All about: Dermalogica’s new BioSurface™ Peel

Dermalogica’s first-ever chemical peel, the BioSurface™ Peel is one treatment that you know a hell of a lot of thought has gone into. The internationally celebrated skincare company has never offered one before, and it has been many years in the perfecting. The very cleverly formulated peel has the power to deliver some pretty amazing results yet has the advantage of little to no post-peel redness or downtime and can be completely customised to any skin type - even sensitive.

The process is a four-step exfoliant system and the application process consists of an initial Prep Step followed by layers of Enzyme and Acid Active peel solutions, which are neutralised in the fourth and final neutraliser step. Having tried one myself I can vouch for the fact that each and every change in the skin is carefully monitored to ensure that no unnecessary trauma takes place, and for a chemical peel it is pretty damn comfortable compared to any I have experienced before.

Now for the real, nitty gritty-type facts. Active ingredients include Salicylic Acid used in both the Prep Solution (Step 1) and Acid Active(+) (Step 3). As a keratolytic agent, Salicylic Acid causes weakening of cell connections allowing for sloughing of skin cells. Combined with a low pH, keratin bonds are loosened, creating a burst of exfoliation, which addresses signs of ageing and hyper pigmentation gently and effectively.

The Enzyme Active (-) (Step 2) delivers an 83% total enzyme solution utilising Pumpkin Fruit enzymes with Papain, Protease and Aminopeptidase enzymes. Plus, Moth Bean Extract offers a gentle, botanical alternative to synthetic retinoids, while offering similar effects.

In addition to Salicylic Acid, the Acid Active (+) phase (Step 3) also delivers Lactic Acid, bran-derived Phytic Acid, and Sugar Cane Extract. This step brightens areas of hyper pigmentation, helps removes impaction plugs in follicles especially in sebaceous glands, and aids in cell turnover.

The Decelerator (Step 4) halts the exfoliation process with a blend of Sodium Bicarbonate, Yeast Extract and soothing Cucumber Fruit, Japanese Green Tea, Oat Leaf and Saponaria Leaf Extracts. This final phase slows the activity of the acids and normalises the epidermis while calming and comforting skin and initiating the process of skin repair.

But enough science, does it work? Well the BioSurface™Peel is recommended to clients as a series of three to six treatments during autumn, winter and spring to minimise UV exposure, but even after just one my skin felt clear, plump and more than a little glow-y. You leave with an After Care take home kit with approximately three days’ worth of products to counteract dryness and sensitivity, which means that the process really is about as painless as it gets. Would I have one again? Absolutely, and maybe even go up another level as my often-sensitive skin tolerated the whole shebang extraordinarily well! Key to keeping it that way is religious use of a decent sunblock - which should be a given if you care for your skin anyway.

Dermalogica’s new BioSurface™ Peel is available right now at authorised Dermalogica Skin Centres throughout New Zealand with a recommended retail price of $175.