When I made the switch to medical grade skincare a few years ago, there was no looking back. It really only took a few weeks to start seeing visible changes in my skin. I was hooked. I had subbed out my cleanser, toner, exfoliator, retinol and antioxidant. The one hold out (and non ZO product) that remained in my routine was Sunday Riley Good Genes; a lactic acid that helped to exfoliate, brighten and plump my skin. It is a cult beauty, award-winning favourite that had been in my skincare rotation for a few years. The only real downside I ever had with it was the price point. For a beauty store/non medical grade product it is $162 for a 50ml bottle. It was something I'd stock up on during the annual sale, because I did feel like it made a difference in my skin. For anyone who doesn't use an AHA or know what it is- alpha hydroxy acid, is a group of acids that include lactic acid, glycolic acid, magic acid, azelaic acid, citric acid, and tartaric acid (to name a few) that help with skin texture, sun damage, dehydrated skin and dullness. No AHA is particularly better than another, but some are better suited for different skin types due to their individual potency and molecular weight.
I had been using Lactic Acid and retinol for years, so my skin was ready for something that could penetrate deeper into skin layers - enter ZO Enzymatic Peel, a Glycolic Acid based peel, designed to help smooth uneven, rough textured skin, revitalize dull looking skin, unclog pores and improve the visible signs of sun damage. Upon my first application, there was a slight tingle - but it only lasted a few seconds. If your skin is less tolerant (meaning if you are new to AHA's or don't regularly use a retinol) you can begin by keeping the product on for a few hours and washing off like a mask, but I prefer to put it on before bed and wake up with bright, plump and glowing skin. In addition to containing Glycolic Acid, the Enzymatic Peel has Diglycerin, kukui seed oil and safflower seed oil: that help to replenish hydration and protect your skin barrier - an absolute must in the cooler and dryer months.
Similar to Good Genes, the Enzymatic Peel is 50ml. Unlike Good Genes, it is medical grade and only $104. It's also so effective - that it is only recommended to use 1-2 times a week - stretching that product (and your money) out even further. Not that you needed another reason - but the Enzymatic Peel is also in tube, which you know makes it easier to use access all of the product when you are in that last few days before it is empty. I've officially made the switch and my skin has never looked or felt better. Yes, it is possible to use both a Lactic Acid and Glycolic Acid at the same time however with ZO Enzymatic Peel, it is not necessary - for your wallet or the increased skin sensitivity that you might experience. So, there you have it. A medical grade product, safe to use on your face and body that can get you better results and cost you less. Use that 20% Rouge discount on make-up and fragrances and made the full swap to medical grade - your skin will thank you.
Your Skincare Loving Marketing Manager, Kristen