Sundays have always been my day of facial-masking and all around self-pampering. If you ask me, there’s no better way to kick off the week. This past Sunday, I tried what felt like a science experiment: the Brazilian Peel. Created by Mac Smith, the Brazilian Peel has won Allure’s Best of Beauty Award. It’s designed to bring professional results home, firming skin, reducing lines and sports, and making your skin more radiant. Sure, they call it “fool-proof,” but those syringes look pretty intimidating!

It’s not as difficult as it looks: simply remove the cap off the syringe (don’t worry, no needles) and squeeze it in the palm of your hand. The formula feels hot as you mix it together with your fingertips. Then just apply all over face, including the eye area (just be careful when rinsing. I got some in my eye – not fun), and leave it on for 10 minutes. After rinsing, my skin was noticeably smoother in texture. It also felt a bit dry, so I applied a moisturizing mask immediately (Sisley‘s Black Rose cream mask is a favorite).

A minimum of 30SPF applied daily for a week after the peel is recommended, and you should steer clear of exfoliants before and after. The results are no lie! Three days later, my skin still has a tightness and brightness that usually only comes after a professional facial and peel. The thrill of Brazil! At Sephora for $78 (with four weekly applications per box).