It’s hard to spend five minutes on TikTok without seeing someone squirt crimson liquid across their face with a glass dropper. But before we get into what we should be using after The Ordinary’s Solution we must first get to know what it is. According to the Ordinary themselves, the Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is an exfoliating facial containing alpha- and beta-hydroxy acids. This weekly water-based rinse-off treatment is perfect for exfoliating acid users who are searching for answers to textural abnormalities, dullness, and indications of clogged pores.
The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is the skincare world’s next viral craze and a consistent sell-out. It looks like blood, tingles when applied, produces instant results, and costs less than £10, so it’s easy to see why it’s so popular.
Table of Contents
What Are the Key Ingredients?
Alpha-Hydroxy Acids (AHAs): The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution has four different types of AHAs: glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid. This AHA cocktail combines to make a whopping 30% of acid content to brighten, soften and smooth your skin – that’s quite a lot!
By removing all or most of the dead skin cells from the surface of your skin, AHAs effectively contribute to reduce UV damage and dark spots that may appear on the skin after too much time spent in direct sunlight without a good hat or broad-spectrum high SPF sun blocking cream. AHAs also reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles effectively reducing aging of the skin and making it look younger than before.
Beta-Hydroxy Acid (BHA) to unclog pores and fight blemishes: The BHA in The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is salicylic acid and that is quite possibly our most favourite acid!
Why? Salicylic acid is great for getting deep into pores and removing all the oil, bacteria and gunk that causes blemishes, blackheads, whiteheads and enlarged pores. If you have oily or blemish-prone skin, we highly recommend using a good salicylic acid toner in your regular skin care routine (my favourite is the COSRX BHA Blackhead Power Liquid). Like AHAs, salicylic acid also removes dead skin cells for a smoothing, brightening effect.
Ingredients included to reduce irritation: Since the Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% is potentially irritating due to the super high acid content, Tasmanian pepper berry, Black Carrot, Vitamin B5 and hyaluronic acid are included in the ingredients to reduce the potential for redness and irritation.
Who should use the solution by Ordinary?
And is it safe to use the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution?
The disadvantage of a product becoming popular on TikTok is that not everyone understands how it works, what it does, and who it is appropriate for. While DECIEM skilfully developed the mix of acids with the purpose of providing efficient skin exfoliation, it is critical to follow the correct application methods and only use the product if it is suitable for your skin (no matter how good it looks on TikTok).
If used correctly, the product will leave your skin smooth and luminous; but, if used poorly, your skin may become red, irritated, and even injured. Because the recipe contains a high concentration of acids, it is only suggested for use by experienced acid users who do not have sensitive, peeling, or damaged skin.
What does the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution do?
AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids) and BHAs (beta hydroxy acids) are chemical exfoliants used in skincare to address dullness, textural abnormalities, and poor tone. Chemical exfoliants are comedolytic and keratolytic in nature, which means they stimulate exfoliation of the skin’s outer layer by releasing the outermost layer of dead skin. Skin feels smoother, looks brighter, and pores are maintained clean by eliminating dead skin cells. This is especially good for blemished skin, skin with post-acne pigmentation, or skin that seems dull and harsh.
What’s inside the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution?
The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution contains glycolic and lactic acids (both AHAs) as well as salicylic acid (a BHA), for a total acid content of 32%. With prolonged usage, this product offers a strong answer to improving the look of skin texture and boosting skin radiance by mixing these two types of acids.
Dupes For The Ordinary AHA BHA Peel
Other products that have been compared to The Ordinary AHA BHA Peel and are considered similar in formulation and results are:
-Drunk Elephant T.L.C. Framboos Glycolic Night Serum
-Beautycounter Overnight Resurfacing Peel
-Dr. Jart Dermaclear Micro Milk Peel
-Drunk Elephant Sukari Babyfacial
-Alpha H Beauty Sleep Power Peel
-First Aid Beauty FAB Skin Lab Resurfacing Liquid AHA 10%
How do you use the AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution?
This therapy should be taken in the evening, after washing (as you would a mask). Begin by washing and patting your face dry, leaving as little leftover moisture as possible. Apply on dry skin only. Next, using your fingertips, spread the cream evenly throughout your face and neck, avoiding the eye region, and let it on for no more than 10 minutes. Finally, thoroughly rinse with lukewarm water.
Avoid touch with the eye contour and avoid contact with the eyes during application and rinse off. The manufacturer advises using this product no more than twice per week since it includes acids that may enhance your skin’s sensitivity to the sun, and therefore the chance of sunburn. You should use sunscreen and minimise your exposure to the sun while using this product and for one week thereafter.
You only need a few drops of the peel for your entire face, so don’t go trying to mimic those beet-red faces you see in photos promoting this peel – that’s way too much product!
What is an AHA and a BHA?
AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid and BHA is beta hydroxy acid. AHAs exfoliate and cleanse excess oil and debris from your skin, which helps prevent breakouts and lighten up dark spots. They also improve your overall skin tone by evening out any discoloration from past scars or sun damage.
BHAs are great for oily skin because they get rid of excess oils and clear out pores. They also have exceptional exfoliation and anti-aging properties making them the perfect partner to AHAs for optimal skin-sloughing.
How do I apply the peel correctly?
First of all, this peel should not be used on a daily basis in hopes to expedite results. Trust me, over-exfoliating is only going to hurt your skin’s natural moisture barrier, which causes more damage to your skin.
Once you cleanse and dry your face, apply an even coat of the peel to your skin and let it sit for up to ten minutes before rinsing it off. (Personally, I prefer to keep it on for seven to eight minutes). Repeat the next week and then you can bump yourself up to twice a week if your skin can tolerate it. (Pro tip: Rinsing with cold water will help reduce the tingling.)
I would also avoid putting this peel on active breakouts and pimples where the skin has been broken, as it will sting like hell and possibly make the issue worse. The peeling solution will start to dry down a bit and will feel a bit tacky on the skin.
For your first use, wait 3-5 minutes and rinse it off with warm water. If you don’t have any adverse reactions, leave it on for a bit longer next time.
What benefits am I going to experience from using the peel?
The Ordinary AHA + BHA Peeling Solution is ideal for combination, oily and acne-prone skin types. The combo of glycolic and lactic acids fully exfoliates the outer layers of the skin, while the salicylic acid goes deeper into the pores. Use it once to twice a week for gradual improvements in your skin, as the dual exfoliation prevents dirt and bacteria build-up in your pores (which means less breakouts) and the sloughing off of dead skin cells ensures a more glowing complexion. The best part about this product is the fact that it does what a facialist can do for under $10.
When should it not be used? Does it have any contraindications?
Experts advise against mixing this product with products containing peptides, EUK-134 0.1 percent, pure or ethylated vitamin C, and other direct acids (glycolic, lactic, mandelic, salicylic etc).
Who it is suitable for and who is it not suitable for?
The Ordinary’s AHA 30 percent + BHA 2 percent Peeling Solution is best suited to experienced users of direct acids due to its high acid content and the fact that it is a mix of both AHAs and BHAs. This product is not recommended for first-time consumers, according to the company. Start with gentler acids at lower percentages if you’re new to acids, such as The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10 percent + HA.
Who Shouldn’t Use the Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution?
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution isn’t for acid newbies, by any means. The high acid content (a whopping 32%!) makes it closer in strength to a chemical peel that is usually administered by a professional.
Please do not use this facial peel if:
- You have never used acids in your skin care routine
- You have sensitive skin or get easily irritated when you using chemical exfoliants
- You have cracked or broken skin – this peel will burn like HELL! OMG THE PAIN!
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding – please consult your doctor first before using any high-dose acid skin care products!
- You are taking Tretinoin – this peel could cause more irritation and dryness, talk to your doctor
- You think using facial brushes and exfoliating scrubs several times a week is a good idea – it’s not! This peel will further irritate your already tortured skin
What pH is AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution? And is it safe to use?
Because the Peeling Solution is acidic, it has a low pH of 3.5 – 3.7. Because the recipe contains a high concentration of acids, it is only suggested for use by experienced acid users who do not have sensitive, peeling, or damaged skin. Above all, remember to patch test before the first use, follow the application instructions above, don’t keep the product on your skin for too long, and protect your skin from the sun after usage.
What should you use after the Ordinary’s Peeling Solution?
If you’re new to The Ordinary Peeling Solution or glycolic peels in general, you might be wondering what to do next. Because the skin is more sensitive and delicate after a peel, it is essential to apply the appropriate products thereafter. Today, we’ll teach you what to use following The Ordinary Peeling Solution, as well as how to care for your skin as it peels.
After eliminating dead skin cells and other debris with a chemical peel, the skin becomes delicate and sensitive. The same may be said about your skin after applying The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, a very powerful acid exfoliation mask.
It is essential to take care of your skin after a chemical peel. A cleanser, toner, serum, moisturiser, and sun protection would comprise a streamlined skincare regimen. Use items that are gentle, moisturising, and therapeutic.
If you don’t often use products with a sensitive skin care label, try incorporating them into your routine for a few days, such as:
Best Cleansers
Available in 236ml and 473ml sizes.
A post-peel cleanser needs to be gentle to avoid irritating skin. This soap-free cleanser softly soothes and moisturises while it washes sensitive or dry skin. It retains moisture in the skin, is non-irritating, and may be used on both the face and the body. Massage the cleanser over your face thoroughly and gently, then rinse or wipe away with a soft tissue or cotton pad for delicate yet efficient washing. Water-based formulation that is not pore-blocking. Follow with Cetaphil’s Daily Defense Moisturizer to increase skin moisture.
NIVEA Daily Essentials Gentle Cleansing Cream Wash with almond oil gently cleanses and removes daily impurities. Soothes and moisturises the skin. For skin that feels cleansed and soothed, looking healthy and beautiful. Suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
Which results in gentle cleanses and removal of daily impurities in addition to soothing and moisturising of the skin due to its mild formula that contains almond oil suitable for dry and sensitive skin.
The face cleanser eliminates pollutants and dead skin cells while also aiding in the unclogging of pores. Leaves skin clean and oil-free. For regular and mixed skin, use an exfoliating face cleanser to feel refreshed. Pore cleanser eliminates debris and extra oils from the pores.
The Almond Oil face cleanser recipe is gentle on the skin and ensures that it is cleaned, refined, and looks healthy and attractive.
After washing your face, gently massage the face cleanser scrub into your skin and rinse to reveal highly exfoliated skin. The face exfoliator softly smooths the skin’s surface for a more even complexion while supporting the skin’s inherent moisture balance.
Best Calming Toners
This toner rimes, tones, clarifies, moisturizes and refreshes skin. Moreover, it effectively removes impurities, and leaves skin soft and smooth. Made entirely of preservative-free, fragrance-free, alcohol-free, colour-free. Paraben-free, gluten-free, silicone-free, and not surprisingly, for a lot of our vegan readers it’s 100% vegan.
The Korean-made Vegan PURITO Centella Green Level Calming Toner 200ml is next on our list of skin toners. Every day, turn on the safe green light! It includes a highly concentrated 10% Centella Asiatica extract that has a good skin soothing effect, as well as hyaluronic acid, which pulls in moisture to produce a thick moisture layer that cools the skin’s heat and tightens pores. It’s a gentle toner that may be used after cleaning to help repair and build the skin’s barrier.
The product is a jelly-type moisturising essence composition, and is not a typical toner that flows like water.
Its ingredients contain the following:
Centella Asiatica Extract, Pentylene Glycol, Dipropylene Glycol, Butylene Glycol, Panthenol Portulaca Oleracea Extract, 1,2-Hexanediol Sodium Hyaluronate, Hamamelis Virginiana (Witch Hazel) Extract Trehalose, Glycerin Carbomer, Polyglyceryl-10 Laurate Citrus Aurantium Bergamia (Bergamot) Fruit Oil, Pelargonium Graveolens Flower Oil, Cananga Odorata Flower Oil, Rose Flower Oil, Polyglyceryl-10 Myristate, Allantoin, Arginine Ethylhexylglycerin, Disodium EDTA
Best Hydrating Serums
This INKEY hydration super serum contains Hyaluronic Acid, a strong moisture-binding super ingredient that can hold 1000x its weight in water. This moisture magnet is present naturally in the skin, assisting your cells in retaining as much moisture as possible. We would suggest this product to anybody.
This powerful serum moisturises your skin across several levels, making it seem plump and smooth while minimising the appearance of fine wrinkles. Hyaluronic Acid is a must-have for keeping your skin moisturised and looking healthy.
We recommend using Hyaluronic Acid as a first step after washing to help pull moisture into the skin and assist other products used in the treatment steps of your recipe. On cleansed, damp skin, apply a pea-sized amount to face and neck. Follow with all other toners and serums. Suitable for AM and PM use.
Hyaluronic Acid aids in skin hydration, plumping, and smoothing. Furthermore, it is suitable for people of all ages and for all skin types. The end results? This powerful serum moisturises your skin across several levels, making it seem plump and smooth while minimising the appearance of fine wrinkles. Hyaluronic Acid is a must-have since it keeps your skin moisturised, which is necessary for it to appear healthy.
CRUELTY-FREE,HYPOALLERGENIC,VEGAN,PARABEN-FREE, ALCOHOL-FREE, No Side-effects
WITH PURE NATURAL ROSE EXTRACT: This Rose Serum contains Pure Natural Rose Extract, which can deeply penetrate, nourish, condition, and treat dry skin. This Rose Serum is steam-distilled from fresh rose petals and is alcohol-free, making it hypoallergenic.
PERFECT MOISTURIZING POWER: This Hydrating Serum includes tiny molecules of Hyaluronic Acid and Trehalose, both of which have strong moisturising qualities and can help prevent dry skin as well as alleviate fine wrinkles and dullness produced by dry skin. To make makeup gentler, combine it with liquid foundation.
CALM IRRITATED SKIN: This product not only reduces fine lines and wrinkles caused by dryness, but it also soothes irritated skin and locks in moisture for pH balance. This Rose Serum may be used to the face, eyes, hands, and neck.
NOT GREASY AND REFRESHING: There is no greasy residue left behind. This Rose Serum absorbs easily without feeling heavy or sticky. All skin types are recommended. Suitable for use on the face and neck to tighten and lift the skin.
Ingredients include:
- Rose Extract, which derived from rose field in Japan, it can deep penetrate, nourish, condition the skin and improve the dry skin.
- Sodium Hyaluronate, (Hyaluronic Acid) which the best water-soluble moisturizer, belongs to skin conditioner and naturally exists in the skin cornea. It can lock the skin moisture efficiently and makes the skin soft
- Trehalose belongs to small molecule moisturizer and can be used as a skin penetrant to increase skin’s absorption of nutrients. It can also increase the hydration function of skin cells, effectively prevent skin roughness, and give skin radiance and shiny.
- Panthenol is a non-sticky moisturizing ingredient. It is similar to the sebum of the skin. It can easily be absorbed and penetrate the stratum corneum of the skin surface, making the skin soft and preventing skin from roughness.
BestGentle Moisturizers
Dry skin? If you’re looking for a face moisturiser that leaves skin feeling soft, smooth and perfectly hydrated without clogging your pores, then look no further. Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser provides care whilst feeling light on the skin, keeping it refreshed, replenished and hydrated for up to 12 hours.
This moisturiser’s fast-absorbing formula provides instant lightweight hydration while skin-loving ingredients such as pro-vitamin B5 and vitamin E help to maintain healthy skin. Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic, our light moisturiser contains no artificial perfume or colour, and no harsh chemicals that can upset your skin, making it the perfect choice for sensitive skin.
Simple believes in continuously working to be kinder to the planet. That’s why this Simple moisturiser is vegan and Simple is certified cruelty-free by PETA, meaning we don’t test on animals, anywhere in the world. What’s more, this bottle is made from 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic and is 100% recyclable with its lid.
Whether you’re looking for a hydrating face cream, a light moisturiser or just a go-to product to use after cleansing, Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Moisturiser is the perfect addition to your regime. Use it after cleansing and toning your face. Smooth gently into your face and neck using upward and outward movements, and you’ll soon see how it’s absorbed by the skin and starts to replenish and hydrate. Keep your skin healthy and beautiful with the whole Kind to Skin facial skin care range.
Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturizer is suitable for all skin types, even the sensitive skin. Coming from the UK’s #1 facial skin care brand provides your skin with instant lightweight hydration. This facial moisturiser keeps your skin feeling soft, smooth and perfectly hydrated for up to 12 hours.
This face moisturiser is made with skin-loving ingredients, such as pro-vitamin B5, vitamin E and bisabolol. This hydrating moisturiser contains no artificial perfume or colour, and no harsh chemicals that can upset your skin. Moreover, PETA has certified Simple Hydrating Light Moisturizer as cruelty-free and vegan — as it was not tested on animals anywhere in the world.
*Based on Nielsen Scan Track (Total GB) data for Facial Beauty Skincare, 52 weeks to 26/12/20 (Copyright 2020, The Nielsen Company)
This Almond Soothing Moisturiser is from Weleda, world’s leading manufacturer of certified natural cosmetics and anthroposophic medicines. The products are developed according to a unique understanding of people and nature. Weleda has stood for high-quality natural cosmetics for more than 90 years and has a rich wealth of experience in the production of holistic personal care products. Weleda uses only high-quality natural raw materials from predominantly controlled organic cultivation and certified wild collection.
For sensitive combination skin, soothes and protects, reduces skin irritation.
The lightweight, fast-absorbing cream for sensitive combination skin is suitable as a day and night care because it provides intensive moisture. It harmonises the skin functions, strengthens the protective functions and protects the skin from harmful environmental influences. The skin functions are harmonised, irritation and tension. For a healthy radiant complexion and a natural, delicate skin feeling.
Skin compatibility dermatologically tested. Suitable for neurodermatitics
Soothes and protects: the lightweight, fast-absorbing cream for sensitive combination skin is appropriate for use throughout the day and at night. It moisturizes and protects the natural lipid coat.
Relieves irritation and tension: the thick cream for sensitive dry skin may be used both during the day and at night; it offers intense hydration.
Harmonizes skin functions: the Weleda moisturiser with almond oil provides a healthy, bright complexion as well as a natural, smooth skin feel.
Weleda’s highest quality: almond oil is one of the most useful care oils, soothing irritated skin and enveloping it in a protective layer.
Directions for use: apply morning and evening after cleansing to face, neck and cleavage. Can also be used as a make-up base.
- Stabilises the natural lipid coat.
- Harmonises skin functions.
- Relieves irritation and tension.
- Provides intensive moisture.
- Free from synthetic fragrances, colours and preservatives as well as mineral oil-based raw materials.
Tip: If the care is not sufficient enough, test the almond soothing face cream.
Sunblock or Sunscreen with High SPF
It’s incredibly important to avoid sun exposure after using The Ordinary Peeling Solution. This means wearing a hat and covering clothing, limiting time in the sun, and using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 50 or more. It’s best to use a physical, mineral-based sunscreen, particularly if you are layering it beneath makeup
Helps prevent premature skin ageing with ultra-high-level SPF90 protection: protects skin at its surface and from within against damage caused by UVA and UVB plus defends against free radical and DNA damage
Promotes skin health: unique and powerful anti-oxidant fern block proven to protect skin from within against damage caused by the sun and daylight. DNA repair enzymes help to protect and repair skin cell DNA. Healthy skin is beautiful skin!
Ideal for intense sun exposure: provides very high level (SPF90) protection – ideal for intense or prolonged sun exposure. The 50ml packaging can go in hand luggage which means no hassle at airport customs.
Designed for dry skin types: a nourishing cream with a light, smooth and transparent finish. Heliocare ultra cream is also non-comedogenic (doesn’t block pores), water-resistant, suitable for vegans and not tested on animals.
Protect skin even on cloudy days: daylight and sun exposure damages skin every day, all year round regardless of the weather. The effects might not be immediately apparent but daily use will help maintain skin health and prevent premature skin ageing
Indications:
Daily protection against damage from the sun/daylight that can lead to premature skin ageing and impaired skin health: Protection against UVA, UVB, visible light and infrared-A Powerful anti-oxidant activity with Fern block FC Skin cell DNA protection and repair
Ingredients:
Aqua, Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate Cyclopentasiloxane Octocrylene C12-15 Alkyl Benzoate Titanium Dioxide Ethylhexyl Triazone Hexylene Glycol PEG-30 Dipolyhydroxystearate Zinc Oxide Alcohol Denat. Aluminum Starch Octenylsuccinate C30-45 Alkyl Methicone Cetyl PEG/PPG-10/1 Dimethicone Isohexadecane Polypodium Leucotomos Leaf Extract PPG-15 Stearyl Ether Alumina Phenoxyethanol Sodium Chloride Stearalkonium Hectorite Cetyl Dimethicone Sodium Lactate Camelia Sinensis Extract Methylparaben Propylene Carbonate Xanthan Gum Dimethicone/ Vinyl Dimethicone Crosspolymer Propylparaben Parfum Simethicone Disodium EDTA BHT Linalool Limonene Triethoxycaprylylsilane
Directions:
Apply every morning to the face and neck as last skincare product before any makeup. Apply approximately one finger length of product to achieve full protection.
For over 20 years, Malibu has been creating sun protection for everybody that’s affordable. Providing quality protection for all ages and skin requirements in a comprehensive range of formula’s and SPF’s.
Malibu Sun-Screen Spray is specially formulated to protect and moisturise your beautiful skin before exposure from the sun. Malibu Sun Cream provides an essential level of protection from UVA and UVB rays, while being water and sweat resistant. Be sunshine ready with this simple spray bottle for a hassle-free application process. Stay safe this summer with Malibu’s Sun Protection.
High Protection: With high SP factor 50 sun-cream you will get the essential protection against harmful and damaging UV rays for your delicate beloved skin
Kind to Skin: Malibu sun care is suitable for all skin types being soft and gentle on skin, perfect for all the family. Plus, Malibu is cruelty free
Water Resistant: Malibu’s amazing formula is very water resistant meaning it is ideal for on holiday, days out, waterparks, jumping in the pool or at the beach in the sea with no worrying about sun damage
Easy Application: Malibu’s large simple spray bottle allows a straight-forward hassle-free application process with full coverage. Apply generously to skin before going outside and reapply frequently if rubbed off
Vitamin Enriched: Treat you treasured skin to all the nutrients it requires with shea butter extract. Generously apply this sun care lotion all over your body and face to provide the moisture and defence your skin requires
Recommended Skin Care Routine After Using the Ordinary AHA 30 BHA 2 Peeling Solution
- Use a gentle skin cleanser to wash your face, like the Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser. Try to limit your cleansing to two times a day only, since washing also strips the skin of its natural moisture and oils that it needs.
- Use a gentle toner that also has hydrating and soothing properties. The INKEY List 2% Hyaluronic Acid Hydrating Serum to Plump and Smooth Skin for All Skin Types is great for this, as it heals the skin and improves skin tone.
- Next is serum. is a great serum that you can use. The hyaluronic acid in the formula supports hydration. You can also use a mild vitamin C serum after about 2 days, as vitamin C has been known to be calming to the skin.
- Don’t forget to moisturize! Using a gentle, hydrating moisturizer is imperative when doing a chemical peel. The Simple Kind to Skin Hydrating Light Moisturiser for 12-hour Moisturisation is an affordable option.
- Don’t forget to use sunscreen, especially if you used a chemical peel in the daytime. The Heliocare Ultra Cream SPF 90 50ml has good ingredients that are gentle to the skin
Here are other tips for your skincare after using The Ordinary Peeling Solution, or other chemical peels:
- Avoid ingredients that contain the same exfoliating acids as The Ordinary Peeling Solution (such as alpha-hydroxy acid and beta hydroxy acid). Using these same acids on top of The Ordinary Peeling solution will cause your skin to be double-exfoliated. As a result, skin may become drier, and other issues that occur to skin that has been exfoliated too much can arise.
- You should also avoid harsh ingredients that will cause irritation to the skin, such as denatured alcohols, scents, or witch hazel – a natural botanical ingredient which has been said to be too stripping.
- Wait at least a week before using skincare products with the same exfoliating acids in high percentages, to give your skin time to breathe. Using them the same day you do your peel will again cause your skin to be overly exfoliated, causing various skin issues like dryness and irritation.
- Opt for skincare that support skin hydration and moisturization, especially during the first few days of doing the peel.
- Do not scrub or rub on the skin, avoid touching it excessively with your hands, avoid any sun exposure, and use mild skincare and cosmetic products. Focus on being gentle with your delicate skin, and letting it renew itself naturally.
- It is recommended that you use The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution only about once a week, since it is a pretty strong chemical peel. The brand recommends to use this a maximum of twice per week, but if you have more sensitive skin, definitely only use it once.
- What NOT to use is just as important as what you SHOULD use after a chemical peel. For a week after a chemical peel, avoid the use of:
- Facial scrubs, scrubbing brushes, or other exfoliants (and always avoid walnut scrubs that are bad for the face at any time)
- Waxes or depilatory hair-removal products
- Skin bleaches or any harsh skin care products
- Anything with fragrances, a known skin irritant