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We looked for clarification and found it pretty quickly.
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The warning listed specific products of concern sold via Amazon, Walmart, and other retail platforms.
Some contained 100% TCA, others 70% glycolic acid.
And those Dennis Gross peel pads?
They contain five acids with concentrations that are also significantly lower than the FDA warning.
We get it, though: Even without scary FDA warnings, at-home facial peels can be intimidating.
The mental picture that comes with the word peel doesnt do the treatment any favors.
So in this new year we have decided to dig into how you might bestand most safelyuse at-home peels.
What is a chemical peel?
By removing old, damaged skin cells, peels get rid of dullness, discoloration, and uneven texture.
The ingredients in a chemical peel arent new or buzzy or sexy or freshand thats why we love them.
We can point to piles of evidence that prove they can transform skin.
In other words: more dramatic results.
Do you prefer an apply-it-then-forget-it overnightserum?
Perhaps youd rather a twice-weekly toner pad regimen.
In any case, there is a formula for youmany of them are even safe for sensitive skin.
They dissolve the upper layer of cells to trigger repair.
Do not try the phenol peel at home.
What are the best acids to look for?
And yo enjoy this cheat sheet.
And yes, she adds, it smells like apples.
This no-frills serum that is effective and affordable at just $10.
The end result: a plumped-up, glowing appearance.
The ingredient can smooth fine lines by encouraging collagen production without being overly harsh, she explains.
Mandelic acidis a gentler exfoliant that is ideal for sensitive skin while improving texture, says Dr. Gohara.
Its a great option for those who are cautiously wading into chemical exfoliation territory for the first time.
Which at-home facial peel format should you use?
Were here to help.
Peel pads are perhaps the most user-friendly of all the at-home facial peel products.
We love the M-61 PowerGlow Peel, which contains glycolic and salicylic acids to exfoliate and boost radiance.
Some peels offer near-instant radiance, but other products work their magic over time, includingdespite their monikerovernight serums.
Overnight serums are ideal for deeper exfoliation and gradual results, says Dr. Gohara.
They work while you sleep and are good for targetingfine lines, texture, or mildhyperpigmentationover time.
Kate Somerville
Kate Somerville Liquid ExfoliKate Triple Acid Resurfacing Treatment
Dermstore
Looking for fast and thorough exfoliation?
), or the IS Clinical Active Peel System (a favorite of Dr. Farhangs).
), but dermatologists do offer a few tips to help ensure your peel experience goes smoothly.
Damp skin can enhance absorption [of acids] and increase the risk of irritation, she says.
Peels dont have to be an allover treatment.
In fact, suggests Dr. Westbay, skip the skin around yourlipsandeyesas those areas can be particularly sensitive.
Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid andceramidesto help soothe the skin and lock in moisture.
Dr. Farhang warns that peels shouldnt be used very often.
One thing you shouldnt take a less-is-more approach with, though, is sunscreen.
Dr. Gohara also warns thatfailing to wear SPFcan lead to hyperpigmentation and further irritation.
Not sure which sun protection to turn to?
Check outthis roundup of tried-and-true sunscreensbeloved byAllureeditors.
Which products dont play well with peels?
To put it plainly, skip the sloughing process if you plan to use an at-home peel.
Dr. Gohara warns that scrubsand brushes can cause microtears in the skin when used alongside chemical exfoliants.
This popular acne-treating ingredient can be too drying when paired with a peel, says Dr. Gohara.
So, according to the FDA, which peels should you avoid using at home?
And its a good reminder that the dose makes the poison.
One of the peel solutions highlighted by the FDA contains a whopping90% concentration of lactic acid.
Thatsfarmore acid than anyone should ever be dropping at home.
So, like, do not try that at home.
Learn more about skin treatments:
Now watch Cindy Crawford’s 10-minute routine:
