In partnership with SA’s top medical aesthetic companies
Superficial skin peels are the perfect addition to preventive, corrective and protective skincare programmes. They can enhance your regular skincare, condition skin before cosmetic procedures, and maintain skin long-term after all clinical procedures. They also encourage radiance, smoothness and more refined skin.
Superficial peels are used to help decrease fine lines and wrinkles, even out skin tone and pigmentation, as well as controlling oily skin and reducing breakouts.
A great benefit of superficial peels is that they correct or improve a wide range of skin conditions without any downtime, giving them the nickname of “lunch-time” peel. Four to six superficial peels also have the same result as a medium-depth peel, without any of the side-effects.
The peel itself usually remains on the skin for no longer than five minutes. There is however usually some prepping and care involved. Read our review of superficial and medium-depth peels here.
Considering a superficial peel? Pick your potion
Chemical peels work differently depending on their ingredients and technology. You and your skincare professional can decide which one to use, depending on your skin type, desired result and budget.
NeoStrata ProSystem Free-Glycolic Peel
Treatment for: general anti-ageing, skin clarity, fine lines and wrinkles, superficial hyperpigmentation, and “age prevention”.
The NeoStrata ProSystem Peel is a medical system of peels, using free-glycolic acids, and is available from an aesthetic physician. The peels are available in the following strengths: 20%, 30% 50% 70%. The appropriate strength will be chosen to suit your skin requirements.
It is perfect for all skin types, including sensitive skin. Usually a course of four to six peels spaced four weeks apart is recommended.
Lamelle Beta Peel
Treatment for: hyperpigmentation, congested skin (blocked pores) and acne
Lamelle’s Beta peels use salicylic acid, a beta-hydroxy acid, and are available in different concentrations as Beta Peel and Beta Plus Peel – a less inflammatory option suitable for drier and sensitive skin types.
Obagi Radiance Peel
Treatment for: superficial hyperpigmentation, congested skin (blocked pores), acne and overall brightening of the skin tone and texture.
Obagi’s Radiance peel uses salicylic acid (a beta-hydroxy acid), and glycolic acid in combination. The peel is anti-inflammatory and suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skins.
SkinCeuticals Micropeel
Treatment for: reducing the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, laxity, dullness, and skin imperfections.
This treatment is a three-step procedure:
1. Dermaplaning (aka blading) – manual exfoliation with a blade to safely remove surface debris, priming the skin for the chemical peel solution.
2. Chemical Peels – using optimised skin-resurfacing solutions that remove the outer epidermis and stimulate collagen production.
3. Cryogenic Therapy – an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial freezing procedure, which increases the rate of cell turnover.
Also available:
Skinceuticals MicroPeel Plus, with salycilic acid and glycolic acid, which reduces acne and enhances skin tone and texture.
Skinceuticals Micropeel for Sensitive Skin, with niacin, lactic acid and usnic acid, gently exfoliates and decongests even the most sensitive skin, while balancing moisture levels.
For optimal results, two series of four to six procedures per year are recommended.
Lamelle Retistore Peel
Treatment for: acne, poor texture and hyperpigmentation, skin thinning, reduced skin firmness and fine lines.
Retistore peel combines Retinol (vitamin A) and a highly effective skin restoration complex with a revolutionary new ingredient-penetration system. It offers very impressive skin improvements with almost no discomfort. The two-step process has a simultaneous “top-down” and “bottom-up” effect.
While classified as a light superficial chemical peel because it will not “peel” the entire epidermis, its effect on basal cell activity is similar to a full superficial chemical peel.
Safe on all skin types. There is no risk of scarring.
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