I know firsthand the struggle of finding an effective treatment for acne scars, especially one that won't break your bank account (like $1,000+ laser treatments!!).

Fortunately, chemical peels like trichloroacetic acid (TCA) are one of the best options to improve your scar appearance and promote a healthy-looking complexion. (1)

RELATED:

• The 7 Best TCA Peels to Reveal Your Inner Glow (2021✅)

In this post, I'll explain what a TCA peel is (including TCA CROSS), the key benefits, the evidence from 27+ medical studies, potential side effects, and aftercare instructions.

But first, let's find out if a TCA peel is suitable for you.

Should You Get A TCA Peel For Acne Scars?

In my opinion, this depends on 3 factors:

1. What Type(s) of Acne Scars Do You Have?

If you have atrophic acne scars (such as rolling, boxcar, or ice pick scars), a TCA peel is an excellent way to remove the damaged scar tissue and stimulate collagen growth.

Over time, this allows healthy skin to grow back and fill in the "gaps" of these scars.

If, however, you have raised acne scars (such as hypertrophic scars and keloids), TCA might not be as effective since your main problem here is actually excess collagen.

A better option would be corticosteroid injections paired with silicone gels or sheets. (2)

RELATED:

• How to Get Rid of Acne Scars: The Definitive Guide

2. What's Your Fitzpatrick Skin Type?

You may have heard of "Fitzpatrick skin type" at your dermatologist's office before.

Created by Dr. Thomas B. Fitzpatrick in 1975, the Fitzpatrick scale (1-6) reflects the level of melanin pigment in your skin (darker skin types have more melanin).

Here's an easy (and fun) way to identify your skin type from Game of Thrones:

If you have darker skin (III-VI), research shows that you're more likely to experience some side effects including hyperpigmentation, hypopigmentation, demarcation lines, and even further scarring (yes, unfortunately ????). (3, 4)

The most common complication is post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH), but you can reduce your risk of getting it by taking adequate precautions, such as:

• A pre-peel priming regimen of 2-4% hydroquinone (or another melanin inhibitor)
• A post-peel routine of avoiding sun exposure and religious sunscreen usage (4)

RELATED:

• Is Hydroquinone Safe? A Complete Review of the Medical Data

3. Do If You Have Any of These Contraindications?

Finally, it's a good idea to check if you have any of the following conditions:

• A history of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation
• A history of keloids or poor wound healing
• A history of photosensitivity (sun sensitivity) or you work outdoors
• Recent usage of isotretinoin (Accutane, Retin-A, etc.)
• Recent cosmetic surgery
• Active herpes simplex virus (open cold sores)
• Sensitive skin or a history of atopic dermatitis

as these may increase your risk of potential complications. (3)

Speak to your dermatologist to understand the risks before proceeding with a TCA peel. For at-home peels, always start with a low concentration (10-15%) and work your way up.

What Is A TCA Peel?

Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is a popular, effective, and highly versatile chemical peel.

TCA was discovered as early as the 1880s (5) and was first documented by Monash (1945) as a potential treatment for acne scars, eczema, and other skin conditions. (6)

In the following decades, TCA has become widely used by dermatologists and patients for a variety of common skin problems, including:

• Acne Scars (especially ice pick scars, see TCA CROSS below)
• Hyperpigmentation (including melasma, dark spots, post-acne marks)
• Sun Damage (including age spots, scaly patches)
• Wrinkles, Fine Lines, and Sagging Skin
• General Skin Maintenance

The TCA peel is best described as a Swiss army knife.

It is highly versatile and can be adjusted by concentration and technique or combined with adjacent therapies to reach almost any part of the skin.

Consider the following chemical peel classification table by Gozali et al. (2015) (7):

Depending on the concentration and number of coats, TCA can be classified as a:

• Very Superficial Peel: 10% or lower (1 coat)
• Superficial Peel: 10-30% (generally 1 coat)
• Medium-depth Peel: 35-50%, with or without pretreatment like Jessner's Solution (Monheit, 1989), solid CO2 (Brody, 1989), or 70% Glycolic Acid (Coleman, 1994), that removes the epidermis to allow TCA to penetrate to the papillary (upper) dermis

In addition, as we'll see later in the medial literature, TCA is increasingly being combined with adjacent therapies (most notably, microneedling) to produce a deeper peel than what would normally be achieved by TCA alone.

What Is TCA CROSS?

Chemical Reconstruction of Skin Scars (CROSS) is a popular and extremely effective technique that involves applying high concentration TCA (50-100%) directly to the base of atrophic acne scars using a wooden applicator (usually a toothpick). (8)

The CROSS technique was originally developed by South Korean doctors in 2002 and has been widely proven in the medical literature as an effective and inexpensive method of removing ice pick scars (narrow and deep puncture marks).

The advantage of TCA CROSS is that, unlike a full face peel, only the problematic areas are treated while the surrounding skin remains intact. This helps reduce the downtime as healthy skin cells can migrate to the new wound to speed up the recovery process. (9)

What Are The Benefits Of A TCA Peel?

There are many reasons to consider a TCA peel:

1. TCA Can Penetrate Deeper Than Superficial Peels

Unlike superficial peels like glycolic acid, TCA can penetrate beyond the epidermis into the papillary (upper) dermis to correct deeper acne scars (as well as wrinkles and fine lines) by stimulating new collagen growth and tissue regeneration in the dermis.

Consider this diagram of chemical peel penetration from Soleymani et al. (2018) (1)

I know the text is probably too small to read, so here's a summary of what each line represents (from left to right):

• Yellow Lines: 40% Mandelic Acid (Superficial Peel)
• Orange Lines: 30% Lactic Acid or 50% Pyruvic Acid (Superficial Peel)
• Red Lines: 30% Salicylic Acid (Superficial Peel)
• Blue Lines: from left to right, <50% Glycolic Acid (Superficial Peel), >70% Glycolic Acid (Strong Superficial Peel), >70% Glycolic Acid with pretreatment primer (Medium Peel)
• Purple Lines (Highlighted): from left to right, <35% TCA (Superficial to Medium Peel, depending on concentration and technique), 35% TCA with pretreatment primer (Medium Peel), >40% TCA with pretreatment primer (Medium Peel)
• Black Line: Baker-Gordon 50-55% Phenol (Deep Peel)

As you can see, a 35% TCA peel (with or without pretreatment primer) is going to remove more layers of skin tissue (and address deeper skin problems) than any superficial peel.

The only peel that penetrates deeper is Baker-Gordon Phenol, which has fallen out of favor due to longer recovery times and a higher risk of complications. (1)

For beginners and at-home usage, however, I recommend starting with a 10-15% TCA peel which will provide a similar level of exfoliation as 50-70% glycolic acid. (7)

RELATED:

• The 5 Best TCA Peels (2020 Update)

2. TCA CROSS Is Extremely Effective For Ice Pick Scars

Since the CROSS technique was developed in 2002, researchers have confirmed its effectiveness in multiple clinical trials around the world. (8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14)

The pilot study by Lee et al. (2002) in South Korea showed that the targeted application of high concentration TCA (65% or 100%) led to good or excellent results in 27 of 33 patients in the 65% group (82%) and 30 of 32 patients in the 100% group (94%). (8)

Those are some very impressive numbers!

Further studies by Yug et al. (2006) and Fabbrocini et al. (2008) in the U.S. and Italy, respectively, showed that TCA CROSS produced long-term decreases in acne scar depth and increases in collagen fibers, as seen in skin biopsies and clinical examinations. (10, 11)

Fabbrocini also found that 50% TCA was effective for scar revision (instead of 90-100%).

Finally, 3 Indian studies conducted clinical trials with 12, 30, and 53 patients, respectively, using 70-100% TCA on atrophic acne scars (predominantly ice pick scars). Good or excellent results were recorded in 100%, 93%, and 66% of patients, respectively. (12, 13, 14)

Overall, TCA CROSS is an exceptional treatment for ice pick scars, and results in significant scar improvement and high patient satisfaction.

3. TCA Is More Affordable Than Other Scar Treatments

I know I definitely don't want to pay $1,000+ per session for laser treatments when there are more cost-effective options available (source: PlasticSurgery.org).

According to RealSelf, the average cost of a full face TCA peel is about $200 a session (source: RealSelf). The actual cost depends on your area, clinic, and practitioner.

The average cost of TCA CROSS is roughly $200 a session as well (source: LA Skin MD).

For comparison's sake, the average cost of microneedling is $100-$200 a session, microdermabrasion is $175 a session, and intense pulsed light (IPL) is $600 a session.

While microneedling can also stimulate collagen growth, it may not be as effective for deeper atrophic scars as the needles must penetrate into the papillary (upper) dermis in order to promote wound healing and collagen remodeling. (also, needles scare me!)

Microdermabrasion only provides surface-level exfoliation while IPL is about as expensive as most laser treatments (almost $2,000 after 3 sessions!).

Now, if you're comfortable with doing a TCA peel or CROSS at-home, you can save a lot on expensive dermatologist visits (because you're really paying for their time and expertise, not the actual material cost of the chemical peel).

For a 10-15% TCA peel for beginners, it costs under $30 for a 1.0 oz bottle which should last (conservatively) at least 10 treatments:

• I recommend the Perfect Image 15% TCA Skin Peel (I use this one myself)

For a 20-30% TCA peel for CROSS, it costs less than $60 for 1.0 oz (6 bottles of 0.17 oz) which could last a while depending on how many scars you're treating:

• I recommend the Platinum Skin Care 30% TCA Pro Peel

Is There Any Evidence From Medical Studies?

I wouldn't be called The Derm Detective ???? if I didn't have any actual evidence.

That's why I've summarized 27 medical studies on TCA and TCA CROSS. You're welcome!

TCA Peel (20-35%) with or without Jessner's Solution

The following studies have found that TCA, with or without Jessner's solution, is a very effective treatment for atrophic acne scars, as shown by increased collagen formation and significant improvements in scar severity scores:

• Nelson et al. (1995): a single 35% TCA peel was performed on 3 male patients with actinic keratoses (pre-cancerous sun damage). Researchers compared biopsies taken before, 2 weeks, and 3 months after the procedure under electron microscope and found increased collagen type I and activated fibroblasts (special cells that produce skin tissue like the extracellular matrix and collagen). (15)
• Kang et al. (1996): a Korean study examined 23 patients with atrophic acne scars following multiple sessions of TCA peels (% not specified). Patients who had 6 or more sessions experienced good or excellent results in 13 of 15 cases (87%) while patients who had only 4 sessions did so in 4 of 7 cases (57%). (16)

• Al-Waiz et al. (2002): a combination Jessner's solution and 35% TCA peel was performed on 15 patients with both atrophic and ice pick scars. After 3 sessions, most patients experienced improvements in scar appearance as follows: moderate to significant (60%), minimal to mild (33%), and none (6.7%). (17)
• Carniol et al. (2005): researchers at Boston University examined 9 patients with atrophic acne scars (rolling, boxcar) following 4 monthly sessions of non-ablative laser treatment plus 2 additional bimonthly 30% TCA peels. The authors reported better results with the additional chemical peels compared to patients who only had the laser treatment. (18)
• Puri (2015): a study of 50 patients (2 groups of 25) compared Jessner's solution plus 20% TCA to 20% TCA alone. 6 sessions of chemical peel were performed at 3 week intervals. While there was no statistically significant difference, the JS+TCA peel produced marked improvement (i.e. 70% or more) in 60% of patients compared to only 28% in the TCA group. (19)

TCA CROSS (50-100%)

Next up, the following studies on TCA CROSS highlight the effectiveness of this technique for pitted and ice pick scars:

• Lee et al. (2002): the first study to use the CROSS technique for atrophic acne scars. 65 patients were treated with either 65% TCA or 100% TCA using toothpicks that were pressed hard into the scar to break down skin tissue and stimulate collagen growth. Good or excellent results were achieved in 27 of 33 patients in the 65% TCA group (82%) and 30 of 32 patients in the 100% TCA group (94%). In addition, all patients who received 5 or 6 sessions experienced good or excellent results which highlights the need for multiple visits. (8)
• Yug et al. (2006): a US study that replicated Lee et al. (2002) using 95% TCA on a group of only 3 patients. 6 sessions were performed at 6 week intervals. Clinical and histologic examination (under microscope) of punch biopsies taken at baseline and 1 year post-op showed a decrease in the depth of acne scars and an increase in collagen fibers and fragmentation of elastin fibers. (10)

• Fabbrocini et al. (2008): an Italian study that used 50% TCA instead of 90-100% on a small group of 5 patients for acne and chickenpox scars. 3 sessions were performed at 4 week intervals. Clinical examination and digital photographic analysis showed improvements in both scar depth and appearance. (11)
• Bhardwaj et al. (2010): an Indian study that replicated Lee et al. (2002) using 100% TCA on 10 patients with predominantly ice pick scars. 4 sessions were performed at 2 week intervals. Excellent results (more than 70%) were seen in 8 of 10 patients evaluated and good results (50-70%) in the remaining 2 patients. (12)

• Khunger et al. (2011): researchers examined the safety and efficacy of CROSS in dark skin types (Fitzpatrick IV and V). 30 patients were given a priming regimen of 4% hydroquinone, 0.025% tretinoin, and sunscreen for 2 weeks, before 4 sessions of 100% TCA at 2 week intervals. Excellent results were seen in 73% of patients, good results in 20%, and fair results in 6.7%. Temporary hyperpigmentation was seen in 2 patients and hypopigmentation in 1 patient but there were no significant side effects like prolonged pigmentation or scarring. (13)
• Agarwal et al. (2015): another Indian study; this one used 70% TCA CROSS on 53 patients with atrophic scars every 2 weeks for 3 months. Good or excellent results were seen in 66% of patients based on physician and patient assessments. (14)

TCA Peel: Comparison & Combination Studies

In addition to stand-alone studies on TCA, there's growing evidence that a combination approach with microneedling, subcision, and/or laser therapy yields the best results:

• Leheta et al. (2012): researchers compared the effects of Baker-Gordon phenol to percutaneous collagen induction (a.k.a. microneedling) plus 20% TCA. 24 patients with atrophic scars received either 1 session of phenol or 4 sessions of M+TCA. Significant scar improvement was seen in both groups with an average improvement of 75% in the phenol group and 69% in the M+TCA group. This makes microneedling with 20% TCA a viable alternative to deep peels with a much lower risk of complication. (20)
• Leheta et al. (2012): a related study that compared non-ablative fractional laser to microneedling plus 20% TCA. 39 patients received 6 sessions of either i) M+TCA, ii) 1,540nm fractional laser, or iii) alternating sessions of the both treatments. Scar severity scores improved by 60% in group i), 62% in group ii), and 78% in group iii), and the difference was statistically significant. This shows that a combination of laser, microneedling, and TCA can lead to better aesthetic outcomes. (21)

• Garg et al. (2014): an Indian study that combined subcision, microneedling, and 15% TCA to treat atrophic scars. 50 patients received 6 sessions at 2 week intervals. Scars were graded according to Goodman and Baron's qualitative scar scale. Of patients with grade 4 scars (the highest level), 37.5% improved to grade 3 scars and 62.5% to grade 2 scars. Of patients with grade 3 scars, 68% improved to grade 2 scars, 9% to grade 1 scars, and 23% to no scars at all. Overall, the treatment improved both moderate and severe scars with high patient satisfaction. (22)
• El-Domyati et al. (2017): a study of 24 patients with atrophic scars that compared microneedling alone, with platelet-rich plasma (PRP), or with 15% TCA. Patients received 6 sessions at 2 week intervals. Photographic evidence and punch biopsies showed that microneedling with PRP or 15% TCA was more effective than microneedling alone (greater epidermal thickness and better collagen remodeling). Moreover, microneedling with 15% TCA was superior to microneedling with PRP. (23)
• Taylor et al. (2017): a US retrospective study of 114 patients with mostly rolling scars who received a single combination treatment of 20% TCA, subcision, and CO2 laser. The average improvement was 2.9 (on a scale of 1-4) and 90% of patients were satisfied with their final results. This shows that TCA can be used to prepare the skin (by removing the epidermis and upper dermis) before more invasive procedures like subcision and laser therapy. (24)

• Deprez (2019): this study presents a new technique ("anterior chemabrasion") where the skin is manually exfoliated with sandpaper before applying a topical anesthetic followed by 15% TCA. The author reports that results are as good or better than existing methods. Notably, there's a downtime of ~7 days during which a yellow scab must remain on the patient's face (bismuth subgallate powder). (25)
• Al-Hamamy (2020): an Iraqi study of 13 patients that used 25% TCA followed by separate repeated dermasanding sessions (various numbers for each patient). The authors reported statistically significant improvement in acne scar scores, especially after multiple dermasanding sessions. (26)

TCA CROSS: Comparison & Combination Studies

Similarly, TCA CROSS has been used in combination therapy:

• Kang et al. (2009): a Korean study that combined TCA CROSS (called "dot peeling"), subcision, and fractional laser. 10 patients received this combined therapy for a year (2 sessions of CROSS and subcision 2-3 months apart and laser therapy every 3-4 weeks). All patients reported improvements and acne scar severity scores decreased by ~55% on average with no significant complications. (27)
• Ramadan et al. (2011): an Egyptian study that compared 100% TCA CROSS to subcision for treating rolling scars. 20 patients received 1 to 3 sessions of CROSS on one side of their face and subcision on the other side. Researchers found that subcision produced better results with fewer side effects, but TCA CROSS produced more significant decrease in scar depth over time. (28)
• Leheta et al. (2011): another Egyptian study; this one compared 100% TCA CROSS to percutaneous collagen induction (a.k.a. microneedling). 30 patients received either 4 sessions of TCA CROSS or 4 sessions of microneedling every 4 weeks. 100% of patients experienced scar improvements with an average improvement of 75% in the TCA CROSS group and 68% in the microneedling group. The difference between the two groups was not statistically significant. (29)
• Nofal et al. (2014): this study compared PRP injections, microneedling with PRP, and 100% TCA CROSS. 45 patients with atrophic scars received 3 sessions of one of these treatments at 2 week intervals. All three groups showed statistically significant scar improvements (however, the % was not specified). (30)

• Kaur et al. (2014): researchers used subcision and 50% TCA CROSS to treat 10 patients with atrophic scars with 3 sessions at 4 week intervals. A priming regimen and post-op routine was prescribed and scars were graded using Goodman and Baron's qualitative scar scale, physician assessment, and patient questionnaire. Overall, 6 patients had excellent results, 3 had good results, and 1 had fair results. (31)
• Chae et al. (2014): a Korean study that compared 100% TCA CROSS to Phenol CROSS (which was previously not used in medical practice). 24 patients were assigned to receive either 2 sessions of TCA CROSS or 2 sessions of Phenol CROSS every 8 weeks. Scars were graded using the ECCA scale, physician assessment, and patient satisfaction. ECCA scores improved by 22% in the TCA group and 19% in the Phenol group and there was no significant statistical difference between them. (32)
• Ahmed et al. (2014): a study that compared pinpoint irradiation technique using CO2 laser against TCA CROSS. 28 patients received 4 sessions at 3 week intervals. The researchers concluded that CO2 laser was more effective than TCA CROSS based on more significant improvements in acne scar severity scores. (33)
• Dalpizzol et al. (2016): a Brazilian study that followed up Chae et al. (2014) by comparing 90% TCA CROSS to 88% Phenolic Acid CROSS. This non-randomized clinical trial included 15 patients with ice pick and boxcar scars. TCA CROSS was performed on the right side and Phenol CROSS on the left side of the face. Researchers found that both techniques produced statistically significant results (% not specified); however, 90% TCA was associated with more complications like hypochromia and enlarged scars. (34)
• Bahl et al. (2020): researchers at Boston University performed a retrospective analysis of patients who received CROSS and non-ablative fractional laser in the same session. In the study of 25 patients, the average improvement was 2.1 after 3 sessions and 2.8 after 5 sessions on a 5-point scale (0-4). All patients were satisfied (24% were very satisfied); however, one patient developed a temporary hypertrophic scar. (35)

Are There Any Side Effects Or Complications?

You should be aware of the following potential side effects and complications. (3)

Immediate

• Itching, Burning, or Irritation (caused by sensitive skin, high TCA concentration, etc.)
• Persistent Redness (caused by history of photosensitivity)
• Eye Complications (i.e. due to accidental spillage)

Delayed

• Infections (such as reactivation of herpes simplex virus due to picking the skin)
• Scarring or Poor Wound Healing
• Post-Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (most common in darker skin types)

Prevention Tips

• Follow a priming regimen of 2-4% hydroquinone (or a product like Meladerm) for 2-4 weeks to reduce your risk of developing PIH (stop 3-5 days before the peel)
• Apply sunscreen religiously before and after the peel
• During the peel, apply a touch of Vaseline to the corners of your eyes, nose, mouth, and any particularly sensitive areas
• Always start with a lower concentration and work your way up

With proper precautions, research shows that the risk of complications can be minimized, even in darker skin types. (12, 13, 17, 26, 31, 32)

TCA Aftercare Instructions

Here's my personal post-peel aftercare routine:

1. After using a chemical peel neutralizer and/or thoroughly washing with cold water, apply a sheet mask like this one by Dermal Korea (super cheap and great quality!). After a peel is the best time for your skin to soak in some extra hydration and the sheet mask helps reduce redness and irritation as well.
2. In the following 5-7 days, use your regular moisturizer or cream while your skin peels and new skin cells are pushed up (this is called "re-epithelialization"). I like to use Clinique Dramatically Different Gel+ and La-Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.
3. Avoid sun exposure and apply adequate sunscreen during the day (SPF 30+).
4. If you are concerned about hyperpigmentation, continue using a melanin inhibitor like 2-4% hydroquinone or a vitamin C serum following the peel.

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Sources

(1) Soleymani T, et al. A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels: A Review of Fundamentals and Step-by-Step Algorithmic Protocol for Treatment. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2018;11(8):21-28. PubMed
(2) Gold MH, et al. Updated International Clinical Recommendations On Scar Management: Part 2 - Algorithms For Scar Prevention And Treatment. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(8):825-831. PubMed
(3) Anitha B. Prevention Of Complications In Chemical Peeling. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2010;3(3):186-188. PubMed
(4) Nikalji N, et al. Complications Of Medium Depth And Deep Chemical Peels. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2012;5(4):254-260. PubMed
(5) Krueger N, et al. The History Of Aesthetic Medicine And Surgery. J Drugs Dermatol. 2013;12(7):737-42. PubMed
(6) Monash, S. The Uses Of Diluted Trichloroacetic Acid In Dermatology. Urol Cutan. 1945;49;119-120. Google Scholar
(7) Gozali MV, et al. Effective Treatments Of Atrophic Acne Scars. J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2015;8(5):33-40. PubMed
(8) Lee JB, et al. Focal Treatment Of Acne Scars With Trichloroacetic Acid: Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars Method. Dermatol Surg. 2002;28(11):1017-1021. PubMed
(9) Pastar I, et al. Epithelialization in Wound Healing: A Comprehensive Review. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle). 2014;3(7):445-464. PubMed
(10) Yug A, et al. Histologic Study Of Depressed Acne Scars Treated With Serial High-Concentration (95%) Trichloroacetic Acid. Dermatol Surg. 2006;32(8):985-990. PubMed
(11) Fabbrocini G, et al. Cross Technique: Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars Method. Dermatol Ther. 2008;21 Suppl 3:S29-S32. PubMed
(12) Bhardwaj D, et al. An Assessment of the Efficacy and Safety of CROSS Technique with 100% TCA in the Management of Ice Pick Acne Scars. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2010;3(2):93-96. PubMed
(13) Khunger N, et al. Evaluation Of CROSS Technique With 100% TCA In The Management Of Ice Pick Acne Scars In Darker Skin Types. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2011;10(1):51-57. PubMed
(14) Agarwal N, et al. Therapeutic Response Of 70% Trichloroacetic Acid Cross In Atrophic Acne Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2015;41(5):597-604. PubMed
(15) Nelson BR, et al. Pilot Histologic And Ultrastructural Study Of The Effects Of Medium-depth Chemical Facial Peels On Dermal Collagen In Patients With Actinically Damaged Skin. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1995;32(3):472-478. PubMed
(16) Kang, et al. The Effect Of TCA Chemical Peel On Acne Scars. Korean J Dermatol. 1996;34(6):919-923. Elsevier
(17) Al-Waiz MM, et al. Medium-depth Chemical Peels In The Treatment Of Acne Scars In Dark-skinned Individuals. Dermatol Surg. 2002;28(5):383-387. PubMed
(18) Carniol PJ, et al. Evaluation Of Acne Scar Treatment With A 1450-nm Midinfrared Laser And 30% Trichloroacetic Acid Peels. Arch Facial Plast Surg. 2005;7(4):251-255. PubMed
(19) Puri N. Efficacy of Modified Jessner's Peel and 20% TCA Versus 20% TCA Peel Alone for the Treatment of Acne Scars. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2015;8(1):42-45. PubMed
(20) Leheta TM, et al. Deep Peeling Using Phenol Versus Percutaneous Collagen Induction Combined With Trichloroacetic Acid 20% In Atrophic Post-acne Scars; A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Dermatolog Treat. 2014;25(2):130-136. PubMed
(21) Leheta TM, et al. Do Combined Alternating Sessions Of 1540 Nm Nonablative Fractional Laser And Percutaneous Collagen Induction With Trichloroacetic Acid 20% Show Better Results Than Each Individual Modality In The Treatment Of Atrophic Acne Scars? A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Dermatolog Treat. 2014;25(2):137-141. PubMed
(22) Garg S, et al. Combination Therapy In The Management Of Atrophic Acne Scars. J Cutan Aesthet Surg. 2014;7(1):18-23. PubMed
(23) El-Domyati M, et al. Microneedling Combined With Platelet-rich Plasma Or Trichloroacetic Acid Peeling For Management Of Acne Scarring: A Split-face Clinical And Histologic Comparison. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2018;17(1):73-83. PubMed
(24) Taylor MB, et al. Single Session Treatment of Rolling Acne Scars Using Tumescent Anesthesia, 20% Trichloracetic Acid Extensive Subcision, and Fractional CO2 Laser. Dermatol Surg. 2017;43 Suppl 1:S70-S74. PubMed
(25) Deprez P. "Anterior" Chemabrasion For Acne Scars Treatment. Clin Cosmet Investig Dermatol. 2019;12:141-149. PubMed
(26) Al-Hamamy HR, et al. Evaluation Of Treatment of Acne Scars with 25% Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Peel Followed By Manual Dermasanding. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;10.1111/jocd.13754. PubMed
(27) Kang WH, et al. Atrophic Acne Scar Treatment Using Triple Combination Therapy: Dot Peeling, Subcision And Fractional Laser. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2009;11(4):212-215. PubMed
(28) Ramadan SA, et al. Subcision Versus 100% Trichloroacetic Acid In The Treatment Of Rolling Acne Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(5):626-633. PubMed
(29) Leheta T, et al. Percutaneous Collagen Induction Versus Full-concentration Trichloroacetic Acid In The Treatment Of Atrophic Acne Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2011;37(2):207-216. PubMed
(30) Nofal E, et al. Platelet-rich Plasma Versus Cross Technique With 100% Trichloroacetic Acid Versus Combined Skin Needling And Platelet Rich Plasma In The Treatment Of Atrophic Acne Scars: A Comparative Study. Dermatol Surg. 2014;40(8):864-873. PubMed
(31) Kaur J, et al. Subcision Plus 50% Trichloroacetic Acid Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars In The Management Of Atrophic Acne Scars: A Cost-effective Therapy. Indian Dermatol Online J. 2014;5(1):95-97. PubMed
(32) Chae WS, et al. A Comparative Study Of The Efficacy And Safety Of 100% TCA Cross And Phenol Cross For Atrophic Acne Scarring. Korean J Dermatol. 2014;52(5):293-301. Korean Dermatological Association
(33) Ahmed R, et al. Randomized Clinical Trial Of CO₂ Laser Pinpoint Irradiation Technique Versus Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars (CROSS) In Treating Ice Pick Acne Scars. J Cosmet Laser Ther. 2014;16(1):8-13. PubMed
(34) Dalpizzol M, et al. Comparative Study of the Use of Trichloroacetic Acid and Phenolic Acid in the Treatment of Atrophic-Type Acne Scars. Dermatol Surg. 2016;42(3):377-383. PubMed
(35) Bahl A, et al. Treatment Of Atrophic Acne Scars With Combination Therapy Of Chemical Reconstruction Of Skin Scars Method And Fractionated Nonablative Laser: A Retrospective Analysis. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2020;10.1111/jocd.13514. PubMed

The age-old question in skincare (pun intended) is, "how can I look younger than my real age?"

While aging is an inevitable process, it is possible to "age gracefully" like a fine wine. ????

That's where Murad Replenishing Multi-Acid Peel comes in. It's a powerful chemical peel designed to target common signs of aging like dullness, wrinkles & fine lines, and age spots.

It uses multiple acids to promote a wide range of exfoliation in the epidermis and upper dermis to remove dead skin cells and increase cell turnover, resulting in brighter and tighter skin.

It also softens rough skin texture and reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

The key ingredients include:

• AHA Blend: mainly Glycolic Acid along with Lactic Acid and Malic Acid. AHAs are water-soluble and help remove surface dullness to reveal brighter and smoother skin.
• BHA: Salicylic Acid, a beta hydroxy acid, is oil-soluble and is incredibly effective at penetrating the oils in our pores to provide deeper exfoliation and open up clogged pores.
• TXA: Tranexamic Acid is used in dermatology to address skin discoloration such as melasma (source: SkinCeuticals and BioMed Research International, 2018)

Antioxidants such as Holy Basil, Chamomile Extract, Vitamin E, and Turmeric are also included to prevent free radical damage (a process that causes cell damage over time).

Finally, customer reviews have been quite positive, with some saying it helped reduce pore sizes and acne scars, and saw brighter and smoother skin. Others said it left behind an oily film and may even block pores due to the third ingredient on the list (C13-16 Isoparaffin).

My Verdict: Murad Replenishing Multi-Acid Peel combines AHAs, BHA, and TXA to fight signs of aging, like wrinkles, fine lines, and sun damage, so you can "age gracefully" with confidence.

Platinum Skin Care TCA Peel 7-13-20-30

Platinum Skin Care is my top pick for an effective and affordable TCA peel. With over 800+ reviews, their TCA peel is one of the bestsellers on the market and offers 4 different concentrations:

• 7% TCA - For Eye Peels
• 13% TCA - For Face Peels
• 20% TCA - For Stronger Face Peels
• 30% TCA - For Body Peels or TCA CROSS

Now, TCA is normally considered a medium peel, when using a low concentration (13% or 20%) in multiple layers or when using a high concentrations (30%) in single layers.

Beginners should start by using 13-15% TCA in monolayer which is considered a superficial peel.

In terms of skin penetration, a medium TCA peel can reach the upper layers of the dermis before it self-neutralizes (that's right - you don't need a separate neutralizing solution!).

To help illustrate this, the diagram below shows the depth of TCA penetration:

Now, let's talk about safety for a minute. The first step is to make sure you're getting the right TCA peel for your concern and experience level (when in doubt, start with the lower concentration).

If you are considering a high concentration TCA peel (50-100%), you should be aware of the risks: studies have shown that higher TCA percentages have a greater risk of side effects, including discoloration, scarring, and infections (source: A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels, 2018).

In fact, it is actually safer to perform a low concentration TCA peel (15-30%) using multiple passes (layers) to achieve similar results to that of a higher concentration TCA peel.

In most cases, you should expect to see flaking and redness in the following days, with complete exfoliation in 10 to 14 days (source: A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels, 2018).

In terms of peel application, here is a great tutorial video by dermatologist Dr. Davin Lim:

Platinum Skin Care also has a wealth of information on TCA here and here.

Finally, if you have a darker skin tone, there's the concern of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation (PIH) as a possible side effect of using a TCA peel. There are ways to reduce this risk, such as:

• Preparing your skin with a melanin inhibitor (such as Meladerm) for 2-3 weeks beforehand
• Using a lower concentration like 13% TCA
• Applying retinoids or AHAs to thin the stratum corneum and increase acid penetration

My Verdict: Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is an excellent, but often misunderstood, chemical peel for wrinkles and fine lines, pigmentation disorders like melasma, acne and acne scarring, and the general maintenance of healthy, smooth, and glowing skin. Platinum Skin Care offers a variety of TCA peels for different concerns and experience levels in 1.0 oz (set of 6 vials) and 2.0 oz bottles.

Platinum Skin Care Mandelic Peel 22-40+

Platinum Skin Care is my top pick and offers two high-quality mandelic acid peels:

• Mandelic + Azelaic Pro Peel 22% (for sensitive skin and rosacea - a very light peel)
• Mandelic Pro Peel 40%+ (for stronger results - but still considered a light peel)

The first peel is actually 20% mandelic acid plus 2% azelaic acid (a helpful skin brightening agent) and is best suited for sensitive skin, but also for teens and pre-teens to control acne breakouts.

If you've had a glycolic acid peel in the past, you should have no problems with 40% mandelic acid as the depth of overall skin penetration is very limited in comparison.

To help illustrate this difference, the diagram below shows the depth of mandelic acid penetration on the left (in yellow arrows) while glycolic acid penetration is shown on the right (in purple arrows):

(image courtesy: A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels, 2018)

As you can see, mandelic acid penetrates only the epidermis (the topmost layer of your skin) while glycolic acid penetrates through the epidermis and into the upper dermis layers.

Finally, if you're a busy person, or need to look your best all the time, mandelic acid is a great option as there's hardly any peeling, flaking, or redness, to speak of at all.

My Verdict: Platinum Skin Care offers two high-quality mandelic acid peels. Start with the 22% if you have sensitive skin or you're struggling with rosacea or teenage acne. Otherwise, you should be fine with 40% mandelic acid, especially if you're had glycolic peels in the past.

Platinum Skin Care Salicylic Peel 3-15-25

If you’re looking for a starter kit, Platinum Skin Care has you covered with their Salicylic Acid Kit.

This convenient set includes everything you need to get started:

• 2.0 oz Salicylic Acid Peel (3%, 15%, 25%) – this is double the usual bottle size (1.0 oz) and includes Menthol for "cooling action" to minimize any burning sensations. The 3% is considered a mini-peel and suitable for teens as a daily or weekly treatment and for adults as a daily toner. The 15% is the best starting point as a weekly peel to clear blemishes while the 25% is a much stronger version that works well as a spot treatment.
• 2.0 oz Peel Prep Solution – an alcohol-based toner to prepare your skin for a chemical peel. This helps remove any surface oils and debris to allow the salicylic acid to work effectively.
• 4.5 oz Post-Peel Neutralizer – a baking soda solution with Panthenol and Tea Tree Oil. Use the neutralizer after 2-5 minutes to stop the chemical peel from penetrating too deeply.
• Your choice of Fan Brush or Gauze Pads – my personal preference is gauze pads as I find it’s hard to get an even application using a fan brush.

This salicylic acid kit is perfect for beginners and should last you about 4-6 months. The only thing that’s missing is a post-peel recovery cream, and for that, I’d recommend two products:

• Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Sheet Masks – I use these right after a peel and they’re absolutely amazing for restoring skin hydration and reducing post-peel redness.
• La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 – this is currently my favorite recovery cream and features panthenol, madecassoside, and essential minerals to repair your skin barrier. ????

In this video, Jen from Platinum Skin Care explains how salicylic acid works (it's an oil-soluble BHA), which acid concentration you should use (3% - mini, 15% - beginners, 25% - advanced), and what you can expect in terms of results and side effects (e.g. flaking, dryness, redness).

With regular use, the 15% salicylic acid peel can help clear up inflammatory acne, flatten pimples, prevent breakouts, and also reduce the appearance of post-acne marks and pigmentation.

My Verdict: For the ultimate convenience, Platinum Skin Care's Salicylic Acid Kit has everything you need to start peeling at home for healthier, smoother, and clearer-looking skin. ????

Platinum Skin Care Lactic Acid 50

If you're looking for a starter kit, Platinum Skin Care has you covered with their Lactic Acid 50 Kit.

This convenient set includes everything you need to get started:

• 2.0 oz Lactic Acid 50% Peel - this is double the usual bottle size (1.0 oz) and includes Panthenol, Allantoin, and Rosemary Leaf Extract to reduce redness and soothe sensitivity.
• 2.0 oz Peel Prep Solution – an alcohol-based toner to prepare your skin for a chemical peel. This helps remove any surface oils and debris to allow the lactic acid to work effectively.
• 4.5 oz Post-Peel Neutralizer – a baking soda solution with Panthenol and Tea Tree Oil. Use the neutralizer after 2-5 minutes to stop the chemical peel from penetrating too deeply.
• Your choice of Fan Brush or Gauze Pads – my personal preference is gauze pads as I find it’s hard to get an even application using a fan brush.

This lactic acid kit is perfect for beginners and should last you about 4-6 months. The only thing that’s missing is a post-peel recovery cream, and for that, I’d recommend two products:

• Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Sheet Masks – I use these right after a peel and they’re absolutely amazing for restoring skin hydration and reducing post-peel redness.
• La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 – this is currently my favorite recovery cream and features panthenol, madecassoside, and essential minerals to repair your skin barrier. ????

In this video, Jen from Platinum Skin Care explains that lactic acid penetrates very superficially into your epidermis due to its large molecule size, making it a great option for dry or sensitive skin.

With regular use, lactic acid peels help improve many skin conditions, including hyperpigmentation, uneven tone, inflammatory acne, chronic dry skin, wrinkles and fine lines, and much more.

My Verdict: For the ultimate convenience, Platinum Skin Care's Lactic Acid 50 Kit has everything you need to start peeling at home for healthier, smoother, and more radiant-looking skin. ????

Platinum Skin Care Glycolic Acid 30-50-70

If you're looking for a more traditional liquid chemical peel (that offers amazing value for money), I'd highly recommend this glycolic acid starter kit by Platinum Skin Care.

Each starter kit includes:

• 2.0 oz Glycolic Acid Peel (30%, 50%, 70%) - I recommend starting with 30% Glycolic Acid for beginners to chemical peels and 50% for more advanced peelers. The 70% version is strictly for body usage or dilution into lower concentration peels.
• 2.0 oz Peel Prep Solution - an alcohol-based toner to prepare your skin for a chemical peel. This helps remove any surface oils and debris to allow the glycolic acid to work effectively.
• 4.5 oz Post-Peel Neutralizer - a baking soda solution with panthenol and tea tree oil. Use the neutralizer after 2-5 minutes to stop the chemical peel from penetrating too deeply.
• Your choice of Fan Brush or Gauze Pads - my personal preference is gauze pads as I find it's hard to get an even application using a fan brush.

When used regularly (~1x a week), a glycolic acid peel can help with many skin conditions, including hyperpigmentation, dark spots, melasma, inflammatory acne, chronic dry skin, and much more.

Chemical peels also help restore normal skin texture by promoting collagen and elastin growth, which can reduce the appearance of old acne scars as well as wrinkles and fine lines (source: A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels, 2018).

This glycolic acid kit is perfect for beginners and should last you about 4-6 months. The only thing that's missing is a post-peel recovery cream, and for that, I'd recommend two products:

• Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Sheet Masks - I use these right after a peel and they're absolutely amazing for restoring skin hydration and reducing post-peel redness.
• La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5 - this is currently my favorite recovery cream and features panthenol, madecassoside, and essential minerals to repair your skin barrier. ????

Also, I should mention this starter kit includes a 2.0 oz bottle of glycolic acid, which is double the usual amount for a chemical peel. For a smaller size (1.0 oz), I recommend this one by Planet Eden which I recently bought for myself and found to be excellent quality as well.

Finally, customer reviews for Platinum Skin Care have been positive, with users commenting about brighter, smoother, and softer skin, with fewer blemishes and dark spots, after multiple sessions.

My Verdict: For beginners to chemical peels, I recommend Platinum Skin Care's Glycolic Acid Kit which includes a glycolic acid peel (choose 30%), peel prep solution, and post-peel neutralizer.

Today, I'm going to discuss my experience with the Planet Eden Glycolic Acid Peel Kit, including:

• Planet Eden Youthful Glow 30% Glycolic Acid Skin Peel (1.0 oz)
• Planet Eden Glycolic Pre-Peel Cleanser (3.0 oz)
• Planet Eden Antioxidant Recovery Cream (2.0 oz)
• Complimentary Fan Brush (1 Piece)
• Planet Eden Organic Botanical Skin Peel Neutralizer (4.0 oz) - sold separately

Does this product live up to its claims? Let’s find out. ⭐

RELATED:

• The 10 Best Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation

Planet Eden Glycolic Acid Peel Kit

For beginners to chemical peels, I highly recommend the Planet Eden 30% Glycolic Acid 4-Piece Set.

This starter kit includes:

• A 1.0 oz bottle of 30% glycolic acid (the perfect concentration for beginners)
• A 3.0 oz bottle of glycolic cleanser (which smells wonderful thanks to organic fruit extracts)
• A 1.0 oz tub of recovery cream (loaded with healthy oils & antioxidants to accelerate the healing process and smells like heavenly vanilla)
• A small fan brush with soft bristles (not the most useful, as I'll explain later)

Overall, this set provides you almost everything you need to get started. You'll still want to pick up a neutralizing solution (Planet Eden makes one as well) or mix your own with baking soda and water.

I bought this starter set recently and have been using it once a week for my acne scars, dark spots, and uneven skin tone. Here are my thoughts so far:

• After 8+ treatments, my skin looks noticeably smoother and feels much less congested, especially my forehead which used to have lots of tiny blemishes. My skin tone is also slightly brighter and some of the redness from 10+ years of acne has subsided (yay!).
• However, I haven't noticed any major improvements in my acne scars yet.
• The glycolic acid itself is very good. It causes a mild stinging sensation and I can really feel the peel working on my skin (visually, I imagine PacMan eating up my dead skin cells ????).
• I really love the pre-peel cleanser (it smells amazing and my skin feels smoother afterwards) and I use it everyday now in my skincare routine.
• The fan brush is not the greatest because the bristles stick together when applying the peel. You can still use it by pressing the bristles against a bowl to spread them out, but it's actually much easier to use gauze strips or your fingers instead.
• Finally, the recovery cream is also quite good. It has a long ingredient list full of organic oils, butters, and extracts like coconut oil, organic beeswax, and chamomile extract. You can also just use a regular moisturizer or recovery balm like La-Roche Posay Cicaplast Baume B5.

My Verdict: The Planet Eden 30% Glycolic Acid 4-Piece Set is the perfect way to get started with regular, affordable at-home chemical peels for smoother, brighter, and more even-looking skin.

Today, I'm going to discuss a classic cult-favorite: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution.

Does this product live up to its claims? Let’s find out. ⭐

RELATED:

• The 10 Best Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation

The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

If you're looking for a powerful chemical peel (that's also super affordable), I highly recommend The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution.

A word of caution, though: this product contains a high concentration of free acids and should only be used by more experienced peelers.

According to The Ordinary's website, the AHAs and BHAs in this formula include:

• Glycolic Acid (AHA)
• Lactic Acid (AHA)
• Tartaric Acid (AHA)
• Citric Acid (AHA)
• Salicylic Acid (BHA)

The AHAs help increase cell turnover for brighter and smoother skin while the BHA penetrates deep into oily skin to remove excess oils and open up clogged pores.

Panthenol (Vitamin B5) and Hyaluronic Acid are both included to restore skin hydration while Tasmanian Pepperberry (the source of the red color) reduces skin irritation.

The Ordinary has a reputation for well-formulated skincare products and this one is no exception. The pH of 3.6 matches the pKa of glycolic acid, ensuring "ideal balance between salt and acidity" to maximize the formula's effectiveness while minimizing any side effects. ????

My Verdict: The AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is an outstanding alternative to expensive professional treatments and has amassed a cult following of peel enthusiasts. Use this advanced peel 1-2x weekly to fade brown spots, even out skin tone, and reduce premature signs of aging.

Today, I'm going to discuss the popular Bliss That's Incredi-Peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads.

Does this product live up to its claims? Let’s find out. ⭐

RELATED:

• The 10 Best Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation

Bliss That's Incredi-Peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads

Bliss, a spa-powered skin wellness brand, takes their knowledge and experience from the spa to your home with their individually wrapped That's Incredi-Peel Glycolic Resurfacing Pads.

If you have sensitive skin, you'll be glad to know that all Bliss products are free of parabens, phthalates, SLS, SLES, petrolatum, and mineral oil and are 100% cruelty-free.

This 10% glycolic acid peel targets discolorations and imperfections by breaking down the cellular glue that holds dead skin cells together and releasing trapped oils and pollutants in your skin.

Over time, it helps improve your skin's natural cell turnover and repair cycle to reveal smoother, healthier, and more even-looking skin. It may also reduce the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.

Bliss also added soothing botanical ingredients to reduce skin irritation and inflammation, including Witch Hazel, Licorice Root Extract, and Calendula Flower Extract. Meanwhile, Vitamin E and Glycerin help prevent environmental damage and increase skin hydration, respectively.

With 500+ reviews, many users commented that these peel pads kept their pores squeaky clean, lightened sun damage, and improved their overall complexion.

The most common complaints include: some experienced skin sensitivity or irritation while others didn't experience any noticeable improvements in their scars or dark spots.

My Verdict: Featuring 10% glycolic acid, Bliss That's Incredi-Peel Peel Pads (try saying that again!) are an affordable way to experience soothing spa-quality formulas that fight hyperpigmentation.

Today, I'm going to discuss the bestselling chemical peels from QRxLabs:

• Best Overall Pick: QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads
• Best Beginner Peel: QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel
• Best Advanced Peel: QRxLabs Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel

Do these products live up to their claims? Let’s find out. ⭐

Special Coupon: Save more when you shop more at QRxLabs. Use promo code COMBO3 to save 10% on purchases of 3 products and promo code COMBO4 to save 15% on 4 products. ????

RELATED:

• The 10 Best Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation

1. QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads

If you want the best value for money, I recommend the QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 20% Resurfacing Pads which are suitable for dark spots, acne marks, dull skin, uneven tone, and wrinkles & fine lines.

What's nice is that these peel pads come super saturated with a 20% glycolic acid solution so you'll get a lot of value out of them before the pads dry out. This product also features a texturized surface for physical exfoliation and a convenient finger notch to hold the pads.

In terms of ingredients, Glycolic Acid is the main (and only) chemical agent in this product to help your skin cells turnover faster and reveal new layers of brighter, more even-looking skin.

Meanwhile, Vitamins C & E provide antioxidant benefits and promote collagen deposition (an important step for repairing textural issues like scars and wrinkles).

Panthenol (Vitamin B5) and Allantoin help your skin retain moisture and accelerate the post-peel healing process while Green Tea and Calendula Flower Extracts reduce stinging and irritation.

Reviews so far have been very positive, although some reviewers made claims that sound too good to be true (e.g. "instant results", "1 week improvements", etc.). I would caution against forming your opinion based on the most positive reviews as these tend to overstate the actual results.

The most common complaints include: the product leaves behind a sticky residue and some people experienced breakouts or rashes after using this product.

My Verdict: Featuring 20% glycolic acid, the QRxLabs Resurfacing Pads strike a perfect balance between effectiveness and affordability. Add these peel pads to your daily routine for brighter, smoother, and healthier-looking skin.

Special Coupon: Save more when you shop more at QRxLabs. Use promo code COMBO3 to save 10% on purchases of 3 products and promo code COMBO4 to save 15% on 4 products. ????

2. QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel

For beginners, 30% glycolic acid is generally considered the best starting point as it provides a mild level of exfoliation but still delivers noticeable results for your skin (for more sensitive skin, a good alternative is 10% mandelic acid or 10% lactic acid).

Decades of clinical research has shown that "the most popular and time-tested superficial peeling agent is glycolic acid..." (source: A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels, 2018)

30% glycolic acid is usually strong enough to significantly improve mild-to-moderate cases of hyperpigmentation, including dark spots, acne marks, and sun damage.

Glycolic acid also helps smooth out uneven skin texture such as wrinkles, fine lines, and acne scars.

There are hundreds of brands that offer glycolic acid peels. From my (many hours of) research, I've found that the following ones provide the highest quality:

1. Perfect Image: 1,000's of reviews, peels cost between $25-$30 a bottle
2. QRxLabs: 100's of reviews, peels are a bit cheaper at $20 a bottle
3. Planet Eden: 100's of reviews, peels start at $15.50 a bottle and include a free fan brush

Perfect Image has the most number of ratings for its Glycolic 30% Gel Peel but is more expensive than QRxLabs and the shipping is sometimes not included.

However, I really like that they've created a categorization system using Level 1, Level 2, and Level 3 that helps beginners determine which peel is most suitable for them.

QRxLabs is my top recommendation right now as they offer excellent value for money.

The QRxLabs Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel is (as the name says) a gel, rather than a liquid, which makes the peel easier to work with and prevents it from dripping into your eyes or mouth. It also contains Green Tea and Chamomile Extracts to reduce skin irritation. ????

Planet Eden is another great choice and also includes a free fan brush. However, shipping may take a few days longer as they do it themselves instead of using Amazon's warehouses. I also highly recommend their starter kits which include an additional cleanser and recovery cream.

My Verdict: 30% glycolic acid is the best starting point for beginners and has been shown to be clinically effective for mild-to-moderate cases of hyperpigmentation. Perfect Image, QRxLabs, and Planet Eden all offer excellent versions of this popular peel for a fraction of the professional cost.

⚠️ Important Note: You should always neutralize glycolic acid peels to prevent excessive peeling! Try this at-home baking soda solution or pick up a chemical peel neutralizer.

QRxLabs Coupon: Save more when you shop more at QRxLabs. Use promo code COMBO3 to save 10% on purchases of 3 products and promo code COMBO4 to save 15% on 4 products. ????

3. QRxLabs Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel

Once you're ready to step up your peel game, consider trying a 50% lactic acid peel.

This alpha hydroxy acid is structurally similar to its glycolic acid cousin but with fewer side effects and faster recovery times (source: A Practical Approach to Chemical Peels, 2018).

Lactic acid has demonstrated comparable results to glycolic acid in clinical studies for the treatment of hyperpigmentation, wrinkles & fine lines, and sun damage. However, be prepared for up to 2 weeks of recovery time while your skin repairs itself after a 50% lactic acid peel.

The two brands that I currently recommend are:

• Perfect Image Lactic 50% Gel Peel
• QRxLabs Lactic Acid 50% Gel Peel

Both are gel peels that reduce the risk of chemicals dripping into your eyes or mouth. Both also include skin lightening agents like Kojic Acid and Bearberry Extract to help fade your dark spots even faster by inhibiting melanin synthesis (QRxLabs also includes Licorice Root Extract).

Overall, both lactic acid peels have excellent customer reviews with comments of brighter skin tone, reduced signs of aging, and smoother skin texture.

My Verdict: If beginner peels aren't cutting it anymore for your skin, consider stepping up to an intermediate peel like the 50% Lactic Acid Peel to counter signs of aging and hyperpigmentation. Perfect Image and QRxLabs both offer excellent products with bonus skin lightening ingredients.

⚠️ Important Note: As this is a professional grade and unbuffered chemical peel, please make sure you have successfully completed a beginner peel first (such as 30% glycolic acid). The high acid concentration can seriously damage your skin if you do not take adequate precautions.

QRxLabs Coupon: Save more when you shop more at QRxLabs. Use promo code COMBO3 to save 10% on purchases of 3 products and promo code COMBO4 to save 15% on 4 products. ????

Today, I'm going to discuss the award-winning Exuviance Performance Peel AP25.

Does this product live up to its claims? Let’s find out. ⭐

RELATED:

• The 10 Best Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation

Exuviance Performance Peel AP25

For more stubborn hyperpigmentation such as melasma, Exuviance's award-winning Performance Peel AP25 might be just the solution for you (as seen in Harper's Bazaar: 150 Beauty Must-Have's).

These individually wrapped 2-step peel pads are infused with a powerful blend of 25% Glycolic Acid, Mandelic Acid, and Gluconolactone (a gentle acid molecule known as a polyhydroxy acid).

Studies show that one of the best at home chemical peels for melasma is 30-50% glycolic acid which helps fade common symptoms like brown spots & gray patches. (source: Chemical Peels in Melasma: A Review with Consensus Recommendations by Indian Pigmentary Expert Group, 2017)

While Performance Peel AP25 only uses 25% glycolic acid, it's also boosted by mandelic acid and gluconolactone for additional exfoliation to reduce skin discoloration. ????

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vUUa9SVllac

Given the strong concentration of this product, Exuviance recommends using it only twice a week.

Make sure to do a patch test first to ensure no irritation or discomfort occurs within the first 24 hours (this is included in the 13 treatments per box, so you have 12 remaining sets for a total of 6 weeks).

In terms of results, Exuviance cites the following from their 30-day clinical study:

• 100% of users noticed improvements in fine lines and wrinkles
• 94% of users noticed more even tone

However, it is worth noting that participants used Performance Peel AP25 in combination with other Exuviance products, which means these statements aren't necessarily reflective of AP25 on its own.

Having said that, Performance Peel has received outstanding reviews on Exuviance and Ulta Beauty where there's currently over 600 ratings with an impressive number of 5-stars on both platforms.

Many customers reported reduced signs of melasma, more even skin tone, softer wrinkles & fine lines, smoother skin texture, and smaller pore sizes.

Again, don't just take my word for it: have a look at some of the user feedback.

On the other hand, most of the negative reviews were due to unauthentic products from third-party Amazon sellers (always a risk with popular items). For this reason, I recommend buying AP25 directly from Exuviance or from Ulta Beauty which is an authorized retailer.

My Verdict: For stubborn forms of hyperpigmentation like melasma, the Performance Peel AP25 offers a powerful solution with 25% AHAs & PHAs, strong clinical results, and outstanding reviews. ????

If you're looking for the best moisturizers to use after a chemical peel, you're in the right place!

RELATED:

• The 10 Best Chemical Peels for Hyperpigmentation
• The 10 Best Glycolic Acid Creams

What Are The Best Moisturizers To Use After A Chemical Peel?

Here are my top picks for the best moisturizers to help your skin recover following a chemical peel:

1. Best Overall Pick: Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Sheet Masks (24 Pack)
2. Best Recovery Cream: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5
3. Best Recovery Lotion: Avène Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream
4. Best Recovery Balm: Barker Goods Organic Balm for Scars
5. Best Value for Money: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream
6. Best for Deep Hydration: Laneige Water Sleeping Mask
7. Best for Post-Aesthetic Procedures: Glytone Soothing Lipid Recovery Cream

1. Best Overall Pick: Dermal Korea Collagen Essence Sheet Masks (24 Pack)

2. Best Recovery Cream: La Roche-Posay Cicaplast Baume B5

3. Best Recovery Lotion: Avène Cicalfate Restorative Skin Cream

4. Best Recovery Balm: Barker Goods Organic Balm for Scars

5. Best Value for Money: First Aid Beauty Ultra Repair Cream

6. Best for Deep Hydration: Laneige Water Sleeping Mask

7. Best for Post-Aesthetic Procedures: Glytone Soothing Lipid Recovery Cream