March 26, 2026

ZO 3-Step Peel Pre- and Post-Treatment Instructions

ZO 3 Step Chemical Peel

Pre-Treatment Instructions

  • To enhance results, start on a ZO® program based on your skin type 4-6 weeks prior to having your first peel. Pigment Control™ and Pigment Control + Blending™ plus tretinoin may be used in patients with a high risk for pigmentation problems.
  • Discontinue the use of topical retinoids and tretinoin (such as Retinol, Retin-A®, Renova®, Differin®,Tazorac®, and Refissa®) 3-4 days prior to Peel.
  • Discontinue the use of alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, etc.), beta hydroxy acids (salicylic acid), benzoyl peroxide, retinols, and other potentially irritating products 3-4 days prior to Peel.
  • Avoid laser procedures, microdermabrasion, electrolysis, waxing and the use of depilatory creams for 5-7 days prior to Peel.
  • Avoid sun exposure or tanning bed 2 weeks prior to your peel.
  • If you have a history of herpes infection will need to start an anti-viral medication (i.e., acyclovir or valacyclovir) one day prior to this peel and continue for 5 days. Notify the office if you need a prescription.

Immediately After ZO 3-Step Peel®

  • Avoid washing face or treated area for at least 5 hours after the peel. Preferably, wait to wash face until the morning after the peel.

Post-Treatment Instructions

  • Wash face or treated area with the cleanser from your daily ZO® Skin Health program. Wash face gently for 30-40 seconds. Rinse and pat dry.
  • Apply entire packet of Retinol Crème Complex.
  • Apply a thin layer of Hydrating Crème. Hydrating Crème may be applied 3 times daily or more often if needed.
  • Redness, stinging, itching, mild swelling, flaking, and peeling are all normal signs after the peel and vary based on patient responses.
  • Exfoliation will generally begin 2-3 days after treatment and end by day 5.
  • Avoid rubbing, scratching, peeling, or picking the skin with your fingers while healing.
  • Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 7-10 days following the peel. Sunscreen may be used after the skin has completely healed.
  • Besides the Retinol Crème Complex, do not use alpha hydroxy acids, beta hydroxy acids, benzoyl peroxide, retinoids and other potentially irritating products until the skin is healed.
  • Avoid running water directly on your face while showering.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and sweating until skin is completely healed.
  • Avoid procedures, such as facials, hair removal, microdermabrasion and lasers until skin is fully healed.
  • After skin is healed, return to your daily ZO® Skin Health program.

If you’re interested in booking this treatment or scheduling your next visit, click book now to reserve your appointment online.

skin 101 blog

Explore other resources

see all