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The 9 Pedicure Colors to Wear in Fall 2025

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

Getting a pedicure during the fall is like wearing a particularly daring lingerie set under your outfit. It’s a thrill! And a way to experiment with something that might be outside your comfort zone. “Fall is the ideal opportunity to try out bolder, darker, or unexpected shades without the pressure of constantly coordinating with open-toe footwear,” says Erica De Los Santos, manicurist and founder of Nail’d It Beauty Lounge. If the mood strikes and you want to unveil your look, you’ll be walking more confidently than ever.

This season, you can expect deep, moody colors and ultrarich earth tones. “These hues totally set the fall mood,” says Sojin Oh, 3D nail artist and creative consultant to Kijibae. “They're cozy, grounded, and have depth.” You’ll also find unexpected colors like sheer neutrals, concrete, and sage green, adding a soft, subdued take to the fall palette. Read on to discover the pedicure colors that capture the many vibes of the season.

Meet the experts:

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• Sarah Chue is a nail artist based in Los Angeles.
• Erica De Los Santos is a nail artist and founder of Nail’d It Beauty Lounge in Kenvil, New Jersey.
• Mazz Hanna is a Los Angeles-based manicurist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood, a boutique agency.
• Julie Kandalec is a New York City-based manicurist, educator for CND, and brand ambassador for Kiss Nails.
• Lily Nguyen is a manicurist and founder of Labo Beauté Salon in Los Angeles.
• Sojin Oh is a 3D nail artist based in Los Angeles and creative consultant to Kijibae.

Sage Green

OPI

Nail Polish in Leaf by Example

$13

Amazon

Manucurist

Green Natural Nail Polish in Sage

$14

Manucurist

Mooncat

Devil's Ivy

$18

Mooncat

Burning sage is said to help cleanse and reset energy. IMO, getting a sage color pedicure can have the same effect. “Sage is a soft, transitional green that bridges summer and fall,” says Mazz Hanna, manicurist and CEO of Nailing Hollywood. “It adds a subtle pop of color without clashing with deeper autumn shades.”

Try your hand at the cat-eye effect with Devil’s Ivy by Mooncat, which has a silver shimmer that you can activate by hovering a magnet above the wet lacquer. If a sparkle-free finish is more your speed, pick up the Manucurist Nail Polish in Sage. Looking for something deeper? Opt for the rich and creamy OPI Nail Polish in Leaf by Example.

Plum

ILNP

Currant Nail Polish

$10

Amazon

$10

ILNP

Tenoverten

Orchard Nail Polish

$14

Amazon

$14

Tenoverten

Londontown

Lakur in Vixen Red

$16

Londontown

If milky lavender or punchy purple tones are your go-tos during the warmer months, consider plum their moody big sister with the best goth-rock playlist on repeat. “Deep plum gives the same sultry vibes seen in velvet and wine-hued accessories, which are always popular in the fall,” says Oh. ILNP’s Currant and Ten Over Ten’s Orchard are classic creme-finish plums that are ripe for the cooler weather.

Feeling something with a little more dimension? Londontown Lakur in Vixen Red is an eggplant infused with pink shimmer that would look right at home in the Hocus Pocus makeup trailer.

Burnt Orange

Habit Cosmetics

Nail Polish in Tandoori

$14

Amazon

$12

Habit Cosmetics

Cracked Polish

Nail Polish in I Yam What I Yam

$10

Cracked Polish

Kokie Cosmetics

Green Polish in Hotline

$8

Amazon

$8

Kokie Cosmetics

Whether you’re inspired by the changing foliage or the seasonal treats you pair with your pumpkin spice latte, warm siennas pair especially well against an otherwise neutral ensemble. “Burnt orange brings a surprising pop of color that’s fitting for cooler weather,” says manicurist Lily Nguyen. “It’s a shade people don’t tend to reach for when it comes to their toes, but it works well in the fall.”

Go for an opaque option like Tandoori by Habit Cosmetics. We also love I Yam What I Yam by Cracked Polish, which has a jelly finish, and Kokie’s Green Polish in Hotline, which is packed with shimmer.

Oxblood

Deborah Lippmann

Gel Lab Pro Color Nail Polish in Vampire’s Touch

$20

Amazon

Le Mini Macaron

Nail Polish in Cassis

$10

Ulta Beauty

$10

Beyond Polish

CND

Vinylux Take Root

$9

Beyond Polish

Like the coat you reach for as soon as the temperature dips into the low 50s, oxblood is a timeless fall staple. “This shade evokes the cozy, warm feeling of fall, mirroring seasonal changes like turning leaves,” De Los Santos says. “Deep reds also exude a sense of elegance, making them a go-to for those looking to add a sophisticated touch to their pedicure.”

Pay homage to your favorite campy, bloodsucker-themed YA series with Deborah Lippmann Gel Lab Pro Color Nail Polish in Vampire’s Touch or Le Mini Macaron Nail Polish in Cassis. CND Vinylux in Take Root also nails the oxblood trend and comes with a built-in base coat, eliminating the need for that extra step.

Earthy Browns

SpaRitual

Nail Polish in Potery Reading

$14

SpaRitual

Pacifica

Natural Nail Polish in Plant Magic

$5

Amazon

Death Valley Nails

Nail Polish in Tannins in the Leaves

$16

Death Valley Nails

Rich shades of brown—from deep espresso to warm amber—add a touch of depth to any look and are perfect for the peep-toes you might be wearing while the weather’s still mild. “Earthy browns feel naturally fitting with Western-inspired footwear and add warmth to both structured and textured designs,” says De Los Santos.

Spa Ritual’s Poetry Reading is a milk chocolate with slight red undertones that brings warmth to your skin, while Olive & June’s CN is a true dark chocolate. Tannins in the Leaves by Death Valley Nail Polish is one of the more unique takes on the trend: Re-create the effect of a tiger’s eye crystal by holding a magnet over the wet lacquer to activate a stripe of amber shimmer.

Concrete

Tood

Vegan Nail Polish in Luna

$18

Revolve

Kapa Nui

Non Toxic Nail Polish in Hinahina

$12

Kapa Nui

Kijibae

Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips in Moon Dust

$15

Kijibae

Cool grey is an elevated way to complement the sheer flats you're breaking out this fall. “Colors like bone gray or charcoal gray offer up a bit of attention, but not too much,” says nail artist Sarah Chue. “For the most part, we don't want to draw much attention to the toes, but if you were to see them, they’re well-kept and chic.” If you want to play with a matte finish, Chue notes the effect is especially flattering over lighter grays. TooD’s Luna and Kapa Nui’s Hinahina (which means gray in Hawaiian) are classic opaque slate shades, while the Kijibae Semi-Cured Gel Nail Strips in Moon Dust are a demure gray ombré design sized just right for all 10 toes.

Taupe

Sundays

No. 50

$18

Sundays

China Glaze

Mega Pigment Nail Lacquer in Weathered Bark

$9

Ulta Beauty

Static Nails

Liquid Glass Lacquer in Rob the Bank

$16

Static Nails

Feeling more of a neutral vibe? Taupe, the happy medium between beige and gray, is a versatile choice that plays well with minimalist and maximalist aesthetics alike. “Taupe is an understated neutral that feels like fall,” Hanna says. “It’s soft, wearable, and works with just about everything in your wardrobe.” For a taupe that makes an impact, go for a pigmented creme formula like China Glaze’s Weathered Bark, Rob the Bank by Static Nails, or No. 50 by Sundays.

Dark Denim

Sally Hansen

Miracle Gel Nail Polish in Midnight Mod

$13 $9 (31% off)

Amazon

$13

Ulta Beauty

Essie

Nail Polish in To Me From Me

$10 $9 (10% off)

Amazon

Olive & June

Quick Drying Nail Polish in Midnight Blue

$9

Amazon

If an inky black lacquer feels too intense to wear on all 10 toes, consider a dark indigo in its place; the end result is just as polished without feeling too severe. “Navy pedicures are sleek, polished, and always in season,” Hanna says. “It’s a cool weather staple that’s a softer alternative to black.”

To match your toes with your favorite pair of jeans, try Essie’s From Me to Me or Sally Hansen’s Midnight Mod, two creme-finish indigos, or veer more toward sapphire with Olive & June’s Midnight.

Sheer Neutral

Lights Lacquer

Nail Polish in Clueless

$13

Lights Lacquer

Le Mini Macaron

Nail Polish in Blush

$10

Ulta Beauty

Holo Taco

Nail Polish in Celestial Lights

$14

Holo Taco

Consider this trend the autumnal answer to the lip gloss nails trend. Mimicking the appearance of a bare nail with a little extra shine, Julie Kandalec, a New York City-based manicurist, has been noticing many celebrities going color-free on the red carpet. “I have just started seeing some non-polished toes on celebs like Anne Hathaway and Hailey Bieber, and I do see this as a trend as well,” she says. “I don’t mean completely undone. I mean a perfect cuticle with the sheerest of pink and white gel polishes to mimic a perfectly healthy, buffed nail.”

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Try a sheer ballet hue like Clueless by Lights Lacquer, or Blush by Le Mini Macaron, or keep the glazed-donut effect going strong by wearing a shimmery topper like Celestial Lights by Holo Taco over a bare nail.

January 24, 2025

How Sobriety at 48 Gave Me The Skin I Was Chasing For Years

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I didn’t stop drinking for my skin, which feels almost embarrassing to admit after more than 25 years working as a beauty editor. I’d tried every retinol, LED facial, and faddy 24 carat gold-infused cream known to the beauty world, but it never occurred to me that the real game-changer might be quitting alcohol.

When I first decided to go sober, my skin was an afterthought. Like so many women in their forties, I was done with how alcohol was making me feel—permanently rough and anxious—even after just a couple of glasses of wine. I wasn’t someone who drank heavily in my twenties, but over the years, alcohol became threaded through my everyday life: after-work drinks, family parties, a post-putting-the-kids-to-bed treat.

And then almost four years ago, when I was 45, I moved from London to Florida, where it always feels like cocktail o’clock, and that quiet habit turned into something louder. I was also experiencing perimenopause at the time, which didn’t help my drinking. Or my skin for that matter. My tolerance to alcohol was shrinking while my anxiety and sleeplessness were growing. And my skin was suffering too. I noticed sagging creeping into my jawline, lines on my upper lip, worsening pigmentation, more prominent dark circles.

At 48, I’d had enough and decided to give up alcohol—literally overnight—and everything changed.

The very first week, I woke up with a clear head and clearer skin. That short timeline for good results is actually quite common, according to board-certified dermatologist Mona Gohara, MD, especially if alcohol was a regular part of your routine. “Even a week off can be enough for your skin barrier to recover some of its moisture and for inflammation to start calming down,” Dr. Gohara explains. Jessica Krant, MD, a board-certified NYC dermatologist also points out that alcohol is a diuretic, meaning that it causes the body to release more urine and lose water, which is awful news for aging skin, as it is drier by default. “Dehydration can negatively affect your skin by causing it to dry out and become dull and rough," Dr. Krant says. "Lack of hydration can also decrease the skin elasticity, making it saggy and wrinkled, so you appear older than you are.”

Images courtesy subject

A big reason alcohol affects your skin is because of how it can mess with your sleep schedule. “Alcohol disrupts your sleep, and poor sleep raises cortisol, your stress hormone, creating a double-whammy pro-inflammatory state,” Dr. Gohara says. “It also dilates blood vessels, which can worsen redness and flushing.” Within six weeks of giving up drinking, I was sleeping deeply and waking up without that familiar anxiety, or the dryness and puffiness. At nine weeks, I noticed that my skin looked plump—you know, that collagen-rich baby bounce you forget that you once had. People started to comment on how fresh I looked.

By the three month mark, even my two teenage sons were remarking on my sober skin. “It just looks a bit more alive now,” my 14-year-old said bluntly over breakfast one morning. And I knew what he meant. To translate to beauty speak, he noticed the depuffing, the debloating, the clarity. And I noticed it too. I still had some lines and wrinkles that being almost 50 brings of course, but they weren’t as deep and pronounced. I would always wake up with those ugly morning pillow creases on my face, even after drinking just a couple of glasses of wine, but not any more.

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“When your skin is well hydrated and your collagen isn’t under constant assault from alcohol-related inflammation, it’s more resilient, meaning it bounces back faster from pressure,” Dr. Gohara explains. “Alcohol also disrupts sleep quality, reducing the restorative deep sleep that helps skin repair overnight. Better hydration plus better quality sleep means your skin recovers from compression more efficiently, so those creases fade—or never form in the first place.”

Even I, a beauty editor, underestimated the impact sobriety would have on my skin. I’ve been testing skin care for years, but no serum or treatment had ever made this kind of difference. At five months sober, I was waking up with even fewer creases, less congestion, and a brightness that no vitamin C product has ever delivered. I felt like my cheekbones and jawline were more defined, and my glow was closer to its pre-perimenopause spark.

Drinking alcohol also weakens collagen and elastin (the stuff that keeps skin bouncy and firm) and can contribute to volume loss and broken capillaries—the tiny red veins that pop up around the nose and cheeks. “Add in sugary cocktails, juice mixers, or sweet wines, and you're also speeding up glycation, a process where sugar binds to collagen and elastin, breaking them down faster,” notes Dr. Gohara. “That means more wrinkles, sagging, and dullness over time—basically, sugar and alcohol age you from the inside out.”

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Being in the midst of midlife, I had to consider the impact that hormones were also having on my skin, too. “During perimenopause, declining estrogen makes skin thinner, drier, and less elastic,” Dr. Gohara explains. “Alcohol compounds this by further reducing hydration and damaging collagen. It’s like pouring gasoline on an already smoldering fire: Your skin’s more vulnerable, and alcohol makes recovery harder.”

Just over one year in, sobriety hasn’t erased all of my skin concerns. I’m 50 next year and I’m still menopausal, so there’s no doubt that my face is in for lots of changes. But being sober at midlife has definitely given my skin a far better baseline, especially as someone who doesn't get neuromodulator or filler injections.

And there’s the ironic twist: For years, I have shunned toxins like Botox in my skin-care routine, all while quietly nursing the effects of alcohol, also an undeniable toxin. I thought I was making healthy choices, but I was ignoring the one habit that was quietly undoing so many of them.

That’s the unexpected beauty of sobriety: It brings a kind of clarity no serum can deliver. Not just to my skin, but in the way I see myself, my habits, and the way I want to live. So these days, sober is my new skin type—and I’m really comfortable in it.

December 25, 2024

9 Best Chemical Peels to Use at Home for Soft, Glowing Skin

Source image: Jonathan Knowles/Getty Images

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All products featured on Allure are independently selected by our editors. However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.

When it comes to the best chemical peels for at-home use, today’s options make it easier than ever to achieve smoother, more radiant skin that rivals the glow of an in-office peel. “The benefits [of over-the-counter peels] can include dark spot fading, evening complexion, collagen building, natural tone-enhancing, and exfoliating,” says Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut. That’s why many dermatologists recommend at-home peels between professional treatments like microneedling, lasers, or extractions—they help extend those results by further exfoliating, brightening, and fading lingering discoloration while smoothing skin.

As for how chemical peels work, it’s somewhat similar to a toner. "Exfoliating enzymes in chemical peels work by gently removing the dead layer of the skin—a.k.a. the stratum corneum—to brighten and smooth the skin," says David Kim, MD, a New York City-based board-certified dermatologist. Even though today’s at-home peels are gentler, it’s best to steer clear of so-called “professional-grade” formulas sold online, through third-party sites, or from unverified brands. “I’ve treated patients with burns, scarring, and deep hyperpigmentation after trying those at home, especially in deeper skin tones, which are more prone to discoloration if the peel penetrates too many layers of skin,” says Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist, based in Miami.

Stick to chemical peels marketed specifically for home use, follow directions to the letter, and always pair with SPF. Ahead, we’ve enlisted the help of derms to round up the best at-home chemical peels that deliver real results.

Our Top Chemical Peels

• Best Overall: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel, $125
• Best for Beginners: Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant, $69
• Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads, $153 (60-count)
• Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel, $149
• Best Overnight Peel: Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel, $109
• Best for Uneven Texture: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset, $122
• Best for Sensitive Skin: U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel, $188
• Best Luxury: Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel, $220
• Best Budget: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, $10

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Best Overall: Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Shani Darden

Triple Acid Signature Peel

$125

Amazon

$125

Revolve

$125

Violet Grey

Allure editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Why It's Worth It: For those already well-versed in at-home treatments, Shani Darden’s Triple Acid Signature Peel is basically a pro facial in a box—and that’s exactly why it earned a 2023 Best of Beauty Award. The triple acid complex (glycolic, lactic, and mandelic acids) teams up with detoxifying kaolin and bentonite clay, plus soothing fruit and veggie extracts, to target fine lines, discoloration, and other visible signs of aging. Because this is a powerful peel, it’s crucial to follow the directions exactly as instructed. Start by applying the Triple Acid Solution Peel for one minute (or up to two if your skin isn’t sensitive and can handle it). Next, layer the Neutralizing Clay Mask directly over the peel for 10 minutes. While the peel gets to work, the mask steps in to calm any tingling or discomfort.

Cruel before applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Cruel after applying the Shani Darden Triple Acid Signature Peel

Jessica Cruel

Tester feedback from editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel

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“When I have to be on TV or walk the red carpet, there is only one product I trust to leave my skin glowing, and that's this peel. I have been lucky enough to get the full celeb facial treatment at Shani Darden's LA studio. This two-step exfoliant bottles a little of that magic up for at-home use. I love that it comes with a brush to apply the acid step. Then, you slather on the clay mask, which gives the whole thing a whipped consistency. It tingles a bit, but after I rinse, my skin is visibly glowier.” —Jessica Cruel, editor-in-chief

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycolic acid, lactic acid, mandelic acid, kaolin clay, bentonite clay, cucumber extract
• Who it’s for: people with a normal, oily, acne-prone, or mature skin type
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best for Beginners: Dermalogica Liquid Peelfoliant

Dermalogica

Liquid Peelfoliant

$69

Amazon

$69

Nordstrom

$69

Ulta Beauty

Allure commerce editor Sarah Han applying Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant

Sarah Han

Why it’s worth it: Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant is a professional-strength resurfacing treatment you can work into even the busiest routine. In under three minutes, a 30% multi-acid blend—glycolic, lactic, salicylic, phytic, and tranexamic acids—plus fruit enzymes smooth rough texture and brighten uneven skin tone. “This at-home peel helps with mild acne and is great for those looking to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles,” Ruth McTighe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Mt. Pleasant, SC. While at-home peels can feel intimidating for beginners, “Patients love that the dropper makes it easy to apply just the right amount and usually involves little to no downtime,” she says.

Tester feedback from commerce editor Sarah Han

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“I’m very hesitant when it comes to chemical peels—especially when there’s a 30% acid blend label staring right at me—so you can imagine my surprise when I didn’t feel my face tingle or burn at all as I worked Dermalogica’s Liquid Peelfoliant into my skin. (I used it multiple times to make sure I wasn’t dreaming.) Of course, non-irritating is great and all (and the bare minimum, tbh), but what about the results? I didn’t do this on purpose, but after a busy day out, I may have skipped washing my face…and let’s just say a very thorough double cleanse and this peel seriously helped revive my skin. I looked dewy as heck, and my pores were singing their praises—though, if they could talk, I’m sure they would’ve yelled at me to not go to bed wearing makeup. I’ve been searching for an exfoliating treatment to use consistently (weekly), and by all means, I think this is it!” —Sarah Han, commerce editor

More to know

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• Key ingredients: phytic acid, fruit enzymes, tranexamic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, gluconolactone
• Who it’s for: people with fine lines or wrinkles, dull skin, or large pores
• Fragrance-free:

Best Peel Pads: Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads

Dr. Dennis Gross

Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads

$153

Amazon (60-Count)

$153

Nordstrom (60-Count)

$153

Dermstore (60-Count)

Allure features director Dianna Singh after using the Dr. Dennis Gross Skincare Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads

Dianna Singh

Why it’s worth it: We’ll take our glow to go, please. Ideal for tossing in your carry-on or keeping on your nightstand, Dr. Dennis Gross Alpha Beta Extra Strength Daily Peel Pads make pro-level exfoliation as simple as swipe, wait, repeat. “These come in easy-to-use facial pads with a two-step system that combines AHAs, BHAs, retinol, and antioxidants,” says Dr. McTighe. Let's break it down. Step one is all about exfoliation: Seven acids (including glycolic, lactic, and salicylic) sweep away dead skin cells, refine tone, and smooth lines, while chamomile and green tea help calm and protect. Step two shifts the focus to repair and renewal, layering in retinol to boost elasticity, adenosine to soften wrinkles, and antioxidants like resveratrol and green tea to defend against free radical damage. “It's a tried-and-true product that works especially well for people with oily skin or those prone to breakouts," adds Dr. Woolery-Lloyd.

Tester feedback from Allure features director Dianna Singh

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"What may look like a makeup remover wipe at first glance is actually a pad packed with chemical exfoliators that help brighten instantly and improve discoloration over time. I first discovered these back when I was a beauty assistant (so, longer ago than I'd like to admit), and yet somehow I'm still pleasantly surprised by the next-day glow I get from using one of these at night." —Dianna Singh, features director

More to know

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• Key ingredients: step 1 includes salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, and chamomile; step 2 includes retinol, resveratrol, green tea extract, and adenosine
• Who it’s for: everyone, especially those with fine lines and wrinkles
• Fragrance-free: no

Best Overnight Peel: Kate Somerville KateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel

Kate Somerville

Kateceuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel

$109 $76 (30% off)

Amazon

$109

Nordstrom

$109

Dermstore

Why it’s worth it: Some of the best glows happen when your skin-care products get extra time to sink in. Designed to work overnight, “a unique feature of the KateCeuticals Resurfacing Overnight Peel is the use of encapsulated retinol with a ceramide complex, which improves tolerability and reduces irritation,” says Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. That means you reap all the line-smoothing, radiance-boosting benefits of retinol while you sleep without the typical dryness. “Just be sure to skip other retinoids that evening to avoid overdoing it,” says Dr. Camp.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: niacinamide, glycolic acid, retinol, ceramides
• Who it’s for: people with dull or dry skin
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Acne-Prone Skin: Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel

Obagi

Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel

$149

Obagi

Why it’s worth it: Chemical peels usually mean trade-offs: brighter skin now, irritation later. The Obagi Blue Brilliance Triple Acid Peel flips that expectation with a science-backed formula without the harsh downtime. Glycolic, lactic, and salicylic acids work on multiple levels to smooth rough texture, unclog pores, and even out tone for an instant glow. But what makes it unique is the balance: soothing licorice root, calming willow bark, and hydrating humectants help keep skin comfortable while the acids do their work.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: salicylic acid, glycolic acid, lactic acid, licorice root, witch hazel, willow bark
• Who it’s for: anyone with uneven texture, hyperpigmentation, acne, or dry skin
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Uneven Texture: Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset

Elemis

Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset

$122

Amazon

$122

Nordstrom

Why it’s worth it: The Elemis Dynamic Resurfacing Peel & Reset comes in a clever double-ended package—one side to peel, the other to reset—making glow-inducing results surprisingly easy at home. Formulated for twice-weekly use, it tackles discoloration, visible pores, and age spots all in one routine. Step one resurfaces with a patented trio of enzymes (papain, protease, and subtilisin) plus phytic, ellagic, and mandelic acids to boost luminosity and refine skin’s texture. “The second step soothes post-peel skin with deep hydration and includes birch juice and lactococcus ferment lysate to rebalance skin,” says Dr. Camp. You’re basically getting two powerful treatments in one.

Editor's tip

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Mandelic acid might not get as much hype as glycolic or lactic acid, but it deserves a spot on your radar, especially if your skin leans sensitive. Thanks to its larger molecule size, it penetrates more slowly, which makes it gentler and less irritating while still boosting cell turnover.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: phase 1 includes papain, protease, subtilisin, phytic acid, ellagic acid, and mandelic acid; phase 2 includes glycerin, birch juice, and Lactococcus ferment lysate
• Who it’s for: people with dullness, uneven texture, or clogged pores
• Fragrance-free: no

Best for Sensitive Skin: U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel

U Beauty

Resurfacing Flash Peel

$188

Amazon

$188

Nordstrom

$188

Revolve

Why it’s worth it: Although the U Beauty Resurfacing Flash Peel is designed to be used in a—well—flash, the payoff goes way beyond a quick glow. “This weekly treatment offers rapid results to exfoliate, brighten, and renew dull-looking skin, but it also tackles uneven tone, clogged pores, and rough texture over time,” says Dr. Camp. Unlike traditional peels that drench the skin with actives all at once, the brand’s proprietary Siren capsules deliver exfoliating acids directly to damaged skin, bypassing healthy areas for maximum results with minimal irritation. Glycolic acid and fruit-derived AHAs gently buff away dead cells, while hyaluronic acid and polyunsaturated essential fatty acids restore hydration and cushion the barrier. You get both instant radiance and healthier, smoother skin the more you use it.

Editor's tip

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Follow with a nourishing moisturizer to lock in hydration. The formula already includes hyaluronic acid and essential fatty acids, but an extra layer helps dry or sensitive skin wake up even calmer and glowier.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycolic acid, aloe vera, betaine, hyaluronic acid, aventramide, retinyl palmitate
• Who it’s for: all skin types, especially people with dry or dehydrated skin
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Luxury: Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel

Chanel

Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel

$220

Nordstrom

$220

Chanel

Why it's worth it: If you’re ready to splurge on a peel that feels as chic as it looks, meet the silky-smooth Chanel Le Lift Pro Retexturizing AHA Peel. Infused with glycolic acid, it’s designed with mature skin in mind—but anyone chasing that plump, bouncy glow will appreciate it. With its alpha hydroxy acids capped at 5%—that’s glycolic plus the gentler phytic acid—this formula is far less likely to irritate, even for sensitive skin. Still, everyone’s tolerance is different, so it’s smart to start slower than the label suggests (think once every other week) to see how your skin reacts before ramping up. Bonus: It comes with a fan brush for even application and a little spa-like moment at home.

Editor's tip

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Alongside the fine line-fighting duo of glycolic and phytic acids, the standout ingredient is honey sourced from Costa Rica. In Chanel’s formula, this honey acts as a natural enzyme that, when paired with AHAs, gently exfoliates and encourages skin renewal without abrasion.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycolic acid, phytic acid (5% total for both acids), glycerin, honey
• Who it’s for: people with a normal, oily, or mature skin type
• Fragrance-free: yes

Best Budget: The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

The Ordinary

AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

$10

Amazon

$10

Nordstrom

$10

Ulta Beauty

Why it's worth it: Powerful formulas, plus budget-friendly prices? Of course, we had to include a fan-favorite from The Ordinary. Reddit and TikTok can’t stop singing this peel’s praises—fans say it helps fade stubborn scars and leaves a fresh, glassy glow thanks to its hefty 30% blend of exfoliating alpha hydroxy acids (glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric) plus 2% salicylic acid. But make no mistake, this stuff is potent, so follow the brand’s rules to a T: Leave it on no longer than 10 minutes, use it only once or twice a week (ideally at night), and steer clear of the delicate eye area.

Editor's tip

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This water-based solution puts blackheads, enlarged pores, and sebaceous filaments on blast. You can even spot-treat with it, focusing on trouble zones like your T-zone or jawline if that’s where congestion tends to crop up.

More to know

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• Key ingredients: glycolic acid, tartaric acid, salicylic acid, lactic acid, hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5
• Who it’s for: people with hyperpigmentation, acne, or uneven texture
• Fragrance-free: yes

Frequently Asked Questions

How do chemical peels work?

"Chemical face peels, a.k.a. exfoliating acid masks, work by penetrating the outer layers of the skin, breaking down the bonds between dead skin cells and stimulating the production of collagen and elastin," explains Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. Most at-home treatments are not deep peels, but rather superficial, making them appropriate for everyday folks to use without the assistance of a dermatologist or esthetician.

"At-home chemical peels typically rely on AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) like glycolic and lactic acid or a BHA (beta hydroxy acid) like salicylic acid to exfoliate the skin," says Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans. "More gentle peels will include fruit enzymes." She advises against the use of phenol peels at home, as they're very intense and should only be used for in-office treatments.

What ingredients should you look for in a chemical peel?

Not all exfoliating acids are created equal. After all, who among us has the same skin concerns? "When looking for an exfoliating acid product, it’s important to find the right one(s) for your skin type and needs," cautions Dr. Idriss. Here are some of our dermatologists' recommendations:

• Glycolic Acid: Helps stimulate collagen and reduce fine lines and wrinkles, and works well for dry skin
• Salicylic Acid: Unclogs your pores and regulates sebum production, making it ideal for anyone with oily, acne-prone skin
• Fruit Enzymes: Great for beginners and those with sensitive skin, as they're more gentle exfoliants
• Lactic Acid: Helps with brightening and treating keratosis pilaris
• Mandelic Acid: Ideal for deeper skin tones and those with sensitivity since it has a larger molecular size compared to other AHAs, and penetrates the skin more slowly and uniformly
• Polyhydroxy Acids (PHAs): Gluconolactone, lactobionic acid, and maltobionic acid are great for super sensitive skin as they are the most gentle group with the largest molecular size, per Dr. Idriss.

What does aftercare look like post-peel?

For a week leading up to a chemical peel, Dr. Turegano finds it helpful to use a gentle exfoliant so that your skin can better absorb the ingredients during the chemical peel. "I would also use ingredients to improve your skin's health, like vitamin C serums and peptide serums," she says.

Dr. Kim notes that after a peel, protecting your skin with a broad-spectrum SPF 30 (or higher) is essential."It's important to use sunscreen every day when you're going to use acids regularly, so your skin doesn't feel more sensitive to the sun," he says. "It's best to avoid the sun as much as possible the next day, and you should probably skip a peel before heading to the beach or on a sunny vacation." And while they're all the rage right now, he says you don't necessarily need specific barrier cream after your peel and that a regular moisturizer suffices. Dr. Turegano recommends a thicker moisturizer if you have one on hand, and also encourages the use of peptide or growth factor serums, but it's important to check your peel's box or label to make sure these serums won't interact with the peel you used.

All of our experts generally advise avoiding retinol, AHAs, BHAs, and physical exfoliants for a few days following the use of a chemical peel to avoid excess irritation. "This timeline can vary from person to person and is also dependent on the type of peel," notes Dr. Turegano.

Meet the experts

• Brendan Camp, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology: Medical Dermatology & Cosmetic Surgery, based in New York City
• Mona Gohara, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Hamden, Connecticut
• Shereene Idriss, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and founder of Dr. Idriss Skincare, based in New York City
• David Kim, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York Dermatology Group, based in New York City
• Ruth McTighe, MD, a board-certified dermatologist of Waccamaw Dermatology based in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina
• Mamina Turegano, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in New Orleans
• Heather Woolery-Lloyd, MD, a board-certified dermatologist based in Miami

How we test and review products

When Allure tests a product, our editors look at it from every angle in an effort to best serve you. We review ingredients, scrutinize brand claims, and, when necessary, examine peer-reviewed scientific and medical studies. In addition to testing each and every product that's included in each and every review, we rely on experts who shape their fields, including dermatology, cosmetic chemistry, and medicine, to help us vet the ingredients and formulas.

For our list of the best at-home peels, we considered each product's performance across five primary categories: product ingredients and efficacy, packaging, fragrance, texture, and product wear. Every product was determined to have excelled in each category by our editorial team, which is composed of in-house writers and editors as well as contributors—along with special consideration from board-certified dermatologists. To learn more information on our reporting and testing processes, read our complete reviews process and methodology page.

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