I am a HUGE fan of peels, both within professional treatment and at home. They really can change the skin for the better, if used in the correct way.

I have used skin peels within my clinic for over 15 years; they can treat so many different skin concerns, from dullness, pigmentation, the appearance of fine lines, boosting hydration levels and so much more.

The words skin peel can sound slightly scary, and obviously there are medical peels, however, they come in all shapes and sizes. Some at-home peels with very low levels of acids won’t even give a peeling effect, more of a skin rejuvenation – which can be AMAZING for a regular skin boost and glow. Then there are more professional peels like the ones I use within my skin clinic, that can step up safely over a period of time to give a much deeper treatment.

The key is to not overdo it with peels and the rule is to use SPF daily all year round if you have acids in your homecare, and or having peels within your facials.

So, with all of this in mind I have really been looking forward to trying the philosophy range of at-home peels.

Firstly, philosophy was the first brand to launch at-home peel formulas to the skincare retail market! Which considering the vast amount of at home peels now available is an incredible accolade.

Much like how I would look at peels in treatment, Philosophy have a tier system of peel strengths all of which are quite different in how they are used and feel on the skin, so there is something for all skin types. All three peels are gentle, but it allows you to choose a peel dependant on your skin and how confident you feel about using at home peels.

philosophy’s skincare approach is based around a cleanse, peel, treat regime, which again is something us skin professionals have done for many years. Start with a great cleanser, then exfoliate to remove dead skin cells and brighten, which also allows a clear pathway for your serums and creams when you apply them after.

 

 

Renewed hope in a jar peeling mousse

The gentlest – (gentle, everyday usage/younger skin) of the three peels. This is the perfect introductory at-home peel as it’s a 1 minute treatment you massage onto the skin. It’s good to keep massaging it in for the minute; you will feel a slight texture to it as you work it around on the skin’s surface. It’s a gel, mousse-type texture, with cornflower extract, witch hazel water and pineapple fruit extract, to give a really gentle, fresh feeling peel.

This is good for general skin luminosity. It’s safe to use three times a week on a normal skin. Obviously if you are sensitive be aware with how your skin is feeling. This is gentle but effective at bringing back a bit of vibrance to your skin. To get the best out of this peel, cleanse your face, then massage this in for 1 minute, rinse off, then apply your serums and moisturisers. I love this for a pre-event skin boost.

Ideal for – teen skin, pre event, quick brightener, normal / sensitive skin. first time peel

 

 

The Micro-delivery dream peel

This is totally different to the renewed hope in a jar peeling mousse as this it is an overnight peel. A 6% blend of AHA and BHA (Alpha hydroxy acids and Beta hydroxy acids) glycolic, lactic, citric and salicylic, so definitely more active, but still gentle. There is also prebiotics and probiotics to support the skins natural barrier function.

It’s a little different to use, there is a twist pink flexy spatula on the end of the squeezy tube. Cleanse skin and pat dry first, then squish the tube and glide the pink solution over your skin and leave it to dry for 15 minutes. It dries on the skin, so it won’t get on your pillow, then you jump into bed, let the ingredients do their thing while you sleep and wash it off in the morning. You can use it weekly, 3 nights in a row.

You might get a tingly and warm sensation with this for a few minutes and a bit of a glow. 

It’s great for glow, skin radiance, refining the appearance of fine lines and uneven texture. It’s super easy to use and you definitely notice a difference when you wash your face in the morning, I find skin feels really soft and looks smoother.

Ideal for – All skin types, those wanting a glow, first signs of ageing, spots, smoother skin.

 

 

The micro delivery Vitamin C / peptide peel 

This is a two-step at home peel, so quite different to the others. It focuses on brightness, balancing skin tone and ageing skin. Step one is a vitamin C / peptide mask with orange peel crystals and step two is an activating gel featuring a blend of lactic and salicylic acid.

It’s simple to use, massage a teaspoon amount of the vitamin C orange coloured mask onto the face, avoiding the eyes. It has got quite a scrub texture so don’t press too firm, keep the massage to more of a glide around the face, then leave it on for a couple of minutes. Then apply a generous amount of step 2 gel on top, this creates an oxygenation effect on the surface of the skin. I personally apply a 50p size, massage that in, then apply another 50p size to ensure I have enough to cover the whole face. You might see the mask go slightly white and feel a slight fizzing. Remove thoroughly with warm water after 2 – 3 minutes. It can take a bit of removal so I find splashing with water, along with a cloth is helpful. Pat the skin dry, then apply your serums and moisturisers after. 

On a normal skin type it’s safe to do once to twice a week, if your skin is sensitive, then this peel isn’t for you. 

 

Ideal for – brightening, at home results, vibrance, texture, ageing skin, fine lines. 

 

Quick tips for at home peels

• If you are using an at-home peel, please ensure you are using SPF daily, even in the winter months.
• Avoid applying any peel too close to the eyes, the skin is a lot finer and more delicate.
• The neck can also be more delicate, however the décolleté is a great area to use an at-home peel.
• I would always patch test any at-home peel just to be safe.