Pumpkin - is it a Peel or what?

There seems to be some confusion regarding all the autumn-inspired pumpkin peels out there, so I thought I’d try to clear up any confusion.

I love using pumpkin as a facial treatment. Pumpkin enzymes act like Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA’s), without the drying effects of an AHA glycolic peel, for instance. In other words, you get great cell turnover, accelerated exfoliation, and powerful nutrients and antioxidants to scavenge those pesky free-radicals – resulting in smoother, younger looking skin.

A “gentle exfoliation” is one that will usually not result in a visible sloughing of dead skin. However, results can be achieved from a physical exfoliant such as a light microdermabrasion, a scrub, or a chemical exfoliant - usually 5% AHA or less. These will diminish fine lines, but the results will not last as long as a medium to deep peel.

A “peel” would be a medium to deep exfoliation and will usually result in a visible sloughing of dead skin cells. Depending on skin type, the exfoliation process can be a light flaking of the skin, or a deeper “sheeting” of the skin, where large patches of dead cells will be shed. Peels can be performed through physical exfoliation (microdermabrasion) or chemical peels (higher concentrations of AHA 10%+, BHA, TCAs, Jessners, etc.), or a combination of the two.

We all react differently to products; what may be a light exfoliation to you could be a “peel” on someone else. In addition, if you do not peel or sheet it doesn’t mean something isn’t happening at the cellular level, where it counts.

Price isn’t necessarily your barometer either. Scosh Studio currently offers a 30 minute - 10% Pumpkin Peel for $35, Pumpkin Peel.

So, delight your senses and enjoy the bounty of this time of year!