Bravura London Acid Peels

If you've been following me recently you'll know I've taken quite a shine to this brand. Bravura London specialise in acid treatments, specifically Glycolic Acid, Salicylic Acid and Lactic Acid. With a whole range of products from cleansers right the way through to treatments containing this ingredients in various strengths, percentages and pH levels.

I started with a very mild glycolic acid toner, then moving to a slightly stronger glycolic acid treatment gel. My skin responded to both really well, so I was keen to try the stronger treatments that Bravura London has to offer. I was kindly sent their 30% Glycolic Acid Peel and 10% Salicylic Acid Peel to try.

Firstly, it's worth mentioning that although these are acid peels, they're not going leave you housebound for a week. It's easy to think of gruesome images of skin peeling off, such as TV programmes like '10 Years Younger'. The word 'peel' is used to describe any product which encourages skin to shed. Although these acid peels are quite strong, they are actually very mild compared to a Trichloroacetic acid peel, so are perfectly safe for home use.

It is however very important to read the instructions in full, prior to using either of the acids. Also, we all know you're supposed to patch test any new products. I know for a fact, most people ignore this, however with acid products like these, I strongly urge you to carry out the patch test 48 hours prior to the treatment. I patch tested both and was absolutely fine, but at least I knew before continuing with the treatment and applying them to my face.

Depending on what areas of concern you're trying to treat you may choose either the Glycolic Acid Peel or the Salicylic Acid Peel OR like I did, a combination of the two. Although NEVER use them on the same area in the same week, this would be far to irritating for the skin. You can however treat different areas on different days OR like I did, alternate which acid you use i.e. glycolic acid one week, salicylic acid the next week.

It's entirely up to you. I chose to alternate mine because I still suffer from a lot of blocked pores, which salicylic acid is better at treating but I also have some pigmentation and discolouration from old acne spots, which glycolic acid is better at treating.

The 30% Glycolic Acid Peel has a pH of 2.6 and comes in a 30ml bottle with pipette. With the Glycolic Acid Peel, it does need to be neutralised, which you mix prior to starting your treatment. It's basically a Sodium Bicarbonate powder which is mixed together into a paste with a little water in a separate bowl or saucer.

You need to time the treatment, starting the timer as soon as you start painting the acid on to the skin using the applicator brush (which I highly recommend getting or a similar makeup brush will do). 

I was expecting quite a strong burning or tingling sensation but it was absolutely fine. Once the time is up, you rub the paste between your hands and gently pat the neutraliser around the face. At this point you hear and feel a 'fizzing' and a little more heat in the skin than why you applied the acid. You repeat this step twice to ensure you have neutralised all the acid. You then simply rinse your face with cool water and you're done.

The 10% Salicylic Acid Peel has a pH of 2.1 and comes in a 10ml bottle with pipette. Unlike the Glycolic Acid Peel, the Salicylic Acid Peel needs no neutraliser. Water is enough to neutralise this product. It's applied in the same way, using the applicator brush and timed also, expect you start with less time than the glycolic acid (as this one is slightly stronger). Again, a slight heat and tingling but nothing unpleasant. Once the time is up, you simply rinse your face with cool water.

With both peels, it's recommended that you don't follow up with your usual skincare routine, just in case any of the other products react with the skin, which will be slightly more sensitive. You can however follow up with a hyaluronic acid serum and a natural plant oil if you wish.

They also advise to do a course of 6 weeks peels, followed by 2 weeks rest, before starting another 6 weeks.

It's also even more important, while using the peels to be using a high SPF during the day. I've been using nothing less than SPF50+ at the moment.

Results wise from both, I couldn't be happier. I've noticed a visible reduction in my blocked pore, which means my pores also appear smaller. The texture of my skin is visibly smoother and looks more even in tone. I don't think I've ever had this many compliments on my skin before!

I've even enjoyed using them and looked forward to my Sunday night peel. I'm actually a little gutted I'm on my '2 week rest' period and can't do one tonight if I'm honest.

I would highly recommend them if you have a similar issue with blocked pores, uneven skin texture and tone, pigmentation and fine lines. If you're the type of person who doesn't want to read and follow instructions correctly and hasn't got the time to patch test properly, then I would strongly advise you don't use these, as they are obviously stronger than your average chemist skincare purchases. Being that bit stronger though does mean you get better results, but you just need to be that bit more cautious.

The 30% Glycolic Acid Peel retails at £9.59 for 30ml.

The 10% Salicylic Acid Peel retails at £10.79 for 10ml, although is currently on offer at £6.47.

The Neutraliser retails at £2.16 for 100ml

The Applicator Brush retails at £3.48.

All available from bravuralondon.com.

Pampered Prince

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