The Gentle Water-Based Peel Inspired by Korean Steam Treatments

When I went to get what turned out to be the most amazing spa treatment of my life, I can't say I was particularly looking forward to it (sweating in a steam room and getting scrubbed down by a towel-wielding stranger are not two of my favorite activities). But I was fascinatedand a little horrifiedas I watched the dull, dead skin rolling away, leaving unbelievably soft skin behind.

Since I don't have the time or budget for frequent spa trips, I resigned myself to less-than-illuminated skin until the next time I could swing it. Then I came across Aquareveals Satin Bright Soft Water Peel. Its inspired by the same sort of treatment I got, popular in Korean spas: a short soak in a steam room followed by an exfoliating rubdown with a towel. The peel harnesses water, a powerful natural exfoliator, and a patent-pending blend of natural extracts, attaching to the dead skin cells that dull your complexion and surfacing them so they're easier to scrub off with your hands.

Unlike other exfoliating treatments that can be harsh on the skin, the gel formula doesnt contain any enzymes, acids, or scrubbing particles so its super gentle. The peel is also loaded with hyaluronic acid, which helps skin retain moisture for a firmer, plumper appearance. Organic orange water in the formula hydrates and tones the skin, while a blend of other botanicalsincluding rosemary and sage extractshelp soothe and brighten.

I smoothed a few pumps of the peel over my face and started massaging with my fingertips for thirty seconds. As I worked, tiny ballsa mix of the formula and just-exfoliated skinbegan to form and slough off. To get the full two-minute treatment like I did, add a bit more of the product at the halfway point, then rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry. My skin was instantly softer, smoother, and noticeably brighter. I felt almost as glowy as I did that day at the spaafter a few minutes standing at my sink.