I’m going to call it and say I’ve tried pretty much every facial treatment going. Largely because I’m curious, but also, it’s good to be able to offer advice to friends on what to try based on their skin concerns (once ‘less rosé’ has been ruled out). This time, we’re talking face peels – adding solution to the skin for deep exfoliation . The goal? To improve my dull skin and stubborn bumpy areas.
By Liz Hambleton
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1 It didn't hurt at all
Unless you’re aiming to target sun damage or acne scarring (which require stronger solutions), you won’t feel much at all. The peel I tried used light lactic acid to detox the skin and help the blocked pores around my jaw. It tingled a little, and for a few hours after. Glycolic, Salicylic and Mandelic peels tend to feel the same.
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2 I wasn't red, just a little flushed
The thought of my skin looking raw had previously put me off trying peels, but it’s really not like that. At most, you’ll be a little pink – which is how I looked when I walked out the salon – but, overall, my skin was glowing. It was a flushed, healthy glow (the kind you try to create wth makeup). A little SPF 50 and I was good to go.
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3 My skin didn't flake, but did feel dry
Over the next few days, the area around my mouth and chin felt very tight and was dry in appearance. I applied a lot more moisturiser than I usually would to keep it hydrated, but within 72 hours, the dryness had cleared altogether. I didn’t feel my ‘best self’ until it had cleared up, so if you’re booking a peel before a special occasion, I’d head there a few days before.
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4 A good enough glow to skip my at-home acids
The best bit of a peel is the after-effects, which continue to improve for a few weeks. Straight away my skin appeared fresher and clearer, makeup and skincare were sitting more comfortably on my face, and I skipped my every-other-day at-home acids regime for at least one month.
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5 Where to try it?
My top spots for microdermabrasion in London would be Skinworks and Harley Injectables. Enjoy.
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FAQs
What does a face peel feel like during the treatment?
Most people feel a mild tingle during a face peel but no pain. Light peels using lactic, glycolic, salicylic or mandelic acids can cause some tingling and a brief sensation that fades within a few hours.
Will your skin look red after a face peel?
Your skin may look a bit pink or lightly flushed after a face peel, but it should not appear raw. Expect a healthy glow that often looks similar to the effect created with makeup. Applying SPF 50 after your treatment is recommended for protection.
How long does dryness last after a face peel?
Dryness around the mouth and chin can last up to 72 hours after a face peel. Using extra moisturiser helps speed up recovery, and the skin typically returns to normal within three days. It’s best to plan treatments a few days before a special occasion.
Do you need to use at-home acids after having a face peel?
You can skip your regular at-home acid skincare routine for at least one month after a professional face peel. The treatment gives an instant glow and fresh feeling, so your skin may not need additional exfoliation for several weeks.
Where can you try a face peel in London?
Popular spots for face peels and similar treatments in London include Skinworks and Harley Injectables. Booking through Treatwell makes it easy and convenient to reserve appointments online with salons in your area.