The Zoe Report posted "The Best At-Home Chemical Peels for a Post-facial Glow" The article includes Visha Skincare founder, Dr. Purvisha Patel's expert commentary on the pros and cons of any at-home chemical peels.
Every skin care enthusiast can recall a time when an at-home treatment went awry. Perhaps you left a mask on too long, forgot to apply a slipping agent before going in with your gua sha, or didn’t bother to spot test a new product that resulted in an itchy rash. Misusing even the best at-home chemical peels, however, could cause much more than an inconvenience, which is perhaps what makes them so intimidating. “A chemical peel is a procedure in which a chemical exfoliant is applied to the skin to promote sloughing of dead skin cells and layers of the skin depending on the depth,” dermatologist Dr. Lian Mack tells TZR. “It is primarily used to improve the texture, tone, and overall appearance.”
Though chemical peels are ideally done in a doctor’s office, the ones available on the market contain a lower potency of acids so as to reduce the risk of skin damage. “At-home chemical peels should be products that have about 10% to 25% of exfoliating acids with a pH of 5 to 6,” says esthetician Tiara Willis. Even if a peel is marketed as safe for at-home use, Dr. Purvisha Patel adds that it’s crucial to speak to your dermatologist about what concentration your skin can handle. “If the peel is too strong, you can wound the skin deeper than anticipated, and this can lead to infections and even hyperpigmentation,” she says.
Though chemical peels are ideally done in a doctor’s office, the ones available on the market contain a lower potency of acids so as to reduce the risk of skin damage. “At-home chemical peels should be products that have about 10% to 25% of exfoliating acids with a pH of 5 to 6,” says esthetician Tiara Willis. Even if a peel is marketed as safe for at-home use, Dr. Purvisha Patel adds that it’s crucial to speak to your dermatologist about what concentration your skin can handle. “If the peel is too strong, you can wound the skin deeper than anticipated, and this can lead to infections and even hyperpigmentation,” she says.
Still, if you’re determined to get a spa-worthy glow without the trip to the spa, don’t let the risks totally deter you from giving at-home peels a go — just make sure you’ve taken the necessary precautions. In addition to getting your derm’s approval, Willis says taking proper care of your skin before and after treatment is just as important, especially wearing SPF 30 for at least two weeks. “I also recommend discontinuing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating acids, and hydroquinone a few days before the peel,” she says.
There’s no question that the safest and most effective chemical peels are done by professionals, but if you’re going to attempt one at home, there are certain standout products to which these experts would point you. Ahead, discover the best expert-approved at-home chemical peels to add to your routine for rejuvenated skin.
Though chemical peels are ideally done in a doctor’s office, the ones available on the market contain a lower potency of acids so as to reduce the risk of skin damage. “At-home chemical peels should be products that have about 10% to 25% of exfoliating acids with a pH of 5 to 6,” says esthetician Tiara Willis. Even if a peel is marketed as safe for at-home use, Dr. Purvisha Patel adds that it’s crucial to speak to your dermatologist about what concentration your skin can handle. “If the peel is too strong, you can wound the skin deeper than anticipated, and this can lead to infections and even hyperpigmentation,” she says.
Still, if you’re determined to get a spa-worthy glow without the trip to the spa, don’t let the risks totally deter you from giving at-home peels a go — just make sure you’ve taken the necessary precautions. In addition to getting your derm’s approval, Willis says taking proper care of your skin before and after treatment is just as important, especially wearing SPF 30 for at least two weeks. “I also recommend discontinuing retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, exfoliating acids, and hydroquinone a few days before the peel,” she says.
There’s no question that the safest and most effective chemical peels are done by professionals, but if you’re going to attempt one at home, there are certain standout products to which these experts would point you. Ahead, discover the best expert-approved at-home chemical peels to add to your routine for rejuvenated skin.
We only include products that have been independently selected by TZR's editorial team. However, we may receive a portion of sales if you purchase a product through a link in this article.
iS Clinical
Active Peel System
$88
Dr. Patel recommends this powerful yet gentle peel system because of its predictable results. It features two steps: the first provides controlled exfoliation with botanical extracts, and the second hydrates and rejuvenates using soothing active botanicals.
The Ordinary
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
$7.20
You’ve probably seen photos of people trying out The Ordinary’s crimson-colored peel on social media, but the formula proves it’s far from a gimmick. With a 30% AHA and 2% BHA solution, it offers deep exfoliation that’s tempered by the addition of Tasmanian Pepperberry (which gives it its red color) to fight irritation. Because of its potency, Dr. Patel recommends asking your dermatologist before use, but if your skin can handle it, it does the job.
Murad
Replenishing Multi-Acid Peel
$68
This AHA and BHA blend also contains antioxidant-rich basil to help calm the skin, making it perfect for sensitive skin types.
Catrice
Pore 2-In-1 Peeling & Toner
$10
Because of its low potency, this chemical peel can be used daily. “Packed with beta and alpha hydroxy acids, this toner helps to gently peel and smooth the skin,” says Dr. Mack.
Naturopathica
Sweet Cherry Brightening Enzyme Peel
$62
Ideal for oily and acne-prone skin types, this peel mask uses lactic acid and sweet cherry to brighten the skin and reduce fine lines.
Dr. Dennis Gross
Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel
$88
If you’re looking to get into peels, Dr. Patel recommends this popular exfoliating system from Dr. Dennis Gross. It combines AHAs and BHAs to target skin concerns like fine lines and dullness but is gentle enough for daily use.
Peter Thomas Roth
Peptide 21 Amino Acid Exfoliating Peel Pads
$52
These peel pads contain peptide-building amino acids and a 20% exfoliating complex to improve skin texture and uneven skin tone.
Paula's Choice
Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel
$40
$32
One of Willis’ favorite at-home chemical peels, this pick from Paula’s Choice is rinsed off, so it’s less harsh on the skin. “This peel contains butterfly pea flower extract, glycerin, vitamin E, bisabolol, and allantoin,” she says. “These ingredients help reduce irritation and dryness which is commonly seen with at-home chemical peels.”
Bliss
That's Incredi-peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads
$18.69
These one-step, no-fuss peel pads contain glycolic acid and promise visible results after just one use.
See On Target
Caudalie
Vinoperfect Brightening Glycolic Peel Mask
$39
In just 10 minutes, this AHA mask gently exfoliates and works to reduce the look of dark spots.