Philosophy The Microdelivery Peel

Philosophy The Microdelivery Peel// £59.50

I have to admit, I don't actually remember purchasing this.  My best guess is that I bought it last year from the Philosophy stand in Harrods when I flew back for a weekend wedding dash as that's the last time I remember looking at Philosophy products.

I've used it five or six times now in the past 3 months or so and I have to admit I really do like it.

Ok so lets start with the basics-this is an 'at home' two step facial peel designed to rejuvenate sun damaged, hyper pigmented and aging skin, gentle enough and designed to be used weekly. 

It contains two parts-vitamin c/peptide crystals and lactic/salicylic acid.

For those who are understandable unaware what the benefits of each ingredient listed above is here is a quick low down:

Vitamin C-Brightening, improves the appearance of sun damaged skin, reduces inflammation, boosts the effect of peels/microdermabrasion, promotes collagen production

Peptides-Little anti aging powerhouses, help skin to repair itself

Lactic acid-Classified as an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid), anti aging, helps acne, found occuring naturally in milk, fruit, vegetables and plants and thought to be gentler than its popular counterparty Glycolic Acid.

Salicylic Acid-Classified as a BHA (Beta hydroxy acid), chemically exfoliates the skin and can improve it's texture and helps with acne.

I was a little scared to use this 'peel' thinking it may be very harsh on the skin but I am happy to say that I have had no problems/breakouts/redness/irritation on my combination skin.

Firstly you massage a teaspoon of the yellow crystals into dry skin.  The directions say to massage gently for about a minute but as I am not a fan of manual exfoliants (ie one with scrubby bits in) I tend to massage for only about 20 seconds then leave it.  The crystals are set into a paste and are very fine, like granulated sugar.  You will feel a warming sensation on the skin.

After a minute you apply a teaspoon of the lactic acid solution into your palms and then press this solution on top of the crystals on your face avoiding the eye area.  The lactic acid solution is a runny gel.  Then wash your hands and leave the solution on your skin for up to 3 minutes.  It will foam a little as the crystals interact with the acid.

Rinse off gently, I personally prefer to do this in the shower to let the water wash off most of the peel and then use a damp flannel to gentle but thoroughly remove the remainder.

Afterwards my skin feels really smooth and soft and I have noticed that any recent spot scars are fading significantly after each use.

I'd definitely recommend this at home peel.  My only concern is you get a relatively small amount of product and I think I will get a maximum of 10 applications.  But it's quick and easy to use and I have seen visible results, positive results.