The Best Chemical Peel To Use At Home

So, you want to try a chemical peel at home. Don’t be nervous - the term “chemical exfoliation” sounds scarier than it actually is.

It’s really just another method to get the type of before and after results you’re looking for. The word “chemical” simply describes the way the ingredients perform. This method chemically dissolves the intercellular glue that holds dead (keratinized) skin cells together and penetrates the upper layers of your skin with exfoliating acids for a more complete removal of dead surface cells.

Chemical exfoliation allows for deeper penetration of active ingredients and can be a great option for:

Significant congestion
Problem pores
Fine lines
Dullness
Anyone who prefers a leave-on formula over a skin-sloughing granular scrub

With chemical exfoliation, you’ll get incredible results with minimal effort and no discomfort or downtime. Here’s your quick guide on chemical exfoliation for the face, all the different types of chemical exfoliants, and how to find the best chemical peel at home.

different types of exfoliating acids

AHA, known as alpha hydroxy acids, is actually a category of exfoliating ingredients. Any ingredient that falls into this category is derived from various plant sources or from milk, often used on congested or aging skin.

BHA, known as beta hydroxy acids, is another category of ingredients that almost always refers to salicylic acid. This is commonly found in acne products, as it effectively penetrates pores and removes impurities.

Citric + Malic Acids are derived from citrus fruits and gently dissolve the top layer of skin to smooth skin, remove congestion and address anti-aging concerns.

Glycolic Acid is a powerful AHA derived from sugar cane that helps readjust the water percentage and stimulate cell removal of the skin's uppermost layers. It penetrates quickly to relieve deep congestion, problem pores and resistive skin.

Lactic Acid is a natural AHA derived from milk or plants and is gentler than glycolic acid. It provides a milder exfoliation that also heals and hydrates, and it is gentle enough to exfoliate the sensitive skin under your eyes.

Salicylic Acid is a BHA found in over-the-counter acne treatments to exfoliate clogged pores and help to reduce blackheads and breakouts on acne-prone skin.

the best chemical exfoliators

Skin Editor

This cult favorite leave-on AHA creme edits imperfections with 3% glycolic acid + 7% lactic acid enveloped in organic shea butter. It brightens and hydrates as it improves texture, lines, and discoloration. A little goes a long way in this formula, making it one of the most affordable chemical exfoliators on the market.

Use 3x a week at night before applying your nightly moisturizing cream.

Sold out

Kerafole

This 10-minute, deep purging facial mask reveals fresh, radiant skin with natural exfoliators such as algae, kelp, and malic + citric acids.

You can use it weekly or for 7 days straight for a complete purge of impurities, leaving you with such an incredibly clear and renewed complexion that you’ll be posting your own chemical peel before and after pictures!

Sold out

Quick Refiner

This fast-acting, leave-on gel BHA exfoliant visibly smoothes skin and sweeps away dullness and lines. You’ll see results in as little as one day as the signature Bioelements multi-fruit acid blend works alongside powerful beta and alpha hydroxy acids to brighten and even your skin.