The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution: Pros And Cons

A few years ago when the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution from The Ordinary by Deciem released, it changed the face of skincare as we knew it. With their launch, acid peels and chemical exfoliation became buzzwords that you didn't need to visit a dermatologist for. The Ordinary has many more skincare products but the Peeling Solution (as it is called) continues to be one of their most popular picks.

What The Ordinary Says About AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution

Alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) exfoliate the uppermost layer of skin for a bright, even appearance. Beta hydroxy acids (BHA) aid pore congestion. Together, they help fight visible blemishes and improve skin radiance. It also improves the appearance of skin texture and reduces the look of fine lines with continued use.

Its Ingredients And Recommendations For Usage

Its ingredients include salicylic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid. It contains a studied Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative which helps reduce irritation associated with acid use. It also has Vitamin B5 to assist healing and black carrot as an antioxidant. Its pH is approximately 3.6. The formula is free of alcohol, oil, silicone, nuts and gluten. It is also vegan and cruelty-free.

As it contains very high concentration of free acids, it is recommended to be used only if you are an experienced user of acid exfoliation and your skin is not sensitive. It is advised that it should not be used on sensitive, peeling, broken or compromised skin. It must not be left on for more than 10 minutes and is not recommended to be used more than twice a week. As it can increase sensitivity to the sun, particularly the possibility of sunburn; using a sunscreen, wearing protective clothing, and limiting sun exposure while using this product and for a week afterwards is recommended.

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Benefits Of The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution

This product promises a number of benefits for the skin.

• The dual powers of AHAs and BHAs exfoliate the skin doubly.

• It clears congested and clogged pores beneath the skin's surface.

• It helps fight blemishes visible on the skin.

• It boosts radiance of the skin.

• It improves the appearance of skin texture.

• It reduces the look of fine lines.

How To Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution

Clean your face and wait for your skin to dry completely as this product must not be used on wet skin. With your fingertips, apply it evenly over your face and neck. Steer clear of the eye area. Leave it on for a maximum of 10 minutes. Rinse off with lukewarm water and ensure that it doesn't come in contact with eyes or eye area when doing so.

Our Thoughts On Packaging And Formula

The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution comes in a sturdy frosted glass bottle and contains 30ml of product. It has a dropper that dispenses the liquid product easily without getting clogged even after continued usage. Since it is made of glass and comes with a twist-up cap which has its dropper attached, it needs to be carted carefully when travelling and stored in shade.

Its formula is liquid in consistency. It is dark red in colour and almost resembles blood. It is low in viscosity and quite runny so when dispensing, one needs to be careful not to take too much.

Using The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution

A single pump is enough to use over the entire face. Which means, the quantity of product provided can be stretched over a long time. One has to be cautious not to touch the end of the dispenser to the skin and carefully clean it before placing it back inside. The peeling solution does appear dark red but when applied over the skin, has a creamy pink look to it. Ensure you do not have open pimples or razor cuts because it stings when it comes in contact with the skin.

Pros And Cons Of The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution

Pros

• It brings chemical peels into the comfort of your home.

• Its formula is free of substances like alcohol and gluten for scientifically-driven skincare.

• It is very affordable for the quantity provided.

• The skin feels refreshed and clear even after a single use.

• Spots and blemishes fade with continued usage.

Cons

• If one isn't educated about acid exfoliation and the way to use is, it is possible to misuse it so one must tread carefully with respect to usage and sun protection.

• To see a difference on skin's texture, the results are much slower and requires continuous usage over a much longer period of time.

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