Is Chanel’s $220 Exfoliating Skin Peel Worth It? I Put It to the Test
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Spoiler alert: It gave me firmer, glowy skin in minutes.
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I love a product that enlivens my complexion when I’m looking tired, dull, or otherwise drab. I typically turn to chemical exfoliators to garner some inkling of glow in these instances. While I’ve amassed a collection of favorites, few formulas have compared to a recent launch from Chanel: The Le Lift Pro Retexturizing Peel. Aptly named, the firming face treatment rings in at $220. Expensive? Perhaps. Its borderline-magical results, however, justify its elevated pricepoint.
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The Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing Peel is a gentle yet highly effective cream-based chemical exfoliating treatment. Inspired by the smoothing, glow-inducing prowess of professional treatments — e.g. chemical peels, microdermabrasion facials, and gentle resurfacing lasers — the formula plumps, firms, and smooths via a curated blend of dermatologist-approved ingredients. Designed for weekly or twice-weekly use, it’s an ideal resurfacing treatment for most skin types, including dry and sensitive skin. The formula is notably fast-acting; within five minutes, it restores radiance as it freshens and firms.
For this reason, Chanel’s peel is my go-to when my skin looks dull, puffy, or otherwise lackluster. Case in point: I find myself reaching for it as I’m readying for important events — weddings, birthday celebrations, and other photo-heavy occasions — as it enhances my complexion in a flash.In addition to reviving my glow, the peel smooths my skin, creating an ideal canvas for ensuing foundation. As for the post-peel tightness, or lobster-like flush inherent to many exfoliating formulas? Chanel’s formula skips the side effects and, instead, leaves skin plump, even-toned, and supple.
As for how it feels on the skin, this formula tingles ever so slightly. According to Dermatologist Dr. Jeannette Graf, MD, this spicy skin-feel is attributable to alpha-hydroxy acids. Specifically, glycolic and citric acid, which “exfoliate dead skin cells” from the surface to unearth fresh skin below. “[AHAs] can also help to stimulate collagen production by eliminating old collagen fibers and encouraging the production of new ones,” Graf tells InStyle.
In addition to skin-sloughing stars, the peel features ingredients in supporting roles; ingredients that, per dermatologists, are similarly worthy of accolades. Dr. Graf points to niacinamide — a hyperpigmentation-fading, tone-improving B vitamin. Furthermore, “Niacinamide is an effective antioxidant,” she adds, that “protects the skin against environmental aggressors.” In doing so, it slows signs of aging, like hyperpigmentation and sagging.
Another notable component of the Chanel peel, per Dr. Graf: Melipona, an enzymatic ingredient that “promotes skin cell turnover.” As we age, our skin cell turnover slows; enzymes rev the turnover process — which reveals fresh new cells — to a speed closer to that of our youth, thus restoring a fresher, smoother, younger-looking complexion.
As for the peel’s plumping effects — which are virtually immediate, in my experience — glycerin is to thank, Dr. Graf explains. It’s a “hydrating ingredient that increases water volume in the skin,” she says, “giving it a more dewy, plump, and firm appearance.” Incidentally, glycerin’s quenching effect can “counteract the drying effects that chemical exfoliation can sometimes have on the skin.”
Naturally, Chanel’s at-home peel is less intensive than an in-office treatment administered by a dermatologist. That said, it can be effective both on its own for a quick glow, and, per Dr. Graf, in “maintaining results” in between appointments. Furthermore, Dr. Graf adds, “A product like this can be good to use after healing from an in-office chemical peel or laser treatment to prevent dead skin buildup and keep skin looking radiant and youthful, for longer.”
An almond-sized dollop of product, squeezed from the large, svelte tube, covers my entire face and neck. Separately, the experience of using the peel is a luxurious treat. In fact, I look forward to my bi-weekly peels. And aren’t we all more likely to practice consistency — a crucial component of seeing results with any product — when the task is actually enjoyable?
If you’re in the market for a little luxury — and a whole lot of visible skin improvement — shop the Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing Peel.
Shop more of my glow-inducing favorites from Chanel Beauty:
Hydra Beauty Camellia Repair Mask
Chanel
Les Beiges Water-Fresh Tint
Chanel
Le Lift Pro Cream Volume
Chanel
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Read the original article on InStyle.
