Nova Clinic Guide
How to Prepare Your Skin Before a Medical Peel
Pre-peel preparation can be just as important as the procedure itself.
How you prepare your skin before a medical peel can make a real difference in both the result and the comfort of the recovery.
Why preparation matters
Well-prepped skin tolerates the procedure better, lowers the risk of reactions, and can amplify results. Arriving with irritated, inflamed, or freshly tanned skin increases risk.
What's typically recommended in the weeks before
- Pausing exfoliating actives (acids, retinol) in the days prior, as directed.
- Reinforcing hydration and the skin barrier.
- Avoiding intense sun or artificial tanning at least 2–4 weeks before.
- Using daily sunscreen consistently.
What to skip before the appointment
Avoid laser hair removal, microblading, or other procedures on the target area in the days before the peel. Also, don't start any new active ingredients without medical guidance beforehand.
The role of the pre-treatment consultation
The consultation assesses your skin type, treatment goals, and the most appropriate peel formula. Prep is individualized — it's not a one-size-fits-all protocol. You can learn more on our medical peel page and in our guide on skin dark spots.