The Ole Henriksen Power Peel Professional Strength Microdermabrasion/AHA Peel System.
The Product
Ole Henriksen Power Peel Professional Strength Microdermabrasion/AHA Peel System, $22 (for two treatments), $60 (for six treatments) at Sephora.
The Promise
This product retexturizes skin to reduce fine lines, diminish discolouration, minimize pores, smooth the surface and even out skin tone for a brighter, more youthful appearance.
How it works
The system comprises three components: an Almond Polish facial scrub, a Lemon Strip flash peel and a Chamomile Comfort mask. The almond polish is a microdermabrasion scrub made with oat kernel and bamboo extract that exfoliates skin and preps it for the next steps. The lemon peel is a gentle blend of glycolic and lactic acids with orange and lemon extracts that reduce the appearance of pores, fine lines and discolouration, while the camomile mask also comprises primrose oil and azulene to balance and neutralize skin.
How to use it
Exfoliate skin with Almond Polish for one to two minutes. Apply the Lemon Strip flash peel to clean, dry skin and leave on for two minutes before applying the Chamomile Comfort mask on top. Leave for 10 to 15 minutes and rinse off with warm water.
The bottom line
I used to be wary of putting acids on my skin until I noticed the passage of time trudge across my forehead. Suddenly, acid seemed like an acceptable alternative to needles. (Said every hippie, ever.) Glycolic and lactic acids are very gentle on skin and can have a noticeable effect on both texture and fine lines. Though I'm not sure this product was that powerful – since it's an at-home peel it can't be that strong, and although I felt the tingly sensation that's characteristic of acid application, I didn't see a difference in my skin afterwards. In fact, the most visibly effective part of the system was the very grainy Almond Polish, which left my skin smooth and radiant after a vigorous exfoliation. If you're going to dabble in acid, I suggest seeing a professional for real results, which is as good a rule of thumb in beauty as it is in life.