Our Guide To Dr Dennis Peel Pads (Including The New Retinol Formula)
The two-step at-home treatment is infused with five acids, including lactic, glycolic, malic and salicylic acids and retinol, to help to smooth out bumpiness, rebalance oiliness, boost hydration and ease the appearance of fine lines. Ticking so many skincare concerns, it’s easy to see why these peel pads have such a loyal following.
We decided to ask two Space NK team members to road test the treatment and share their honest Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel review.
Samira’s Dr Dennis Gross Peel Pad review
• Skin type: Dry to normal
• The Product: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, £21.00
Before I started using the Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, my skin was feeling a bit dull and dry. I’ve used beta hydroxy acids in my skincare routine – Paula’s Choice 2% BHA is my favourite when I remember to use it – but I haven’t used alpha hydroxy acids. I was intrigued and slightly apprehensive to try these peel pads as I tend to stay away from anything too harsh in my skincare routine and was worried it might make me breakout. I also think the name ‘peel’ has always made me a little scared!
The instructions were fairly easy to follow – you start with step one, wipe the first pad over your face, wait a couple of minutes and do the same with the second pad. I’m not sure what I was expecting, maybe some stinging, but actually it was fine. After using both pads my skin definitely felt smoother and perhaps a bit tight but I didn’t have any adverse reactions. I used the peel in the evening after cleansing and skipped my usual vitamin C serum, instead I followed with plenty of moisturiser.
I woke up with my skin feeling lovely and smooth and supple. I’m glad to say I’ve gotten over my fear of the Dr Dennis Gross pads. While I will continue to use them, it’ll be once a week rather than nightly as the brand recommends.
Hanitra’s Dr Dennis Gross Peel Pad review
• Skin type: Oily and acne prone
• The Product: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, £21.00
Aside from having acne-prone skin, my biggest struggle is hyperpigmentation and I’ve heard a lot of people say that Dr Dennis Gross’ peel pads help with this. I’m a big fan of the skin cycling method, so I use exfoliants two to three times a week. I mostly like to use BHAs, like Paula’s Choice 2% BHA Liquid Exfoliant, because they’re better at targeting congested, blemish-prone skin.
The first time I used Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, I did it wrong because I didn’t wait two minutes between each step. My skin did feel tingly, but it didn’t look red or feel like it was having a bad reaction. The morning after I used the peel pads for the first time, my skin was glowing, and it looked and felt so smooth – I was honestly shocked by the results.
I’ve been using the peel pads for about two months now and I can really see a difference in my skin, especially in my hyperpigmentation. I like to use it after I washed my face with a gentle cleanser in the evening, and then I follow up with a hydrating serum and a rich moisturiser.
Our Verdict On Dr Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Peel Pads
When it comes to an effective at-home AHA peel, Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, £21.00 is easily one of the best formulas to invest in. Both our reviewers found the two-step treatment easy to follow (after the first go at least) and although they felt a tingling feeling neither Samira nor Hanitra had an adverse reaction, despite having different skin types and concerns. We still recommend doing a patch test when you first use this peel pads as they are potent.
“I definitely consider the Dr Dennis Gross Peel Pads to be one of my Holy Grail skincare products,” says Hanitra. “I like to have them on hand when I feel like my skin is acting out.” What we love about these peel pads is that they’re fuss-free, travel-friendly and deliver glow-boosting results.
What Is The Best Dr Dennis Peel Pad For You?
Dr Dennis Gross has a range of peel pads to suit different skin types and concerns, including a milder formula for sensitive skin. We’ve created a handy cheat sheet below to help you find the best treatment for you…
If you have sensitive skin: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel, £21.00 is formulated with lactic acid, which is much gentler and helps to get rid of dry skin on the surface without irritating your skin.
If you have combination skin: As we’ve mentioned, the Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel, £21.00 blend five different acids for an effective exfoliation. We usually recommend these for people with dry to combination skin, or concerns including dullness, mild pigmentation or oiliness.
If you have oily or acne-prone skin: Used other peels pads and looking for a more potent treatment? It’s time to invest in Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Peel Extra Strength Formula, £21.00. Ideal for acne-prone skin and hyperpigmentation, these peel pads get to work quickly.
If you are concerned with fine lines, wrinkles and scarring: Dr. Dennis Gross Advanced Retinol + Ferulic Overnight Texutre Renewal Peel, £82.00 is packed full of retinol, bakuchiol and ferulic acid to help encourage skin cell turnover. While the Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel contains a small amount of retinol, this treatment packs a stronger punch.
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