Chemical peels can address almost any and every complexion concern that you have. For example, the best chemical peel can help even out your skin tone, clear out pimples, and some may have anti-aging benefits if you're worried about wrinkles.
Peels are designed to remove the outmost layer of the skin, leaving the skin with a more radiant and smoother appearance. To get the most out of the peel, it is crucial to find the best chemical peel that works for your skin. So, keep reading to find some information that will help pick the best one for you.
What is a Chemical Peel?
A chemical peel is a common transformative treatment. It is a higher strength skin exfoliant, and for a full effect chemical peel, the pH should be around 2.0. Many benefits come with using a chemical peel, including;
- Treating hyperpigmentation and skin discoloration
- Unclogging pores
- Brightening skin tone
- Reducing wrinkles and acne scarring
- Facial rejuvenation
- Deep chemical exfoliant
- Enhance the absorption of other skincare products
Chemical peels come in varying strengths and ingredients. Two main peels are used, including at-home chemical peels and in-office peels.
In-office peels feature a stronger concentration of acids, which means almost immediate results. However, they need to be administered by licensed practitioners since they might easily irritate or burn the skin.
On the other hand, at-home peels have a lower concentration of similar acids, which means you can use them on yourself. In addition, they are milder and safer compared to in-office peels.
So, here are the five best chemical peels, with different options for different issues and different skin types.
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Best Chemical Peel - Reviews
The Ordinary Peeling Solution 30ml AHA 30% + BHA 2% is one of the best at-home chemical peel solutions that are ideal for treating can. This low viscosity solution is designed to be used as a mask. However, since it has a very high concentration of free acids, it is recommended for an experienced user and is not meant to be used for sensitive and reactive skin.
The BHAs like beta hydroxy acid and salicylic acid work well for issues like pimples, blackheads, and large pores. The acids tend to have keratin dissolving properties which dissolve dead skin cells and decongest the pores. The ingredients include citric acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, and tartaric acid.
On the other hand, Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA) will exfoliate the uppermost layer of the skin, providing a bright and even appearance. BHAs and AHAs combined together can help improve skin radiance and fight visible blemishes. With continued use, this product can also reduce the appearance of fine lines and skin texture.
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The QRxLabs Store Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads for Face & Body can help transform the skin by shrinking enlarged pores, evening out skin tones, removing dead skin cells, and increasing collagen production. These 20% glycolic acid peels also come at a very affordable price, with no compromise on the quality.
It features panthenol (vitamin B5) and allantoin (comfrey extract that stimulates tissue regeneration and provides hydration to the skin. Vitamin C and E create an antioxidant network that is used to fight free radical damage on the skin. Additionally, the green tea extract and calendula flower soothe the stinging feeling and reduce skin irritation while peeling.
Every pad is made from a durable polypropylene/rayon material that has a waffle pattern and textured surface. This design ensures convenient finger notches and easy application. Lastly, this chemical peel has managed to maintain a very high rating in the market today.
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The Bliss - That’s Incredi-peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads is powered by 10% glycolic acid. It boasts that it can improve the texture and tone of the skin even after one use. It targets the dark marks, blemishes, fine lines, and wrinkles to ensure that they are cleared, leaving smoother and brighter skin.
It comes with a well-tolerated formulation because of the licorice, calendula flower, and witch hazel, reducing inflammation. It is a spa-quality peel that releases glycolic acid gradually to target imperfections and discoloration.
The alpha-hydroxy acid reduces the build-up of dead skin cells and improves the moisture of the skin, leaving smooth and soft skin. The recommended use is every night, where you can wipe the pad over, wait a few minutes, and then apply a moisturizer.
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If you're looking for an affordable chemical peel, the Glycolix Elite Glycolic Acid Resurfacing Peel Pads come at one of the best prices in the market. It is a 20% glycolic acid peel that has about 60 peel pads that are quite popular for fading acne marks and dark spots.
These facial peel pads also come in handy to fight whiteheads, clogged pores and also fight blackheads. In addition, it is a great option for acne-prone skin. The chemical peel features a 20% crystalline glycolic acid that comes in a medical-grade form and highest purity.
It also features witch hazel that helps refine the pores, CoQ10, Vitamin A, E, and C to provide antioxidant protection, as well as green tea to soothe the skin. For its glycolic content, it is recommended to start using the product 2-3 times a week and then increase the frequency to every other day or every day.
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The CANE + AUSTIN Miracle Pad, Glycolic Acid Exfoliating Face Peel, is a simple way if you're looking to incorporate 30% glycolic peel into your skincare routine. Research has shown that 30-50% glycolic acid is a great treatment for melasma which comes in handy to reduce the symptoms like gray patches and brown spots.
Created by a dermatologist known as Dr. Craig Austin, the Miracle Pad chemical peel claims to be comparable to professional in-office peels. It features 30% glycolic acid, salicylic acid, tartaric acid, and lactic acid that will give a significant improvement to your skin.
The vitamins A, C, E, and CoQ10 (ubiquinone) offer some anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, the chamomile and cucumber extracts help refresh and nourish your skin. While the company may recommend using the face peel daily, we recommend starting twice a week and increase the frequency as you continue to use it.
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Types of Chemical Peels
1. Glycolic Chemical Peel
Out of all the chemical peels available on the market today, the glycolic peel is the one that tends to penetrate the skin the deepest, which is why it is used for exfoliation. This is because glycolic acid has a small molecular structure that allows the product to penetrate deeply into the skin.
It comes in handy to bring the aging skin back to a healthy glow. It allows and dissolves dead skin cells to slough, which results in smoother skin with clear pores. The glycolic peels, among other deep peels, come with different intensities that can affect the skin depending on how strong the product is.
2. Lactic Chemical Peel
While some peels may irritate sensitive skin, you may consider using lighter options such as a lactic peel. It comes from milk and utilizes lactic acid for easily irritated skin and moisturizing dry skin.
3. Retinoic Peel
Retinols are types of vitamin A used in skincare products to encourage the growth of skin cells. It can penetrate the deeper layers of the skin because of its small molecular size. It helps reduce acne breakouts and unclog pores. It is an ideal option if you're looking to refresh, hydrate and rejuvenate your complexion.
4. Beta Peel
If you experience lots of breakouts, then a beta peel might be of help. It has salicylic acid that helps in oil control and exfoliation. Salicylic acid features antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that work on the bacteria that cause breakouts providing you relief.
5. Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) Peel
TCA is an effective chemical used for exfoliating and renewing the skin. It is also an ideal option for spot treatment and has the ability to be adjusted by depth to match a certain skin problem. The application of more coats means the peel gets deeper, providing long-lasting results.
Other common types of chemical peels include;
- Vitalize peel
- Mandelic acid
- Jessners
- Vitamin C peel
- Alpha Jewel Peel
- Pigment Balancing
- V1 chemical
- Phytic acid
What Things Should You Consider When Purchasing the Best Chemical Peel?
1. Ingredients
When it comes to the ingredients, the best chemical peel should have ingredients that work well with your skin type. Always check the peel ingredients and ensure they are best suited for your needs. Some common ingredients include glycolic and lactic acids, etc. If you're unsure, always consult.
2. Skin Tone
While most peels are considered better for people who have lighter complexions, there are still options for people who have darker skin. If you're unsure on which peel to pick based on your complexion, you can seek professional help. Whether your want to repair your uneven skin tone or not, your peel will come in handy to achieve glowing skin.
3. Skin Sensitivity
People with sensitive skin may want to be extra careful when it comes to choosing any skin treatment option. There are chemical peels made for people with sensitive skin, but it is always a great option to seek professional help who will evaluate your sensitivity.
4. Use
Different peels are designed for different needs. Do you want to address scars, blemishes, or spots? Do you have signs of aging that you want to address?
5. Pricing
While most at-home chemical peels won't cost a lot, the best chemical peel should be one that matches your budget. These peels come in a range of prices to fit different budgets. Luckily, you can always have good quality options at affordable prices.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Chemical Peels
1. Are there side effects of using chemical peels?
The side effects of chemical peels will largely depend on the intensity, type of peel, and strength of the peel you use. For lightweight, there will be little to no side effects. However, some common side effects with such peels include a bit of redness and skin peeling.
For high-strength products, there will most likely be redness and skin peeling. Other rare side effects that might occur include;
- Scarring
- Kidney, liver, or heart damage
- Infection
- Change in skin color
To avoid most of these side effects, ensure you use the right product and consult if unsure.
2. How can you do chemical peeling at home?
Once you get your best chemical peel, it is always a great idea to do a patch test before then wait to see if there will be a reaction. Here are the steps you can take;
- Clean your face or cleanse with a gentle soap-free cleanser
- Apply petroleum jelly on sensitive parts like nostrils, around the eyes and corners of your lips to protect them
- Apply the solution or the pads on the face starting with less sensitive parts like the chin, forehead, and cheeks.
- Leave it for some time as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Remove the peel
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