There’s no better time than December to transform your skin by eliminating issues caused by dry conditions—especially your dry skin. As temperatures fluctuate, indoor heating dries the air, and outdoor frosts set in, even your most radiant complexion can start to look lackluster. A lack of proper exfoliation can make fine lines, dark spots, and uneven texture much more pronounced. To effectively tackle these skin concerns, consider treating yourself to a high-quality, at-home peel or exfoliant. This approach is budget-friendly and time-efficient, allowing you to manage how often you refresh your skin in the comfort of your home. According to facialist Cynthia Franco, who serves celebrity clients like Salma Hayek and The Weeknd, “Peels are best suited for the winter months because you are more likely to remain indoors and out of the sun’s harmful rays.” Additionally, she notes that this season is ideal for peels as skin tends to be drier in colder weather.
Determining the right type of peel for your skin can feel overwhelming. Should you opt for a chemical peel, an enzyme peel, or a simple physical exfoliant? It’s a personal choice that ultimately depends on your skin’s specific needs. However, we’re here to assist you in navigating your options. With a plethora of products available on the market, we consulted leading beauty experts to highlight their favorite recommendations. All of these products are designed to deliver exceptional results, ensuring your skin remains vibrant and healthy throughout the winter.
Discover the Benefits of Chemical Peels for Your Skin
Several decades ago, a prominent European brand pioneered at-home peels when the idea of using even gentle acids to enhance skin luminosity was largely unconsidered. Don’t be deterred by the term “extreme” in this product’s name; it’s a gentle peel that won’t cause burning or redness. This product has become a red carpet staple for celebrity aesthetician Allison Rayden, who remarks that Natura Bissé’s peel “readies the skin for better absorption of products like serums and hydrating creams. It leaves the perfect canvas for getting red-carpet ready. I use it often for clients to give visible results.” With such accolades, it’s clear that this peel is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their skincare routine.
Known as the powerhouse of peel pads, Gross’s cult-favorite exfoliating wipes utilize a two-step process. Step one introduces a blend of seven types of AHAs and BHAs, while step two serves as a neutralizer enriched with green tea to reduce inflammation and hyaluronic acid for added hydration. Celebrity makeup artist Mally Roncal swears by these wipes as a staple in her makeup prep, especially during the colder months. “Skin can get dry and develop texture problems in frigid temperatures,” she explains. “Trying to apply makeup over flaking skin is just never a good idea. The Alpha Beta Peels gently exfoliate and smooth the skin, allowing for a seamless makeup application. They also enhance the absorption of other skincare products, making them an all-around win.”
This product is as close as you can get to a professional-grade chemical peel at home. Aesthetician Madalaina Conti, who has rejuvenated the faces of Bella Hadid and models at Brandon Maxwell’s shows, proudly declares this peel one of her absolute favorites. “I love the brightening peel because it has no downtime,” she states. “The combination of 34 percent glycolic acid, tranexamic acid, phytic acid, and vitamin C includes some of the most-researched ingredients for lifting and preventing pigmentation. It’s a gorgeous formula.” However, it’s important to avoid sun exposure for a few days post-application to prevent any potential irritation.
One of our go-to indulgences for Sunday nights involves using these peel pads, delivering impressive and immediate results. Makeup artist Anastasia Achilleos, who collaborates with stars like Jodie Comer and Demi Moore, praises Goop’s Overnight Glow Peel for its transformative effects. “I was blown away by the potency of the Overnight Glow Peel,” she shares. “Used regularly or as part of an intensive course a few times a year, it’s packed with powerful brightening and smoothing ingredients—AHAs, Australian Kakadu plum, and three different sizes of hyaluronic acid. This treatment is always in my pro kit for instantly brightening, hydrating, and smoothing skin before I create my signature Fascia Sculpt and lymphatic boost. It also makes a perfect gift for anyone new to the benefits of glycolic peels.”
“These ‘no-peel’ peel pads offer the results of a chemical peel over time without requiring downtime,” notes aesthetician Candace Marino, who works with celebrities including Grimes and Miranda Kerr. “The resurfacing pads include four powerful AHAs: glycolic, salicylic, mandelic, and lactic acid, complemented by soothing ingredients like chamomile, green tea, and aloe vera that maintain skin balance during the process. I’ve observed they immediately enhance the skin’s radiance while addressing long-term skin concerns such as acne, wrinkles, and pigmentation. I recommend using them one to three times weekly, based on your skin type and condition.”
“Another favorite of mine is the iS Clinical Active Peel Pads—they are fabulous,” Marino adds enthusiastically. She appreciates the simplicity and effectiveness of these pads, stating, “They just launched, and I feel they’re an elevated version of any other pad on the market. The second pad serves as a neutralizing and soothing treatment that leaves your skin infused with conditioning ingredients, allowing for a minimalistic nighttime routine. Most people can cleanse their skin, apply the peel pads, and skip additional serums or creams if they prefer to streamline their regimen. Personally, I layer on additional products, but it’s perfect for those who dislike lengthy skincare routines.”
Both potent and healing, Burki’s dual acid peel combines glycolic and hyaluronic acids to exfoliate while delivering essential hydration. The formula is also enriched with cold-pressed olive oil to nourish freshly exfoliated skin. Celeste Rodrigues, an LA-based aesthetician known for prepping the faces of Normani and Jada Pinkett Smith, considers this her favorite exfoliating peel. “I love this peel because there is little to no irritation, and you can use it weekly,” she says. “You’ll notice an instant difference in your skin after using it.”
Experience the Transformative Effects of Enzyme Peels
One of our top recommendations for gently evening out uneven skin tone, minimizing dark spots, and maintaining your skin barrier is the Tri-Acid peel. “I love this peel because it doesn’t compromise the skin barrier while boosting the barrier’s own lipids that reside on the outer layers of the skin,” says Ivan Pol, founder of Beauty Sandwich and a highly sought-after aesthetician. “The three acid components in different sizes allow the molecules to absorb at varying increments, resulting in outstanding outcomes.”
This one-minute, powder-to-cream pre-mask step is ideal for ensuring your biweekly face masks perform at their best. Makeup artist Lisa Aharon recommends using this mask regularly in the evenings as a pre-mask prep. “This mask is fantastic for gentle exfoliation without drying the skin,” Aharon notes. “It leaves you with a more even complexion and perfectly preps your skin for the skincare and makeup products that follow. I personally enjoy using it at night, especially before applying the Black Rose Mask that I like to sleep in, so I wake up glowing.”
Renowned aesthetician Georgia Louise, whose chic ateliers cater to celebrities like Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston, swears by La Mer’s The Micro Peel. “I’m a big fan of gentle micro peels, and this one from La Mer is among my favorites,” she states. “It’s one of the easiest ways to peel at home without causing sensitivity or downtime, and it applies like a serum. Its calming properties make it non-irritating, and the refining ferment exfoliates while soothing the skin, making it gentle enough for nightly use. It’s perfect for those who love the feel of refined, smooth skin without compromising pH balance.”
“Exfoliation is critical for maintaining healthy skin, but it shouldn’t cause pain or redness to be effective,” emphasizes Joanna Czech, a highly sought-after aesthetician known for her work with Kim Kardashian. “I believe in exfoliators that support the skin, and one of my favorites is the Environ Tri-Botanical Revival Mask. It’s a powerful acidic mask that’s best for skin accustomed to vitamin A. Incorporating it into your regimen regularly can yield impressive benefits.”
Amy Oresman, a master of iconic makeup looks, understands the importance of flawless skin. Frequently prepping the complexions of stars like Sarah Jessica Parker and Kristen Bell, she relies on Dr. Harold Lancer’s Caviar and Lime Acid Peel for a radiant glow and improved texture before makeup application. “The Dr. Lancer Caviar Lime Acid Peel is fantastic for delicate skin needing a touch of bounce,” Oresman states. “The combination of pineapple and papaya enzymes with 10 percent glycolic acid results in younger-looking, smoother skin in just minutes. It’s my go-to for red carpet events.”
This thoughtfully crafted peel gently removes dead skin cells using the natural power of pineapple and papaya enzymes, along with skin-plumping konjac root and hyaluronic acid. Lead Odacité aesthetician Taylor Lewin frequently relies on this peel for exceptional results. “It creates soft, baby-smooth skin that never feels dry,” Lewin explains. “Whether used as a 10-minute mask on the face or as a gommage to roll off dead skin around the lips, this is the ultimate multitasker for resurfacing.”
This standout peel is quickly becoming a favorite among beauty experts, including Katrina Klein, the makeup artist behind Kate Beckinsale and Jessica Biel’s stunning looks. “It’s my absolute alternative to a chemical peel that’s gentle enough for daily use, and it leaves my skin glowing,” Klein notes. “Not only does it diminish the visibility of dark spots over time, but it’s also the perfect prep for skin before applying makeup.”
For those who prefer the exfoliating power of glycolic acid, Environ’s toner is unparalleled. This product provides mild exfoliation and promotes a smooth complexion, according to aesthetician Sarah Akram, who often works with Mindy Kaling, Lili Reinhart, and Angela Bassett. “Environ’s Alpha Hydroxy Toner is a fantastic product for refining skin texture through gentle exfoliation,” Akram explains. “It features a high concentration of alpha hydroxy acid and other active ingredients, resulting in a smoother, more even complexion while plumping fine lines.”
Maximize Your Glow with Effective Physical Exfoliants
This product not only delivers immediate results but is also a favorite among estheticians, medical professionals, and celebrities alike. Veteran makeup artist Joanna Simkin, known for her work with Nia Long and Issa Rae, incorporates The Method: Polish from Lancer Skincare into her skincare routine. “My hands-down favorite exfoliator is The Method: Polish from Lancer Skincare,” she shares. “It has a warming effect that feels like it’s melting the scrub into the skin, and the bead texture provides effective yet gentle exfoliation. It’s the perfect first step for achieving smooth makeup application.”
“Whether preparing for a red carpet event or simply doing my makeup for the day, this is my go-to for achieving smooth and even skin,” says celebrity makeup artist Mia Jones, who has worked with Ashley Benson and Amy Schumer. “The fine jojoba beads gently remove dead skin, leaving a flawless, polished complexion.”
“I really appreciate this versatile manual exfoliator,” adds Lena Bratschi, aesthetician and founder of Carasoin spa, which is frequented by celebrities like Michelle Williams and Elizabeth Debicki. “You can use it for an intense Microderm-like exfoliation or dilute it and mix it with your cleanser. It’s gentle enough for daily use as part of your at-home regimen. Another important tip is to extend your exfoliation routine beyond your face during winter—don’t forget to treat your chest, décolleté, and hands. Always follow up with a nourishing moisturizer to promote healthy new cell growth.”
“A buildup of dead skin cells can hinder product absorption, making it crucial to keep skin hydrated during winter,” advises New York-based aesthetician Cynthia Rivas. “In cooler months, I recommend using a physical scrub more frequently than a chemical exfoliator, as they tend to be less drying. My favorite is Chanel’s Sublimage Les Grains De Vanille exfoliating scrub for various reasons: Jojoba is a fantastic hydrating oil, and Harungana has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits. It’s excellent for reducing inflammation and rejuvenating the skin. Use it once in the morning to avoid interfering with any AHAs, BHAs, retinols, or other active ingredients, which are best used at night.”
Jill Powell, celebrity makeup artist for stars like Sabrina Carpenter and Ciara, frequently relies on Renée Rouleau’s Triple Berry Smoothing Peel to smooth skin and enhance glow. “I love using Triple Berry Peel on my clients before special events or red carpets because it smooths the skin texture, brightens the complexion, and provides a radiant glow,” she states. “It’s an easy-to-use, gentle, at-home peel that delivers impressive results.”
“I try numerous products, and this one genuinely amazed me,” shares makeup artist Suzy Gerstein, who has worked with Leighton Meister and Cynthia Nixon. She admires the softening and exfoliating benefits tailored for sensitive skin. “It’s a luxurious formula infused with a delicate blend of AHAs that moisturize while gently exfoliating, revealing the smoothest skin beneath. I have sensitive skin and find it doesn’t sting or irritate whatsoever.”