Planning your first (or next) chemical peels in Dubai? Great choice—chemical peels can dramatically improve your skin’s clarity, tone, and texture. But the key to a smooth, effective experience lies in proper preparation.
To help you get the most out of your treatment and reduce the risk of side effects, we’ve put together a comprehensive pre-treatment checklist. From skincare product adjustments to lifestyle habits to avoid, this guide covers everything you need to do before your chemical peel appointment in Dubai.
Why Prepping Your Skin Matters
A chemical peel involves controlled exfoliation, where an acid-based solution removes layers of dead skin. If your skin isn’t prepped correctly, you may experience:
Uneven results
Excessive irritation
Hyperpigmentation
Delayed healing
Proper preparation ensures:
✔ Smoother recovery
✔ Enhanced glow
✔ Better treatment outcomes
✔ Lower risk of complications
Chemical Peel Pre-Treatment Checklist
✅ 1. Stop Using Retinoids and Acids (5–7 Days Before)
Discontinue products containing:
Retinol or tretinoin
Glycolic acid or lactic acid
Salicylic acid
Benzoyl peroxide
Why: These ingredients increase skin sensitivity and may cause irritation when combined with a peel.
✅ 2. Avoid Hair Removal Treatments (5–7 Days Before)
Hold off on:
Waxing or threading
Laser hair removal
Depilatory creams
Why: These procedures can leave the skin more sensitive, raising the risk of redness or burns during a peel.
✅ 3. Skip Tanning and Sun Exposure (1–2 Weeks Before)
Avoid:
Sunbathing or tanning beds
Prolonged exposure without SPF
Why: Tanned or sunburnt skin is more prone to peeling complications, hyperpigmentation, and sensitivity.
✅ 4. Use Gentle Skincare Only (3–5 Days Before)
Stick to:
A mild, fragrance-free cleanser
Simple moisturizer
Broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen
Why: You want your skin barrier calm and hydrated before the procedure.
✅ 5. Avoid Facial Treatments (7 Days Before)
Don’t schedule:
Microdermabrasion
Facials with extractions
Microneedling or lasers
Why: These can compromise the skin barrier, making the peel too aggressive or unsafe.
✅ 6. Hydrate from the Inside and Out
Drink plenty of water the week before
Apply a hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid) nightly
Why: Well-hydrated skin heals faster and peels more evenly.
✅ 7. Inform Your Provider About Medications and Allergies
Let them know if you’re using:
Oral or topical antibiotics
Blood thinners
Accutane (within the past 6–12 months)
Allergy-prone products
Why: Certain medications affect healing and sensitivity. Transparency ensures a safer peel experience.
✅ 8. Know Your Skin Type and Goals
Think about:
What’s your skin concern (acne, dullness, spots, wrinkles)?
What level of downtime are you okay with?
Do you have any history of pigmentation after treatments?
Why: These answers help your dermatologist in Dubai choose the best type and strength of peel for your skin.
What to Expect at Your Peel Appointment
On the Day:
Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin
Wear comfortable clothing—you may lie still for 30–45 minutes
Don’t apply any skincare or sunscreen before the appointment
If it’s your first time, expect a patch test or a mild formulation
Questions to Ask:
What kind of peel are you using?
How long is the recovery?
Can I return to normal activities afterward?
What’s the post-peel care plan?
Bonus Tips for Dubai Residents
☀ Sun Alert:
Dubai’s UV index is high year-round. Even brief walks between car and clinic can expose you to intense sunlight. Use SPF 50+ religiously, even on cloudy days.
? Hydration Tip:
Due to air conditioning and desert dryness, skin dehydrates faster. Use a hydrating mist or serum the week leading up to your peel.
? Lifestyle Tip:
If you’re attending a social or religious event, plan your peel at least 5–7 days in advance to allow for any redness or flaking to subside.
Final Thoughts
The success of your chemical peel in Dubai depends not only on the clinic or peel type—but also on how well you prepare your skin beforehand. Following this checklist will ensure a smoother experience, minimize risks, and leave you with the clear, glowing skin you're aiming for.
Ready for your peel? Make your prep count, and you’ll be one step closer to radiant, rejuvenated skin.
