The home peels have to be made to be so gentle that I really don't think they do much except as a nice refresher before a party, for example. You're probably better off just using a good quality glycolic lotion daily - see my wrinkle and anti-aging product recommendations.   Still, try any home peels ahead of time to make sure you don't have an allergic reaction.

I think the medical grade chemical peels are more worthwhile because you'll get more results and I like the "self-neutralizing" systems.  If, for some reason, the aesthetician gets distracted you won't get burned by it being left on too long.  These peels tend to not be expensive either.   See my Guide to Microdermabrasion and Light Peels.  Dr. I