What is the CIMEL peel?
At Clinique Cinq Sens, I am always on the lookout for innovations that can transform my clients' skin. After years of practicing aesthetic medicine, I discovered CIMEL™ , a range of professional peels developed by Dr. Fernando Bouffard in Barcelona, which revolutionized my approach to skin rejuvenation treatments.
Unlike traditional chemical peels, which can be harsh, CIMEL offers what I call "peeling without the chemical sensation." Its fragrance-free and paraben- free formula is suitable for all skin types (I to VI) and significantly minimizes the risk of irritation. CIMEL products are Health Canada approved and manufactured according to ISO and GMP standards.
The 8 active ingredients of the CIMEL peel
1. Retinol (Cyclodextrin Retinol): a powerful anti-aging ingredient, it is the most studied anti-aging ingredient in cosmetic dermatology. In the CIMEL formulation, it is encapsulated in cyclodextrin for gradual and controlled release.
Its benefits:
- Stimulates cell renewal
- Gently exfoliates the superficial layers of the skin
- Deeply unclogs pores
- Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
- Promotes collagen production for firmer skin
The retinol in CIMEL is particularly effective in treating the signs of skin aging while offering excellent tolerance.
2. Kojic acid: against pigment spots, a natural ingredient derived from Japanese mushrooms, known for its effectiveness against hyperpigmentation.
His actions
- Inhibits tyrosinase (the enzyme responsible for melanin production)
- Lightens brown spots and age spots
- Evens out skin tone
- Reduces pigmented acne scars
- Prevents the appearance of new spots
I particularly recommend CIMEL for treating melasma and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation thanks to this powerful ingredient.
3. Alpha-Arbutin: a natural lightener, a lightening agent extracted from bearberry, a gentle alternative to hydroquinone.
Its properties
- Inhibits melanin production selectively
- Improves skin tone radiance
- Acts in synergy with kojic acid
- Excellent skin tolerance
The combination of alpha-arbutin and kojic acid creates a powerful synergistic effect to treat pigmentation irregularities.
4. Phyllanthus Emblica (Amla) Extract: natural vitamin C, a treasure of Ayurvedic medicine, is one of the richest natural sources of vitamin C.
Its benefits
- Powerful antioxidant against free radicals
- Stimulates collagen production
- Lightens the complexion naturally
- Improves skin elasticity
- Strengthens the skin barrier
- This ingredient provides that "healthy glow" that my clients are looking for.
5. Salicylic Acid: for acne-prone skin, an essential beta-hydroxy acid (BHA) for skin prone to acne.
His actions
- Penetrates deep into the pores
- Exfoliates dead skin cells
- Reduces acne-related inflammation
- Regulates sebum production
- Prevents blackheads and whiteheads
In the CIMEL formulation, salicylic acid is perfectly balanced to effectively exfoliate without drying out the skin.
6. Glycyrrhetinic Acid: soothing and anti-inflammatory, derived from licorice root , glycyrrhetinic acid plays an essential role in the tolerance of the peel.
Its properties
- Reduces inflammation
- Soothes redness and irritation
- Promotes healing
- Controls sebum secretion
It is thanks to this ingredient that CIMEL peels are so well tolerated, acting as a soothing "buffer".
7. Phytonadione (Vitamin K): circulation and repair, improves cutaneous microcirculation, reduces the appearance of dark circles and promotes the repair of the skin barrier.
8. Tocopherol (Vitamin E): antioxidant protection, protects against oxidative stress, deeply nourishes and stabilizes other active ingredients for maximum effectiveness.
The unique synergy of CIMEL ingredients
What distinguishes CIMEL from other chemical peels is the synergy of its active ingredients.
The formulation acts simultaneously on several levels:
● Exfoliation : retinol + salicylic acid
● Lightening : kojic acid + alpha-arbutin + amla
● Antioxidant protection : vitamins C and E
● Soothing : glycyrrhetinic acid
● Regeneration : retinol + vitamin K
This comprehensive approach explains why my clients in Quebec City achieve such complete results: not only do their spots fade, but their skin becomes smoother, firmer, and overall healthier.
CIMEL Maintenance: extending results at home.
After a CIMEL Activator peel at the clinic, I encourage the use of CIMEL Maintenance at home, a cream-mask that contains a gentler version of the same active ingredients to:
● Maintain the results achieved
● Prolong the brightening action
● Prepare the skin before the next treatment
● Treat acne and hyperpigmentation continuously
Who are CIMEL peels for?
At my medical-aesthetic clinic in Quebec City, I recommend CIMEL treatments for:
● Hyperpigmentation (brown spots, melasma, age spots)
● Signs of aging (wrinkles, fine lines, loss of firmness)
● Acne-prone or seborrheic skin
● Uneven or dull complexion
● Acne scars and texture irregularities
● Improvement in overall skin quality
The major advantage : CIMEL is suitable for all skin phototypes (I to VI), which is rare for a depigmentation treatment.
Recommended protocol for successful CIMEL treatment
- Free consultation : personalized assessment of your needs
- Preparation : Lightening treatments 2 weeks before the treatment
- Ideal weather: autumn and winter are the ideal times.
- Post-treatment : SPF 50+ sunscreen is mandatory
- Patience : results are visible after 28 days (skin regeneration cycle)
Why choose CIMEL peels at the Clinic
Five Senses?
✓ Approved by Health Canada
✓ Fragrance-free and paraben-free
✓ Natural formulation based on botanical ingredients
✓ All skin phototypes
✓ Visible results from the first sessions
✓ Excellent tolerance compared to traditional peels
FAQ about CIMEL peels
How many sessions are needed?
Generally, 3 to 6 sessions spaced 3 to 4 weeks apart are needed for optimal results.
Is the treatment painful?
No, the CIMEL peel is well tolerated. You might experience slight tingling, but no significant pain.
Can I have a CIMEL peel done in the summer?
It is best to do these treatments in autumn and winter to avoid intense sun exposure .
What are the side effects?
Slight redness and superficial peeling for a few days, much gentler than with classic chemical peels.
Schedule your free consultation.
Want to discover how CIMEL peels can transform your skin? I invite you to book a free consultation at Clinique Cinq Sens. Together, we'll assess your needs and create a personalized treatment plan to reveal your skin's natural radiance.
Five Senses Clinic - Medical Aesthetics
2880 Chemin des Quatre-Bourgeois, Quebec City, QC
📞 581 981-3300 or info@cinquesens.ca
By Nabila Aitmehdi, founder of the Cinq Sens Clinic