The retinol peel is one of the most popular aesthetic treatments to restore glow and youthfulness to the skin. This chemical peel uses a form of vitamin A (retinol) to deeply exfoliate the skin. Unlike traditional acid-based peels, retinol works by stimulating skin regeneration, resulting in smoother, brighter, and more even skin. This peel is especially appreciated for its gentle yet effective action, delivering visible results without causing excessive flaking.
The retinol peel is an ideal treatment for patients seeking to rejuvenate their skin while addressing various skin concerns. This treatment is safe, effective, and provides visible results quickly—provided that pre- and post-treatment
instructions are carefully followed. If you'd like to learn more or determine whether this peel is right for your skin, a personalized consultation is highly recommended.
Choosing a retinol peel offers numerous advantages :
• Gentle action : unlike more aggressive peels, retinol works gently, with minimal irritation or redness.
• Visible results from the first session : skin appears smoother and more radiant within just a few days.
• Progressive improvement : the benefits continue to develop over the following weeks, thanks to enhanced collagen production.
• Suitable for different skin types : this peel is well tolerated by sensitive, oily, or mature skin, and can be performed on all phototypes.
This treatment is perfect for those who wish to revitalize their skin without undergoing invasive procedures.
The retinol peel can be performed year-round. However, it is best scheduled during seasons with limited sun exposure—fall and winter are ideal. Retinol increases the skin’s sensitivity to UV rays, so daily sun protection is essential after the treatment, no matter the time of year.
The retinol peel used by Dr. Romano is a superficial peel that suits most skin types. It is appropriate for younger patients aiming to prevent early signs of aging, as well as mature skin looking to correct age-related imperfections.
Indications include :
• Fine lines and wrinkles : helps diminish visible signs of skin aging.
• Dull complexion : restores glow to tired, lackluster skin.
• Pigmentation spots : reduces sun spots and age-related hyperpigmentation.
• Acne : minimizes inflammatory acne lesions and helps prevent future breakouts.
• Enlarged pores : refines skin texture and tightens pores.
This peel is typically performed on the face, but it can also be applied to other areas of the body such as the neck, décolleté, chest, shoulders, back, hands, and feet. (The eyelids are excluded.)
The retinol peel session is preceded by a consultation during which Dr. Romano reviews the patient’s medical history and analyzes their skin condition.
The skin is first thoroughly cleansed to remove any traces of makeup. A Pre-Peel solution is applied using a cotton pad or gauze to eliminate residual sebum and balance the skin’s pH.
Petroleum jelly is carefully applied with a cotton swab to any cuts, abrasions, piercings, the upper and lower lips, the corners of the mouth and nose, the outer corners of the eyes, and any other areas where the peeling solution might accumulate — in order to protect them during the procedure.
The retinol solution is then applied evenly to the treatment area : one layer for a light peel, multiple layers for a deeper exfoliation.
For approximately 10 minutes, Dr. Romano monitors the skin for any signs of erythema (redness) and checks with the patient for any discomfort. If needed, the peel can be rinsed off earlier.
After 10 minutes, and provided the skin has tolerated the product well, the doctor gently massages the excess product into the skin. Neutralization is not required.
The patient will rinse off the peel 8 hours later, or the next day.
In case of irritation, the peel can be removed earlier.
For sensitive skin or if the patient prefers a milder exfoliation, the product can be rinsed off after 3 hours.
Before undergoing a retinol peel, certain precautions must be taken to ensure optimal effectiveness and minimize the risk of side effects.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure in the days leading up to the session.
• Discontinue irritating treatments : if you’re using exfoliating acids or retinoid-based products, stop them at least one week before the treatment.
• Keep your skin well-hydrated : proper skin hydration before the session helps optimize results.
Doctor Romano will provide you with additional personalized recommendations based on your skin type.
After your peel session, it's important to follow specific post-care instructions to promote healing and avoid complications:
• Apply a moisturizing cream several times a day, Dr. Romano will recommend a suitable product.
• Use a high SPF (50) broad-spectrum sunscreen daily.
• Avoid direct sun exposure for several days following the procedure.
• Do not exfoliate the skin or use irritating products for at least one month after the peel.
• Avoid facial hair removal (waxing), bleaching, chemical straightening or perming, light therapy, laser treatments and IPL until the skin has fully healed — usually around one month.
• Do not pick, peel, or scratch the skin.
• Ideally, avoid smoking for one week after the treatment.
Although retinol peels are generally safe, certain contraindications must be respected.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding.
• Allergy to vitamin A derivatives.
• Irritated or damaged skin : the skin must be fully healed before treatment.
• Presence of warts in the treatment area, due to the risk of viral spread.
• Use of skin-sensitizing products or procedures (such as scrubs).
• Use of anticoagulants or immunosuppressive medications.
• Oral retinoids must be stopped at least 6 months prior, and topical retinoids or exfoliants 1 to 2 weeks before the session.
Possible reactions following a retinol peel include :
redness (erythema), peeling, sensitivity, tingling, itching, burning sensation, tightness, mild inflammation, and increased sun sensitivity.
Mild peeling may occur 2 to 3 days after the procedure and can last for about a week. These reactions generally subside gradually within a few days.
Superficial peels may also cause perioral dermatitis, acne flare-ups, or herpes outbreaks. This is why preventive antiviral treatment is prescribed in patients with a history of Herpes simplex infection.
Some patients may develop hyperpigmentation (dark spots) or hypopigmentation (light spots), which usually resolve within a few months.
The results of a retinol peel are visible just a few days after the procedure.
Within the first week, the skin appears smoother, more radiant, and imperfections are visibly reduced.
Over the following weeks, the benefits continue to improve, thanks to the increased collagen production stimulated by retinol. Fine lines and wrinkles gradually fade, pigmentation spots lighten, and skin texture becomes more even. The skin appears firmer and more toned.
Several sessions are usually necessary to achieve optimal results. Outcomes may vary depending on the individual, but most patients notice a significant improvement in skin quality after 2 to 3 treatments.
Peels are typically spaced 6 to 8 weeks apart, provided that the skin has fully healed.
If healing is incomplete and the skin remains sensitive, the interval between sessions should be extended to 10–12 weeks or more, as needed.
The retinol peel is offered at a price of 300 CHF per session. This rate includes the medical procedure, skin preparation, and the controlled application of the product by Dr. Romano. It is a specific procedure requiring particular expertise. No surcharge is applied based on phototype or skin sensitivity.
Patient feedback on retinol peels is overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciate the gentle action of the treatment, which delivers visible results without the side effects of more aggressive peels.
Users report improved skin texture, a more radiant complexion, and a refined skin grain. Those with acne scars or fine lines often notice a visible reduction in these imperfections.
Patients also value the fact that this peel requires no social downtime. While redness and mild peeling may occur, these side effects are usually well-tolerated and short-lived.
Yes, a retinol peel is known for its effectiveness. It stimulates cell renewal, refines skin texture, reduces imperfections, and enhances skin radiance. It is also valued for minimizing signs of aging and evening out skin tone.
Retinol is not recommended during pregnancy, breastfeeding, or when the skin is irritated or damaged. It should also be avoided during periods of intense sun exposure, as it increases skin sensitivity to UV rays.
Yes, a retinol peel is effective in fading pigmentation spots caused by sun exposure, aging, or hormonal imbalances. It helps achieve a more even and radiant complexion.
A retinol peel helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles by stimulating collagen production and accelerating skin cell turnover. This improves skin firmness and texture.
An effective peel results in smoother skin, a brighter complexion, and visibly reduced imperfections after a few days of peeling. Optimal results are usually seen after several sessions, depending on the treatment plan.
Yes, a retinol peel can be suitable for all skin types, but the concentration and frequency must be adjusted based on skin sensitivity. A prior medical evaluation is essential.
Recovery typically lasts between 5 and 7 days. During this time, the skin may show redness, peeling, and a slight feeling of tightness.
Sun exposure is strongly discouraged after a retinol peel, as the skin becomes more sensitive to UV rays. It is essential to apply SPF 50 sunscreen and stay in shaded areas throughout the healing phase.
