More and more skin care companies are offering consumers daily peel pads as part of an everyday regimen for healthy skin. What are the benefits of using daily peel pads? Can everyone use these pads and expect to see good results? What is a good choice for you?

Daily peel pads are used following cleansing and prior to moisturizing. They can often replace the toning phase since they prepare the skin for moisturizers and treatments. These pads are usually treated with beta and/or alpha hydroxy acids to exfoliate and refine the skin. Exfoliation is essential to healthy skin since turning over skin cells regularly can clear and prevent acne, soften fine lines and diminish discoloration.

One of the most effective products that I’ve tried is MD Formulations Daily Peel Pads. These pads are treated with both salicylic and glycolic acids. The pads are also “dual textured” which means that there’s a smoother side and a rougher side. The rougher side aids in a more effective exfoliation but it can also cause more irritation. MD Formulations Daily Peel Pads are very effective at smoothing out dull, rough skin and even more effective at clearing and preventing acne. However, I find them to be too irritating for sensitive and drier skin types.

If acne is your primary concern and you don’t usually have a sensitivity reaction to products, try NeoCeuticals Acne Treatment Solution Pads. These highly textured pads contain a very powerful concentration of acne fighters. I think it’s a great alternative to using Benzoyl Peroxide creams, particularly on the chest, shoulders and back since the medicine does not bleach out clothing or cause as much dryness and irritation. My skin does typically appear red and feel very warm right after using these pads but the effect is temporary and passes after a few minutes. Not only does my skin stay clear but it also feels super soft and smooth.

All skin types excluding very sensitive and dry can benefit from MD Skincare Alpha Beta Daily Face Peel. This is actually a 2 step system where you will use two different pads. The first contains several different acids to exfoliate. The second contains a neutralizing pad to soothe irritation. These pads are definitely more gentle than the pads I mention above and leave the skin with a nice, healthy glow.

If your skin is very sensitive and/or dry, you may not be able to use daily peel pads at all. If you want to try, I would suggest using a very gentle one with lactic acid such as philosophy microdelivery peel pads. Try using the pads every other day and then increase to every day as tolerated. I have not found lactic acid to be as effective as other acids typically used in daily peel pads but it does offer some exfoliating benefits while minimizing irritation.