Sometimes, treating your skin to a much-needed rejuvenating treatment can be exactly what you need to help your skin achieve that elusive glow. When it comes to getting a chemical peel, you’ve got to choose the right option based on your skin type, budget, preferences, and more.
For instance, opting for an at home chemical peel is more affordable than heading to the dermatologist’s office for a session. That said, it’s obviously not as potent an option as getting a professional chemical peel.
Additionally, working with a dermatologist may help you achieve the results you’re looking for because your treatment is likely to be customized. However, one cannot rule out the benefits of an at home chemical peel.
This treatment can help you achieve tangible results over time and is easier to keep up with.
All in all, chemical peels, in general, can improve your skin texture in more ways than one. If you’re looking for smoother skin or a way to get rid of dark spots and acne scars, an at home chemical peel can help you.
At Home Chemical Peel vs. Professional
In-office treatments like fibroblast skin tightening, BBL face treatments, and chemical peels can help improve your overall skin texture and help you achieve an even skin tone.
They can also address specific skin concerns such as:
- Fine Lines
- Wrinkles
- Sun Spots
- Acne Scars
- Hyperpigmentation
Specifically, at home chemical peels are known to help exfoliate the skin, fight acne, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
What about professional chemical peels? First things first: when you opt for a chemical peel at a dermatologist’s office, you know you’re in good hands because you’ll have someone monitoring your skin to ensure you don’t have adverse reactions.
Additionally, chemical peels are a relatively harsh treatment option because they require chemical exfoliators. Sticking to the correct amount of exfoliating acids is crucial to get the best results.
A professional may be more equipped to handle chemical peels, especially in terms of deciding things like:
- The acid to use for your skin type and specific skin concerns
- How long to allow the product to sit on your skin for maximum benefits
Plus, a professional chemical is likely to include stronger products which means you’ll see more noticeable results in the days following your appointment.
At Home Chemical Peel Benefits
At this point, you’re probably scratching your head and wondering how an at home chemical peel can benefit your skin. We get it – the treatment can feel confusing, especially if you’ve never tried it before.
Here’s a quick look at some of the most prominent benefits of opting for chemical peels at home.
Benefits of Getting an At-Home Chemical Peel | Description |
Proper Exfoliation. | Regular exfoliation, when done safely, can help your skin look radiant. |
Targeting Hyperpigmentation and Acne Scars. | A home face peel may help fade old scars from stubborn acne and even reduce hyperpigmentation. |
Reducing Fine Lines and Wrinkles. | If you’re after youthful-looking skin, you’ll love how an at home chemical peel makes your skin look. You’ll likely notice your fine lines seem less prominent after the treatment. |
Sprucing Up Your Skincare Routine. | An at home chemical peel can help you get the most out of your skincare products by allowing them to absorb better. |
An at home chemical peel can also have other benefits, like making your skin glow, cleaning out your pores, targeting acne, and more.
DIY Chemical Peel Types
It’s important to understand that not all chemical peels are created equal. There are some options that are better suited for certain skin types compared to others.
Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the most popular DIY chemical peel types.
TCA Chemical Peel
A TCA chemical peel, also known as a trichloroacetic acid peel, focuses on eliminating dead skin cells. It can help target several skin concerns like melasma, a condition that is associated with dark spots and hyperpigmentation.
Who It’s For
The TCA chemical peel is suitable for anyone trying to get rid of scars, blemishes, dark spots, or wrinkles. While it may not get rid of the problem completely, it can still be fairly effective in delivering promising results.
What It Does
This at home chemical peel option removes dead skin cells and leaves you with smooth and glowing skin.
It can also help reduce melasma and acne scars while making fine lines look less prominent. However, a treatment option like TCA chemical peel needs some downtime.
Your skin is likely to:
- Shed for a few days post the treatment
- Look red or feel sensitive
- Seem tight or different
If you experience any major side effects that don’t go away a few days after your at home chemical peel, please consult a dermatologist for advice. Note that this is one of the most potent chemical peels available and might be best suited for experienced users and professionals.
Zohna Tip
Be diligent about using sunscreen every day after a chemical peel for the best results.
Before & After
Here’s an example of what to expect after getting your TCA chemical. You can expect some peeling and redness for a few days post treatment. After the recovery period, your skin is likely to glow.
PCA Chemical Peel
Skincare company PCA Skin offers an at home chemical peel treatment for those looking to pamper their skin at home, including individuals with sensitive skin.
The chemical peels are meant to improve overall skin quality and tackle issues like acne and hyperpigmentation.
Who It’s For
The PCA at home chemical peel is suitable for individuals with different skin types. That said, your mileage may vary. It’s a good idea to get in touch with a dermatologist if you experience any side effects.
The Micro Peel At Home kit has multiple products, including:
- Cleansers
- Toners
- Serums
- SPF
- An Enzymatic Chemical Peel
This at home chemical peel treatment includes alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) and enzymes for a complete exfoliating treatment.
What It Does
The PCA at home chemical peel is useful for those who wish to exfoliate their skin and get rid of dead skin cells for smoother, glowing skin. The enzymatic peel contains a blend of antioxidants that help fight the signs of aging, like fine lines and wrinkles.
Plus, the at home chemical peel helps reduce:
- Acne
- Dark Spots
- Dullness
It also includes a skincare kit for those who want to opt for a simplified, easy-to-follow skincare regimen.
Before & After
Take a quick look at these before and after pictures. They’re a good way to understand how a PCA chemical peel can help transform your skin.
Lactic Acid Peel
One of the most gentle options on this list, lactic acid peels are AHAs that exfoliate the skin without being too harsh.
Even those who have sensitive skin can safely use lactic acid peels in lower concentrations. As always, if unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a dermatologist for advice.
Who It’s For
Anyone looking to reduce the appearance of their pores and enhance their skin texture can benefit from a lactic acid peel.
The at home chemical peel works really well for those with dry and sensitive skin. That said, it’s a good fit for most skin types.
What It Does
This OTC chemical peel helps fight dark spots on the skin and can be an effective tool against hyperpigmentation. It can also make fine lines look less prominent and help you achieve an even skin tone.
Before And After
These before and after photos can help you determine what results to expect after a lactic acid peel. If the images are anything to go by, you’ll be saying hello to glowing, smoother skin in no time.
Glycolic Chemical Peel
The glycolic chemical peel is another noteworthy option worth considering if you’re trying to achieve healthy, glowing skin at home. It’s a type of AHA that is a good fit for someone who wants to target multiple skin issues at the same time.
Who It’s For
No matter your skin type, you’ll likely benefit from using an at home chemical peel containing glycolic acid because it’s shown to work well for individuals with different skin types. However, be safe and perform a patch test before applying it to your face.
What It Does
Like other AHAs, glycolic acid helps individuals achieve an even skin tone, reduces hyperpigmentation, and makes skin look smoother and healthier. It’s also an excellent pick for someone who wants to make their pores look less prominent.
While picking out the right at home chemical peel, make sure to:
- Begin with lower concentrations to avoid any strong reactions to the product.
- Take things slow and use the product once a week to avoid damaging your skin barrier.
In case you experience any symptoms like itchy skin, extra sensitivity, inflammation, and dryness, stop using all exfoliating products and stick to a basic routine of cleansing, moisturizing, and protecting your skin with SPF.
If your skin doesn’t feel better in a few weeks, reach out to a dermatologist for advice.
Before & After
These pictures indicate promising results from glycolic acid peels. You’re likely to enjoy glowing, smoother skin after your pampering session.
AHA Peel
The AHA chemical peel can be exactly what you need to achieve better, younger-looking skin. You can choose from different options like glycolic acid peel, citric acid, lactic acid, and more.
Who It’s For
You’re a great candidate for an AHA chemical peel if you’re brand new to the world of exfoliating and need a gentle introduction to the world of chemical peels.
Using an at home chemical peel with AHAs can help you improve your skin quality from the comfort of your home. The best part? It’s a fairly affordable and accessible option for most.
What It Does
Using an AHA chemical face peel at home can help you get rid of rough skin and make your skin look healthy, smooth, and straight-up gorgeous. It is one of the least invasive options in the market and is a great fit for anyone who wants to try a gentle at home chemical peel.
Before And After
AHA chemical peels can make your skin look more vibrant. The pictures demonstrate how effective they can be in improving the quality of your skin.
A gentle reminder – don’t forget that it’s a long journey, and you’ll need to be patient to see results.
OTC Peel
If you’re intrigued by at home chemical peel options but unsure where to start, try an OTC peel with ingredients like mandelic, tartaric, or malic acids. The key is to use a product that doesn’t have higher concentrations of active ingredients to see how your skin responds to the treatment.
Also, always start the process with cleansed skin to allow the product to do its job.
Zohna Tip
A chemical peel can make you more sensitive to the sun, and it's crucial to religiously use SPF for the best results.
Who It’s For
A home chemical peel option like an OTC peel is ideal for those interested in trying exfoliation without experimenting with anything extreme or abrasive. An OTC chemical peel can make your skin look brighter while tackling specific concerns like hyperpigmentation or acne scars.
If you’re perplexed by the sheer number of options available, don’t hesitate to consult a dermatologist for advice.
What It Does
This boils down to the product you choose and the concentration of active ingredients in the at home chemical peel. But in general, an OTC peel can make your skin look and feel better while tackling certain skin concerns like sun spots, uneven skin tone, and wrinkles.
Before And After
BHA Peel
This at home chemical peel works best for those with oily skin. Note that BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are typically perceived to be stronger than AHAs.
Also, salicylic acid is one of the most common ingredients found in a BHA peel.
Who It’s For
A BHA at home chemical peel is a good fit for someone who has skin damaged by the sun or oily skin. This may not be the best fit if your skin tends to be drier, though.
What It Does
A BHA peel helps tackle rough skin while treating sun damage and reducing large pores. It can also help enhance overall skin quality and make skin look less oily.
Before & After
As these pictures demonstrate, a solid BHA peel can help you improve your skin and make it less oily. It’s a dream come true for those struggling with oily skin.
Best Chemical Peels
Need recommendations while picking an at home chemical peel that’s both accessible and effective? Say no more.
Here’s a quick look at some of the best chemical peels to pick from.
Strongest At Home Chemical Peel
Need a home face peel that’s potent and impressive? Check out the recommendations below.
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, The Ordinary
This at home chemical peel is a highly affordable product from the popular skincare line, The Ordinary. It combines several actives like lactic acid, glycolic acid, and salicylic acid.
This chemical peel is best for someone struggling with rough skin, acne, and blocked pores. You’ll easily find the product at Sephora and online on sites like Amazon and Ulta Beauty.
TLC Sukari Babyfacial Mask, Drunk Elephant
This at home chemical peel is made using a combination of AHAs and BHAs. It works well for multiple skin types and helps reduce large pores and fade dark spots.
This home face peel is available as a face mask and makes skin look smoother and younger. Get it at Walmart, Sephora, or Ulta Beauty.
Best At Home Chemical Peel For Hyperpigmentation
If you’re tired of tackling hyperpigmentation and are looking for an effective alternative, an at home chemical peel may help you achieve your desired results. Take a look at some of our recommendations below.
Created using glycolic acid, this at home chemical peel option contains soothing ingredients like green tea extract coupled with Vitamin B5, Vitamin E, and Vitamin C.
This easy-to-use product can help diminish the appearance of dark spots and hyperpigmentation while enhancing the quality of your skin. You can easily purchase the product on Amazon or on the QRxLabs website.
This at home chemical peel option is a good pick for anyone who’d like to target dark spots from the comfort of their home.
It contains active ingredients like lemongrass, lactic acid, and arnica. The serum also helps make fine lines look less prominent. Buy it on Amazon or pick up a bottle from Sephora.
At Home Chemical Peel For Acne Scars
Tired of battling stubborn acne scars? Try using an at home chemical peel to help fade old acne scars and improve the quality of your skin in more ways than one.
While you may or may not see satisfactory results, a high-quality over-the-counter chemical peel is worth a shot if you’ve tried other options without success.
Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel, Dr. Dennis Gross
Formulated with AHAs, BHAs, chamomile, retinol, and green tea extract, this at home chemical peel makes the skin look smoother, hydrated, younger, and healthier.
It may help reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes while enhancing your natural skin texture. Purchase the product from the Dr. Dennis Gross website or at Sephora stores.
This at home chemical peel product has 10% glycolic acid and can help exfoliate the skin for smoother skin while targeting acne scars and age-related spots.
It includes nourishing ingredients like:
- Witch Hazel
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin A
Plus, these glycolic acid pads are effective at reducing the appearance of pores and can make the skin tone look more even. You can buy the product from Amazon.
At Home Chemical Peel For Dark Spots
This product is a cult favorite from Paula’s Choice and includes ingredients like green tea extract and salicylic acid.
This at home chemical peel aims to help eliminate uneven skin tone and dark spots while targeting:
- Large Pores
- Blackheads
- Fine Lines and Wrinkles
Get the product from a Sephora outlet, on Amazon, or the Paula’s Choice website
This at home chemical peel is available as a serum and helps tackle hyperpigmentation and dark spots.
It can also make your skin look brighter and smoother. For best results, stay disciplined and exfoliate regularly (but don’t overdo it.) This product is available on Amazon.
Best Drugstore Chemical Peel
Drugstore products are usually far more accessible and pocket-friendly than their counterparts. If you swear by drugstore picks, check out our top at home chemical peel suggestions below.
This glycolic chemical peel has superhero ingredients like glycerin and calendula flower extract to hydrate the skin. It also has vitamin E and AHAs that help the skin look smoother and brighter.
Additionally, this cruelty-free product is formulated without sulfates or parabens. You can order the product from Amazon.
This at home chemical peel has a combination of AHAs and BHAs. Specifically, it includes ingredients like Vitamin E, lactic acid, green tea extract, mandelic acid, glycolic acid, and more.
This versatile chemical peel can help get rid of discolored spots, fine lines, blackheads, and acne scars. You can easily find the product online on Amazon.
Facial Peels For Dry Skin
Wondering how to pick the perfect at home chemical peel for dry skin? We’ve got your back. Take a look at our recommendations while exploring facial peels for dry skin.
This at home chemical peel is a solid option for anyone who needs a gentle but effective solution while combating fine lines and wrinkles. Made without parabens and gluten, this product is ideal for anyone looking for a cruelty-free option.
It helps make skin look smoother and brighter by exfoliating the skin without drying it out. Get it on Amazon or order it from the Dermalogica website.
This exfoliating mask is formulated with 5% AHAs. Expect to find ingredients like jojoba oil, green tea extract, Vitamin C, lactic acid, and glycolic acid that work together to make your complexion radiant.
The at home chemical peel addresses multiple skin concerns like:
- Uneven Skin Tone
- Hyperpigmentation
- Redness
- Dark Spots
You can order the product online on sites like Amazon.
How To Do A Chemical Peel At Home
Using a chemical peel for the first time or trying out active ingredients to exfoliate your skin can feel scary and confusing. We’re here for you!
Remember to pick a product that’s meant for your skin type and start with a milder product before trying stronger alternatives.
Take a look at our step-by-step guide below.
Step | Description |
Prep your skin for what’s coming. | Wash your face with a cleanser of your choice before starting the exfoliating process. |
Apply the at home chemical peel to your face. | Follow the instructions and use a small amount of the product. |
Wait for the home face peel to work its magic, and keep it on for the recommended time. | Allow the product to do its job (but don’t leave it on for too long.) In case of extreme irritation, it’s best to wash off the product and consult a doctor. |
Use a neutralizing product and moisturize. | If your product comes with a neutralizing solution, use that before proceeding to the next step. Don’t forget to use a gentle moisturizer at the end of your routine. |
Chemical Peel Kit
If you feel like pampering yourself, you can treat yourself to a chemical peel kit for extra TLC. Need a recommendation? Try the MedPeel Deluxe Facial Peel Essentials Kit.
Usually, a chemical peel kit like the MedPeel kit includes different products like:
- A prep solution
- A neutralizing spray
- A hydrating serum
- A gentle moisturizer
Alternative to Chemical Peels
Not sold by chemical peels and want to try something else instead? You don’t have to try an at home chemical peel if it’s not up your alley.
Here’s what you can do instead.
Alternative | Description |
Retinoids | This option works well as an exfoliant, and as an anti-aging product that helps keep fine lines and wrinkles under control |
Microneedling | An in-office treatment like microneedling can help get rid of stubborn acne scars and may be more effective than chemical peels in some cases |
Laser therapy | Laser therapy may also be a solid option if you’re looking to get rid of old scars and achieve clear and younger-looking skin |
Ultimately, you’ve got to choose what’s best for your skin. This may take a bit of trial and error. As always, talk to a dermatologist for advice if you’re unsure.
FAQ
What Does A Lactic Acid Peel Do?
A lactic acid peel can help decrease the appearance of fine and wrinkles while exfoliating your skin and gently removing dead skin cells. It’s a great fit for those with dry skin.
Do At Home Chemical Peels Work?
Absolutely. An at home chemical peel can help you safely exfoliate your skin and improve the quality of your skin. It may be a better choice compared to abrasive exfoliating scrubs.
Are DIY Chemical Peels Safe?
It’s best not to use unknown ingredients from your pantry to come up with a DIY chemical peel. Stick to well-known products and consult your dermatologist for advice if needed.
Do At Home Chemical Peels Hurt?
Most at home chemical peels shouldn’t cause a lot of pain or irritation. However, you may experience mild discomfort at first. It’s best to rinse off the product (and talk to your doctor) in case of extreme irritation.
How Long Does It Take To Recover?
Many at home chemical peels aren’t as strong or intense as in-office chemical peels. There should be minimal to no downtime with milder products.
That said, products with more active ingredients may need a little downtime (around a week to 10 days.) Remember to always use SPF and protect your skin.
Also, never rush the process or over-exfoliate. You don’t want to deal with a chemical peel gone wrong, after all.
Ready To Achieve Glowing Skin Yet?
Whether using a facial steamer to rejuvenate your skin or trying a much-hyped at home chemical peel, you deserve to treat yourself and achieve glowing, healthy skin.
Just remember the basics – take things slow, pay attention to how your skin responds to certain ingredients, and protect your skin.