring by removing damaged skin layers and promoting new skin growth.
How often should I get a Chemical Peel?
The frequency depends on the peel type and skin issues. Light peels might be done monthly, while medium and deep peels require longer intervals. A professional can provide a tailored schedule.
What aftercare is necessary post-Chemical Peel?
Post-peel care includes avoiding direct sunlight, using sunscreen, refraining from peeling flaking skin, and maintaining hydration with gentle skincare products. Follow the specific guidance provided by your skincare professional.