Last Updated on November 2, 2023
While the skin peel is hardly a groundbreaking new procedure, the mere mention of this widely used skin care treatment can create anxiety in those who don’t know much about it. Just the name sounds scary and conjures up flashbacks to the episode of Sex and the City when Samantha walked around Carrie’s book launch party in a black veil because she had the procedure earlier in the day and wanted to cover up her raw, beet-red face.
While that may have been the case years ago, the procedure has come a long way since then and no longer requires you to hide for two weeks as your skin peels off and you look more zombie than human. These days, you can have a skin peel done and be back in action as soon as the next day. The procedure may still seem aggressive to some, but it mainly applies to the treatment done at the dermatologist’s office and skin clinics. At-home peel options are a lot more gentle, and surprisingly, they can be just as effective as the chemical peel.
Aside from the convenience, the best thing about at-home skin peel treatments is no redness or burning after the fact. Spots, blemishes, acne, and dark marks can all be resolved quickly using a peel, evening the skin tone. Especially interesting are the peels that come with a blend of exfoliating ingredients and acids, enriched with beneficial ingredients for the skin that will make both the skin and the complexion look flawless.
Of course, each peel is different, so here are the best peels for your skin type and budget.
Yes to Grapefruit – Pore Perfection Brightening Peel– $10
This popular drugstore peel is very efficient for at-home use. The base of this peel is grapefruit, which has brightening properties. That makes it suitable for acne-prone skin. The grapefruit extract and the vitamin C work together in the evening to improve skin tone and diminish dark spots. It is a 98% natural product, and it is paraben-free.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling solution – $14
This peeling solution is packed with 30% AHA and 2% BHA, which makes it an extraordinary budget peel. It is a rinse-off treatment that can be used up to 2 times a week, with each season lasting no more than 10 minutes. This treatment targets irregularities, brightens dullness, and clears out congested pores.
Bliss – That’s Incredi-peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads – $25
Applying a peel has never been easier than with this unique pad. Not only are they great for quick and convenient at-home use, but they are great for traveling, too. Regarded as a spa-quality resurfacing peel, these pads are enriched with 10% glycolic acid and release their content overnight. The result is a smooth face without dead surface cells and improved skin tone and texture.
Caudalie – Vino Perfect Glycolic Peel – $42
Bright and glowing skin has never been more affordable. The Vinoperfect Glycolic Peel mask whisks dead skin cells away with just one sweep. It refines the skin texture and makes the skin glowy in just 10 minutes. Vegan and with 96% natural origin ingredients, this peel also treats dark spots and is suitable for all skin types.
Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial AHA + BHA Mask – $80
The key ingredient in this peel is Marula Oil, a naturally derived oil from the Marula tree. Its lightweight properties and the mix of non-comedogenic fatty acids, similar to those found in the skin, make this peel extremely suitable and gentle. After using this product, the skin will appear radiant, soothed, and hydrated.
Savor Beauty Yuzu Lemonade Peel – $80
Salicylic and Lactic acids come together as the main ingredients in this peel. The peel starts to work 30 seconds after the application, breaking down the pore-clogging oil. Also, any dark marks that can appear due to old blemishes will quickly and surely fade, making the skin and the face look much more appealing and clear. The lemon Italian ice scent is refreshing, and the product promotes cell turnover in less than a minute.
Lancer Skincare Caviar Lime Acid Peel – $91
Peels work great for fighting wrinkles and fine lines, too. Lancer Skincare Caviar Lime Acid Peel is a peel that is worth the money. This peel consists of a 10% glycolic acid concentration known for fighting wrinkles. Besides this, the peel has excellent exfoliating capabilities, brightens the skin, and stimulates collagen production. The key ingredient in this peel is the Cavial lime, which is known to be a great source of AHA. The formula also features retinol, which delivers many anti-aging and wrinkle-fighting benefits.
Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Universal Daily Peel – $92
This is the right pick if you are looking for a gentle yet effective product that you can use daily. This cult peel is a top choice among beauty junkies. Designed as a two-step treatment, it is great for regular daily use. The first pad is rich in five exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids. The second one neutralizes the acids and, at the same time, delivers anti-aging ingredients. This peel treats tone, texture, wrinkles, and enlarged pores. It is the best solution for different skin needs.