Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads vs. Paula’s Choice BHA Liquid Exfoliant: Which Chemical Peel Works for My Sensitive Skin?

• Value: 18/20
• Functionality: 20/20
• Quality: 20/20
• Aesthetics: 19/20
• Results: 18/20
• Total: 95/100

The first thing that caught my eye was the packaging. Many skincare products can cause accidental spills or messes, but the Dr. Dennis Gross peels offer a hassle-free experience. They come in individual packets, so I don’t have to worry about using too much product. Plus, I can slip one in my bag, take it on the go and discard it when I’m done. 

It’s a two-step process: I first swiped my face using the packet labeled ‘Exfoliate and Smooth.’ It’s infused with five acids (like malic, lactic and glycolic acid), so the scent is very strong and smells like pure alcohol, which my sensitive nose (and skin) had to adjust to for the first few tries. This first treatment promises to exfoliate and visibly smooth skin. While it definitely did the job, it was a bit drying and caused mild irritation. Not so much so, though, that it was uncomfortable or showed signs of redness, especially after a few weeks of testing. 

Per the instructions, I waited two minutes before opening up the second packet labeled ‘Anti-Aging Neutralizer.’ Formulated with 12 antioxidants (like green tea extract), this peel pad was kinder on the skin. It had a pleasant scent and a light, soapy consistency reminiscent of a cleanser. My face felt softer and more hydrated than before. Following the treatment, the brand recommends applying a serum and moisturizer. Although the price tag is a bit steep, the box does come with 30 treatments (and you can even order 60 treatments if you like it so much). Overall, it wasn’t too strong on my sensitive skin, however, I did deal with irritation and dryness, so I have to knock off a few points. 

• Value: 19/20
• Functionality: 20/20
• Quality: 20/20
• Aesthetics: 19/20
• Results: 19/20
• Total: 97/100

This viral product has been on my radar for quite some time—and it’s definitely worth the hype. I couldn’t believe how gentle and lightweight it was on my skin. I only needed a few drops to pat all over and it absorbed quickly. The consistency spread evenly on my face and left a hydrating layer that worked well with my moisturizer. It’s not at all sticky and I’m slowly seeing a glowy complexion after a few weeks. 

I’ve had a few hormonal acne breakouts along my jawline and the formula helped soothe any redness and irritation. It contains two percent of salicylic acid, a BHA known to clear up pores and treat acne, plus green tea extract to calm and soothe the skin and methylpropanediol, a synthetic ingredient that deeply penetrates the skin. The formula truly worked in soothing my acne-prone skin and clearing up any congestion. Unlike the first step of the Dr. Dennis Gross peel, this Paula’s Choice liquid exfoliant has a scent so subtle that I have to really put my nose towards the bottle to catch a whiff of it. 

The only real con is I that I have to use a cotton pad or my fingers to apply the product. (I guess I got spoiled with Dr. Dennis and its peel pads.) I opted for using my fingers, since I felt like a cotton pad was soaking up too much of the product and I wasn’t getting enough of it on my skin. Also, I didn’t experience this personally, but some reviewers online find the liquid exfoliant leaves a greasy residue, so it might not be the best for oily or combination skin.