No one tells you what to expect when you’re getting a chemical peel. There are too many variables and not enough information to make it easy to decide what type of peel you should get or how often you should get it. What is a chemical peel, anyway? And is there a difference between a glycolic and an alpha-hydroxy acid peel? And why would I use them in the first place? There are just so many questions.
Right here on cosmeticsurgerytips, you are privy to a litany of relevant information on strongest at home chemical peel, best chemical peel for sagging skin, best professional chemical peels, and so much more. Take out time to visit our catalog for more information on similar topics.
There’s no question about it: Everyone needs a good dermatologist. Not just for the life-saving skin checks, but for the instant glow of their in-office products and treatments that can be tough to capture at home. One of the most popular of these transformative treatments: the chemical peel. They’re strong, so real chemical peels are only available from the pros—but there are at-home chemical peels that capture the same effects on a smaller, safer scale.
How do chemical peels work?
Chemical peels vary in strength and ingredients, but most aim to deeply exfoliate the skin to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, improve brightness, and lift away unwanted discoloration and brown spots.
When choosing a DIY peel, it’s smart to consider your skin type, says NYC-based dermatologist Dendy Engelman. “Look at the acids in the peel, and make sure they target the issue you are trying to remedy.”
How are at-home chemical peels different from in-office treatments?
At-home chemical peels formulas have lower concentrations of the same acids, making them ideal for slathering them on yourself. “In-office peels have stronger concentrations of acids, meaning greater immediate results,” says Engelman. “These need to be administered by a licensed practitioner, because of the potential to burn or irritate the skin,” she says. At-home peels are safer and milder.
Are there risks to at-home chemical peels?
It’s critical to follow the directions on over-the-counter chemical peel products. Warns dermatologist Dennis Gross, who pioneered the at-home chemical peel: “Due to a wave of how-to YouTube videos and consumer accessibility to professional products through vendors like Amazon, I am seeing more and more instances of serious damage done to skin—all in a patient’s own bathroom,” He notes: “But higher concentrations of acid must be administered by a licensed professional; they can damage skin if they’re not neutralized properly.”
So what concentration of acid is safe?
Well, the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel recommends that companies use glycolic and lactic alpha-hydroxy acids in concentrations of 10 percent or less, in solutions with a pH of 3.5 or greater, when formulating consumer products. That said, many products feature higher doses.
“The biggest challenge is to not overwork the skin,” says Engelman.” Excessive exfoliation will expose skin, weaken skin-barrier function and trigger inflammation. If the barrier function is damaged, skin becomes vulnerable to infection from microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungus, and leads to sensitivity and irritation.”
During our reporting on at-home skincare treatments, we noted that two chemical peel products labeled with the same acid concentration won’t necessarily affect your complexion in the same way. The benefits, effects, and risks of each product comes down to a range of factors, including the ingredients; whether the acid is buffered with an ingredient to increase the pH level; and how long he product remains on the skin. It should go without saying, but leave the chemical peels that are formulated for salons and spas to the professionals. Also, bear in mind that chemical peels will make your skin more sensitive to sun damage, so make sure to slather on the SPF.
FOR FIRST-TIMERS
Perfect Image Pineapple Pumpkin Enzyme Peel
Unassuming? Yes. Highly effective? You better believe it. Derived entirely from fruits and vegetables, the acids here tend to be gentler for first-time peelers. Papaya and pineapple’s naturally occurring enzymatic alpha hydroxy acid is tempered by the protective qualities in pumpkin, which is rich in beta-carotene, vitamins A, C, zinc, and potassium.
FOR ACNE
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Engelmen says that a peel that contains BHAs, like this 10-minute berry-hued option, is ideal for treating acne. “BHAs, like salicylic and beta hydroxy, are best for issues like large pores, blackheads and pimples. These acids have keratin-dissolving properties that can breakdown dead skin cell build-up and decongest pores.”
FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Murad Replenishing Multi-Acid Peel
If chemical peels can leave you raw and red, this little bottle might be just the solution. Shake it up to blend the two liquids: A heavy-duty combo of glycolic, lactic, and malic acids that loosen the bonds of dead cells to clarify skin, and a soothing elixir of antioxidant holy basil and omega-rich jojoba seed oil to calm the acid’s effects.
THE 2-IN-1
it Cosmetics Hello Results Baby-Smooth Glycolic Peel + Caring Oil
A pricey offering that’s absolutely worth it. What’s cool is that the bi-phasic elixir offers two benefits. The pinky layer is a potent glycolic acid blend to slough away dead skin cells. The golden layer? Nourishing argan oil. Shake it up and smooth it on–the blend of the two mean it’s gentle (and effective) enough to use daily.
THE CULT FAVORITE
Bliss That’s Incredi-peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads
In some regards, these fan-favorite peel pads from Bliss—and their whopping 1,200 Amazon reviews—are rather simple. Ten percent glycolic acid time-releases overnight, targeting fine lines, dark marks, and blemishes. It’s a particularly well-tolerated formulation thanks to the addition of witch hazel, licorice and calendula flower, which quell inflammation.
THE STRONGEST
Obagi Clinical Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel
The latest from Obagi—a professional brand—does not mess around. Three acids (glycolic, salicylic, lactic) combine for one of the strongest and safest exfoliating treatments you can get over-the-counter.
FOR FINE LINES
Kate Somerville Liquid Exfolikate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment
This cult-favorite formula is powered by 10 percent AHAs and a gift basket’s worth of pumpkin, papaya, and pineapple fruit enzymes. To keep things on the gentle side, honey and tea extract join the party to quell irritation.
THE QUICK FIX
Sobel Skin Rx 30% Glycolic Acid Peel Concentrate
This 30 percent concentrate of glycolic acid only stays on for two minutes and is especially beloved by those who suffer from acne, acne scars, or melasma.
FOR ACNE
M-61 PowerGlow Peel
Salicylic and glycolic acids target acne breakouts in one measly minute, and this formula has calming effects built right in. Chamomile works to stifle the standard redness most peels bring on.
THE HEAVY HITTER
Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel
This option has a whopping seven acids—the original contains only five—in a two-step peel pack. The first pad contains all the heavy-hitters. Just allow it to dry for two minutes, then follow with the second, which is full of anti-aging treatments like retinol, vitamin E and antioxidant resveratrol.
MOST ORGANIC
Thrive Causemetics Overnight Sensation Gentle Resurfacing Peel
The big news here is twofold: First, a vegan formulation of lactic acid, glycolic acid, phytic acid and salicylic acid may appeal to animal lovers, while the plant-derived retinol alternative, bakuchiol, works to provide long-term, environmentally sustainable benefits, too. So you can have your face and planet, too.
FOR ALL SKIN TYPES
Glo Skin Beauty Pro 5 Liquid Exfoliant
Sometimes, a total complexion overhaul feels necessary. Glo’s liquid exfoliator contains a brightening complex including mandelic, lactic, gluconic malic, and tartaric acid to target concerns like acne, dullness, and fine lines.
FOR BRIGHTER SKIN
Sanitas Skincare Brightening Peel Pads
A one-two-three punch of glycolic, salicylic and lactic acid provides exfoliation, brightening, and cell turnover for a fresh and renewed complexion. Simply swipe along your face and décolletage and allow to dry fully before layering on your nightly products. The triple-acid blend is gentle enough to linger on your skin and keep working overnight.
FOR TEXTURED SKIN
Olay Masks Vitamin C + AHA Resurfacing Peel Vitamin C
This power couple is affordable and super effective: dissolve dead skin cells with the resurfacing mask, then apply the activator on top to create a crystal-filled foam to buff away dull skin.
FOR WRINKLES
StackedSkincare TCA Lactic & Glycolic Face Peel
While this potent liquid would be well suited for stubborn lines, twentysomethings can still achieve radiance and a healthy glow from its lactic and glycolic acids.
BEST SMELLING
Pacifica Glow Baby Brightening Peel Pads
If liking a peel because it smells good is wrong, I don’t want to be right. Here, you’re getting a ten percent alpha and beta hydroxy acid blend, to clear pores and retexturize, plus the soothing (and pleasantly scented) benefit of apple extract.
FOR EASY APPLICATION
O.R.G. Skincare Mineral Flash Exfoliating Peel Spray
Come on, it doesn’t get much simpler than a spray bottle. This peel is nourishing, too; it contains jojoba oil, grapefruit seed, and mugwort extract to treat skin while it exfoliates.
FOR MATURE SKIN
Natura Bisse Glyco Extreme Peel
Supercharged with five different AHAs to target signs of aging on the surface and at deeper levels of the skin, this is strong enough to visibly brighten skin without irritating it. According to Dr. Engelman, AHAs like glycolic acid are ideal for anti-aging: “It’s the smallest acid in particle size, meaning it is the most effective in breaking down cellular bonds to reveal new cells.”
FOR DARK SPOTS
Juice Beauty Peel
It might smell like an orchard, but don’t underestimate this alpha and beta hydroxy acid formula. It’ll help lift dark spots and discoloration cultivated from years of sun damage.
FOR SENSITIVE SKIN
Naturopathica Pumpkin Purifying Enzyme Peel
This pretty blue jar has more pumpkin enzymes than a Halloween gourd, and functions as a retinol-substitute if you’re looking for a more natural exfoliation. And added lactic acid helps to clear congested pores for a smoother visage.
FOR BRIGHTENING
Lancer Skincare Caviar Lime Acid Peel
Caviar lime is naturally rich in AHAs, and when combined with retinol, makes for an ultra-brightening treatment that gives an airbrushed look to pores.
FOR OVERNIGHT
Versed The Shortcut Overnight Facial Peel
This facial peel will go to work when your head hits the pillow, so you’ll wake up with glowy, healthy-looking skin. While you’re in dreamland lactic acid, glycolic acid, and vitamin A come together to exfoliate, brighten, and hydrate, and ingredients like allantoin, rosehip, and vitamin E soothe the skin.
FOR PORES
Paula’s Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel
If you’re looking to unclog your pores, take a peek at this peel. In just 10 minutes it’ll not only remove buildup, but it’ll smooth, brighten, and reduce the appearance of pores and wrinkles on your complexion.
FOR DULLNESS
goop GOOPGLOW 15% Glycolic Acid Overnight Glow Peel
Give your skin a boost while you catch some Z’s with these peel pads. Swipe the dual-sided pad over your face, neck, and chest before you head to bed and wake up with smooth, glowing skin.
FOR REDNESS
The INKEY List Apple Cider Vinegar Acid Peel
This affordable acid peel uses glycolic acid, multi-fruit acid, and apple cider vinegar to give you a smoother, more even complexion. And it also reduces redness and prevents new breakouts. Even better? It only takes 10 minutes.
FOR RADIANCE
Sephora Collection Resurfacing Peel Mask
From dark spots and clogged pores to blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles—this peel tackles them all. The 13-percent AHA, BHA, and PHA mask works to reduce the previously mentioned skin concerns and give you a radiant glow.
Strongest At Home Chemical Peel
If you’re curious about chemical peels but aren’t excited about the whole going-out-in-public-with-a-scorched-face thing, a chemical peel at home might be up your alley. And, hey, you’re probably home with some time on your hands now anyway, so it might be a good time for some at-home skin-care experimentation.
The purpose of a chemical peel is to slough off dead, dull, and dry skin cells on the top layer to reveal smoother, brighter, and more refreshed cells underneath, Brendan Camp, M.D., a Manhattan-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, tells SELF. They can be effective at treating a myriad of skin concerns including mild sun damage, fine lines, blackheads and whiteheads, excessive oil, and an overall rough skin texture.
While you can certainly have this kind of a treatment done at your dermatologist’s office or by an esthetician, for many people, milder at-home peels can provide many of the same benefits. They use many of the same ingredients as professional peels, just at lower concentrations that are less likely to cause serious irritation.
The active ingredients in most peels are alpha or beta hydroxy acids, namely glycolic and lactic acid, which are chemical exfoliants. Lactic acid molecules are larger than glycolic acid molecules, “which means [lactic acid] does not penetrate the skin as deeply and may be a suitable option for people with more sensitive skin,” Dr. Camp says. Other alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that are commonly used in at-home peels include citric, malic, mandelic, and tartaric acids.
Who can benefit from doing a chemical peel at home?
Almost anyone is a candidate for some type of at-home peel, and there are brands that cater to different skin types. Each peel’s active ingredients and the concentrations of those ingredients determine what the peel is best suited to treat.
Those with ultrasensitive skin (including those with eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea), however, or those actively using a retinol in their daytime and/or nighttime regimen should proceed with caution. “Retinoids can make skin more fragile and susceptible to side effects like pain, stinging, burning, redness, excessive dryness, and peeling, which are features of irritant contact dermatitis,” Dr. Camp says. That doesn’t mean you can’t ever use a peel, but it does mean that it’s probably best to check in with a dermatologist before using something on your skin.
Additionally, people who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid certain skin-care ingredients such as salicylic acid, hydroquinone, and retinol. Glycolic acid, lactic acid, and mandelic acid in the low concentrations available in over-the-counter skin-care products should be okay. If you’re not sure, definitely check in with your doctor.
How can you safely do a chemical peel at home?
At-home peels can be used as often as daily to monthly, depending on the strength of the peel and your skin’s response. When using a product for the first time, however, it’s best to start using a new peel just once a week (at the most) to see how your skin reacts.
When doing a chemical peel at home, always start with clean skin, and if your peel comes with a pre-peel solution, use it! “Pre-peel solutions that come with some at-home peel kits remove excess oils from the skin and are applied after washing your skin,” Blair Murphy-Rose, M.D., a Manhattan-based dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology, tells SELF. “Follow directions on the peel, and pay attention to the recommended duration of time to leave the peel on your skin.”
These ingredients are serious business and can cause irritation if left on for too long, so you’ll probably want to use a timer to make sure you only leave on for the intended amount of time.
And, remember, if the peel is working, you will feel something: If you feel a mild stinging or tingling sensation, that’s normal. But if your skin feels any more uncomfortable than that, it may be a good idea to stop your peel early, especially if your skin is prone to irritation.
After your peel, “always apply a light moisturizer,” Dr. Murphy-Rose says. And use sun protection if you’ll be outside or near a window, she says.
If you’re not satisfied with the results of your at-home peel, you may benefit more from an in-office peel, which can penetrate into the deeper layers of the skin. “Deep peels usually contain a chemical called phenol, which penetrates to the dermis to correct wrinkles, discoloration, and scars,” Dr. Camp says. Check in with a board-certified dermatologist to learn more about which procedures might be right for you.
Ready to give an at-home peel regimen a try? Read on for some dermatologist-approved peels that work for most skin types.
1.Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial
This peel offers the benefits of several AHAs, including glycolic, tartaric, lactic, and citric acids, as well as BHAs, including salicylic acid. While that might sound like a lot, this peel is not too strong, according to Dr. Camp, who says it’s usually well-tolerated and appropriate for normal, dry, or oily skin. It also contains pumpkin ferment extract, which has antioxidant components and is a rich source of fatty acids that may help facilitate a more gentle exfoliation.
2. The Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2%
Not only does this product work, but it comes at a fraction of the cost of most skin-care products, let alone most peels. It contains a trifecta of glycolic, salicylic, and lactic acids, which work synergistically to provide antiaging benefits, unclog pores, and even out complexion, according to Rina Allawh, M.D., a dermatologist at Montgomery Dermatology in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. She recommends leaving it on for 5–10 minutes before gently rinsing it off with a gentle cleanser and following up with a moisturizer.
3. Purlisse Watermelon Energizing 2 Minute Polishing Peel
Don’t let this product’s tiny packaging fool you—it can provide impressive results thanks to the powerful exfoliating ingredients glycolic and lactic acid. “The two acids collectively help exfoliate the skin,” Dr. Allawh says. It’s also ideal in a time crunch, since it only has to be left on for two minutes!
4. Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
Though it’s certainly on the pricier side, derms say this at-home peel pulls the weight of its price tag. It contains a combination of alpha and beta hydroxy (glycolic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid), along with raspberry extract, which contains antioxidants that may help protect against signs of premature aging.
But this one isn’t necessarily for beginners. “It’s better for patients more experienced with at-home peels looking for a slightly stronger daily peel,” Dr. Murphy-Blair says. “It is a great serum for those with acne-prone skin or those hoping to gradually reverse sun damage, fine lines, and dark spots.”
5. First Aid Beauty Facial Radiance AHA Intensive Peel
With this five-minute peel, you score the benefits of some of the most effective ingredients used in at-home peels, including both lactic and salicylic acids, along with those of a clay mask. The kaolin in this peel is a type of clay that absorbs particles—impurities like dirt, oil, and grime—and holds them to the clay surface like a magnet so they are washed away from skin, Dr. Camp explains
6. Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
With a blend of glycolic, lactic, malic, and salicylic acids, this peel is hard at work gradually improving complexion, lightening dark spots, and minimizing the appearance of pores, Dr. Murphy-Rose says. It’s even touted to help reduce breakouts. “It comes as a two-step kit with pre-moistened pads: Step one is the chemical peel, and step two is the neutralizer, or buffer solution, which turns the peel ‘off,’” she explains.
7. Kiehl’s Nightly Refining Micro-Peel Concentrate
Unlike most at-home peels, this one, made by one of the oldest and most beloved skin-care brands, is left on the skin overnight. “It can be layered under a serum or facial moisturizer to help refine skin texture and maintain glowing skin,” Dr. Camp says.
8. The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA
The key ingredient in this at-home peel is mandelic acid, which is derived from almonds. It’s a gentle acid that works even on sensitive skin types—especially with the addition of hydrating hyaluronic acid. “The formulation comes as a liquid with a dropper so it’s easy to use the right amount (just a few drops),” Dr. Murphy-Rose says. “Apply on your fingertips and massage onto clean skin while avoiding the eye area.” Bonus: You don’t have to wash off this peel—it can be left on!
9. SkinBetter Science AlphaRet Exfoliating Peel Pads
With these easy-to-apply peel pads, your skin scores the benefit of three acids: glycolic, lactic, and salicylic. The pads also include the company’s patented retinoid, AlphaRet. These peel pads will benefit most skin types, Deanne Mraz Robinson, M.D., FAAD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Yale New Haven Hospital, tells SELF, but she prefers them for use on patients who are simultaneously fighting the signs of aging and acne. “They’re also great for those who travel, as each is individually wrapped and packaged for single use, and they’re easy to toss in your toiletry bag for a trip,” she adds.
10. ISDIN Isdinceutics Night Peel
This overnight peel contains a blend of AHAS, including glycolic acid, to help exfoliate skin, along with hydrating ingredients that support the skin’s moisture barrier. “This is a perfect peel for those with more mature and/or dry skin who really need the exfoliation benefits in a gentle formula,” Dr. Robinson says. Unlike other peels, this one comes in tiny single-use packages so you know exactly how much to use on your face, neck, and décolletage.