Enerpeel MA 40% Mandelic Peel

About this treatment

A peel that works slowly, on purpose. Most chemical peels work by taking the surface off. Enerpeel MA doesn't. It uses 40% mandelic acid — an acid with a large molecule that penetrates slowly and evenly rather than all at once — delivered through a carrier system that releases it more gradually still. That sounds like a limitation. It's the entire point, and it's what makes this peel suitable for three groups that stronger peels let down. ROSACEA AND SENSITIVE SKIN Most peels are off the table when your skin flushes, stings and reacts to everything. This one is formulated for hyper-reactive skin — it exfoliates with little or no redness, and it's anti-inflammatory rather than simply abrasive. If you've been told for years that peels aren't for you, this is the one to ask about. DEEPER SKIN TONES This is the peel we reach for most in Fitzpatrick IV to VI skin. Stronger peels risk post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in skin that marks easily — you can end up with more pigmentation than you started with. Mandelic acid's slow, even penetration is why it's the acid of choice here, and the MSM in the formulation helps reduce the risk of uneven pigment afterwards. ACNE THAT LEAVES MARKS Mandelic acid is antibacterial and works inside the pore, so it treats the breakouts — gently enough that you aren't left with the brown marks that treating acne so often causes. This is the indication with the strongest evidence behind it: mandelic acid has been compared directly against salicylic acid in randomised trials, performing comparably with better tolerability. It also treats dullness, uneven tone, fine lines and early sun damage, and it's safe to have in summer. WHAT TO EXPECT The peel is left on for two to ten minutes depending on your skin. Expect mild redness or tightness for a day, and light flaking around days two to three — many people get none at all. Makeup from the following day. Results are often visible after one treatment. The real change comes across a course of three to six, spaced three to four weeks apart, then maintenance every few months. BEFORE YOU COME Stop retinol, retinoids and tretinoin two weeks beforehand — for the whole course if you're having one. Stop all other acids and scrubs five days before. No waxing, sunbeds or sun exposure. Not suitable in pregnancy, with active infection or cold sores, or within six months of isotretinoin. We'll go through everything properly at your appointment.