The 15 Best At-Home Chemical Face Peels of 2023, According to Experts and Editors

Dr. Englemen says that a peel that contains BHAs is ideal for treating acne. "BHAs, like salicylic and beta hydroxy, are best for issues like large pores, blackheads and pimples," she explains. "These acids have keratin-dissolving properties that can breakdown dead skin cell build-up and decongest pores." That in mind, this two percent BHA and 30 percent AHA solution will work wonders for acne-prone skin. Just don't leave it on for more than 10 minutes because you can overdo it. 

Pros: Derm-approved; Affordable; Good for acne

Cons: Some report burning and stinging upon application

Think of this like a short term pick-me-up. It's designed to be used twice a day, every day, for six weeks. Supercharged with five different AHAs to target signs of aging on the surface and at deeper levels of the skin, this is strong enough to visibly brighten skin without irritating it. According to Dr. Engelman, AHAs like glycolic acid are ideal for anti-aging: "It's the smallest acid in particle size, meaning it is the most effective in breaking down cellular bonds to reveal new cells," she explains. 

Pros: Derm-approved; Brightening; Anti-aging

Cons: Expensive 

Chances are, you've seen this peel pad before. It's everywhere, because it's really, truly the best of the best. It's packed with five different acids—a combination of AHAs and BHAs—to target concerns ranging from acne to dark spots and dry patches. It's a two-minute long application process that's well worth the investment. That said, these pads are the real deal, so if you have sensitive or dry skin don't charge full speed ahead. Start out using them just two times a week. 

Pros: AHAs and BHAs; Multi-benefit

Cons: Might be too intense for some

Dull skin has nothing on this exfoliating face mask. The 10-minute fix is a radiance-boosting-dead-skin-sloughing-glow-giving miracle worker. It’s packed with gentle AHAs as well as the brand's trademark Viniferene, which is ideal for reducing the look of dark spots. Unlike some other chemical peel masks, which will tighten and need to be peeled off, this little guy has an unexpectedly creamy texture that won't sting or tingle upon application. While this mask does come with some crazy good results, we don’t recommend it for sensitive skin types.  

Pros: Great for dark spots; Vegan; Creamy texture 

Cons: Not for sensitive skin

With an AHA concentration of 5.1 percent and a pH value of 3.7, these are totally safe for at-home use according to the Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel. Thanks to a blend of glycolic acid, lactic acid, and citric acid, these babies help to minimize the look of pores, even skin tone, and brighten—the trifecta. One callout: This is a wash-off formula, so make sure you wash your face with water after five to 10 minutes. 

Pros: Multi-benefit; Comes with two month supply  

Cons: Tingles upon application

Let’s preface this by saying that having bumps and rough patches is a completely normal part of being human. If you do want to smooth out some of that texture, though, there’s no better product than this one. In addition to glycolic acid, this formula includes retinol and niacinamide, two ingredients that speed up cell turnover and help even skin texture and tone. So without further ado, start using this two to three times a week. 

Pros: Smooths texture; Contains retinol

Cons: Irritating to some 

If you’re ready to pull out the big guns in the name of glow, this product is the way to go. It features both physical and chemical exfoliants, so rest assured your skin will be left looking radiant. While most of the peels on this list have glycolic acid as the star ingredient, this one features salicylic acid, making it a great option for those with acne. 

Pros: Multi-acid; Radiance-boosting; Good for acne 

Cons: Drying and irritating to sensitive skin

I’m the first to admit that the thought of a peel on my sensitive skin is slightly terrifying. But trust me when I say that this gentle pad doesn’t irritate my face. In fact, I can use the lactic acid treatment five times per week without experiencing extra redness or stinging. I also love that the formula doesn’t have to be washed off—it’s just an added step in my nighttime routine.

Pros: Editor-approved; Good for sensitive skin

Cons:  Has a scent 

If chemical peels typically leave you raw and red, this little bottle might be just the solution. Shake it up to blend the two liquids: A heavy-duty combo of glycolic, lactic, and malic acids that loosen the bonds of dead cells to clarify skin, and a soothing elixir of antioxidant holy basil and omega-rich jojoba seed oil to calm the acid's effects. Then act fast and pour a little onto a cotton pad before swiping it across your face. You'll notice an immediate glow and long term brightening benefits. 

Pros: Soothing; Gets rid of dead skin cells

Cons: A bit oily

In some regards, these fan-favorite peel pads from Bliss—and their whopping 1,200 Amazon reviews—are rather simple. Ten percent glycolic acid time-releases overnight, targeting fine lines, dark marks, and blemishes. It's a particularly well-tolerated formulation thanks to the addition of witch hazel, licorice, and calendula flower, which quell inflammation. Because they're on the gentler side, it's a great entry option for anyone who want the chemical peel benefits sans irritation. 

Pros: Anti-inflammatory; Soothing; Non greasy texture 

Cons: Some report a strong odor 

This is the closest you're going to get to a professional-grade peel in the comfort of your own home. Three acids (glycolic, salicylic, lactic) combine for one of the strongest exfoliating treatments you can get over-the-counter. While the retexturing and skin-smoothing results are undeniable, pretty pretty please proceed with caution. This is no joke, so read all of the instructions, set your timers appropriately, and stear clear if you have sensitive skin. 

Pros: Very effective; Smoothing and retexturizing

Cons: Needs to be used with an abundance of caution 

This 30 percent concentrate of glycolic acid only stays on for two minutes and is especially beloved by those who suffer from acne, acne scars, or melasma. Its formula contains the obvious glycolic acid, along with soothing and calming chamomile, to create a balanced, clear, and exfoliated complexion. This peel is on the stronger side, so don't leave it on longer than instructed and avoid it if you have sensitive skin.

Pros: Great for acne and melasma; Powerful 

Cons: Not for sensitive skin

A one-two-three punch of glycolic, salicylic and lactic acid provides exfoliation, brightening, and cell turnover for a fresh and renewed complexion. Plus, the BHA inclusion is going to help clear away blackheads and whiteheads. Simply swipe this pad along your face and décolletage and allow it to dry fully before layering on your nightly products. The triple-acid blend is gentle enough to linger on your skin and keep working overnight, so don't wash it off. 

Pros: Multi-benefit; Works overnight; Brightening

Cons: Might cause dryness or irritation

To target tone and texture, Lancer Skincare is the way to go. This 15 minute wash-off treatment leverages caviar lime, which is naturally rich in AHAs, with retinol, an anti-aging powerhouse that speeds up cell turnover, plumps up fine lines, and evens out tone. The outcome? An ultra-brightening treatment that gives an airbrushed look to pores. It's also going to make your complexion a lot less oily.

Pros: Controls oil; Helps with texture and tone 

Cons: Not a lot of product in the jar

Give your skin a boost while you catch some Z's with these peel pads. Swipe the dual-sided pad over your face, neck, and chest before you head to bed and wake up with smooth, glowing skin. The peel contains a high concentration of glycolic acid (15 percent to be exact), along with kakadu plum, which provides antioxidant protection, and three different types of hyaluronic acid to balance out the drying effects. 

Pros: Hydrating; Vegan; Brightening

Cons: Only contains 12 treatments