Best Dr. Dennis Gross Exfoliating Pads for Different Skin Care Needs
Dr. Dennis Gross exfoliating pads use a two-step AHA/BHA routine, but the formulas differ in strength and pack size. The Universal Peel is suited to shoppers seeking a middle-ground daily option, Extra Strength is better for shoppers targeting a more intensive exfoliation routine, and Ultra Gentle is designed for gentler exfoliation and hydration. The five options below compare formula strength, stated skincare goals, and the number of treatments in each pack.
| Product | Best for | Pack size |
|---|---|---|
| Universal Peel | Everyday exfoliation | 5 or 30 |
| Extra Strength Peel | More intensive exfoliation | 5 or 60 |
| Ultra Gentle Peel | Gentler exfoliation | 5 |
Alpha Beta Universal Peel, 5 Pack

This two-step AHA/BHA peel contains five Alpha Beta acids in Step 1 and 12 antioxidants in Step 2. The brand describes it as a daily exfoliant for smoothing texture, refining the look of pores, diminishing fine lines, and boosting radiance. Step 2 is intended to neutralize acidity and address the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Best for: Shoppers who want the Universal formula in a small pack before choosing a larger supply. Apply Step 1 to clean, dry skin, wait two minutes, and then use Step 2. First-time peel users may start every other day. This option includes only five treatments, so it is less suited to buyers seeking a larger pack.
Alpha Beta Extra Strength Peel, 5 Pack

The Extra Strength version uses seven Alpha Beta acids in Step 1, compared with five in the Universal version. The product information lists smoother-looking skin, radiance, refined pores, and improvement in the appearance of wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes among its intended benefits. Step 2 contains 12 antioxidants and is described as helping neutralize acid activity, hydrate, and defend against visible signs of aging.
Best for: Shoppers who want the Extra Strength formula in a trial-size pack or who are comparing formulas before buying more. Follow the two-minute interval between steps. The brand suggests that first-time peel users apply it every other day at first; shoppers seeking the gentler formula should compare the Ultra Gentle option instead.
Alpha Beta Extra Strength Peel, 60 Pack

This larger pack has the same stated Extra Strength formula as the five-pack: seven Alpha Beta acids in Step 1 and 12 antioxidants in Step 2. Its listed targets include dull texture, visible pores, wrinkles, hyperpigmentation, and blemishes. The directions describe use once daily in the morning or at night, with Step 2 applied two minutes after Step 1.
Best for: Buyers who have already chosen Extra Strength and want a larger supply for a regular routine. It offers the same two-step directions as the smaller version, while providing more treatments. Because the formula is Extra Strength, it may be a less suitable starting point for someone who prefers gentler exfoliation; beginners can start every other day according to the product directions.
Alpha Beta Universal Peel, 30 Pack

The 30-pack uses the Universal formula, with five Alpha Beta acids in the exfoliating first step and 12 antioxidants in the second. The stated benefits include smoother texture, a refined look of pores, diminished fine lines, and increased radiance. The second step is described as neutralizing acidity and addressing the appearance of lines and wrinkles.
Best for: Shoppers who want the Universal formula in a larger pack rather than a five-treatment option. It is a straightforward choice for buyers prioritizing the brand’s middle-ground formula and a longer supply. The directions call for clean, dry skin and a two-minute wait between steps; first-time users may begin every other day rather than daily.
Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Peel, 5 Pack

Ultra Gentle uses three Alpha Beta acids in Step 1, fewer than the five acids in Universal and seven in Extra Strength. The product is described as gently exfoliating and hydrating, with stated goals that include radiance, pores, lines, and redness. Its second step contains 12 antioxidants and is described as neutralizing acidity, hydrating, and defending against visible signs of aging.
Best for: Shoppers who prioritize a gentler exfoliating option with hydration and calming redness among its stated goals. The five-pack also lets buyers try the formula in a smaller quantity. It still uses an acid-based peel, so the brand’s every-other-day starting guidance for first-time peel users is relevant.
Buying Guide: How to Choose Dr. Dennis Gross Peel Pads
Which formula strength should you choose?
Choose Ultra Gentle if gentler exfoliation and hydration are priorities. Choose Universal for a formula with five Alpha Beta acids and a balance of exfoliating and radiance-focused claims. Extra Strength has seven Alpha Beta acids and is the option to compare when seeking more intensive exfoliation. The product details do not provide a complete ingredient list or a guarantee that a particular formula will suit every skin type.
Does pack size matter?
The five-packs are useful when you want to try a formula or prefer a smaller supply. The Universal 30-pack and Extra Strength 60-pack suit shoppers who have already selected their preferred formula and want more treatments. Pack size does not change the stated formula within each peel type.
How do you use the two-step peel?
Use Step 1 on clean, dry skin, wait two minutes, and then apply Step 2. The product directions recommend use once daily in the morning or at night. First-time peel users may apply the pads every other day until their skin gets used to the treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Universal and Extra Strength?
Universal contains five Alpha Beta acids in Step 1; Extra Strength contains seven. Both have 12 antioxidants in Step 2, according to the supplied product details.
Which Dr. Dennis Gross pads are described as ultra gentle?
The Alpha Beta Ultra Gentle Peel is the option described as gently exfoliating and hydrating. It contains three Alpha Beta acids in Step 1.
Can first-time users start with daily use?
The directions say first-time peel users may apply the pads every other day until their skin gets used to the treatment.
How long should you wait between the two steps?
Wait two minutes after massaging Step 1 onto clean, dry skin, then apply Step 2.
Which option has the largest pack?
The Extra Strength Exfoliating Daily Peel is available in a 60-pack among the products listed here.