Clean Beauty Review: Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel

The Overnight Resurfacing Peel from Beautycounter is one of my favorite safer skincare products. Not only is it cleaner and more affordable that competitors, but it also performs better — brighter, softer, smoother skin, overnight.

What is the Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel?

The Counter+ Overnight Resurfacing Peel is like a natural chemical peel. It gently exfoliates skin to improve texture and boost clarity without irritation or over drying. In addition to exfoliating, this peel also clears away dull surface cells and provides essential fatty acids. The result is smoother, brighter, softer skin.

I’ve been using Beautycounter’s Overnight Resurfacing Peel for about 6 months now, and I’ve personally noticed some huge changes. Not only is my skin tone is more even, but I’ve noticed a drastic reduction in redness and inflammation. I’ve also noticed marked improvement in the fine lines and wrinkles around my eye area. But perhaps the biggest difference is the reduction in sun damage and age spots. Below is my before an after picture (both without filters). The second photo is after using the Countertime Line for 8 weeks and the Overnight Resurfacing Peel for 5 weeks. I am a skeptic by nature, so I was truly shocked to see the difference. I didn’t realize just how drastic it was until I compared photos. This is a great reason to document things like this. You may not realize you are making progress unless you have documentation of where you started.

Who should use the Overnight Resurfacing Peel?

This peel is beneficial for anyone looking to:

Improve dull skin
Calm redness and inflammation
Improve overall skin tone and texture
Improve sun damage and age spots
Minimize fine lines and wrinkles

I highly recommend this product to everyone just starting out because you will notice a difference within just a few uses. I’ve had Beautycounter customers with all different skin types try this product and love it. It’s effective, but still safe enough to use on sensitive skin.

How to use the Counter+ Overnight Resurfacing Peel

I like to use this peel 3-4 times a week, basically every other night. It should come after your cleansing and toning, but before serum and moisturizer. Below is the exact evening routine I go through.

My Beautycounter skincare routine

First I cleanse my face with either the Counter+ Lotus Glow Cleansing Balm or the Countercontrol Clear Pore Cleanser. On days that I wear a full face of makeup, I do a double cleanse and use both. Next, I prep my skin with the Countertime Mineral Essence. I put about 4 or 5 shakes in the palm of my hand, rub it all over my face, and use my fingertips to pat it in. Then, I let it sit for about 5 to 10 minutes before applying the peel.

Now my face is ready for product: apply 1 to 2 pumps of the Overnight Resurfacing Peel and spread it all over my face and neck. I let it sit for about 10 minutes before moving on to the next step. After the peel, I apply the Countertime Tripetide Radiance Serum. I use 1 to 2 pumps and just massage it all over my face and neck. Lastly, I use 1/2 to 1 pump of the Countertime Antioxidant Soft Cream and apply it all over my face and neck. Lastly, I apply the Ultra Renewal Eye Cream. I apply this to my under eye area, the sides of my eyes, over my 11’s, and even on the lines around my mouth.

I know this sounds like a really long process, but I have come to really love the ritual of it. No matter how busy my day gets, I still have this time in the evening carved out for myself. Admittedly, I don’t always wait in between products. Sometimes I just put them on one right after the other. Click here to read more about the entire Countertime Line.

How does the Overnight Resurfacing Peel compare to other products?

Because the Overnight Resurfacing Peel is so effective and you only need to use it every other night, it will last you a long time. That’s one of the things I love most about Beautycounter products: a little goes a long way. Their products are potent without any harsh, toxic chemicals.

When it comes to exfoliation, you have two options: a chemical exfoliant (like the Overnight Resurfacing Peel) or a physical exfoliant (like an apricot or sugar scrub). While physical exfoliants might be a great option to use on your body, they’re typically way too harsh to use on your face. Physical exfoliants can cause microtears in the skin, and these microtears can create a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to breakouts.

Not all chemical peels are created equally

Just because a peel doesn’t use harsh physical exfoliants, doesn’t mean that it’s safe. Congress hasn’t passed a law to regulate the beauty industry and safe ingredients since 1938, which means many companies are using unsafe ingredients that can cause irritation, disrupt hormones, and can even cause cancer. Part of the reason I made the switch to Beautycounter is because they are an industry leader in eliminating harsh chemicals that can have devastating effects on our overall health. Beautycounter has also committed to sourcing ingredients in a way that is environmentally friendly and safe for everyone.

How do I know if my skincare products are safe?

Before trying a new product, I always run the ingredients through the Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep Database. EWG rates each ingredient from 1 (low concern) to 10 (high concern). Not only does every product and ingredient receive a rating, but there’s also an explanation to tell you what concerns come with the rating. You can read more about EWG’s rating system and product standards here.

Ingredient Showdown: Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel vs. ELEMIS Peptide4 Overnight Radiance Peel

I have outlined the ingredients lists for both products and have highlighted any ingredients potentially rating 4 or higher according to the EWG scoring system. You will quickly notice that there are no bold items with the Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel, whereas there are several bold items with the Elemis Peptide4 Overnight Radiance Peel. Based on ingredients alone, Beautycounter is the clean winner. Price wise, it is also a better value. When it comes to my skin, I am always going to opt for the safer, cleaner version. BONUS when it happens to be less expensive also.

Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel $63 for 1 fl oz

Aqua/Water/Eau — no explanation needed
Triheptanoin (EWG 1) — skin-conditioning agent, used to increase viscosity
Glycerin (EWG 1-2, depends on usage) — used to break down proteins
Lactic Acid (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — exfoliant, stimulates cell renewal
Glycolic Acid (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — exfoliant, pH adjuster
Pentylene Glycol (EWG 1) — a skin conditioning solvent
Capryloyl Glycerin/Sebacic Acid Copolymer (EWG 1) — acids derived from coconut and castor oils, used as conditioners
Sodium Hydroxide (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — used to break down proteins and balance pH
Diheptyl Succinate (EWG 1) — used to soften skin
Tetrahexyldecyl Ascorbate (EWG 1) — antioxidant, skin-conditioning agent
Citric Acid (EWG 1-2) — bonds with trace minerals to remove them, evens skin tone and reduces the appearance of dark spots
Linoleic Acid (EWG 1) — skin conditioner and cleanser
Malic Acid (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — used to balance pH
Salicylic Acid (EWG 1-3, depends on usage) — exfoliant and anti-acne agent
Hydroxystearic Acid (EWG 1) — cleanser
Linolenic Acid (EWG 1) — skin conditioner and cleanser
Phytic Acid (EWG 1) — AHA, exfoliates and reduces wrinkles
Ascorbic Acid (EWG 1, also known as Vitamin C) — antioxidant, pH adjuster, skin conditioner
Gluconic Acid (EWG 1) — bonds with trace minerals to remove them, moisturizes
Sodium Hyaluronate (EWG 1) — skin conditioner
Tartaric Acid (EWG 1) — pH adjuster
Rubus Idaeus (Raspberry) Seed Oil (EWG 1) — skin conditioner
Vernonia Appendiculata Leaf Extract (EWG 1) — protects the skin
Cetearyl Alcohol (EWG 1) — cleanser and foam booster
Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis (Sweet Almond) Oil (EWG 1) — skin conditioner
Tocopherol (EWG 1) — skin conditioner, antioxidant
Arachidyl Alcohol (EWG 1) — stabilizer, increases viscosity
Arginine (EWG 1) — skin conditioner
Coco-Glucoside (EWG 1) — cleanser
Behenyl Alcohol (EWG 1) — binder and stabilizer
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil (not on EWG) — skin conditioner, used for natural fragrance
Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil (EWG 1-2, depends on usage) — used for natural fragrance
Arachidyl Glucoside (EWG 1) — cleanser and emulsifier
Xanthan Gum (EWG 1) — binder and stabilizer
Acacia Senegal Gum (EWG 3) — adhesive
Phenoxyethanol (EWG 2-4, depends on usage) — preservative
Limonene, Linalool, Citral, Citronellol, Geraniol — Naturally Occurring in Essential Oils & Natural Materials As Defined by International Organization for Standardization

ELEMIS Peptide4 Overnight Radiance Peel $78 for 1 fl oz

Aqua/Water/Eau — no explanation needed
Lactic Acid (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — exfoliant, stimulates cell renewal
Hibiscus Sabdariffa Flower Extract (EWG 1) — skin conditioner and exfoliant
Sodium Hydroxide (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — used to break down proteins and balance pH
Polyacrylate Crosspolymer-6 (EWG 1) — stabilizer and thickener
Phenoxyethanol (EWG 2-4, depends on usage) — preservative
Hydroxyethyl Acrylate/Sodium Acryloyldimethyl Taurate Copolymer (EWG 1) — emulsifier
Glycerin (EWG 1-2, depends on usage) — used to break down proteins
Squalane (EWG 1) — conditioner
Hydrolyzed Jojoba Esters (EWG 1) — stabilizer, used to form films
Fragrance (Parfum) (EWG 8) — deodorant, masking, perfume
Perilla Ocymoides Seed Oil (EWG 1) — antioxidant
Echium Plantagineum Seed Oil (EWG 1) — skin conditioner
Disodium EDTA (EWG 1) — bonds with trace minerals to remove them
Matthiola Longipetala (Night Scented Stock) Seed Oil (not listed on EWG) — skin conditioner
Ethylhexylglycerin (EWG 1) — skin conditioner, deodorant
Magnesium Hydroxide (EWG 1-4, depends on usage) — absorbent, pH adjuster
Benzyl Benzoate (EWG 5) — fragrance ingredient, solvent, antimicrobial
Yeast Extract (EWG 1) — skin conditioning
Polysorbate 60 (EWG 1-3, depends on usage) — fragrance ingredient, cleanser
Sorbitan Isostearate (EWG 1) — cleanser, emulsifier
Propylene Glycol Dicaprylate/Dicaprate (EWG 1) — skin conditioner
Linalool (EWG 2-5, depends on usage) — fragrance
Limonene (EWG 3-6, depends on usage) — perfuming
T-Butyl Alcohol (EWG 2) — fragrance, solvent
Hexyl Cinnamal (EWG 4) — fragrance
Potassium Sorbate (EWG 3) — fragrance
Soy Amino Acids (EWG 1) — conditioner
Xanthan Gum (EWG 1) — binder and stabilizer
Cananga Odorata Flower Oil (EWG 5) — fragrance
Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil (not on EWG) — skin conditioner, used for natural fragrance
Myristica Fragrans (Nutmeg) Kernel Oil (EWG 1) — fragrance, conditioner
Sodium Benzoate (EWG 1-3, depends on usage) — fragrance ingredient, preservative
Hydrolyzed Yeast Protein (EWG 1) — conditioner
Eugenol (EWG 4) — fragrance
Coumarin (EWG 4) — fragrance
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Leaf/Twig Oil (EWG 1) — fragrance, conditioner
Citrus Aurantium Amara (Bitter Orange) Peel Oil (EWG 1-2, depends on usage) — fragrance, conditioner
Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Oil (EWG 1) — fragrance
Tocopherol (EWG 1) — skin conditioner, antioxidant

Frequently asked questions about the Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel

Does it burn? Will I peel? How long is the recovery time?

While the peel might tingle a little initially, it shouldn’t burn. The exfoliation is so gentle, that you won’t peel at all, and there’s no recovery time required. This is a leave on treatment and the next morning, you’ll wake up with radiant, glowy skin.

Will it dry out my skin? Do I need to use sunscreen?

As long as you follow up with your serum and moisturizer after applying the Overnight Resurfacing Peel, it won’t overdry your skin or make it feel tight. While Vitamin C and chemical exfoliants in general do tend to increase sun sensitivity, you shouldn’t notice a huge difference. Also, this is a product that is meant to be used in the evenings, before bed, so sun isn’t really an issue. That being said, I am a sunscreen fanatic and I advise everyone to wear SPF year round, especially on your face. Beautycounter has some amazing sunscreen options.

Is the peel safe for sensitive skin? Rosacea? Eczema?

One of the reasons I love this product most is that it’s safe for sensitive skin, and it can be a real game changer for anyone struggling with rosacea or eczema. I would use the Overnight Resurfacing Peel along with the Countermatch Line, because it’s free from any fragrance and made specifically for sensitive skin.

If you have rosacea or eczema, I also recommend not washing your face with hot water as it can exacerbate the redness. Gentle exfoliation, cleansing, toning, and using a skincare regimen that is meant for sensitive skin will go a long way towards helping reduce inflammation, redness, and irritation.

Is it vegan? Is it worth the cost?

Yes, the Overnight Resurfacing Peel is vegan and cruelty free. As far as the value goes, I’d say for 1 fluid ounce of product that is made with natural ingredients with no artificial fragrances that are proven to disrupt hormones, will last you well over 6 months, and will show an immediate improvement, it’s absolutely worth the $63 price tag. That’s $15 cheaper than the prestige brand overnight peel from ELEMIS outlined above.

Does the Overnight Resurfacing Peel really work?

I’ve already shared my before and after, and I’ve had hundreds of clients with similar results … but just in case you’re not sure, here’s what you can expect within 2 weeks of using the Overnight Resurfacing Peel every other night.

After two weeks of use*

100% agreed skin felt and looked smoother
90% experienced radiant and glowing skin
97% reported that skin felt resurfaced
87% said pores looked minimized

*Based on a 30-subject consumer perception study using the product every other day for two weeks.

Plus, the Overnight Resurfacing Peel is clinically proven to**

Boost skin radiance
Help improve skin texture

**Based on a 31-subject clinical instrumentation study after four weeks.

Is there anyone who shouldn’t use the Overnight Resurfacing Peel?

Like I said before, this peel works well for sensitive skin. However, I would caution against using the Overnight Resurfacing Peel if you have sunburn or cuts on your skin, or if you’ve recently done a peel or physical exfoliation.

Also, I think this should go without saying, but if you are currently seeing a dermatologist and being treated for a skin condition, you should check with your dermatologist first.

Do you have to be a Consultant to order Beautycounter Products?

The short answer: nope! You can order products just like you would from Target, Sephora, Amazon, or any other online retailer. That being said, there are some things you can do to maximize your order, get the best deals, and the most free product.

If you are going to place an order, I highly recommend adding a Band of Beauty Membership to your order. It is only $29 a year (does not auto renew) and you get a free full size product. Which right now is the Charcoal Facial Mask ($49) and you get it for free with Band Of Beauty so the membership more than pays for itself. You also get free shipping on orders over $100 and you earn 10% back in product credits to use towards free product. Learn more about B.O.B here.

Ready to try the Safer Skincare or Makeup from Beautycounter?

If you would like to order the Overnight Resurfacing Peel, Countertime, Countersun, or any other Beautycounter products, I would love to help you. Simply click the button below to add items to your cart.

If you’re interested in switching to safer skincare and nontoxic beauty but you don’t know where to start, I’m happy to help. Just complete this form and I’ll email you back with a custom skincare recommendation. Alternatively, you can send shoot me an email at beauty@kyndraholley.com. In your email, please include the following information: