| Feature | Exfoliant | Peel |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Broad term for removing dead skin cells. | A chemical exfoliation treatment. |
| Method | Mechanical tools or scrubs, or chemical products. | A chemical solution applied to the skin. |
| Depth | Depends on the method. | Can be superficial, moderate depth or deep. |
| Typical use | Chosen by method and skin type. | May address some acne, uneven color, sun damage, roughness and fine lines. |
| Timing | Frequency depends on skin type and method. | Superficial treatments may recur every few weeks; moderate depth peels are spaced months apart. |
A peel is not automatically stronger just because it is called a peel. Chemical peels range from superficial treatments to deeper procedures, and the depth changes both the skin treated and the recovery. Clinicians use peels for concerns such as certain types of acne, uneven color, sun damage, rough texture and fine lines. The word 'peel' is less a method than a range with very different ambitions.3
How should you use a regular exfoliant?
Choose a method that suits your skin. Dry, sensitive or acne prone skin may do better with a washcloth or mild chemical exfoliant; oily, thicker skin may tolerate stronger chemical or mechanical methods. Sensitive skin can sting or burn after products, so start gently. If you use retinoids or benzoyl peroxide, adding exfoliation can worsen dryness or acne. Retinoids can also thin the top layer of skin and let a peel act more deeply, so mention them to the clinician before a peel. Avoid aggressive exfoliation if you have darker skin or tend to develop dark marks after irritation, since stronger methods can increase pigmentation. Do not exfoliate sunburned skin or open cuts and wounds.123
- 1Apply a scrub or chemical exfoliant gently in small circular motions for about 30 seconds.
- 2Rinse well with lukewarm water.
- 3Apply moisturizer right after exfoliating.
Is a face peel the same as an exfoliant?
Yes, if you mean a chemical face peel: it is one kind of exfoliation. The terms are not interchangeable, because exfoliant also includes physical methods such as scrubs and brushes.2
How often should you use a peel?
There is no single interval for every peel. For general exfoliation, frequency depends on your skin type and method, and stronger exfoliation should be less frequent. Superficial professional peels may be repeated every few weeks; moderate depth peels are spaced months apart, with the clinician setting the interval. Light peels can take a series to show their full effect. A light peel may leave redness and scaling for three to seven days, while a medium peel can leave skin crusted and peeling for seven to fourteen days.134
Are at home peels safe for skin?
Not automatically. Some chemical peels sold for at home use have caused serious injuries, so use a chemical peel only under the supervision of a licensed, trained provider. At home treatments tend to be gentler and may take several applications before smoother skin or faded dark spots appear, but that does not remove the need for supervision. If a provider directs you to use a peel product, test a small area first, follow its directions and do not leave it on longer than instructed.25
Alpha hydroxy acids can increase skin sensitivity to the sun. While using them and for a week afterward, use sunscreen, wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure. After a professional peel, follow the aftercare instructions, moisturize and protect healing skin from the sun. Do not pick peeling skin, because picking can cause scars. Contact the treating clinician promptly if you have a problem during recovery. Pregnancy or birth control pill use can increase the risk of abnormal pigmentation after a peel; some alpha hydroxy acids are described as safe during pregnancy and nursing, but peel treatments are not all the same.2346
Where this answer comes from
- 1How to safely exfoliate at homeaad.org
- 2At-Home Chemical Peel: What You Need To Knowhealth.clevelandclinic.org
- 3Chemical Peels: Types of Peels, Conditions Treated, What to Expectmy.clevelandclinic.org
- 4Chemical peels (face peels)dermnetnz.org
- 5Chemical peels: Overviewaad.org
- 6Alpha Hydroxy Acidsfda.gov
