How would you like toeasilyimprove your skin's health and appearance while reversing the hands of time?

Thanks to at-home chemical peels, women and men of all ages have diminished fine lines and wrinkles, acne and discoloration, while improving skin texture, brightness and firmness. Yet, many consumers fail to select the right peel simply because there are so many to choose from.

Key details to consider when purchasing an at-home chemical peel is the chemical type (Alpha Hydroxy, Beta Hydroxy, Trichloreacetic Acid (TCA), Jessners or a non-acidic Enzyme Peel) the percentage of the peel, and the pH level.

Here's what you should know before purchasing any chemical peel:

What are the different types of peels?

Lactic Acids (Alpha Hydroxy). The ideal peel for the beginnerand suitable for all skin types. Lactic Acid peels derive from milk and penetrate the epidermis only. Some formulations contain licorice extract—an effective skin lightening additive making the peel great for those with hyper-pigmentation (discoloration of the skin).

Glycolic Acid (Alpha Hydroxy). A good all-around acidfor normal to oily skin types. Harsher than lactic acids, this peel penetrates the epidermis while exfoliating the skin.

Salicylic Acid (Beta Hydroxy).This peel is oil soluble, making these acidsperfect for oily skinthat needs deep pore cleansing and loosening of blackheads. A beta-hydroxy, this acid penetrates the upper layers of the epidermis only.

Trichloreacetic Acid (TCA).TCA is a deeper peeling class of acidsused for acne, lines, wrinkles, hyper-pigmentation and scarring.This peel penetrates the epidermis into the upper layers of the dermis producing a more effective peeling experience. Note that no matter how deep the peel penetrates, the skinwillheal and return to normal.Always begin with a low strength peel for this particular acid.

Non Acid Enzyme Peel.Theseall-natural enzyme peels, made from papaya and pineapple, safely dissolve surface skin debris leaving the skin feeling soft, cleansed and refreshed. These are the same peels your esthetician would use at a high-end salon.

Revitalization Peel (Jessner's Type).This is a drying peelbest suited for oily and acneic skin types.Containing both alpha and beta hydroxies, along with resorcinol, this peel penetrates more deeply than an alpha or beta peel, but less deeply than a TCA.Not recommended for sensitive or dry skin.

There is a peel for every skin type, yet many consumers choose peels that are either too strong or not strong enough. This guide can help you make the best decision for your skin. When in doubt, always go gentler rather than stronger.

What do pH Levels mean, and why do they matter?

The pH level refers to the level of acidity or alkalinity within the product. The lower the pH, the more acidic the peel, thus making the peel stronger. The pH scale runs from 0 (most acidic) to 14 (very alkaline). Use caution with products that contain lower acidity levels, as these products are the most irritating to the skin.

What will happen to the skin following the peel?

The effects of chemical peels vary depending on the type. Here's what to expect following:

Alpha Hydroxy Acid Peels—temporary redness for approximately 1 hour at the lower percentage

Beta Hydroxy Peels--temporary redness for approximately 45 minutes, some light flaking post-peel

TCA Peels—tempoary redness at lower percentages, followed by light flaking of the skin. At the higher percentrage you will see redness followed by the skin turning a brown coloration and visible peeling for up to 10 days. The degree to which these visible symptoms appear depends on the strength of the peel.

Jessner Peels—temporary redness and peeling for several days

Enzyme Peels—temporary pink coloration for 30-45 minutes

Conclusion

Today, chemical peels are one of the most affordable methods to improving the skin and fighting aging. Achieve lasting and noticeable results with a chemical peel that truly "fits" your skin. If the peel fits, you'll enjoy years of glowing, fresh and youthful skin!

For more information about at-home chemical peels, including a before/after video of results,click hereto link to our chemical peel products page.