A flawless complexion with no visible spots or irregularities sits right beneath the skin, under that gray layer of cells. The solution for fast, deep exfoliation — without pain or irritation — lies in enzyme peels.
We all want ever faster and more effective ways to prep the skin for makeup, and one of the main enemies of an even, hydrated complexion is the surface layer of skin, which over time needs to be removed by exfoliation.
Often, in a hurry or in urgent situations that call for quick prep and immediate makeup application, we don’t want to use mechanical or chemical peels, which can cause redness and complicate life further. That’s where enzyme peels come in. An enzyme peel contains proteins that trigger a chemical reaction in the skin and thereby speed up tissue regeneration. The first results are visible immediately after removing the peel — skin elasticity and slightly improved tone come first. It’s important to note that enzyme peels remove only dead cells and build-up, never living ones, which makes them suitable for all skin types, including sensitive skin.
A quick enzyme solution that gently removes the surface layer and cleanses the skin while taking no more than 15 minutes of your time is the ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel. The active ingredients are papaya and pineapple enzymes that cleanse the skin, joined by brown algae that restore hydration and minerals, so the skin isn’t left dry and lifeless after use.
An added benefit is the short time the product stays on the face, which shortens your skincare routine and leaves more time for makeup. You can use the ELEMIS Papaya Enzyme Peel twice a week for 10–15 minutes, after which you can move straight on to the rest of your skincare. I suggest using it once a week without fail, and saving the second time for urgent, unexpected situations.
The milky formulation, spiced with a mild fruity scent, makes the ELEMIS papaya enzyme peel pleasant to use. On contact with water, the light milky formula turns into a gentle foam which, once rinsed off, leaves the face visibly smoother with a dose of glow — which later helps in creating a flawless base. Highlighters and hydrating primers are a great thing, but skincare is what delivers the longest-lasting results.
The skincare you apply after an enzyme peel should include a few basic steps such as an essence, a serum and a moisturizer. Start applying liquid foundation just a few minutes after your skincare products. If you want a more radiant base and the very natural look of a perfectly blended foundation, apply the liquid foundation a minute after your moisturizer using your fingers or a brush, then pat it in with a Beauty Blender. Creamy textures love each other, so use a cream blush for a rosy glow, cover any remaining small imperfections with a liquid concealer, and mask tiredness with a highlighter.
Photo: Marko Devčić