What are the benefits of facial peeling masks?

The facial peeling mask is a product that has found its place in skincare routines. Unlike a hydrating mask or soothing mask, which is left on to nourish or calm the skin, the facial peeling mask is designed to exfoliate the skin and stimulate cellular renewal. These effects stem from its formulation, which is often rich in hydroxy acids (AHAs, BHAs and/or PHAs), or in enzymes, molecules capable of dissolving dead cells that accumulate on the surface of the stratum corneum. The facial peeling mask is applied like a classic mask, in a thin layer, left on for a few minutes before rinsing. This exposure time allows the active ingredients to work gently, without the need to rub or massage the skin. When used regularly—once or twice a week depending on skin sensitivity—the peeling mask restores a smoother, more luminous surface to the face.

What is the difference between a peeling mask and an exfoliating scrub?

The benefit of a peeling mask is also measured by how it differs from a scrub traditional scrubs rely on mechanical action: tiny abrasive particles dislodge impurities through friction. Although effective, this method can sometimes be too harsh for sensitive or redness-prone skin. A peeling mask, however, uses chemical exfoliation: acids gradually break down the junctions that bind cells in the stratum corneum between them, namely desmosomes, allowing corneocytes to be released and scales to be removed. It is therefore preferable for sensitive skin, except when it is very high in AHAs.

Since the skin has a natural exfoliation mechanism, one may wonder why use a facial peeling mask. Indeed, the cells of the stratum corneum, the outermost layer of the epidermis, gradually shed to make way for new cells emerging from deeper layers. This complete regeneration cycle takes about four weeks in a healthy adult.

However, with age, the skin’s metabolism slows down and cell turnover becomes less efficient.

Dead cells then accumulate, the junctions that bind them together densify, and the skin loses its elasticity and radiance. This phenomenon is often accompanied by a dull complexion, an uneven skin texture, even a thickening of certain areas, and a feeling of dryness.

This is where the peeling mask comes in. Thanks to its exfoliating agents, it promotes the detachment of dead cells accumulated on the skin’s surface and stimulates the natural process of skin regeneration. By accelerating this renewal, it helps keep the epidermis thinner and more even, reducing roughness and restoring radiance to the complexion. This mechanism is especially beneficial with age, when cell turnover slows down and the skin becomes duller and less supple. By facilitating skin renewal, peeling masks thus contribute to the prevention of visible signs of aging, such as the premature appearance of fine lines, the loss of luminosity, and the alteration of skin texture.

Beyond preventing skin aging, peeling masks also help revitalize the complexion. Indeed, the buildup of dead cells on the epidermal surface forms a thick, uneven stratum corneum that hinders proper light reflection on the skin. This barrier diffuses light unevenly, which can leave the face looking dull, tired, and grayish. By promoting the removal of these cells, peeling masks enable the skin to regain a smoother, more uniform surface, optimizing light reflection and restoring the complexion’s natural radiance

Furthermore, peeling masks are also useful for preventing blemishes. By promoting the exfoliation of dead skin cells and the removal of accumulated impurities, they help unclog pores, thereby reducing the risk of comedones and microcysts. This preventive action is especially beneficial for combination-to-oily skin or acne-prone skin, but it benefits all skin types. By keeping pores clear and supporting regular cell turnover, peeling masks help maintain a smoother, more even, and healthier skin texture while minimizing the appearance of irregularities and imperfections.

Finally, by promoting the removal of dead skin cells and refining the stratum corneum, the peeling mask prepares the skin to receive the treatments applied afterward. Indeed, renewing the skin allows the active ingredients in serums, creams, or oils to be better absorbed, thereby maximizing their efficacy. Whether they serve as hydrating or antioxidant agents or target specific signs of aging, prior exfoliation optimizes their action and reinforces the benefits of the skincare routine.

• KOCINAJ A. & al. Exfoliative skin-peeling, benefits from this procedure and our experience. Medical Archives (2015).

• DEHAVEN C. Mechanisms of exfoliation. Innovative Skincare (2015).

• SISAKHT M. M. & al. Skin care and rejuvenation by cosmeceutical facial mask. Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology (2018).

• COLTELLI M.-B. & al. Trends in surgical and beauty masks for a cleaner environment. Cosmetics (2020).