Chemical Peel Recommended for Oily, Sensitive, Acne-prone Skin?

A series of salicylic acid peels (such as a Beta Lift 20% or 30% peel once per month) would be an ideal start for oily, yet sensitive, acne prone skin. Salicylic acid is lipophilic, so it does a better job of penetrating deep into the pores and oil glands compared with other chemicals that we often use for chemical peeling. You will get the benefits of a light peel, along with the extra acne fighting boost of a great anti-acne agent when undergoing a salicylic acid peel.

Jessner's 14% chemical peel is ideal for acne prone skin and is usually done every 2 weeks for 5-6 treatments at a cost of $175 each.

Since salicylic acid is both anti-inflammatory and lipophilic, it is the perfect peel for anyone with oily or sensitive or rosacea[prone skin. Theraplex 20% would be where I'd start. A series of 3-6 work best. This peel is also excellent for darker skin/ethnic patients.

If you have sensitive skin, in general I would stick with light chemical peels.  Jessner and TCA 10% will both reduce the oil and mildly exfoliate with minimal to zero down-time. Good luck.

Glycolic acid peels are a good starter peel. They come in several strengths, so you would need to be examined before knowing which one is best for you. These peels are sometimes considered "lunchtime peels" since you only get slight redness for a few hours, as opposed TCA peels which may require several days to a week for recovery. The peels are most effective if done in series every few weeks. Good luck.