Compare Facial Peels Side by Side

A chemical peel uses acids or enzymes to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells so they shed more evenly. A physical scrub uses abrasive particles to manually buff the surface. Peels tend to work more uniformly across the skin and can reach slightly deeper than most scrubs, which makes them a common choice for targeting the appearance of uneven tone and texture.

AHAs like glycolic and lactic acid are water-soluble and work mainly on the skin surface, so they are often listed for brightening and smoothing. BHAs like salicylic acid are oil-soluble and can clear into the pore lining, making them common in peels aimed at congested or acne-prone skin. Enzyme-based peels (papain, bromelain) tend to be gentler and are often marketed for sensitive skin types.

It depends on the product and concentration. Some peels are formulated specifically for sensitive skin and use lower acid percentages or buffered enzyme blends. The addresses and skin_type columns in the comparison table can help you filter for options labeled for sensitive skin. Regardless of label, doing a small patch test before full-face use is a practical precaution.

Most at-home peels recommend once to twice a week, though frequency guidance varies by acid type and concentration. Higher-strength AHA pads often suggest starting at once weekly and increasing only if tolerated. Always follow the specific product directions, and if you are using prescription retinoids or other actives, check for overlap before adding a peel to your routine.

Size gives you the package quantity (fluid ounces, count of pads, etc.) but actual duration depends on how much you use per application. A 2 oz bottle used sparingly can outlast a 4 oz one applied generously. Treat the size column as a relative value signal: when two similarly priced products list different sizes, the larger one usually offers more uses for the money, assuming directions are comparable.