The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution is one of their most popular and viral products! It’s been dubbed a Drunk Elephant Baby Facial dupe and it’s even gone viral on Tik Tok. The issue with this product going viral is that it’s so intense, you have to be sure you’re using it correctly. One girl posted a Tik Tok of herself using this peeling solution while microneedling her skin….never, ever do that! That’s how to ruin your skin barrier in seconds. But, with the correct use, this product can really help to improve your skin and that’s what we’re going to focus on!
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% peeling solution is an intense weekly treatment aimed at fighting blemishes and improving the skin’s radiance. It’s for those with experienced acid use because it’s pretty intense and if your skin is sensitive, sit this one out. 30% AHAs is high but as a weekly treatment this can smooth fine lines and drastically improve your skin tone to look baby soft and smooth. With the correct use, this product can be a dream for your complexion.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution Review
This peeling solution is potent and helps to exfoliate, fade dark spots and unveil a brighter, smoother complexion.
The Ordinary advises that this product is for those who have experience with acids. I use AHAs and BHAs daily, I layer them with azelaic acid and can use low dosage retinoids without irritation. I would also say I have sensitive skin and when I use this product my skin burns. I don’t use it often, I don’t leave it on for the full 10 minutes and I only use it when my skin feels good and is free of any irritation. Being experienced with acids does not necessarily mean your skin will tolerate this.
This product can make your skin worse if you’re not careful or using it correctly. Damaging your skin barrier takes lots of time to repair so be careful, it’s not something you want to do! A damaged skin barrier can manifest itself as dull, rough and textured skin that’s extra oily. Acne is another very common side effect. Overusing and misusing acids and products like this is a very easy and common way to damage your skin barrier.
Is burning normal?
Some say when you feel the burn it’s working – no, it should be more of a tingle that subsides after a few minutes. If the burning does not subside or feels painful, wash it off – that is not normal and can damage your skin barrier. The formulation contains 30% Alpha Hydroxy Acids (Glycolic/Lactic/Tartaric/Citric), 2% Beta Hydroxy Acid (Salicylic Acid). That is a high formulation of acids in one product and even leaving it on for half the time can make an impact.
AHAs are moisturizing and remove dead skin to unveil a brighter complexion. BHAs are water soluble, good for oily skin, clogged pores and acne. The combo of the two is really effective for keeping your skin clear and glowing. An AHA and BHA serum is a better option for daily or every other day use as the percentage of acids will be much smaller than this. This product is truly a weekly treatment and should not be used more than that.
The red color of the product comes from Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative which helps to reduce irritation from acids. Ultimately, this product will vary from person to person. It has the potential to be highly irritating and damaging so make sure, if you’re using this you’re using it properly and wearing SPF.
This formula from The Ordinary improves the appearance of skin texture and reduces the look of fine lines.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution Pros
- This is super affordable!
- The concentration of acids in this product is similar to Drunk Elephant’s Baby Facial.
- This treatment is great at dealing texture, dark spots and providing a radiant complexion.
- This treatment is effective when used correctly.
- This is a weekly treatment rather than a daily use serum.
- Contains AHAs and BHAs.
- The red color is from Tasmanian Pepperberry and works to help reduce the irritation caused by acids.
- The formula is oil, silicone, paraben and sulfate free.
- Vegan and cruelty-free.
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution Cons
- The acid concentration in this formula is high. Irritation is very common. Not everyone will be able to use this product.
- The packaging is not the most luxurious.
- You have to be careful with how you use this product. If used incorrectly, it can damage your skin barrier.
- Be careful using this if you have open acne, cuts or blemishes. It will burn.
How to apply
Apply this product all over your skin in a thin layer. Set a timer for 10 minutes because it should not stay on your skin for any longer than that. If it’s burning to the point of becoming painful and it’s not going away, wash it off immediately. It’s not worth ruining your skin. After you wash it off follow up with a good, hydrating moisturizer because your skin may feel tight and dry. You can also follow up with a hydrating mask if it’s gentle and free of actives.
You don’t need any other actives or treatments on nights when you use this. Wearing daily sunscreen is a must if you use this product because acids make your skin sensitive to the sun. Using this product but not wearing SPF is very counteractive.
Where to buy it
The Ordinary’s AHA & BHA Treatment is available at:
Final Thoughts
The Ordinary Peeling Solution can be a great bang for your buck if your skin is used to chemical exfoliation. It’s a strong and intense formula so if you’re new to acids this product is not what you want to start off with. Once your skin is used to acids, this product can do wonders for fading dark spots and creating a glowy complexion. While not an everyday serum, having a product like this in your arsenal is great maintenance for keeping your skin looking its best.
This formula from The Ordinary improves the appearance of skin texture and reduces the look of fine lines.