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Skincare aficionados and celebrities such as Courteney Cox, Jennifer Aniston and Gwyneth Paltrow swear by peels for gorgeous red-carpet-ready skin. Although it’s adored by beauty-mad A-listers, the treatment doesn’t necessarily require a pricey trip to a professional! At-home peels are an excellent solution to achieving that soft, smooth and glowy look.
What are facial peels?
Peels, also known as chemical peels, are designed to reveal the fresh, glowing skin beneath the surface. These treatments involve applying a solution to the skin that gently exfoliates the outermost layers, sloughs away dead skin cells, and promotes cell turnover and rejuvenation. Think of it as resurfacing your skin. You may feel a minor tingling sensation while the product works its magic, but it is a pain-free experience.
What are the benefits of facial peels?
Whether you’re dealing with dullness, fine lines or pesky blemishes, there’s a peel for you! The treatment works to fade surface hyperpigmentation, including UV-induced dark spots, post-blemish marks and melasma. Peels also help clean out pores, improve skin tone and texture, and soften the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Hello, fresh complexion!
Why are they so good in winter?
Reduced sun exposure minimises the risk of post-treatment damage, and helps combat the dry, dull skin caused by cold weather and indoor heating. By removing dead skin cells, peels reveal a fresh, hydrated layer underneath, and can improve absorption and effectiveness of other skincare products. This keeps skin plump and radiant, even in the chilliest months.
What aftercare is required?
Post-peel pampering is a must! Protect your fresh skin by avoiding direct sun exposure and applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen. Hydrate generously with a soothing moisturiser and avoid any harsh skincare products until your skin has fully healed.
Don’t forget: Always adhere to the product guidelines to avoid potential damage and test products on a small skin area first to ensure there’s no adverse reaction. Consult a dermatologist if you have specific skin concerns or conditions.
The top five facial peels to try in NZ
Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Peel
$160, at Dermalogica
Inspired by top-tier professional chemical peels, Dermalogica Powerbright Dark Spot Peel stars a fast-acting formula to swiftly fade stubborn dark spots and reduce triggers of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Clinique Clarifying Do-Over Peel
$70, at Adore Beauty
A low-fuss, leave-on treatment, Clinique Clarifying Do-Over Peel expertly removes dead skin cells and works deep below the surface to tackle future imperfections early. Simply sweep a saturated cotton pad over clean skin in the evening two to three times a week. There’s no need to rinse.
L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Exfoliant Peel
$44.54, at Chemist Warehouse
With a blend of exfoliating acids and brightening niacinamide, L’Oréal Paris Revitalift Bright Reveal Exfoliant Peel is perfect for all skin tones and types. Leave on for 15 minutes and follow with your regular moisturiser for a renewed complexion.
The Ordinary Aha 30% + Bha 2% Peeling Solution
$27.50, at Strawberrynet
Consider yourself a pro at peels? Try The Ordinary Aha 30% + Bha 2% Peeling Solution. The advanced-level, 10-minute mask stars a concentrated blend of acids to exfoliate multiple layers of the skin and is ideal for treating acne.
Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Peel Pads
$109, at Adore Beauty
If you’re hunting high and low for a non-irritating formula or you don’t like to muck around with messy serums, call in Peter Thomas Roth Even Smoother Glycolic Retinol Peel Pads. Each pad is conveniently pre-doused in product to simplify your skincare routine.
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