beauty

4 Drugstore Glycolic Peels That Work Better Than Botox

March 6, 2020 by Robyn Turk
shefinds | beauty

This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.

SheFinds receives commissions for purchases made through the links in this post.

If you haven’t tried out a glycolic peel, it’s time to consider adding this powerful ingredient into your routine. A type of alpha-hydroxy acid with a small molecular structure, glycolic acid can penetrate deep into the skin and work wonders for anti-aging skincare. It intensely exfoliates the skin to stimulate collagen production, diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, brighten the complexion and reduce acne. The result? Younger-looking, radiant skin – particularly when used over time.

The most common way to incorporate glycolic acid into your skincare routine is through an at-home chemical peel, which is not as drastic as it sounds. This type of treatment simply involves applying the product to your skin, letting it sit for a few minutes and then removing it, typically with a neutralizing solution. If you have sensitive skin, it would be wise to test the glycolic peel on your hand or arm to see how your skin reacts to it before trying it on your face.

The best part? Glycolic peels don’t need to be pricey. You can find an excellent glycolic product at a drugstore for as low as $15.

The 125 Best New Beauty Launches Of 2023
Acid Facial Peel

InstaNatural Glycolic Peel

What It Does

A powerful anti-aging tool, this at-home chemical peel was professionally designed with vitamins A and C, hyaluronic acid and sunflower seed oil to exfoliate layers of skin for a younger and fresher surface appearance.

Key Benefits

- Revitalizes skin through exfoliating deeply into the layers of the skin to remove imperfections

- Clears away excess dirt and oil on the skin to minimize the appearance of pores

- Reduces wrinkles for a healthy and youthful glow

Promising Review

I'm 42 and have been fortunate to routinely be mistaken for early to mid-30s but I have been developing some fine lines on my forehead and inconsistency in skin tone due to mild melasma, so I decided it was time to try a facial peel. I love this stuff! I've nearly finished my fist bottle and will 100% buy again because I can absolutely see the difference in my skin: less acne, evening on my mild melasma on my forehead, lightening of my fine lines, and my skin is less dry and flaky as it usually is in winter.” - C. Morris

Glycolic Acid Facial Peel 30% With Vitamin C, Hyaluronic Acid ($23.97)

Chemical Face Peel

Yeouth Glycolic Acid 30% Gel Peel

Made with a 30% glycolic acid formula with retinol and hyaluronic acid, this at-home peel penetrates deep into the skin to gently exfoliate and reduce the appearance of damages on the skin.

What It Does

- Brightens the skin while gently exfoliating to reveal smooth, hydrated and clear skin

- Reverses damage and signs of aging such as fine lines, scars and dark spots

- Uses naturally-derived ingredients for safe and effective quality

Key Benefits

Promising Review

“I love this peel-off! It’s so easy to apply and so quick so it doesn't add much time to my skincare routine which it’s perfect because I’ve been lazy lately haha. Just let it act for 1 minute and that’s it. I started with once a week but you can use it up to twice. After the second use, I noticed some dark spots on my chin due to blemishes were totally gone! It made my skin tone even and my skin felt so soft and glowing after rinsing it off. I highly recommend it if you’re into trying glycolic acid for the first time. Besides, cannot beat that price!” - ohsandrade

Glycolic Acid Peel 30% Professional Chemical Face Peel with Retinol ($24.95)

Overnight Facial Peel

Versed The Shortcut Overnight Facial Peel

This overnight facial peel resurfaces and renews the complexion with a powerful yet gentle blend of ingredients. It is easy to use, only needed one step for application.

What It Does

Key Benefits

- Improves the appearance of dullness and signs of aging on skin

- Gently exfoliates with a blend of lactic acid, glycolic acid and vitamin A

- Brightens, smooths and renews skin overnight</>

Promising Review

“I LOVE this product! My skin has always been pretty good, with an occasional breakout or dryness, but the Overnight Facial Peel was a game changer. I immediately saw results. I have normal to sensitive skin and had no redness or irritation. I started using every couple days to see how my skin would respond, but now I use it almost every day because it makes such a huge difference. My skin is soft, smooth, and clear, and I definitely notice a difference on the nights I don't use it. This stuff is the real deal. People compliment me daily on how even, and flawless my skin has been looking and ask me what I'm using. My esthetician even asked! I would highly recommend it, and for the price, everyone should use it!” - kat

Versed The Shortcut Overnight Facial Peel ($19.99)

Collagen Boost

Lumiwell Cosmetic 70% Gel Peel Skin Rejuvenation Therapy

What It Does

This glycolic peel uses a stronger formula than the other options. Though not ideal for more sensitive skin, this peel effectively and rapidly reveals brighter, fresher skin for a youthful appearance. Because of its intense formula, you only need to use this glycolic peel once a week for noticeable results.

Key Benefits

- Promotes a soft, glowing and radiant complexion

- Boosts collagen production to help skin remain firm and wrinkle-free

- Rejuvenates skin for a smoothed and toned appearance

Promising Review

“I've been using this peel with great results. Every few days and especially after a day of wearing heavy makeup, I put a few drops of this peel on a cotton pad, wipe across my face, and leave on for a few minutes. I have sensitive skin, but this product doesn't burn- I just feel a tingle to know it's working. I wash it off with water or witch hazel. Afterwards my skin feels so clean and fresh. I haven't even gone for facials lately because this peel produces the same result. I'm noticing an improvement in my crow's feet too. If you're looking to rejuvenate aging skin or even just get a really clean feeling to your face, I would use a few drops of this peel before bed at least once a week or even every couple of days. A little goes a long way!” - Katrina S.

Glycolic Acid Peel 70% with CoQ10 for Collagen Boost ($19.95)

Author:

Robyn Turk is a style and beauty writer, contributing to the SheFinds team. Her work has appeared in StyleCaster, Business Insider, Refinery29, DailyMail and others.

From Our Partners

Learn more about RevenueStripe...

From Our Partners

Learn more about RevenueStripe...

beauty

10 Products Our Editors Are Buying During The Sephora Sales Event

Makeup and skincare lovers get excited because it is your ...

LOAD MORE
+
LOAD MORE POSTS