The goal of a peel is to remove the dead cells that have accumulated on the skin's surface. Depending on its composition, this type of treatment can combat various skin imperfections: enlarged pores, wrinkles and fine lines, brown spots, acne, etc.
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Everything you need to know about the peeling mask.
Summary
- What is a peeling mask?
- Peeling Mask: How to Use It?
- When should you do a peeling mask?
- What are the contraindications of the peeling mask?
- Discover our AHA 10% + PHA 10% peeling mask
Published February 15, 2024,
by
Maylis, Chemical Engineer
—
8 min read
Topics:
What is a peeling mask?
As its name suggests, this type of treatment is to be left on for a few minutes like a mask and exfoliates the skin like a peel.The term peel refers to the action of peeling. It is actually aboutexfoliating theupper layers of the epidermis,in order to promote cell renewal.
Peeling differs from scrubbing in its mode of action. Scrubbing is a mechanical exfoliation that removes dead skin cells from the epidermis through friction. Peeling, on the other hand, is a chemical exfoliation that eliminates dead cells (keratinocytes) by breaking the ionic bonds, thereby destabilizing the stratum corneum and causing its gradual detachment.
Generally, a chemical peel involves substances called AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), BHA (beta hydroxy acid) or PHA (poly hydroxy acid).
The most common AHAs areglycolic acidandlactic acid. Glycolic acid, being smaller in size than lactic acid, penetrates deeper into the epidermis, hence its greater potential for irritation. For this reason, chemical peels based on lactic acid are generally recommended for the most sensitive skin types.
The most common BHA in cosmetics is thesalicylic acid. Its antibacterial properties make it an active ingredient of choice for the chemical exfoliation of combination to oily skin with imperfections.
With a larger molecular size than AHA and BHA, PHA penetrate less deeply into the epidermis and are more suitable for atopic skin and/or skin with skin conditions. The three main PHAs used in cosmetics are the gluconolactone, an antioxidant that effectively fights inflammation; the galactose, which stimulates collagen production and the lactobionic acid known for its moisturizing properties.
Peeling Mask: How to Use It?
To fully benefit from the virtues of this type of treatment, the following steps must be adhered to.
Before applying the mask, ensure that your skin is thoroughly clean. To do this, cleanse your face with a gentle cleansing care suitable for your skin type;
Gently wipe your face with a towel by patting it dry;
Ideally, precede the application of your mask with a scrub for enhanced effectiveness of the treatment;
Using a soft-bristled brush or your fingers, spread the mask in a semi-thick and even layer across your entire face, while avoiding the eye and lip areas. Don't forget to include your neck in the process;
The application time can range from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on the manufacturer's instructions, before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. You can also use a soft glove to facilitate removal. Our peeling mask enriched with AHA and PHA for instance, is applied for 10 minutes.
Note:There are beauty masks that are designed to be left on all night, such as our firming face mask with Prickly Pear oil.
Then apply your usual skincare products: face serum, night serum, moisturizing cream, vegetable oil, etc...
Repeat the process once or twice a week, depending on your skin's needs.
When should you do a peeling mask?
The mask shouldalways be applied to perfectly clean and makeup-free skin. We recommend, for instance, applying it after a shower, as your skin will be cleansed and more receptive to the active ingredients provided by the mask.
Furthermore, we advise against performing a peeling mask before sun exposure. Indeed, this type of treatment may contain photosensitizing compounds. In addition, it has a "stripping" effect on the superficial layer of the epidermis, thus making the skin particularly receptive and sensitive to the sun's UV rays.
What are the contraindications of the peeling mask?
Peeling masks typically contain acids that can be quite irritating, especially for sensitive skin. Thus, those formulated with glycolic acid or salicylic acid are not recommended for sensitive skin. However, if the peeling mask contains lactic acid and/or PHAs, it is then gentler and can be applied to all skin types.
To ensure that you do not react to the peeling mask, apply a small amount of the product in question to the inside of your elbow or wrist. If you observe itching, redness, tingling, or other unpleasant sensations, do not use the peeling mask on your face.
Discover our AHA 10% + PHA 10% peeling mask.
The AHA 10% + PHA 10% peeling mask is a treatment that acts on the superficial layer of the epidermis, the stratum corneum. This gel-mask helps to unclog pores, renew the skin, and brighten the complexion thanks to the combined action of the four AHAs and the PHA it contains. It leaves the complexion even and the skin texture smoothed.
Suitable for all skin types, the application of this mask is nevertheless not recommended for sensitive skin due to its high concentration of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA). Furthermore, these can increase your skin's sensitivity to the sun. Use a sunscreen and limit sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards.
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