Chemical Peels in Dubai: Pre & Post Care Tips

Chemical peels in Dubai have earned a glowing reputation for delivering radiant, youthful, and even-toned skin. Whether you’re targeting pigmentation, acne scars, dullness, or fine lines, a chemical peel can offer transformative results. However, the success of your treatment doesn’t depend solely on the procedure itself—it hinges just as much on how you prepare before the peel and care for your skin afterward.

In this guide, we’ll explore essential pre- and post-treatment care tips recommended by top dermatologists in Dubai to help you maximize the benefits of your chemical peel while minimizing any potential side effects.

Why Proper Care Matters with Chemical Peels

chemical peels in Dubai involve applying a specially formulated acid to the skin, which exfoliates dead skin cells and promotes the growth of fresh, healthy layers. But because the skin becomes temporarily more vulnerable during and after this process, how you treat it before and after can impact your results.

Dubai's dermatologists consistently emphasize pre- and post-peel routines to:

Enhance skin tolerance to the acids
Prevent post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
Accelerate healing
Ensure smoother, brighter, and longer-lasting results

Let’s break it down into two phases: before and after your peel.

Pre-Care Tips: Preparing Your Skin for the Best Results

1. Book a Professional Consultation

Before anything else, consult a certified dermatologist or skin expert. Dubai clinics like Biolite, CosmeSurge, and Dubai Cosmetic Surgery offer detailed skin analysis to determine the right peel for your concerns and skin type.

A consultation allows your provider to:

Identify your skin type (dry, oily, combination, sensitive)
Check for underlying skin conditions
Choose the appropriate peel strength (superficial, medium, or deep)

2. Avoid Sun Exposure

Stay out of the harsh Dubai sun at least one week prior to your peel. Sunburnt or tanned skin can become more reactive to the acids used in chemical peels, increasing the risk of irritation and pigmentation issues.

Expert Tip: Always wear broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen—even on cloudy days or indoors.

3. Stop Using Retinoids & Active Ingredients

Retinoids, glycolic acid, salicylic acid, and other exfoliants should be discontinued 3–5 days before your peel. These products thin the top layer of skin, and combining them with a peel could cause excessive sensitivity or peeling.

If you’re using prescription-strength retinoids (like tretinoin), consult your dermatologist before stopping.

4. Hydrate Your Skin

Healthy, hydrated skin responds better to chemical peels. In the days leading up to your treatment, focus on moisturizing and drinking plenty of water. Avoid harsh scrubs, peels, or masks that may disrupt the skin barrier.

5. Prep Products May Be Prescribed

Some dermatologists in Dubai may prescribe pre-peel products like lightening agents or mild acids. These products “prime” your skin and reduce the risk of complications, especially for those with darker skin tones prone to hyperpigmentation.

The Day of the Peel: What to Know

Arrive with clean, makeup-free skin.
Let your dermatologist know if you’ve had recent cosmetic treatments or skin reactions.
You may feel tingling, warmth, or mild stinging during the procedure—it’s normal and temporary.

For deeper peels like TCA or Jessner’s, some discomfort may be more noticeable, and your doctor may apply a numbing agent beforehand.

Post-Care Tips: Supporting Your Skin’s Healing Process

1. Expect Peeling and Redness

After a chemical peel, especially medium-depth ones, you’ll likely experience redness, flaking, and peeling over the next few days. This is part of the natural skin renewal process.

Avoid touching, scratching, or picking the skin—it can cause scarring or infections.

2. Stay Away from the Sun

Just like before your peel, protecting your skin from sun exposure after treatment is absolutely crucial. The new skin that emerges is delicate and easily damaged.

Wear SPF 50+ daily.
Avoid beach outings, tanning beds, and outdoor activities for at least 7–10 days.

3. Use Gentle Skincare Products

Your skin will be more sensitive after a peel. Switch to a simplified skincare routine using only:

Gentle, fragrance-free cleanser
Hydrating serum (like hyaluronic acid)
Lightweight moisturizer
Broad-spectrum sunscreen

Avoid any exfoliating scrubs, AHAs, BHAs, vitamin C serums, or retinoids until your dermatologist advises it's safe.

4. Avoid Makeup (Initially)

Give your skin at least 24–48 hours to heal before applying makeup—especially foundation or concealers. These can clog freshly exfoliated pores and delay the healing process.

For deeper peels, your doctor may recommend waiting even longer.

5. Stay Cool & Avoid Sweating

Sweating can irritate freshly peeled skin. Skip the gym, saunas, and hot showers for a few days. Dubai’s hot climate makes this a challenge, but it’s essential to prevent further inflammation.

Expert Tip: Stay in air-conditioned spaces when possible, especially during summer.

6. Follow Up with Your Clinic

Dubai’s best aesthetic clinics provide excellent aftercare. Make sure to attend your follow-up appointment to assess healing and plan future treatments if necessary.

Your provider may also recommend post-peel boosters or facials to maintain the glow and continue improving your skin tone and texture.

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Results depend on the type of peel:

Superficial peels: Minimal peeling; skin looks brighter within 3–5 days.
Medium peels: Redness and visible peeling; skin improves within 7–10 days.
Deep peels: Longer downtime (up to 2 weeks), but more dramatic transformation.

With proper aftercare, your skin will feel smoother, clearer, and more refreshed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using actives too soon after a peel
Skipping sunscreen post-peel
Picking at peeling skin
Exposing your skin to heat and sun too early
Not hydrating properly

These habits can lead to delayed healing, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or even long-term damage.

Final Thoughts

Getting a chemical peel in Dubai can be one of the most rewarding skincare decisions you’ll ever make—provided you take it seriously and follow the recommended pre- and post-care routines. From preparation to recovery, your skin requires thoughtful attention to unlock its full potential.