Chemical Peels

Our certified specialists develop individualised treatment plans based on a thorough skin assessment, including skin type (Fitzpatrick scale), concern severity, and treatment goals. Chemical peels at ELEMENTAL are clinically appropriate for patients experiencing:

• Acne and acne scarring – light to medium peels reduce active breakouts and improve the appearance of superficial acne scars
• Pigmentation disorders – melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), sun spots (solar lentigines), and generalised uneven skin tone
• Photoaging and sun damage – fine lines, roughness, dullness, and actinic keratoses caused by cumulative UV exposure, which is particularly common in Dubai's high-sun environment
• Texture irregularities – enlarged pores, rough skin texture, and superficial scarring
• Rosacea and facial redness – certain light peels can reduce redness and improve skin barrier function

Important note: For patients with darker skin types (Fitzpatrick IV–VI), deeper chemical peels carry a risk of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and must be performed with particular care.

Our specialists will conduct a thorough assessment before recommending any peel, and may suggest a course of superficial peels or pre-treatment with skin-lightening preparations for safer, optimal results .

Step 1 – Clinical Assessment and Informed Consent
Your certified specialist will review your medical history, assess your skin type, analyse the condition being treated, and discuss your aesthetic goals. You will receive clear, unbiased information about the recommended peel type, expected outcomes, potential risks (redness, peeling, temporary pigmentation changes), and alternatives. You will have the opportunity to ask questions before signing a written informed consent form, as required by DHA regulations.

Step 2 – Pre-Treatment Preparation
Depending on the peel type and your skin condition, you may be advised to:

• Discontinue certain topical products (retinoids, exfoliants) for a specified period before treatment
• Use a prescribed pre-peel skincare regimen (e.g., tyrosinase inhibitors for melasma patients)
• Avoid sun exposure and use broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen for at least two weeks before the procedure

Step 3 – Procedure (In-Clinic, Same-Day)
The treatment area will be thoroughly cleansed. Your specialist will apply the chemical solution evenly across the treatment area using a brush or gauze. The solution is left on the skin for a controlled period, then neutralised or removed depending on the peel type. Patients may experience a mild stinging or warming sensation during application. Light peels typically take 15–20 minutes; medium peels may take 20–30 minutes.

Step 4 – Aftercare and Recovery

• Superficial (Light) Peel:

Downtime: None to minimal
What to expect: Mild redness and flaking for 1–3 days
Can wear makeup immediately

• Medium Peel:

Downtime: 5–10 days
What to expect: Visible peeling, redness, and mild swelling; skin may appear bronzed before flaking
Avoid makeup until peeling is complete

• Deep Peel:

Downtime: 14–21 days
What to expect: Significant peeling and redness
Requires strict sun protection and medical aftercare

• General aftercare instructions for all peels:

Avoid direct sun exposure for at least 2–4 weeks
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 50+ sunscreen daily
Do not pick, scratch, or pull peeling skin
Use only recommended gentle skincare products
Most patients require a series of 4–6 superficial peels spaced 3–4 weeks apart for optimal results; one or two medium peels may achieve the desired outcome for specific concerns

Regulatory disclosure: In compliance with DHA Standards for Medical Advertisement Content, there is no guarantee that the result will be the same for every patient, as individual responses to treatment vary based on skin type, peel depth, and adherence to aftercare .