Step right into your personalized routine to a glowing complexion with our curated selection of the 16 best chemical peels. These chemical peels, steeped in the science of skincare and the finesse of aesthetics, are designed by experts to unlock your skin's radiant beauty.

Thanks to their active ingredients, these chemical peels can help you exfoliate your skin, revealing a smoother and brighter complexion beneath. Through our trial and error, we discovered that from fighting off aging signs to reducing hyperpigmentation, they are transformative treatments catering to various skin concerns. Chemical peels can pamper your skin, make it smoother, and give it a more youthful complexion.

It's true that modern science has been highlighting the efficacy of chemical peels in enhancing overall skin appearance. As per renowned dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad, chemical peels, an excellent adjunct to skin care, remove the damaged outer layers, promote cell turnover, and encourage collagen and elastin production(1). This handpicked selection of the best chemical peels has been compiled after thorough research, ensuring they meet the highest standards of safety and effectiveness. Whether battling blemishes, trying to defy age, or merely aiming for that enchanting 'lit from within' look, we've got you covered. Let the journey to luminous, smooth skin commence!

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  Best for Wrinkles

  Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads by QRxLabs

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You can unveil a younger-looking you with QRxLabs' Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads, an anti-aging marvel that holds power to make your skin feel softer and smoother. The pads come fully saturated with a concentrated solution of pure glycolic acid, which diligently works to reduce scars, bumps, lines, and wrinkles. Enriched with antioxidants like Vitamins B5, C & E, these pads can hydrate your skin and help repair photodamage from UV rays. The formula also features allantoin, green tea, and calendula extracts, powerful ingredients known to soothe the skin and act as anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents. As one of the best glycolic acid peel, these professional non-woven textured pads are designed with a convenient finger notch, making application a breeze. 

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Best for Acne

Toyo - Cure Aqua Gel Gentle Exfoliator

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Let's indulge in the magic of Japanese skincare with Natural Aqua Gel Cure's gentle exfoliator. The transformative power of this aqua gel is visible through its ability to improve skin tone and texture. What sets aqua gel apart is its hydrogen water formula, which delicately removes dead skin cells without causing stress to your skin. It actively works on removing dead cells and improving pigmentation that leads to a flawless complexion. As one of the best chemical peels at home, it can enhance your skin’s absorption and give you a natural youthful glow. An added benefit of this exfoliator is its volume. An entire bottle may last up to approximately four months if used once or twice weekly.

3

Best Overall

Vivo Per Lei Facial Peeling Gel

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This Vivo Per Lei Facial Peeling Gel offers a sublime solution to age-old skincare woes through the power of nature. From gentle exfoliation to makeup removal, this gel addresses multiple skin concerns. Infused with minerals from the Dead Sea, it is one of the safest chemical peels that breathes vitality into the skin across all types, including dry, oily, sensitive, or combination. With its unique formula, it not only cleanses and moisturizes but also reduces the signs of aging, unveiling a youthful appearance. Rich in salt, glycerin, and nutshell powder, it balances oil production and nourishes deeply. This revitalizing gel presents a pathway to radiant, smooth, and refreshed skin right in the comfort of your own home.

4

Best for Skin Revitalization

ELEMIS London Papaya Enzyme Peel

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Exfoliate your skin gently and get rid of dead skin cells without abrasion with the Papaya Enzyme Peel by ELEMIS London. Being rich in the natural enzymes from papaya and pineapple, it makes for a great skincare essential to purify the skin, slowing the aging process, lifting the skin, and making it smooth and revitalized. It also contains the goodness of bladderwrack, which is known for its potent moisturizing properties. In a nutshell, using this enzyme peel will make your skin feel soft and supple. When we tested this product, we found that it is gentle on the skin and creates a smooth canvas for makeup/skincare products. The brand is also known for its amazing steps taken to restore and protect biodiversity. So, what more to ask for? Grab the product now and say adieu to all your skincare woes!

5

Minimalist AHA 25% + PHA 5% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

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Let your skin relish the brilliance of pure, glowing skin with the Minimalist AHA 25% + PHA 5% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution. Specifically curated to counteract dullness, pigmentation, and uneven texture, this potent formula energizes skin cell turnover for a radiant appearance. With an innovative blend of AHA, BHA, and PHA, the solution clears pores, reduces blackheads, and superbly exfoliates. Being enriched with turmeric extract and aloe vera, this skin potion has soothing and healing properties, which make it suitable for sensitive skin. This product stands by a clean, transparent beauty ethos, free from irritants like fragrance, silicones, sulfates, and parabens. Among all other skin peel products, this is a safer, more effective alternative to traditional face scrubs.

6

Best Professional-grade

QRxLabs Chemical Peel Neutralizer

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You can enjoy a smooth transition to balanced, comfortable skin after a chemical peel with QRxLabs Chemical Peel Neutralizer. This professional-grade product safely and effectively neutralizes acid from peels, adjusting the skin's pH levels. This mist is versatile and designed for compatibility with all acid-based skin peels, such as glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids, Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA), and Jessner peel. Enriched with the soothing properties of chamomile and green tea extracts, this is one of the best TCA peels, pacifying any burning or tingling sensation from the peel. The neutralizer encourages tissue repair, contributing to your skin's wellness journey. After putting it to the test, we suggest that your next at-home facial peel is incomplete without this safety companion.

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Best for Soothing

Elastalift Resurfacing Glycolic Acid Facial Peel Serum

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It's time to revitalize your skin effortlessly with Elastalift Resurfacing Glycolic Acid Facial Peel Serum, your shortcut to a radiant complexion. This potent treatment merges the power of glycolic, salicylic, lactic, and phytic acids to eradicate common skin woes like age spots, hyperpigmentation, and acne scars. It delves deeper than physical exfoliators without harming sensitive skin. Say hi to a practical home peeling product that defies visible signs of aging and welcomes confidence with each application. Crafted in the USA, this paraben-free peel suits all skin types. The formula also includes beneficial fruit extracts like apple, blueberry, and green tea, enhancing skin health and tone while promoting cell turnover.

8

Best Rejuvenating

Ebanel 30% AHA 2% BHA Chemical Peel Exfoliant Gel

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It's time to exfoliate your skin with Ebanel's Chemical Peel Exfoliant Gel, a blend of 30% AHA and 2% BHA. Ingredients like lactic acid, glycolic acid, and mandelic acid have made this a safe option for those who want to retain their youthful skin. With the goodness of its components, this exfoliant can gently shed dead skin cells, reduce acne scars and even out skin discoloration, and defy aging signs. With consistent application, you can achieve a softer, smoother complexion following the combination of brightening Vitamin C, antioxidant green tea, soothing chamomile, and hydrating Hyaluronic Acid. This is one of the best home chemical peels, which unclogs pores and promotes collagen production for firmer skin. Apply directly without the need for a neutralizer. 

9

Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel

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You are all set to unveil your skin's true radiance with Dr. Dennis Gross's Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel, a transformative two-step treatment that works wonders in minutes. Designed to fit into your daily routine, this is one of the best chemical peel options, packed with a potent blend of five AHA/BHAs, antioxidants, and vitamins that work synergistically to remove dead skin, control excess oil and impurities, and improve uneven tone and texture. Noticeably smoother skin, smaller pores, and reduced lines await regular users. Ideal for all skin types, this dermatologist-founded brand assures efficacy and safety, bringing you closer to the skin you've always desired. Now it's easier to get rejuvenated skin with a natural glow that lasts.

10

Best Overnight Results

DERMA E Overnight Peel

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Let’s revitalize your skin while you sleep with DERMA E's Overnight Peel. This powerful overnight face mask features a skin-brightening blend of 5% Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs) to exfoliate and retexturize your complexion. With the best facial peel in the collection, you can wake up to a radiant and rejuvenated look. The overnight application allows the peel to work its magic while you rest, revealing a smooth, even texture and a vibrant complexion. Cleanse your face, apply the peel generously before bedtime, and rinse off in the morning to display the results. This cruelty-free peel is the key to achieving a healthy, youthful glow with clean, all-natural ingredients like Alpha acid, lactic acid, Jojoba Seed Oil, antioxidant-rich green tea, and brightening vitamin C.

11

Best for Combination Skin

Bliss That's Incredi-Peel Glycolic Resurfacing Facial Pads

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Bliss That's Incredi-Peel Glycolic Resurfacing Facial Pads are convenient for smoother, brighter skin overnight. These fragrance-free glycolic acid pads are soaked with pro-grade AHA glycolic acid, ensuring a spa-quality peel treatment at home. With their travel-friendly design, you can enjoy the benefits of home peeling anywhere, anytime. Each pad time-releases glycolic acid, effectively targeting fine lines, discoloration, and imperfections. Simply wipe over clean, dry skin at night and let the pad work like magic. No rinsing is required. Follow up with a gentle moisturizer. Use 2-3 times per week for real, visible results. Remember to apply daily SPF when using this product, as it contains an AHA that increases skin sensitivity to the sun. 

12

DERMALOGY by NEOGENLAB Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pads

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You can enjoy the ultimate solution for firmer, tighter, and healthier glowing skin with DERMALOGY by NEOGENLAB Bio-Peel Gauze Peeling Pads. These 2-in-1 pads combine the power of Wine PHA peeling serum with the physical exfoliation of Neogen's 3-layer gauze pad and effectively remove dead skin cells. More interestingly, with key ingredients like red wine and resveratrol, these pads deliver antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and over 300 nutrients to prevent oxidation and skin aging. Known as the best chemical peel for sagging skin, these pads suit all skin types. You can experience the benefits of pure cotton gauze following its gentle and safe exfoliation properties. The unique 3-layer structure ensures a thorough peeling, leaving your skin smoother, softer, and more refined.

13

Peter Thomas Roth | FIRMx Peeling Gel

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While offering a breakthrough exfoliation experience, this gel from Peter Thomas Roth remarkably rolls, lifts, and sweeps away skin impurities when massaged. With its multi-action enzymes, including pineapple, pomegranate, and cellulose, this peeling gel unveils a smoother, fresher, and newer-looking complexion. Dry skin rejoices as it unclogs pores, promoting a youthful, radiant, and firm look. The gel's active ingredient, SLES, is expertly chosen for its deep cleaning properties. Applying this peel involves massaging a generous amount onto clean, dry skin, followed by a thorough rinse. For an extra enzymatic exfoliation, leave it on for 1 to 5 minutes before rinsing. Use it 1 to 3 times weekly, catering to your skin sensitivity.

14

Lactic 50% Gel Peel by Perfect Image

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Your answer to enhanced skin rejuvenation is here with the Lactic 50% Gel Peel by Perfect Image. This Level 2 gel peel is formulated with Kojic Acid and Lactic Acid to deliver intense hydration, target wrinkles, and fine lines, and promote a balanced skin tone. Kojic Acid helps inhibit melanin, reducing freckles and age spots, while lactic Acid encourages collagen and elastin fibroblast production, boosting a younger appearance. The blend is enriched with green tea extract and cucumber for revitalized skin and botanical extracts of Bearberry and Licorice for natural healing. Being one of the best chemical peels in the market, this potent formula is for advanced peelers, and it's advisable to commence with Level 1. Apply after cleansing with warm water or a mild cleanser for optimal results.

15

Mad Hippie AHA Exfoliating Peel

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Basking in your skin's radiant glow with the Mad Hippie AHA Exfoliating Peel can be a remarkable experience. It works its magic by gently shedding dull skin and nourishing your face for a bright, radiant glow. The peel has a power-packed formula created with organic actives such as glycolic and lactic acid. These ingredients reduce blemishes, age spots, and skin discolorations. Natural ingredients like Goji Berry and vitamins C, E, B1, B2 & B6 ensure healthy skin. With a favorable rating of 4.6 in chemical peel reviews, the serum uniquely combines hyaluronic acid and vitamin E for smoother, youthful-looking skin. Apply a dime-sized amount to your face and neck at night for the best results.

16

Best for Tanning

ORG Body Scrub Deep Gel Exfoliator

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Crafted with a complex of organic enzymes, O.R.G. Skincare Body Scrub Deep Gel Exfoliator works wonders on all skin types, from dry and oily to sensitive and combination. This natural mineral peeling formulation is your ideal first step to shedding off dirt and dead and damaged skin cells, paving the way for smoother skin ready to tan or shave. This ancient Korean formulation comprises moisturizing nutrients that leave your skin feeling baby soft without causing dryness or irritation. Its multiple applications include prepping skin for a smooth shave and facilitating mani-pedis. This exfoliator is made in the U.S.A. following a perfect blend of grapefruit seed extract, aloe leaf extract, and artemisia extract. So rest assured that it's free from alcohol, sulfates, and parabens.

So, this was our sparkling list of the 15 best chemical peels to have you shedding your skincare worries away! A good peel goes way deeper to ensure your healthy glow. Let your radiant self shine through with your perfect peel match!

Our contributor Dr. Anna Chacon, a board-certified dermatologist, says, “A chemical peel can provide long-lasting results, especially for issues like hyperpigmentation and acne scars. However, the skin continues to age and is exposed to environmental damage so maintenance treatments may be necessary.” By selecting the right chemical peel, you can transform your skincare journey, dramatically. And this decision should never be hasty. It entails a comprehensive understanding of your skin's unique needs, the various types of peels available, and the outcomes they offer. Based on our observations, we have designed the following guide to illuminate these factors and aid you in making the most suitable choice.

Skin Type

The cornerstone of choosing the best professional chemical peels is an in-depth understanding of your skin type. For instance, if you possess dry skin, you would benefit from a milder peel, such as one containing alpha hydroxy acid (AHA). On the contrary, oily skin can handle slightly more potent formulations like salicylic acid. Sensitive skin requires even greater caution, with gentler options like lactic acid peels typically being the safest route.

Skin Concerns

Recognizing your skin concerns and setting clear goals for improvement will significantly guide your chemical peel selection. For example, glycolic acid peels are renowned for their deep penetration capabilities. It's ideal for combating sun damage or pigmentation issues. At the same time, salicylic acid peels effectively address acne or excessively oily skin. In contrast, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels or phenol peels have a reputation for reducing the visibility of fine lines and wrinkles.

Frequency and Downtime

The frequency of application and recovery time post-peel are also crucial factors in this decision-making process. Light peels, such as those with AHAs, have minimal downtime and can be applied frequently. However, they may require multiple sessions to deliver the desired results. Medium peels, like TCA, delve deeper into the skin layers and need almost a week of recovery. When it comes to Deep peels, such as those using phenol, they can offer dramatic results but carry increased risks and require substantial downtime. 

Professional Consultation

Before committing to a chemical peel, you should always seek professional consultation. Dermatologists can offer indispensable advice, taking into account your skin type, primary concerns, and overall health. Furthermore, they ensure the peel is administered securely and controlled, significantly reducing potential risks and side effects.

Patch Testing

Before fully applying a chosen peel, patch testing is a preventive measure to ensure there are no adverse skin issues. This step enables you to gauge your skin's reaction to the peel and drastically reduces the likelihood of an adverse reaction when applied to your entire face.

Our contributor Dr. Chacon says, “At-home chemical peels are generally safe if used correctly. However, they are typically less potent than professional peels. Misuse can lead to skin damage, so it's essential to follow the instructions carefully.”

Choosing a chemical peel is a multifaceted process. It requires meticulous consideration of your skin type, primary concerns, available downtime, and professional guidance. All you need to understand is that while chemical peels can deliver impressive results, they are separate from the concept of a one-time solution. You must be involved in ongoing care and maintenance for the best results. Also, remember to follow a consistent skincare routine post-peel, particularly ensuring sufficient sun protection to maximize and sustain the treatment's benefits.

Our findings show that the best chemical peels can be transformative, combining the science of beauty to reveal your skin's inherent radiance.In this journey of exploring advanced skincare, it is crucial to remember that our individual skin needs are as unique as we are. The journey to radiant and smooth skin isn't a sprint; it's a marathon. And with these potent, science-backed chemical peels in your skincare regime, you're all set to redefine beauty. So, take a leap of faith, try something new, and remember that luminous, healthy skin is always in style.

Contributor: Dr. Anna Chacon, Dermatologist - MyPsoriasisTeam