Main Ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Lactic Acid, Citric Acid, Salicylic Acid, Niacinamide | Target Audience: Normal to Oily, Mature, Acne-Prone Skin | Fragrance Free: yes
Best Chemical Peel Mask Hybrids: Vichy Double Glow Peel Mask
Why it’s worth it: It will be hard to find charm Not one editor is unstoppable in their love of Vichy’s Double Glow Peel Mask. This face mask is perfect for the lazy or busy, and it only takes five minutes to work its magic on freshly cleansed and dried skin. Combining fruit acids for chemical exfoliation and ultra-finely ground volcanic rock matter for physical exfoliation, this dual-action peel basically clears away any skin blockages.
Editor’s Tip: The product also contains volcanic water (one of Vichy’s proprietary ingredients), which the brand says strengthens the skin’s barrier and prevents irritation caused by environmental stressors.
Main Ingredients: Fruit Enzymes, Volcanic Rock Particles, Volcanic Water | Target Audience: Normal Skin, Oily Skin, Mature Skin Types, Uneven Skin, Clogged Pores | Fragrance Free: no
FAQ
How do chemical peels work?
“Chemical peels, also known as exfoliating acid masks, work by penetrating the outer layer of skin, breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin,” she explains. Shereen Idris“Most at-home treatments are more of a superficial peel rather than a deep peel, making them suitable for the average person to perform without the help of a dermatologist or esthetician,” says Dr. Idriss, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City and founder of Dr. Idriss Skincare.
“At-home chemical peels typically involve exfoliating the skin with an AHA (alpha hydroxy acid) such as glycolic acid or lactic acid, or a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) such as salicylic acid,” she says. Mamina TureganoM.D., board-certified dermatologist. “Gentler peels include fruit enzymes.” He advises against using phenol peels at home, as they are very strong and should only be used for in-clinic treatments.
What ingredients should I be careful of when using chemical peels?
Not all exfoliating acids are the same. After all, who among us has the same skin concerns? “When looking for an exfoliating acid product, it’s important to find one that suits your skin type and needs,” warns Dr. Idris. Below are some of our dermatologist recommendations:
- Glycolic Acid: It stimulates collagen, helps reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and is also great for dry skin.
- Salicylic Acid: It unclogs pores and regulates sebum production, making it ideal for oily or acne-prone skin.
- Fruit Enzymes: It’s a gentler exfoliant, so it’s perfect for beginners or those with sensitive skin.
- Lactic acid: Helps with skin whitening and treating keratosis pilaris
- Mandelic Acid: Its larger molecular size compared to other AHAs allows it to penetrate the skin slowly and evenly, making it ideal for darker skin tones and sensitive skin.
- Polyhydroxy acid (PHA): According to Dr Idris, gluconolactone, lactobionic acid and maltobionic acid are the gentlest of the group and have the largest molecular size, making them the best for extra sensitive skin.
What is the aftercare after a peel?
Dr. Turegano recommends using a gentle exfoliant a week before your chemical peel to help the ingredients better absorb into your skin during the peel. “I also use ingredients that improve skin health, like a vitamin C serum or peptide serum,” says Dr. Turegano.
