Exfoliation is an essential part of any weekly skincare routine. It helps banish dullness, soften the complexion, and remove dead skin cells or impurities that clog pores and cause blemishes. The post-exfoliation glow is always desirable, and it also allows follow-on products and hydrators to penetrate more effectively.
These days, there are countless exfoliators on the market, with many moving away from traditional scrub formulations. If you haven't yet tried an exfoliating peel, here’s why you should!
What is an Exfoliating Peel?
Exfoliating scrubs manually exfoliate the skin using abrasive particles, such as micro-granules of sugar or salt. The scrubbing action creates friction against the skin to polish its surface.
The term “peel” can sound misleading; it suggests that something needs to be physically peeled off, which isn’t the case. An exfoliating peel instead contains active ingredients, like fruit acids and enzymes, that chemically dissolve dead skin and debris.
Typically, you apply the exfoliating peel, allow it to absorb fully, and then continue with the rest of your skincare products. There’s no peeling involved: the exfoliator works quietly while you carry on with your day or sleep through the night.
How Fast Can You See Results from a Peel?
When you use an exfoliating peel, you’ll notice an instant improvement in your skin’s radiance and texture.
Over time, exfoliating peels also help correct and prevent damage, addressing skin concerns at their root. With regular use, the results become more transformative, leaving the skin healthier, clearer, and more youthful-looking.
How to Use an Exfoliating Peel
It’s important to cleanse your skin before exfoliating so that surface dirt and oils are removed. This allows the exfoliating peel to penetrate more deeply and work more effectively.
Apply the bestselling 111SKIN Clinical Exfoliator generously onto clean, dry skin as part of your evening routine, avoiding sensitive areas like the eyes. Leave the formula to absorb before applying your remaining skincare products. It’s that simple.
While you sleep, this powerful yet gentle blend of Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) sloughs away impurities, leaving your complexion refined, illuminated, and smooth. A sugar beet derivative called Tego Natural Betaine reduces water loss, keeping the skin healthy and nourished.
This product is ideal if you’re experiencing breakouts or blemishes, as it targets existing spots and helps prevent new ones from forming. Calming botanicals, including rosemary, chamomile, and Mexican giant hyssop, help soothe irritation, inflammation, and redness.
If you have normal to dry skin and want to tackle signs of ageing, try the Obagi-C® Fx System C-Exfoliating Day Lotion. Its ingredient list reads like a who’s who of skincare heroes.
Glycolic Acid, a powerful AHA, gets to work dissolving impurities, speeding up cell turnover, and rejuvenating skin from within.
Then there’s the superstar ingredient, 10% L-ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C) — known for its brightening effects. It also targets fine lines and wrinkles, promotes collagen production, and defends against free radicals that cause premature ageing.
Glycerin and Hyaluronic Acid enhance skin moisture and plumpness, reducing fine lines, while soothing Chamomile Extract calms irritation and inflammation.
This exfoliator is best used during your morning routine. Gently massage the lightweight, hydrating peel into the skin until fully absorbed, then continue with your other products. With regular use, you’ll notice visible improvements in brightness, texture, elasticity, and radiance.
