Peels 101: Get Glowing, Postspa Skin at Home

POPSUGAR Beauty

Source: Peels 101: Get Glowing, Postspa Skin at Home

Want to know the beauty editor's secret to glowing, acne-free skin? It's the at-home peel. You've likely heard horror stories of burning, red, skin-melting results. That won't be you! With the help of dermatologist Dr. Amy Wechsler, we've rounded up the essential tips so you can avoid disaster and get an amazing exfoliating treatment (even if it's your first time). Plus, we're sharing 10 of our favorite at-home peels on the market now. You're just a few clicks away from a brighter, clearer complexion.

  • Exfoliation Is Key: "Peels are great antiaging treatments that help restore the appearance of more youthful-looking skin by removing the outermost layer of dead and dull skin cells on the face," Wechsler explained. So in the sequence of your skin care routine, a peel should be applied after cleansing and before any treatment serums.
    For the well-traveled: Kate Somerville Clinic-To-Go Resurfacing Peel Pads ($48)

  • Spot Check: Peels get a bad rap. When most people think of peels, scarring images of red, inflamed skin aren't uncommon. You can avoid a burning disaster by doing a simple spot check. "Test a patch on the underside of your arm to ensure you will not have an allergic or adverse reaction to the treatment," Wechsler recommended.
    For the mature woman: Dr. Jart Pore Medic Derma Home Peeling ($42)

  • Save It For Bedtime: Like most serious antiaging treatments, peels are better reserved for your bedtime. Wechsler told us why: "Since sunlight may cause irritation and your skin may be red or inflamed, it is a good idea to use the peel in the evening to allow your skin time to recover."
    If dark spots are your concern: Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel ($82)

  • Follow Directions: The biggest mistake you can make when using a peel is not following the directions. If the instructions say wait two minutes, five minutes won't give you any extra benefits. In fact, it could backfire and cause irritation. Even if it doesn't burn or tingle, it's still working.
    If you have a big date coming up: Philosophy Detoxify Oxygen Peel ($58)

  • Enzyme Peel: When it comes to at-home peels, you have two options: enzyme or chemical. "An enzyme peel relies on fruit enzymes to help strip away the top layer of dead skin cells," explained Wechsler. This can be considered the gentler approach of the two methods.
    For the nature lover: Origins Brighter by Nature Peel With Fruit Acids ($40)