Beauty

|5 Oct 2022|3 mins

Why We’re Really Into Peels RN

Chasing that no-makeup glow? We share the need-to-knows.

Leaving the house sans foundation, it’s the dream, no? That’s a whole five(ish) minutes of your day you can have back. In pursuit of this kind of happiness, we have been deep diving into the world of ultra-hydrating, fast-exfoliating peels.

Some, though, will say peels have a bad rep. Thanks largely THAT episode of Sex in the City (think Samantha pre Carrie’s book launch, the beekeeper-esque hat and the “beef carpaccio” comment). But as we’ve learnt with the movies and the reboots, they’re not always worth the air time. Also, that episode is literally 20 years old (don’t think about that one too much).

Peels, though, are about as far from carpaccio as you can get. Instead, they’re the fastest way to a genuine alliance with the ‘no makeup look’ – in the truest sense of the term.

To get the downlow, we checked in with Kaye Scott and Lisa Sullivan Smith, co-founders of The Clinic Bondi and our go-to for skin advice.

Suitable for all skin types, Scott and Sullivan Smith tell us peels are perfect for anyone wrangling with “acne, problematic skin, pigmentation.” They also tick the box as an easy way to hydrate, exfoliate and “help prepare the skin before a big event such as brides before their wedding”.

“This treatment works by accelerating the removal of dead skin cells on the surface of the skin, breaking down pigmentation, increasing cellular turnover and decongesting this skin. Professional chemical peels will reveal brighter, clearer, rejuvenated skin that isn't achievable through general skincare products.”

Quick fix

The pair have recently launched a new offering – The Clinic’s Express Peel Bar – where you can get your peel fix, and fast. (Literally: I was in and out in under 15 minutes.)

At the Peel Bar, you can choose your own adventure – be it an event-ready peel, an antioxidant peel, a peel tailored for problem skin or, in my case, as a breastfeeding Mum who can barely use anything on her skin, a unique formula developed for those who are pregnant and/or breastfeeding.

Here, they use what they tell us is called Level One Peels. These are instant, with no downtime.

“Skin will appear instantly brighter, softer, smoother and more hydrated. The best time to get a peel is 24 to 48 hrs before an event.”

For those playing at home

When it comes to peels you can do couchside, there’s plenty of options. We asked Scott and Sullivan Smith for the do’s and definitely-do-nots when it comes to playing at home.

Do: “Double cleanse!

“The first cleanse aims to remove dirt and grime whilst the second cleanse actively cleans the skin,” they explain. “By doing this, it will allow the peel to penetrate deeper and more evenly into the skin, enhancing and prolonging your results.”

And any don’ts?

“Don't over-treat the skin. If you overstimulate the skin you can impair your skin's barrier. Always seek advice from a professional to make sure the at-home treatment you are using is suitable for your skin.”

And, this is a big one, do your homework and any necessary prep work.

“Some peels, such as a timeless retinol peel, require the skin to be adequately prepared by using a vitamin A serum at home.”

The afterglow

Another big one – no matter if you’re playing a home game or in-clinic – is post-peel care.

“More importantly is that you follow post care instructions. Post chemical peels it's important to only use a gentle cleanser, moisturiser and SPF for five to seven days post treatment.”

While there was no discomfort, your newly smooth skin does feel sensitive. I lived in Ultra Violette’s Lean Screen SPF50+ every time I left the house (which our Beauty Editor, Sophie, tells us we should be doing anyway).

A warning, though – the post-peel glow is extremely addictive.

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Elle Glass

Writer

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