GET THE GLOW

Beauty editor Nokubonga Thusi takes Lamelle’s Beta-Peel for a spin in search of a serious glow-up

WHAT IS IT?

Lamelle’s Beta-Peel is a superficial betahydroxy acid peel that uses salicylic acid as the main active ingredient to help the skin combat pigmentation and acne. The peel varies in concentration, between 15 and 30%, and the number of layers that can be applied.

FIRST IMPRESSIONS:

I had reservations as post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation is common in darker skin tones if a peel is too strong. But I trusted the therapist’s experience and her reassurance that the peel was safe for my skin.

THE PROCESS:

First was a gentle cleansing to remove dirt or makeup from the skin. The therapist then applied the solution with a brush, keeping the layer thin and working section-bysection around my face. As I was concerned about pigmentation and texture, the peel was combined with a retinol serum.

The therapist monitored my skin, looking out for pseudo-frosting (a white powdery layer that forms on the skin and feels like fine crystals, caused by a reaction between the salicylic acid peel and salts on the skin), redness and any irritation or discomfort using a 1-10 pain scale.

As a first-timer, I went with a low (15%) concentration and a single layer. The expected tingling felt more like a warm, burning sensation and was uncomfortable, especially on sensitive areas around my nose, mouth and on my forehead. This didn’t last long and the therapist constantly managed my discomfort. Once the peel was applied over my face and neck, she added a neutralising base which stops the tingling and the peeling process.

Lastly, the retinol serum was layered over my skin. This is left on for approximately six hours to allow the retinol to jumpstart cell turnover. I was advised to wash it off sooner if there was excessive tingling or discomfort.

AFTERCARE:

After the treatment, it’s important to avoid direct sunlight and heated spaces, like a hot car. Cold or lukewarm showers are advised. Strenuous exercise is also a no-no as this will cause heat on the skin and sweating. A broad-spectrum SPF must be applied daily and skin kept hydrated with an occlusive restorative balm. Skin will be sensitive with mild flaking.

THE RESULTS:

The glow was almost immediate with my skin looking brighter, radiant and luminous. My dark marks also looked faded. After a week, I noticed an incredible lit-from-within glow and smoother texture that made me want to go makeup-free for a while.

Lamelle Beta-Peel Treatment from R580 (depending on number of layers and concentration used) lamelle.co.za