Beauty
The six-week Me:line programme really helps tackle problem pigmentation
Tackle pigmentation problems at Mulberry House, Edinburgh
The treatment
Me:line Facial Peel, £200 at Mulberry House, Edinburgh. Billed as the only brand in the world specialising in treatments for problem pigmentation – and now available exclusively at Mulberry House in Edinburgh courtesy of facialist Liz Mccarron – these peels are an innovative treatment targeting uneven complexions. They are part of a six-week skincare process that includes two peels and an at-home programme designed to get rid of dark patches and even out skin tone and colour.
Why go?
Because, frankly, it works. And anyone who has battled pigmentation, melasma (hormoneinduced pigmentation) or sun damage – caused by hyperactive melanocytes (that produce melanin – or pigment – in the skin) will know how hard it is to get rid of the brown, mottled patches.
Admittedly, it does require commitment as the process involves the shedding of skin and the associated tightness, discomfort – and yes ugliness – of a peel. However, although the sight in the mirror may be disconcerting for a few days, in Liz’s capable hands (she is only a Whatsapp away and comes back to you at lightning speed), you never once feel nervous – even when your face looks like an heirloom tomato with a serious case of dandruff.
The results are rapid and highly satisfying. I saw a significant improvement after the first peel and in the days after you feel like a shiny new snake emerging from the confines of an old leather casing. And wow the skin is so incredibly soft and smooth afterwards.
The peel itself involves a cleanse, a de-greasing microdermabrasion prep solution, and the application of the peel mask that’s left on for around 30 minutes (which does involve a little bit of a burning sensation). A six to eight week skincare regime follows culminating in a 45-minute peel to round off the proceedings.
Our spy says
Not for the fainthearted. You need to embrace all the acids – plus retinoids – to knock the persistent pest that is pigmentation on its head. In this case both the peel and some of the after care products contain a potent mix of azelaic, tranexamic, mandelic and kojic acid that work to peel the skin and inhibit the production of more pigment.
The results
I’d say that I saw an 80 per cent reduction in pigmentation after the first peel and with use of the after care products. With a second peel and fastidious use of SPF I hope I’ll be enjoying my new clear skin tone for the foreseeable future. A word of warning: schedule a day off about three days after the peels to ensure you can shed in privacy. And do not skip buying the Moist (hyaluronic acid serum, £38) – on parched post peel days it will be your best friend. n