Brightening Peels

This high-concentration, all-over brightening peel with 34% glycolic acid is designed to be used after a pre-conditioning period with Daily Dark Spot Intercept, Daily Renewal Cream, and Mineral Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 50. The peel helps improve the appearance of uneven pigmentation, fine lines, pores and texture—all in the comfort of your home.

• Improves the appearance of uneven pigmentation, fine lines, pores and texture
• No downtime, visible results in 7-14 days, all in comfort on your home
• Brightens and promotes a more radiant complexion
• Promotes cell turnover – helping to shed dead, dull skin cells and leaving skin feeling silky soft and smooth 
• Formulated for all skin tones 

Brightening peels are chemical peels formulated to target pigmentation, including stubborn melasma and sunspots. They can also help improve overall skin tone and texture to smooth and brighten skin. We offer two levels of brightening peels in increasing strength. The higher level will result in longer post-procedure peeling but will see improvement in fewer treatments. Both levels are safe for all skin types. These peels are not recommended if you are pregnant or nursing.

Key Ingredients

Glycolic Acid: Brightening Peel contains a 34% concentration of this powerful alpha hydroxy acid. This improves the appearance of even skin tone and texture over the course of a few days after treatment. Skin looks smoother, brighter, and revitalized. Also helps reduce the appearance of pores.

Tranexamic Acid: A favorite among dermatologists, tranexamic acid is known to target uneven pigmentation and helps reduce visible skin redness.

Phytic Acid: A great antioxidant booster commonly used in hyperpigmentation treatments. This antioxidant helps to reduce the look of redness and irritation.

Vitamin C + Gold: Vitamin C is a known skin brightener and powerful antioxidant. We use a highly stable version created by bonding vitamin c to a particle of pure gold, which helps ensure it is more effectively delivered to the skin.

Key Benefits

• An Essential Part of Your Brightening Regimen 
  • Addresses all-over brightness, including larger areas of uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation
  • Reveals a brighter, more even-toned look
  • Leaves skin texture smoother and softer
  • Helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores
  • Delivers visible results with a single use
  • Helps slough away dead, dulling skin cells and promote cell turnover

What Will The Procedure Feel Like?

Each treatment is approximately 30 minutes long. The skin will be cleansed and degreased. A protective ointment will be placed to the corners of the eyes, nose and mouth. The peels are then performed in two steps. The first layer is applied and left on the treatment area for approximately 10 minutes. During this time a mild stinging sensation may be felt. Then, the second and final layer consisting of either a solution or mask is applied to the treatment area. This will remain on the skin after the procedure and the patient will wash it off after a number of hours as directed by their provider.

Do I Have To Do Anything To Prepare in Advance?

• Avoid sun exposure four weeks before and after treatment.
• Self-Tanners and/or Spray Tans should be avoided for at least one weeks prior to your treatment.
• Stop products containing retinoids, alpha hydroxy (glycolic) acids, beta hydroxy (salicylic) acids, benzoyl peroxide and hydroquinone at least one week before procedure.
• Avoid any other exfoliating products that may be drying/irritating and waxing one week before and after the procedure.
• If you have a history of cold sores, be sure to notify your doctor prior to your procedure, so that you can be given a medication to reduce the chance of a breakout

What Will I Look Like Afterwards?

Patients will leave with the final layer of the in-office procedure on their face and be instructed to wash it off after a certain number of hours, therefore it is important that patients go directly home after the treatment. The treatment area may have a light-yellow tinge immediately after removal of the solution/mask. This is temporary and will fade in a few hours. During the days following, the area may be red and you may experience itching and/or irritation as the area begins to flake. Avoid sun exposure for four weeks following the treatment and apply a sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 and zinc oxide as an active ingredient. Exercise should be avoided the first 48 hours after the treatment and makeup should be avoided while the skin is peeling.Downtime is dependent on the level of peel performed:

• Brightening micro peel (level 1): Two to three days of redness similar to a mild windburn with flaking that will begin around 48 hours post procedure and continue for 2-5 days. We recommend purchasing post-procedure cleanse and post-procedure moisturizing complex to lessen downtime and speed healing. Your provider may recommend Brighten Up or another lightening product to increase results. It is also important to use a daily sunscreen as recommended. (A kit of the cleanser, moisturizer and sunscreen is included for those patients who purchase a package of three treatments.)
• Brightening HP peel (level 2): Four to seven days of redness with flaking/peeling that will begin around 48 hours post procedure and continue for one week. A kit with post-procedure cleanse, post-procedure soothing balm, post-procedure moisturizing complex, brightening cream and post-procedure protect is included. These products should be used as directed for four to six weeks. Results are dependent on consistent use as they amplify and continue the results of the in-office procedure. The skin can be more sensitive, pink and have peeling/flaking during the four to six weeks the products are used.

When Will I See Results?

Results will vary per patient and realistic expectations will be discussed during your first treatment. Having a good at home regimen will help attain optimum results. In addition, smoking, excessive alcohol and excessive sun exposure will limit results. Results are less dramatic when chemical peels are utilized for prevention and maintenance (treatments spaced greater than one month apart) than when utilized in a more frequent, treatment oriented protocol.

Who Cannot Have the Treatment?

Both levels are safe for all skin types. These peels are not recommended if you are pregnant or nursing.

How Many Treatments are Necessary?

With a series of treatments and consistent use of the post procedure products, one can expect to see improvement in pigmentation along with improvement in texture and tone. It is crucial that patients protect the area from sun by limiting exposure and applying sunscreen consistently. Maintenance treatments will be needed. Typical Treatment Protocol:

• Brightening micro peel (level 1): Four to six peels spaced two to four weeks apart
• Brightening HP peel (level 2): Two to four peels spaced two to three months apart

Usage

Because of the ingredients used in the Brightening Peel, we strongly recommend that you follow all application steps, including pre- and post-peel, as provided below. This will help ensure the best results and best skin comfort. Read all instructions before beginning Brightening Peel.

DAY 1-14
PREP: HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR BRIGHTENING PEEL

• You should not use Brightening Peel for at least 2 weeks, and preferably 4 weeks, after using a strong peel or facial treatment to allow your skin to fully recover. Discontinue use of cosmetic products with retinoid/retinol and/or AHAs/BHAs.
• For 2 weeks prior to your treatment, apply Daily Dark Spot Intercept (DDSI) followed by Daily Renewal Cream (DRC) and Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 (SPF) each morning. At night, repeat the application of DSI and DRC. When outdoors, reapply SPF every 2-3 hours.
• These steps prime the skin, creating the ideal condition for the treatment and ensuring the best post-peel results.

DAY 15
STEP 1: CLEANSE

• Pull hair completely off face. Cleanse skin with Ourself Daily Purifying Cleanser or normal cleanser. Avoid cleansers that contain acids or exfoliants.

STEP 2: PREPARING THE PEEL

• Open the peel vial by placing thumb on the arrows on the cap and pushing up. This will break the foil safety seal in the center. Carefully remove the crimp seal and the stopper.

STEP 3

• If the kit purchase has a tray included, place peel vial into perforated hole for stability during application. If no tray is included, proceed to Step 4.

STEP 4: PREPARING THE PEEL

• Fold the gauze pad into quarters.
• Using the dropper, apply 1-2 droppers full of Peel to the gauze evenly distributing the solution from the center of the pad to the edges. Make sure that the gauze is not dripping.

STEP 5: APPLYING THE PEEL

• Cleanse face, pull hair back
• Apply one layer of the Peel solution, using a single passage over skin, working in this order:
  1. Forehead
  2. Lower face (around the mouth, avoiding lips)
  3. Nose area
  4. Cheeks (don’t apply above your cheekbone)
  5. Avoid the eye area entirely

STEP 6: APPLYING MULTIPLE LAYERS

• Wait 3-5 minutes after the first layer of peel is applied.
• Mild stinging and burning is expected. If burning or stinging continues after 5 minutes, stop application.
• If there is no lingering burning or stinging after 5 minutes you may apply up to 2 additional layers.

STEP 7: APPLYING POST-PEEL SKINCARE

• After the final layer is applied, wait 15-30 minutes before applying moisturizer to keep treated area well moisturized.
• If using Ourself Everyday Regimen, apply DDSI, followed by DRC. It is important to use SPF in the daytime to protect skin and encourage results.
• NOTE: Brightening Peel is self-neutralizing, you do not need to wash it off.

STEP 8: STORAGE

• If you have extra solution in the bottle, pop on the extra cap and save for your next peel day. Enjoy your brighter skin for at least 2-4 weeks before you repeat Brightening Peel. Store upright in a cool, dark place, away from pets, children and jostling (it’s best if the opened solution doesn’t spill as it can cause damage to some surfaces; do not travel with bottle after opening). Once opened, Brightening Peel should be used or carefully poured down the drain within 3 months.

DAY 16+
STEP 9: PEEL POST CARE

• Cleanse your face as usual the next day and continue the application of DDSI, DRC, SPF am/pm to maintain optimum results.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure, if you must be outside, reapply SPF every 2-3 hours.
• Expect to see visible results—brighter, silky-soft skin – within 7-14 days after using Brightening Peel.

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Because of the ingredients used in the Brightening Peel, we strongly recommend that you follow all application steps, including pre- and post-peel. This will help ensure the best results and best skin comfort.
• Everyone’s skin responds differently:
  • You may experience visible flaking or peeling, especially 2-4 days post-treatment. This is normal. Do not exfoliate or pull at the skin on the treated area. It will come off on its own. 
  • On the other hand, you may not experience any visible skin peeling after the treatment. This is also normal. The product is still working. 
  • You’ll see visible results—brighter, silky-soft skin—within 7-14 days of using Brightening Peel. 

FAQs

PREP/PRE-CONDITIONING

• How do I choose between Brightening Peel and Dark Spot Peel?
  • The Brightening Peel formula addresses larger patches of uneven skin tone and texture, as well as general skin dullness.
  • Dark Spot Peel targets specific individual spots, up to 6mm (a quarter inch) in diameter.
• I’ve heard Peels don’t work on melanin-rich skin tones. Is this true?
  •  While some peels on the market have been problematic for more melanin-rich skin, we asked testers with medium to deep skin tones to try Ourself Brightening Peel and they saw brighter, more radiant complexion. Consider using fewer layers when applying (especially the first few times), and balancing that by doing a second peel treatment 4 weeks later. Slower and steadier will win you the more even-toned look you want. We suggest testing this product on the inside of arm before using.
• Can sensitive skin use the Brightening Peel?
  • We recommend doing a patch test at least 48 hours before using Brightening Peel if you have sensitive skin. Do not use it during an active flare up.
• How do I perform a patch test?
  • Fold the provided gauze pad into quarters and use 1 dropper full of the Peel solution on the pad, evenly distributing from the center to the edges. Make sure that the gauze is not dripping. Apply one layer of the peel up to 6mm (a quarter inch) in diameter to clean skin on the inside of the forearm. Let sit for 24 hours without getting wet and see if irritation occurs, then rinse clean. If irritation occurs, then the peel cannot be used. Wait a total of 48 hours between the patch test and using the peel.
• What should I expect?
  • Everyone’s skin responds differently. You may experience visible flaking or peeling, especially 2-4 days post-treatment. This is normal. DO NOT exfoliate or pull the skin on the treated area. It will come off on its own.
  • On the other hand, you may not experience any visible skin peeling after the treatment. This is also normal. The product is still working.
  • Consumers generall see visible results—brighter, silky-soft skin—within 7-14 days of using Brightening Peel. 
• Can I apply the peel on my eyelids/near my eyes?
  • We recommend doing a patch test at least 48 hours before using Brightening Peel if you have sensitive skin. Do not use it during an active flare up.
• Can I apply the peel on my body?
  • Unfortunately, we haven’t yet tested the Brightening Peel for body application. To ensure the best results, we recommend only using as directed.
• How do I condition my skin for the Brightening peel? 
  • At least 2 weeks prior to your Brightening Peel treatment, stop using cosmetic products with retinoid/retinol and/or AHAs/BHAs. See warnings for additional information.
  • If using the Ourself Everyday Regimen, for  2 weeks prior to your Brightening Peel treatment, every morning, apply Daily Dark Spot Intercept followed by Daily Renewal Cream, plus Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50. At night, repeat the application of Daily Dark Spot Intercept and Daily Renewal Cream. When outdoors, reapply Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50 every 2-3 hours.
• Do I need to use the Ourself Everyday Regimen with the Brightening Peel?
  • No, you can use your favorite moisturizer and mineral sunscreen (chemical sunscreens are not recommended). However, the Brightening Peel and Ourself Everyday Regimen were formulated together for optimal, long-lasting results. These steps prime the skin, creating the ideal condition to apply Brightening Peel and ensuring the best post-peel results.

DURING APPLICATION

• How do I open the vial?
  • Open the Brightening Peel vial by pushing up on the thin plastic cap, positioning your thumb at the base of the arrows. This will break the foil safety seal in the center. Continue pulling in the direction of the arrows and twist to remove the rest of the foil seal. Carefully remove the inner stopper.
• Is it normal to feel stinging/burning?
  • Yes, mild stinging/burning sensation may occur for up to 3-5 minutes. If you feel prolonged discomfort, discontinue application and splash with cool water. Use gentle cleansers and moisturizers until skin is calm.
• Do I rinse off the peel?
  • No, this Peel is self-neutralizing. Do not rinse skin until the next time you plan to wash your face. 
• How do I store the Brightening Peel?
  • Please store the Brightening Peel at room temperature before and between uses. Crystallization may occur at low temperatures. To reincorporate the solution, allow the product to return to room temperature or warm between hands, and gently shake.
• How do I save the extra solution?
  • Pop on the extra storage cap that is provided in the Accessory Kit and save for your next peel day. Enjoy your brighter skin for at least 2-4 weeks before you repeat Brightening Peel. Store upright in a cool, dark place, away from pets, children and jostling; (it’s best if the opened solution doesn’t spill as it can cause damage to some surfaces; we suggest leaving it home when you travel). Once opened, Brightening Peel should be used or carefully disposed of within 3 months. 
• How do I dispose of leftover solution?
  • Turn the water faucet on and pour down the drain while water is running.

POST APPLICATION

• How do I care for my skin post peel?
  • Starting the evening immediately following the Brightening Peel treatment, apply moisturizer to keep the treated area well moisturized. If the treated area feels itchy, dry or tense, reapply moisturizer—do not scratch. If using the Ourself Everyday Regimen, apply Daily Dark Spot Intercept and follow with Daily Renewal Cream as needed.
  • Be sure to follow with mineral sunscreen prior to any sun exposure, and reapply mineral sunscreen every 2-3 hours when you are outdoors. Chemical sunscreens are not recommended. Avoid excessive sun exposure.
  • Continue this regimen until skin recovers.
• When can I apply Brightening Peel again?
  • Wait at least 2 weeks to let your skin fully recover before applying Brightening Peel again.
• When can I start using cosmetic products containing retinols/retinoids and/or AHAs/BHAs again?
  • Once skin is fully recovered, roughly 3-4 weeks after performing the Peel, and there is no peeling or signs of irritation present, you can go back to using cosmetic products that contain retinoids and/or acids per your routine. We suggest you add one product at a time, and give it a few days before adding the next one.