HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY

HELENE RAVLICH: LOCAL BEAUTY - HAVE YOU HAD A PEEL LATELY?

Despite the negative publicity that emerged following their initial arrival in the general beauty realm over ten years ago, I think that peels are an absolute essential for healthy, happy skin.

They are no longer the scary numbers that caused all those shocking ‘after’ pics that once littered the internet, and high-performance formulas from tried and tested brands like Dr. Aspect are the ideal skin refreshing treatment, and able to treat all skin types and concerns. They deliver instant results, with very little irritation or stress to the skin. I’m sure we can find a peel that will work for you.

Some of the most popular peel types are:

Mandelic Peels: mandelic is a clever AHA that has been used in the treatment due to its ability to quickly decongest, clarify and help control an overflow of oil production. A newly born member of the AHA (alpha-hydroxy acid) family, mandelic is much more slowly absorbing and therefore much more sensitive on your skin. An alpha hydroxy found in its natural form in almonds, it is a potent ingredient for reducing the dead cells on our skin’s surface and can also help to minimise pores and alleviate acne symptoms, as well as targeting skin discolouration.

Glycolic Peels: glycolic peels have the smallest molecular size and penetrate the deepest; meaning that they are great for the exfoliation and rejuvenation of skin that is showing signs of ageing that you’d like to soften. Glycolic peels come in different strengths, depending on the results you’re looking for, and a consultation is always necessary so we can assess the best course of action for you.

Lactic Peels: lactic peels are derived from milk. The lactic peel is ideal for skin that’s dry or sensitive to active ingredients like retinol. If you’re concerned about having an adverse reaction, the lactic peel is easier on the skin, and it’s a great starter peel if you haven’t had one before due to its gentle nature.

Salicylic Peels: salicylic peels are used to deeply exfoliate the surface layers of the skin. Salicylic acid breaks the bonds that hold the skin’s cells together, causing them to shed away or peel. As the skin regenerates, it is rejuvenated. Compared to other types of chemical peels, salicylic acid gives a gentle exfoliating action, and immediately following a salicylic peel you’ll notice your skin feels softer and smoother.

Due to the super sensitive and reactive nature of my skin, the last time I had a peel I opted for a 20 per cent lactic peel by Dr. Aspect to address fine lines and general dullness. The process of applying the peel was done with utmost care, and the comfort level of my skin checked up on multiple times during every step.

It’s important that you don’t generate any additional heat during the first 48 hours after your peel. Because layers of your skin have just been exfoliated off, exposing a fresh new layer, your skin will be more susceptible to burning.

Avoid exercise and hot baths, and sunscreen is a must whenever you leave the house, even if you’re only getting in and out of the car. You should also avoid the use of harsh exfoliants or active cleansers for seven days after your treatment.

There are also some effective peels to use at home.

A newbie to the market being Pure Fiji’s Glycolic Overnight Renewal Peel. A powerful blend of glycolic and mandelic acid enhanced with niacinamide and extracts of fresh garden sprouts, it’s designed to go to work on fine lines, pigmentation, acne scars and enlarged pores.

An oldie but a goodie, Dr. Dennis Gross’s Universal Daily Peel from Mecca Cosmetica is a cult favourite for a reason. The vegan peel pads are pre-dosed with five powerful alpha and beta hydroxy acids (AHA and BHA), antioxidants and vitamins to accelerate cellular turnover and remove surface dullness for a smooth complexion. Squalane, ceramides, and Chinese foxglove are in there to help seal off water loss, helping skin maintain its integrity and natural hydration balance for up to 72 hours.

Last up, also from Mecca Cosmetica, is the Omorovicza Copper Peel, which is a foaming two-phase formula combining a blue copper paste and a lactic acid activator. It polishes and smooths the complexion and minimises the appearance of enlarged pores for a brighter, more even skin tone. Quick and easy, an application feels like a facial at home. (HELENE RAVLICH)  PN