9 Best Chemical Peels to Use at Home for Soft, Glowing Skin

FAQ

How does chemical peel work?

“Chemical face peels, also known as exfoliating acid masks, work by penetrating the outer layers of the skin, breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin,” she explains. Shereen IdrisMD, board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Most home treatments are not deep peels, but rather superficial, so they are suitable for use by the general public without the help of a dermatologist or esthetician.

“At-home chemical peels typically utilize AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids), such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, or BHAs (beta hydroxy acids), such as salicylic acid, to exfoliate the skin,” she says. Mamina TureganoMD, board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. “Gentler peels contain fruit enzymes.” She advises that phenol peels are very harsh and should be avoided at home.

What are the ingredients to look out for in chemical peels?

Not all exfoliating acids are created equal. After all, isn’t there someone else who has the same skin concerns? “When looking for an exfoliating acidic product, it’s important to find one that suits your skin type and needs,” warns Dr. Idris. Here are the dermatologist’s recommendations:

• Glycolic acid: Stimulates collagen, reduces fine lines and wrinkles, and is effective for dry skin.
• Salicylic acid: It unclogs pores and regulates sebum production, making it ideal for those with oily or acne-prone skin.
• Fruit enzyme: It’s a gentler exfoliant, so it’s perfect for beginners and people with sensitive skin.
• Lactic acid: Helps whiten skin and treat keratosis pilaris
• Mandelic acid: It has a larger molecule size compared to other AHAs and penetrates the skin more slowly and evenly, making it ideal for people with darker skin tones and sensitive skin.
• Polyhydroxy acids (PHA): According to Dr. Idris, gluconolactone, lactobionic acid, and maltobionic acid are the group that has the largest molecular size and is the most gentle, making them ideal for ultra-sensitive skin.

What is the aftercare like after peeling?

Dr. Turegano believes it’s helpful to use a gentle exfoliant for a week before your chemical peel to help your skin better absorb the ingredients during the chemical peel. “I also like to use ingredients that improve skin health, such as vitamin C serums and peptide serums,” she says.

Dr. Kim points out that it’s essential to protect your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) after a peel, and says, “If you use acids regularly, it’s important to use sunscreen daily to avoid making your skin sensitive to sunlight.” “It’s best to avoid the sun as much as possible the next day. It’s better to skip a peel before going to the beach or before a sunny holiday.”And while it’s all the rage right now, you don’t necessarily need a special barrier cream after a peel, he says, and a regular moisturizer will suffice. Dr. Turegano recommends thick moisturizers if you have them on hand, and also recommends using peptide or growth factor serums, but it’s important to check the peel box or label to make sure these serums won’t interact with the peel you use.

All of our experts generally advise avoiding retinol, AHA, BHA, and physical exfoliants for several days after using a chemical peel to avoid excessive irritation. “This schedule varies from person to person and varies by skin type,” Dr. Turegano points out.

meet an expert

• Brendan Camp, Marylanda board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, based in New York City.
• Mona GoharaMD, board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, CT
• Shereen IdrisMD, board-certified dermatologist, Dr. Idris Skin Carebased in New York City
• david kimMD, board-certified dermatologist with New York Dermatology Group, based in New York City.
• sarah chan park Founder and CEO of a beauty distributor landing international with the creator of K-Beauty World At Los Angeles-based Ulta Beauty
• Ruth McTigheMD, board-certified dermatologist at Waccamaw Dermatology based in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina
• Mamina TureganoMD, board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans
• heather woolly lloyd MD, Miami-based board-certified dermatologist

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