Scrubs may tout the benefit of being able to rid skin of toxins and impurities, but many experts agree that scrubs are far too harsh for all skin types, especially with regular use. A scrub may feel more satisfying in the moment, but your skin will show much bigger signs of improvement with the regular use of at-home peels in the long run.
"The benefits of peels include improvements in texture, acne, sun damage, wrinkles, and hyperpigmentation," Dr. O'Connell said. He also noted that improvements are gradual and the degree of improvement varies with the strength and depth of the peel, so be patient! No matter which at-home peel you choose, they essentially work by utilizing different types of acids in order to get rid of dead cells and promote the turnover of new, fresh cells.
There are peels for every skin type, so if you have easily irritated, dry, or sensitive skin, you aren't necessarily left out of the at-home peel game. For example, Drunk Elephant's gentle T.L.C. Sukari Babyfacial ($80) is gentle enough to be used once a week for 20 minutes. It utilizes the popular exfoliant glycolic acid (an ingredient found in most at-home peels), acne-fighting salicylic acid, and soothing matcha tea to get rid of built-up cells and leave skin with a fresh, dewy complexion.
If the idea of more frequent use tickles your fancy, Dr. Dennis Gross's Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Daily Peel For Sensitive Skin ($88) is a gentle solution for enlarged pores, fine lines, and uneven skin tone and texture. Dr. Gross was the original innovator behind daily at-home peels, so he knows a thing or two about getting his formulas just right. This two-step product takes just a couple of minutes a day and delivers results without inflaming or drying out sensitive skin.
Should you have normal to oily skin, start with some of the higher-strength versions Dr. O'Connell referred to. Some of my favorites include June Jacobs's all-natural Intensive Age Defying Peel Pads ($75) and Anti-Aging Blemish Control Peel Pads ($48). I also love M-61's antioxidant-rich Power Glow Peels ($28), and Skin Authority's gluten- and cruelty-free Instant Perfection Peel Pads ($49). Each brings different variations of ingredients to the table and addresses different concerns, so read up on what benefits they provide before making your pick.
Be aware that glycolic acid makes skin photosensitive, so it's essential to stay diligent when it comes to using sunscreen in tandem with whichever at-home peel you choose.
