Natural Facial Peels:
An A to Z Overview of Ingredients, Procedure, & Process.

Natural facial peels are a type of skin treatment that utilizes organic-based solutions to remove the top layers of skin. This process helps reveal fresh, youthful skin to improve the appearance of skin concerns, such as fine lines, wrinkles, scars, acne, and uneven skin tone. In this article, we’ll cover the definition of peeling treatments, an overview of the main ingredients found in organic peels, the procedure itself, and the aftercare involved to boost the results.

What is a natural peeling treatment?

An organic or natural facial peel, also frequently referred to as a biological peeling treatment, is formulated with all-natural and organically sourced ingredients. The treatment is created with fruit enzymes, plant extracts, and acids that can exfoliate the epidermal layers without going beyond the basal layer. Each organic or natural peel is formulated differently depending on the skincare brand. However, the best organic peels only contain natural, clean, and non-toxic ingredients to deliver proven results.

What acids and ingredients are included in natural facial peels?

The most common acids used in organic peels are AHAs and BHAs. These acids can be naturally sourced from fruits like lemon, pineapple, papaya, grapes, apples, willow bark, and grapefruit. 

AHAs

Alpha Hydroxy Acid is a blanket term for exfoliating acids such as glycolic, citric, lactic, and malic acid. These acids work on the top layers of skin (epidermis) to remove dead cells, clear pores, and lighten blemishes. They also stimulate collagen production to fight fine lines and wrinkles.

BHAs

Beta Hydroxy Acids are organic carboxylic acids that are oil-soluble. BHAs are typically recommended for treating acne, blackheads, and oily skin. The most common form of BHAs in organic peels is salicylic acid derived from willow bark.

Additionally, certain organic peels rely on natural exfoliating herbal extracts and algae instead of chemicals or acids. Ingredients that may be included in natural peeling treatments are:

-Kaolin

-Witch Hazel extract

-Essential oils and plant extracts

-Spirulina Maxima

-Ascophyllum Nodosum

-Zinc oxide

-Oryza Sativa

What are the benefits of natural facial peels?

Natural peels are a great option for those who want the benefits of peels without long downtimes. Unlike chemical peels, organic peels cause minimal physical peeling, although your face may appear red and feel slightly tingly after treatment. Additionally, organic peels are best suited for sensitive skin that cannot tolerate other abrasive exfoliating products. They also safely work on darker to medium skin tones.

Natural biopeeling treatments vs. chemical treatments: What’s the difference?

Chemical peels are skin treatments that use chemical solutions to improve how the skin looks and feels. During treatment, various chemicals are applied to the skin, causing trauma to the skin’s top layers. Eventually, the injured skin peels off to reveal smoother skin that is less damaged and wrinkled. 

Unlike biological peeling treatments that are sourced from natural/organic ingredients, chemical treatments may cause post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation in those with medium to dark skin tone. 

Additionally, chemical peels may not be recommended if you:

  • Have sensitive skin

  • Can’t stay out of the sun during the healing period

  • Take medications that make the skin sensitive

  • Don’t have a healthy immune system

Your beauty technician may recommend a gentler peel option, such as natural, organic, or herbal (bio) facial peels if you fall into the above-mentioned categories. Natural peels are milder and less irritating than chemical peels while offering visible improvements to skin texture and tone.


What skin conditions can natural facial peels treat?

There are many types of peels, including chemical, natural, organic, and herbal (bio) peels. Some peels may be better for you depending on your skin condition, lifestyle, health concerns, or preference. 

Natural peels can help improve or reduce: 

  • Fine lines and wrinkles

  • Sunspots and hyperpigmentation

  • Enlarged pores

  • Mild scarring

  • A dull complexion

  • Certain types of acne

  • Precancerous spots, known as
    actinic keratosis

What should an individual expect after a facial peel?

Your skin’s recovery after a peel depends on the depth and type of your treatment. 

Light peels

After a light chemical peel or organic/natural peel, expect some redness and scaling for 3-7 days. Your skin specialist may recommend using a lotion or cream until your skin heals. You can typically wear cosmetic products the following day if you wish. 

Medium peels

Immediately after a medium peel, your skin will appear swollen and red. You may also feel stinging after treatment. After the swelling subsides, the treated skin will form a crust and may develop blotches or darken. Medium peels typically take 7-14 days to heal; however, redness may last for a few months. If you experience discomfort during the healing process, OTC pain-relieving medication may help.

Deep peels

Expect severe swelling and redness after a deep peel. You will also experience throbbing or burning sensations in treated areas. It will take 2 weeks for new skin to develop, but redness may last for several months. During recovery, follow your doctor’s post-op instructions faithfully, such as detailed instructions for how often to cleanse your face and moisturize, what products to use, etc. You should also stay out of the sun until your skin heals.

How should individuals care for their skin after a natural facial peel?

Note: The following guidance is for general education only. Individuals undergoing facial peels should follow the directions provided by their dermatologist, esthetician, beauty salon, etc.

Because natural facial peels are light peels that only exfoliate the epidermal layers without going beyond the basal layer, the skin recovers faster than after a medium-to-deep peeling treatment. 

However, after a natural facial peel, individuals should expect irritation and redness for 5 to 7 days. During this time, pay extra attention to sun protection and avoid situations that might cause additional stress to the skin. 

Your esthetician may also recommend avoiding certain products or only using certain facial products during this time. After 5 to 7 days, you can add your moisturizer and other products again and return to your normal skincare routine.

What is the procedure for an organic facial peel treatment?

Peels—chemical or organic—are typically performed in-office at a spa, salon, or dermatologist’s office. The exact process varies on the type of peel you select. In general, the skin is first cleansed thoroughly to prepare for treatment. Next, a solution is applied to the skin for a designated time while the peel solution works to exfoliate the skin. The solution is then neutralized or washed off. 

If you are receiving a deep peel, your doctor may use an anesthetic to numb large areas. This is particularly likely if your facial or neck area is treated. You’ll also receive an IV, and a doctor will monitor your heart rate closely during the treatment. 


How should an individual prepare for a natural facial peel?

Before an organic/natural peel, you will first have a consultation with a skin specialist. Together, you will determine what the best treatment option is for you. Your skin specialist will also describe the details of the treatment and give you some information on how to prepare your skin for an organic peel.

While the exact instructions may differ depending on the type of peel, preparing for a peel generally includes:

  • Make sure peel areas are free of open sores, skin infections, or lesions.

  • Avoid direct sun exposure or tanning for 2 weeks before treatment.

  • Apply any topical products as instructed before treatment.

  • Stay away from retinol products 1-2 weeks before treatment. 

  • Stop the use of facial scrubs or exfoliants the week before the peel.

  • Avoid waxing a week before a peel.

  • Avoid dermabrasion and microdermabrasion 1-2 weeks before treatment.