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When it comes to the best chemical peels for at-home use, today’s options make it easier than ever to achieve smoother, more radiant skin that rivals the glow of an in-office peel. “The benefits [of over-the-counter peels] can include dark spot fading, evening complexion, collagen building, natural tone-enhancing, and exfoliating,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut. That’s why many dermatologists recommend at-home peels between professional treatments like microneedling, lasers, or extractions—they help extend those results by further exfoliating, brightening, and fading lingering discoloration while smoothing skin.
As for how chemical peels work, it’s somewhat similar to a toner. "Exfoliating enzymes in chemical peels work by gently removing the dead layer of the skin—a.k.a. the stratum corneum—to brighten and smooth the skin," says David Kim, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. Even though today’s at-home peels are gentler, it’s best to steer clear of so-called “professional-grade” formulas sold online, through third-party sites, or from unverified brands. “I’ve treated patients with burns, scarring, and deep hyperpigmentation after trying those at home, especially in deeper skin tones, which are more prone to discoloration if the peel penetrates too many layers of skin,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami.
Stick to chemical peels marketed specifically for home use, follow directions to the letter, and always pair with SPF. Ahead, we’ve enlisted the help of derms to round up the best at-home chemical peels that deliver real results.
Our Top Chemical Peels
- Best Overall: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel, $125
- Best for Beginners: Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant, $69
- Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads, $153 (60-count)
- Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel, $149
- Best Overnight Peel: Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel, $109
- Best for Uneven Texture: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset, $122
- Best for Sensitive Skin: U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel, $188
- Best Luxury: Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel, $220
- Best Budget: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, $10
Frequently Asked QuestionsLargeChevron
Best Overall: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Shani Darden
Triple Acid Signature Peel
Amazon
Revolve
Violet Grey
Allure editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Why It's Worth It: For those already well-versed in at-home treatments, Shani Darden’s Triple Acid Signature Peel is basically a pro facial in a box—and that’s exactly why it earned a 2023 Best of Beauty Award. The triple acid complex (glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids) teams up with detoxifying kaolin and bentonite clay, plus soothing fruit and veggie extracts, to target fine lines, discoloration, and other visible signs of aging. Because this is a powerful peel, it’s crucial to follow the directions exactly as instructed. Start by applying the Triple Acid Solution Peel for one minute (or up to two if your skin isn’t sensitive and can handle it). Next, layer the Neutralizing Clay Mask directly over the peel for 10 minutes. While the peel gets to work, the mask steps in to calm any tingling or discomfort.
Cruel before applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Cruel after applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel
Jessica Cruel
Tester feedback from editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel
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“When I have to be on TV or walk the red carpet, there is only one product I trust to leave my skin glowing, and that's this peel. I have been lucky enough to get the full celeb facial treatment at Shani Darden's LA studio. This two-step exfoliant bottles a little of that magic up for at-home use. I love that it comes with a brush to apply the acid step. Then, you slather on the clay mask, which gives the whole thing a whipped consistency. It tingles a bit, but after I rinse, my skin is visibly glowier.” —Jessica Cruel, editor-in-chief
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, kaolin clay, bentonite clay, cucumber extract
- Who it’s for: people with a normal, oily, acne-prone, or mature skin type
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best for Beginners: Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant
Dermalogica
Liquid Peelfoliant
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant
Sarah Han
Why it’s worth it: Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant is a professional-strength resurfacing treatment you can work into even the busiest routine. In under three minutes, a 30% multi-acid blend—glycolic, lactic, salicylic, phytic, and tranexamic acids—plus fruit enzymes smooth rough texture and brighten uneven skin tone. “This at-home peel helps with mild acne and is great for those looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Ruth McTighe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Mt. Pleasant, SC. While at-home peels can feel intimidating for beginners, “Patients love that the dropper makes it easy to apply just the right amount and usually involves little to no downtime,” she says.
Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han
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“I’m very hesitant when it comes to chemical peels—especially when there’s a 30% acid blend label staring right at me—so you can imagine my surprise when I didn’t feel my face tingle or burn at all as I worked Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant into my skin. (I used it multiple times to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.) Of course, non-irritating is great and all (and the bare minimum, tbh), but what about the results? I didn’t do this on purpose, but after a busy day out, I may have skipped washing my face…and let’s just say a very thorough double cleanse and this peel seriously helped revive my skin. I looked dewy as heck, and my pores were singing their praises—though, if they could talk, I’m sure they would’ve yelled at me to not go to bed wearing makeup. I’ve been searching for an exfoliating treatment to use consistently (weekly), and by all means, I think this is it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor
More to know
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- Key ingredients: phytic acid, fruit enzymes, tranexamic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone
- Who it’s for: people with fine lines or wrinkles, dull skin, or large pores
- Fragrance-free:
Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads
Dr. Dennis Gross
Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads
Amazon (60-Count)
Nordstrom (60-Count)
Dermstore (60-Count)
Allure features director Dianna Singh after using the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads
Dianna Singh
Why it’s worth it: We’ll take our glow to go, please. Ideal for tossing in your carry-on or keeping on your nightstand, Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads make pro-level exfoliation as simple as swipe, wait, repeat. “These come in easy-to-use facial pads with a two-step system that combines AHAs, BHAs, retinol, and antioxidants,” says Dr. McTighe. Let's break it down. Step one is all about exfoliation: Seven acids (including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic) sweep away dead skin cells, refine tone, and smooth lines, while chamomile and green tea help calm and protect. Step two shifts the focus to repair and renewal, layering in retinol to boost elasticity, adenosine to soften wrinkles, and antioxidants like resveratrol and green tea to defend against free radical damage. “It's a tried-and-true product that works especially well for people with oily skin or those prone to breakouts," adds Dr. Woolery-Lloyd.
Tester feedback from Allure features director Dianna Singh
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"What may look like a makeup remover wipe at first glance is actually a pad packed with chemical exfoliators that help brighten instantly and improve discoloration over time. I first discovered these back when I was a beauty assistant (so, longer ago than I'd like to admit), and yet somehow I'm still pleasantly surprised by the next-day glow I get from using one of these at night." —Dianna Singh, features director
More to know
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- Key ingredients: step 1 includes salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and chamomile; step 2 includes retinol, resveratrol, green tea extract, and adenosine
- Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with fine lines and wrinkles
- Fragrance-free: no
Best Overnight Peel: Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel
Kate Somerville
Kateceuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel
Amazon
Nordstrom
Dermstore
Why it’s worth it: Some of the best glows happen when your skin-care products get extra time to sink in. Designed to work overnight, “a unique feature of the KateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel is the use of encapsulated retinol with a ceramide complex, which improves tolerability and reduces irritation,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. That means you reap all the line-smoothing, radiance-boosting benefits of retinol while you sleep without the typical dryness. “Just be sure to skip other retinoids that evening to avoid overdoing it,” says Dr. Camp.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: niacinamide, glycolic acid, retinol, ceramides
- Who it’s for: people with dull or dry skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel
Obagi
Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel
Obagi
Why it’s worth it: Chemical peels usually mean trade-offs: brighter skin now, irritation later. The Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel flips that expectation with a science-backed formula without the harsh downtime. Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids work on multiple levels to smooth rough texture, unclog pores, and even out tone for an instant glow. But what makes it unique is the balance: soothing licorice root, calming willow bark, and hydrating humectants help keep skin comfortable while the acids do their work.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, licorice root, witch hazel, willow bark
- Who it’s for: anyone with uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, acne, or dry skin
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Uneven Texture: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset
Elemis
Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset
Amazon
Nordstrom
Why it’s worth it: The Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset comes in a clever double-ended package—one side to peel, the other to reset—making glow-inducing results surprisingly easy at home. Formulated for twice-weekly use, it tackles discoloration, visible pores, and age spots all in one routine. Step one resurfaces with a patented trio of enzymes (papain, protease, and subtilisin) plus phytic, ellagic, and mandelic acids to boost luminosity and refine skin’s texture. “The second step soothes post-peel skin with deep hydration and includes birch juice and lactococcus ferment lysate to rebalance skin,” says Dr. Camp. You’re basically getting two powerful treatments in one.
Editor's tip
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Mandelic acid might not get as much hype as glycolic or lactic acid, but it deserves a spot on your radar, especially if your skin leans sensitive. Thanks to its larger molecule size, it penetrates more slowly, which makes it gentler and less irritating while still boosting cell turnover.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: phase 1 includes papain, protease, subtilisin, phytic acid, ellagic acid, and mandelic acid; phase 2 includes glycerin, birch juice, and Lactococcus ferment lysate
- Who it’s for: people with dullness, uneven texture, or clogged pores
- Fragrance-free: no
Best for Sensitive Skin: U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel
U Beauty
Resurfacing Flash Peel
Amazon
Nordstrom
Revolve
Why it’s worth it: Although the U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel is designed to be used in a—well—flash, the payoff goes way beyond a quick glow. “This weekly treatment offers rapid results to exfoliate, brighten, and renew dull-looking skin, but it also tackles uneven tone, clogged pores, and rough texture over time,” says Dr. Camp. Unlike traditional peels that drench the skin with actives all at once, the brand’s proprietary Siren capsules deliver exfoliating acids directly to damaged skin, bypassing healthy areas for maximum results with minimal irritation. Glycolic acid and fruit-derived AHAs gently buff away dead cells, while hyaluronic acid and polyunsaturated essential fatty acids restore hydration and cushion the barrier. You get both instant radiance and healthier, smoother skin the more you use it.
Editor's tip
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Follow with a nourishing moisturizer to lock in hydration. The formula already includes hyaluronic acid and essential fatty acids, but an extra layer helps dry or sensitive skin wake up even calmer and glowier.
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- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, aloe vera, betaine, hyaluronic acid, aventramide, retinyl palmitate
- Who it’s for: all skin types, especially people with dry or dehydrated skin
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Luxury: Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel
Chanel
Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel
Nordstrom
Chanel
Why it's worth it: If you’re ready to splurge on a peel that feels as chic as it looks, meet the silky-smooth Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel. Infused with glycolic acid, it’s designed with mature skin in mind—but anyone chasing that plump, bouncy glow will appreciate it. With its alpha hydroxy acids capped at 5%—that’s glycolic plus the gentler phytic acid—this formula is far less likely to irritate, even for sensitive skin. Still, everyone’s tolerance is different, so it’s smart to start slower than the label suggests (think once every other week) to see how your skin reacts before ramping up. Bonus: It comes with a fan brush for even application and a little spa-like moment at home.
Editor's tip
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Alongside the fine line-fighting duo of glycolic and phytic acids, the standout ingredient is honey sourced from Costa Rica. In Chanel’s formula, this honey acts as a natural enzyme that, when paired with AHAs, gently exfoliates and encourages skin renewal without abrasion.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, phytic acid (5% total for both acids), glycerin, honey
- Who it’s for: people with a normal, oily, or mature skin type
- Fragrance-free: yes
Best Budget: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
The Ordinary
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Amazon
Nordstrom
Ulta Beauty
Why it's worth it: Powerful formulas, plus budget-friendly prices? Of course, we had to include a fan-favorite from The Ordinary. Reddit and TikTok can’t stop singing this peel’s praises—fans say it helps fade stubborn scars and leaves a fresh, glassy glow thanks to its hefty 30% blend of exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric) plus 2% salicylic acid. But make no mistake, this stuff is potent, so follow the brand’s rules to a T: Leave it on no longer than 10 minutes, use it only once or twice a week (ideally at night), and steer clear of the delicate eye area.
Editor's tip
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This water-based solution puts blackheads, enlarged pores, and sebaceous filaments on blast. You can even spot-treat with it, focusing on trouble zones like your T-zone or jawline if that’s where congestion tends to crop up.
More to know
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- Key ingredients: glycolic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5
- Who it’s for: people with hyperpigmentation, acne, or uneven texture
- Fragrance-free: yes
Frequently Asked Questions
How do chemical peels work?
"Chemical face peels, a.k.a. exfoliating acid masks, work by penetrating the outer layers of the skin, breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin," explains Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Most at-home treatments are not deep peels, but rather superficial, making them appropriate for everyday folks to use without the assistance of a dermatologist or esthetician.
"At-home chemical peels typically rely on AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) like glycolic and lactic acid or a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) like salicylic acid to exfoliate the skin," says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. "More gentle peels will include fruit enzymes." She advises against the use of phenol peels at home, as they're very intense and should only be used for in-office treatments.
What ingredients should you look for in a chemical peel?
Not all exfoliating acids are created equal. After all, who among us has the same skin concerns? "When looking for an exfoliating acid product, it’s important to find the right one(s) for your skin type and needs," cautions Dr. Idriss. Here are some of our dermatologists' recommendations:
- Glycolic Acid: Helps stimulate collagen and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and works well for dry skin
- Salicylic Acid: Unclogs your pores and regulates sebum production, making it ideal for anyone with oily, acne-prone skin
- Fruit Enzymes: Great for beginners and those with sensitive skin, as they're more gentle exfoliants
- Lactic Acid: Helps with brightening and treating keratosis pilaris
- Mandelic Acid: Ideal for deeper skin tones and those with sensitivity since it has a larger molecular size compared to other AHAs, and penetrates the skin more slowly and uniformly
- Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs): Gluconolactone, lactobionic acid, and maltobionic acid are great for super sensitive skin as they are the most gentle group with the largest molecular size, per Dr. Idriss.
What does aftercare look like post-peel?
For a week leading up to a chemical peel, Dr. Turegano finds it helpful to use a gentle exfoliant so that your skin can better absorb the ingredients during the chemical peel. "I would also use ingredients to improve your skin's health, like vitamin C serums and peptide serums," she says.
Dr. Kim notes that after a peel, protecting your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) is essential."It's important to use sunscreen every day when you're going to use acids regularly, so your skin doesn't feel more sensitive to the sun," he says. "It's best to avoid the sun as much as possible the next day, and you should probably skip a peel before heading to the beach or on a sunny vacation." And while they're all the rage right now, he says you don't necessarily need specific barrier cream after your peel and that a regular moisturizer suffices. Dr. Turegano recommends a thicker moisturizer if you have one on hand, and also encourages the use of peptide or growth factor serums, but it's important to check your peel's box or label to make sure these serums won't interact with the peel you used.
All of our experts generally advise avoiding retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and physical exfoliants for a few days following the use of a chemical peel to avoid excess irritation. "This timeline can vary from person to person and is also dependent on the type of peel," notes Dr. Turegano.
Meet the experts
- Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, based in New York City
- Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut
- Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Idriss Skincare, based in New York City
- David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group, based in New York City
- Ruth McTighe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of Waccamaw Dermatology based in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina
- Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans
- Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami
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When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.
For our list of the best at-home peels, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.
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