
In the field of dermato-cosmetology, we call peeling (or dermo-peeling, or scrubbing or desquamation) several techniques of aesthetic medicine generally implemented by qualified estheticians, although at-home face peels are getting more and more popular, to regenerate the skin (most often the face) or treat aesthetically disturbing dermatological sequelae.
Face peels can be gentle (superficial), medium or even deep (in this case, it is performed by a dermatologist because the peeling is similar to an acid burn, which must be carefully controlled, otherwise it leaves scars).
Thanks to chemically "aggressive" substances such as AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acid), glycolic acid or homogenized and possibly adjuvanted TCA (TriChloroAcetic), a controlled destruction and then elimination (desquamation) of the epidermal cells and superficial layers of the dermis are performed.
There are different types of peels depending on the type and concentration of the acid used:
Surface peeling: application of AHA type product.
Medium peeling: application of a TCA type product. Desquamation proportional to the concentration of the product.
Deep peeling: application of a Phenol product only carried out in a medical or clinical practice because it is quite traumatic (result comparable to the dermabrasion technique).
Chemical peeling is used for different purposes:
- Blur the scars, rectify aesthetic sequelae
- Reduce dark circles, wrinkles and skin dryness
- Treat stretch marks, varicose veins and telangiectasias (spider veins).
True to my motto of making you discover alternative solutions and effective products to treat your skin problems, I have selected the 5 best at home chemical peels from 23 different brands.
I have selected products based on their quality/price ratio, active ingredients, efficiency and ease of use.
Fruit Acid Chemical Peel with Kojic Acid 15% - Lactic Acid, Glycolic Acid Natural Facial Gel Peel by [re]fresh Skin Therapy
The 15% Fruit Acid Gel Peeling combines three acids: Lactic, Glycolic, Pyruvic. This mixture makes this product the ideal peeling product.
As well as minimizing signs of skin maturation such as fine lines and wrinkles, this gel also compresses pigment spots and those left by acne and other pimples on the face.
The traces of imperfections on your skin will be erased, and your skin will look smoother, and much less dry.
This product has been concocted with ingredients from botanical processes. It contains no parabens, alcohol, artificial colors or perfumes.
It is made only of natural elements. All its characteristics have been subtly studied to restore the skin's tone, youthfulness and surprising moisture.
It offers you the possibility to use different acids of natural origin.
And yes, it is composed of fruit acids for cosmetic use that have the ability to penetrate the dermis in depth.
If you use this Peeling Gel, avoid excessive use. With caution, you will have all its performance at your disposal without danger.
The only problem is that this product is not suitable for all skin types. For overly sensitive skin, inflammatory reactions can occur by promoting the appearance of spots.
Strengths:
- Ingredients
- Efficiency and effectiveness
- Compatibility
Weaknesses:
- Quite expensive product
No products found.
Peeling Solution 30ml AHA 30% + BHA 2% by The Ordinary
The Ordinary Peeling Solution uses Tasmanian pepper and black carrot to help reduce irritation and oxidative stress associated with topical peels.
The anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-wrinkle properties of its ingredients naturally nourish and smooth the skin.
The salicylic acid it contains generates less skin irritation, which allows for more effective pore cleansing.
This gel cleanses the skin by removing several levels of dead cells. Thus, we will notice a clear improvement in the skin, healthier, pimple-free, and more hydrated.
It is applied weekly, for a period of 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the effectiveness noticed on the skin.
This is a very effective product for people with very sensitive skin. It is designed to provide lasting relief to the skin without the risk of adverse reactions and to avoid aggravating the skin's condition.
However, the products that make up The Ordinary Peeling Solution are made from plant extracts, not containing the most powerful components in the field.
Strengths:
- Composition
- Performance
- Brand Awareness
Weaknesses:
- Complexity of use
Last update on 2023-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Vitamin C + AHA Serum by OZ Naturals
Like all OZ products, this serum is known to be totally of plant origin. It has been manufactured without animal experiments, parabens, sulphates, mineral oils, lanolin, gluten and GMOs.
It is composed of vitamin C combined with astaxanthin, which is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
This substance provides a defense shield to the skin to protect it from external attacks.
To meet the need for peeling products, it obviously contains hyaluronic acid, combined with vitamin E.
In addition, the absence of preservatives harmful to the skin makes it one of the best natural products.
The cold pressing technique of the elements of this serum gives it a soft and clean texture.
Among other things, it gives your skin an improved tone and a brighter and healthier overall glow.
It is advisable to use it daily for best results.
Thanks to OZ Naturals, your skin can enjoy remarkable elasticity.
You can rejuvenate it with its ability to reduce wrinkles on your face. It treats your skin with great lightness, without accelerating the cell renewal process, reducing the risk of skin irritation.
The only downside is that with this product, you can't enjoy an immediate result for those who want an accelerated and fast action.
Strengths:
- Ingredients
- Daily use on a daily basis
- Results
Weaknesses:
- The price
Last update on 2023-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Caudalie Glycolic Peel, 2.5 Ounce by Caudalie
Considered to be the best peeling product for personal use, the Caudalie peeling mask is recommended to refine tired and dull skin.
In addition, it also has the potential to cleanse the skin and fight spots.
It is made from a combination of glycolic acid, considered the least irritating peeling and for its anti-aging properties, as well as viniferine from vine sap, which is essential to fight impurities.
In addition to that, the presence of papaya offers an exfoliation of the skin, and will renew its appearance.
Its use is recommended twice a week, and promises a shine in 10 minutes of application.
It revitalizes and enhances the skin's radiance.
Presented in a distinguished design with its wooden cap, you can read all the elements that make up the product.
Its 75 ml bottle adds an aesthetic appeal to its virtues.
By using this product, you can leave home directly after its application without having to use products that protect you from the sun, without the risk of redness or itching.
The glycolic acid contained in Caudalie Peel Mask alone can offer very good performance to revive dull complexions.
In one way, many other products are made up of several active ingredients, unlike Caudalie Peel Mask, which only has one, which may or may not work in its favor.
Strengths:
- Adaptability
- Ease of use
- Ingredients
Weaknesses:
- Few issues of concern
Last update on 2023-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Pumpkin Honey Glycolic Mask by Andalou Naturals
The brand promotes the use of fruits and natural ingredients in cosmetics. All the products offered are GMO-free, not tested on animals, tested under dermatological control, gluten free and vegan.
So far, it sounds pretty cool, but it's not over yet. Andalou Naturals also rejects the use of sulphates, petrochemical components, phthalates, synthetic colors, artificial perfumes, triclosan, PEG (polyethylene glycol), MEA (monoethanolamine), TEA (triethanolamine), DEA (Diethanolamine), synthetic and paraben-free preservatives.
Where to start, so first know that the vast majority of ingredients are of natural origin, whether for fruit extracts, oils, etc., such as active ingredients.
- Pumpkin puree: Natural enzymes remove dehydrated cells. They smooth the skin and bring light.
- Magnesium ascorbyl phosphate or Vitamin C: Improves the complexion, removes uneven spots on the skin, whether caused by the sun or over-production of melanin. But vitamin C does not stop there, it promotes skin renewal and promotes collagen and elastin by stimulating the defense against free radicals.
- Manuka Honey: Soothes, heals and clarifies the skin. But what is interesting is that it restores the balance of the skin, associated here with the pumpkin, I find that it is really the winning combo!
- AHAs: They exfoliate dead cells and remove impurities. Smoothes the skin and fights against microcysts often difficult to make go away. The final goal? A bright and cleansed skin!
- Aloe Vera: Is it still useful to present this ingredient? Aloe promotes skin elasticity and healing. It is also a very good non-greasy moisturizer, I am thinking of combination skin.
- Sunflower oil: Softening, it is mainly used here for its nourishing properties, so that the exfoliation of cells is done in sweetness and that sensitive and dry skin can also find some benefits.
- Cinnamon: An unloved ingredient, I really appreciate it! It is a powerful anti-bacterial, its antioxidant effect fights free radicals. Although it is one of the last ingredients, I can tell you that you can still smell it.
Strengths:
- Composition
- Botanical smell
Weaknesses:
- Some slight tingling can be felt at the first application
Last update on 2023-05-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Types of at home face peels

Chemical peels are extremely effective if you have skin problems. They can help you get rid of wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation spots and even acne scars.
But be careful. Not all chemical peels are the same and you must take this into account when buying your product.
Here are some of the most common types of chemical peels for you to know:
1. Lactic acid
Lactic acid is an excellent choice if you are starting with skin peeling. It generally targets the surface layer of the skin. It works well on almost all skin types.
2. Glycolic acid
This type of chemical peeling is suitable for people with oily skin. Similar to lactic acid, it also targets the upper layer of the skin. However, this one is a little stronger.
3. Salicylic acid
If you have problems with blackheads and clogged pores, the use of a chemical peel with salicylic acid may be helpful. It is soluble in sebum, which means it can easily penetrate your pores to remove deep impurities.
4. Non-acidic enzymatic peeling
Peels in this category are generally made from natural enzymes. This makes them safe enough to use on all skin types.
5. Trichloroacetic acid
Trichloroacetic acid (TCA) peels allow a deep peeling. If you have acne and scarring problems, you can certainly benefit from it. If you want to use a TCA peel, I suggest you start with a product with a low concentration at first.
How to use chemical at home face peels?
Before trying a chemical peel, be sure to stop all skin treatments you use, such as acne products. I think it is a good idea to stop your treatment 3 to 4 days before the peeling if you use glycolic acid and lactic acid peels.
If you are going to use the strongest TCA peel, stop your treatment at least 5 days before and resume it 10 days after.
It is also a good idea to avoid soap-based cleansers a few days before to prepare your skin for the product. Peels are generally acidic, so the use of alkaline products can reduce their effectiveness.
Perform a sensitivity test
I cannot stress enough the importance of testing a small area of skin before applying a strong chemical agent to your face. Sensitivity tests can give you a clearer idea of your skin's reaction to the product and your tolerance.
Sensitivity tests require that you mix the ingredients as you would for a complete facial treatment. Do not reduce the proportions simply because you are applying the product to a smaller area.
Let the product rest on the selected area for 24 hours (e. g. your forearm). Keep it longer if you are peeling with TCA. If you do not experience any itching, rash or burning, you can proceed with the treatment.
Possible side effects of at home face peels and precautions

The use of peels based on glycolic acid and lactic acid may not result in an extremely noticeable skin peeling. This is another story with TCA, as it is usually characterized by desquamation and skin redness.
If you see your skin come off, don't touch it, I mean don't take it off. Pull on the skin can only cause more hyperpigmentation and scarring problems once the skin is healed.
To relieve discomfort, you can apply a moisturizer and drink plenty of water to keep your skin well hydrated. You should also avoid direct exposure to the sun until your skin is completely healed.
Conclusion
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right chemical peeling kit for home use.
If you have persistent skin problems, such as acne scars, wrinkles and dark spots, we suggest you try Skin Obsession's chemical peel.
This product is for me the best at home chemical peeling because of its high glycolic acid content. Because it is powerful, this chemical peel is also able to remove impurities from the skin and clogged pores.
Again, first perform a sensitivity test, regardless of the concentration you choose.