A Quick How to Use the Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30 % + BHA 2%
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Yes, it’s a bit scary but let me show you How To Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution safely for a celebrity glow!
The Ordinary Peeling Solution is undoubtedly one of the most popular skincare products from the brand. It is impossible to have ignored this magical treatment as it is all over Instagram reels and TikTok. It’s a hyped product, and for a good reason – it actually works like an expensive facial treatment!
The peeling solution is dirt cheap, and it claims to exfoliate the skin’s topmost surface for a brighter, more even appearance. I’m not usually one to buy into the hype, but I decided to try this product for myself and see if the results were as good as everyone says they were. Does it really treat acne, acne scars, hyperpigmentation, skin congestion, and texture? Too much to ask for $8!
At first glance, The Ordinary’s Peeling Solution may seem slightly intimidating. I mean, it’s called a “peeling solution,” so it’s not exactly subtle. But trust me when I say that this product is well worth your time (and money).
Not only does it give you an at-home facial worthy of a celebrity, but it also leaves your skin looking and feeling softer, smoother, and brighter. In other words, it’s kind of a big deal.
Let me share my experience with you and tell you the ‘right how to use The Ordinary peeling solution way.’ Yes, there are too many wrong things floating in the air (or the internet, I suppose).
How Does The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 3% Peeling Solution Help?
The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 3% Peeling Solution claims to be a 10-minute exfoliating facial, with the combination of alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and beta hydroxy acid (BHA) designed to improve the look of skin texture to minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, big pores, breakouts, and spots, revealing brighter, smoother-looking skin beneath.
It is a suitable choice for you if you want to effectively enhance your skin without spending a lot of money on pricey treatments or products.
What skin type can safely use The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
It’s good to use for any skin type that has prior experience with using chemical exfoliants. If this is your first time, PLEASE do a patch test before diving in head first,
As for skin types, oily or combination skin that is troubled by excessive oil production, acne and its scars, and hyperpigmentation is best suited. But that does not restrict dry and normal skin types.
They can use it safely as well but just remember to moisturize the skin deeply afterward.
The solution includes professional-grade acids meant for deep exfoliation and cell turnover, so speak with a skincare professional before using it regularly (especially if you have never used acids before!). And please don’t forget the sunscreen! The use of acids can make your skin more susceptible to sun damage.
what to expect after using the AHA BHA peel?
The first time I used the Peeling Solution, I was honestly a little scared. The directions warn that you may experience some tingling, redness, and peeling—and they’re not kidding. Within seconds of massaging the solution into my skin, I started to feel a tingling sensation. My skin also turned red and started to peel within minutes.
But don’t worry—this is totally normal! The tingling subsides after a few minutes, and the peeling will stop after 24 hours or so. Trust me, your skin will thank you for it.
How to use The Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2%?
First off, you must know that this peeling solution is supposed to be applied in the form of a mask and not like a serum. This means you have to keep it on for some time and then rinse it off.
And don’t get scared of the deep red color that might look like blood (yes, it’s freaky).
Also, you need to use this peel-off solution in the evening or at night because this product reacts very quickly with the sunlight and causes damage.
So, how to use The Ordinary peeling solution?
Step 1 – Start with clean, dry skin.
Use a gentle cleanser that doesn’t have strong acids that can react poorly with this peel. Even though I usually use CeraVe’s salicylic acid cleanser, I make sure I switch to Cetaphil’s gentle cleanser for oily skin when I’m using this peeling solution – just to be on the safer side.
Are you not sure if Cetaphil is good for acne or not? You must know all your answers!
Step 2 – Make sure your skin is completely dry.
As your skin absorbs these acids and solutions faster when wet, and hence might cause irritation and redness if you apply it on a damp or wet face.
Step 3 – Apply a small amount of the solution to your face.
Once your face dries up, apply this peeling solution on your face using a cotton pad or your fingers as a thin layer, avoiding areas around your eyes and lips. Do not pour this peeling solution directly on your face; take a drop or two on your fingers and gently apply it to your face. Apply even on the neck if you want to
Step 4 – Leave the solution on for no more than 10 minutes.
It’s a strict rule. Especially when you are new to chemicals. I put on an alarm right away for 9 minutes as I like to think that I took nearly 1 minute while applying. You may feel a tingling sensation, but this is normal and means that the product is working. If the sensation goes too strong, wash it off immediately.
Step 5 – Rinse your face with lukewarm water
And apply a light moisturizer. I have a full post on what to apply after using The Ordinary Peeling Solution, so you would want to check that out. Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution once or twice a week for best results.
Post Peel-Off Care
Since this peel-off solution contains so many actives, it’s necessary for you to know about post-peel-off care. I have a full guide with all your questions answered on what to use after The Ordinary peeling solution, but here’s a quick overview.
After washing your face, wipe it off and apply a lightweight moisturizer. This will help your skin to regain the lost moisture and will reduce irritation and any possible reactions. As I am a combination of oily skin type, I like to use use a moisturizer that is lightweight, non-comedogenic, and has calming ingredients because we need that after chemical exfoliants.
I never use anything else than Neutrogena’s hydroboost or Cetaphil’s moisturizing cream.
Do not forget to use broad-spectrum sunscreen whenever you use this peeling solution. This is because AHAs make your skin more photosensitive than it already is. For sunscreen, I am a huge fan of Neutrogena ultra-sheer.
You must use The Ordinary peeling solution once or twice a week and not consecutively. Take at least a 3-day break in between; for instance, if you’re applying this peeling solution on Monday night, the second round of this peel will take place on Thursday night.
Who should use the ordinary peeling solution?
The Ordinary emphasizes that while this peel has a high concentration of free acids, you should only use it if you have previous experience with an acid exfoliant and if your skin isn’t really sensitive.
If your skin is delicate, compromised, or injured, you shouldn’t be using this AHA BHA peel. While using this product for the first time on your face, as with any new skincare item, be careful to conduct a patch test.
What Ingredients Does The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 3% Peeling Solution include?
It is a potent chemical exfoliant that includes the power of 30% AHA, which includes glycolic acid, lactic acid, citric acid, and tartaric acid combined with the goodness of 2% BHA in the form of salicylic acid and the soothing effect of Tasmanian pepper berry added to soothe the irritation that might occur with these acids.
What is AHA?
The chemical substances known as alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) are formed from fruit and milk sugars. Their main purposes are to exfoliate the skin’s outer layer, speed up cell turnover, and remove dead skin cells in order to show a clearer, more radiant complexion. AHAs also aid in reducing unbalanced skin complexion, dark patches, and pigmentation.
Alpha-hydroxy acid (AHA) glycolic acid is the smallest AHA and can therefore penetrate into the skin more thoroughly than other AHAs. It removes dead skin cells to give it a smoother, more radiant complexion.
Another AHA with greater molecular size than glycolic acid is lactic acid, which is better for delicate skin because it normally causes less irritation. The hydrating qualities of lactic acid make it perfect for dry skin.
What is BHA?
Beta hydroxy acids (BHAs) assist in clearing and unclogging pores that may become clogged with too much oil, sebum, or dead skin cells. Salicylic acid, a beta hydroxy acid, can enter your pores and assist in removing sebum (oil), dirt, and debris from within them since it is lipophilic (oil-soluble) and a beta hydroxy acid.
Additionally, salicylic acid contains anti-inflammatory qualities that lessen inflammation-related skin irritation while soothing acne outbreaks. With repeated usage over time, it decreases excess lipids (oil) on the face, refines pores, illuminates skin complexion, provides a smooth skin texture, and helps balance out skin tone.
Along with AHA and BHA, it’s essential for you to know the other ingredients it includes to know if it includes anything your skin might be allergic to.
Glycolic Acid, Aqua (Water), Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Daucus Carota Sativa Extract, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Fruit/Leaf Extract, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol.
How Much Time Does It Take For The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 3% Peeling Solution To Work?
Due to the high concentration of AHA and a potent BHA, you can easily notice a major difference after your first use. You’ll notice that your skin will feel baby soft, and your dark spots, acne scars, and hyperpigmentation will appear to lighten. My boyfriend cannot stop touching my face when I use this, it’s funny!
Depending on your skin condition, it might take a few weeks of consistent application to get 100% results from this product.
What products are not compatible with the ordinary peeling solution?
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution should not be used in conjunction with other direct exfoliating acids such as AHAs and BHAs, pure/ethylated vitamin C, retinoids, including retinol, peptides, copper peptides, or benzoyl peroxide.
To learn how to layer The Ordinary products easily, you need this guide at any cost!
Can you use Niacinamide after The Ordinary peeling solution?
The short answer is it’s not recommended. The Ordinary’s peeling solution is an intense AHA/BHA blend – basically an acid party for your skin. And while niacinamide, or vitamin B3, can be a great ingredient for calming redness and improving overall texture, it doesn’t mix well with exfoliating acids. The two together could potentially cause irritation or redness.
So before slathering on your niacinamide serum, make sure you give your skin a little time – at least 30 minutes to recover after using The Ordinary peeling solution.
On that note, you know there are complications between the usage of niacinamide and glycolic acid and with lactic acid and niacinamide also.
Can you use hyaluronic acid after using The Ordinary peeling solution?
Absolutely girlfriend, hyaluronic acid is not an exfoliating acid but a humectant that your body naturally produces. This is why it can be used after this chemical treatment safely. In fact, it will provide much-needed hydration without reacting or irritating the skin.
Is Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 3% Peeling Solution Supposed To Burn?
Since this chemical exfoliant contains more than five active ingredients, it might cause an initial irritation, tingling, or itching, which is a normal reaction to the strong acids in the solution and should last for 2-5 minutes after application, but it shouldn’t burn.
The Ordinary warns that this peeling solution is not for the faint of heart or those with sensitive skin – so listen to your skin and stop using it if it becomes too much for you.
The deep red color might camouflage the redness that might occur, so it’s suggested that you apply a thin layer of the product initially and observe.
What should we do before and after the ordinary peeling solution?
Before using this solution, it’s important to cleanse and thoroughly dry your skin. This helps the product really penetrate and get those dead skin cells outta there! And after use, don’t forget to apply some moisturizer to keep your new baby-soft skin hydrated and healthy. Also, remember to limit sun exposure because the solution may increase your skin’s sensitivity to UV rays.
What happens if you leave the ordinary peel on too long?
The solution contains a potent blend of AHAs and BHAs, designed to exfoliate the skin and improve its appearance. However, if left on for too long, these acids can start to irritate and burn the skin, causing redness and discomfort.
The recommended leaving time for this solution is 10 minutes – any longer than that, and you might end up doing more harm than good.
What should not be used after an ordinary peeling solution?
Cross any physical exfoliants like scrubs off the list. You should also stray past chemical acids like retinol, niacinamide, and lactic acid after using this peeling solution.
Can I use the ordinary peeling solution on pimples?
Oh yes, it’s a magic potion for pimples and scars. But just remember that it’s not a spot treatment but an overall skincare treatment that can prove to be effective for pimples if used correctly. Because it exfoliates the top layer of the skin, revealing brighter, softer, clearer skin.
Can I Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution Every Day?
Please don’t use it every day. It’s strong, harsh and will do more harm than good. Once o twice a week is more than enough.
Can I use the ordinary peeling solution on armpits?
If you struggle with dark, pigmented armpits, you can try using The Ordinary peeling solution. I like to use it once every week; it really shows results. The darkness starts to diminish with consistent use.
How to use the ordinary peeling solution on armpits?
- Make sure you have no or minimum hair in the area. Use the AHA BHA peel only 24-48 hours after shaving, laser or waxing.
- Clean the area thoroughly with a gentle cleanser. Apply a small amount of the exfoliator on dry armpits and leave it on for no more than 10 minutes.
- Rinse it off with lukewarm water and moisturize it with a lightweight body moisturizer.
- And voila! You’re all set for cleaner underarms!
Final Views On how to use the Ordinary Peeling Solution AHA 30% + BHA 2%
The Ordinary’s Peeling Solution is a powerful product that can transform your skin—but only if you use it correctly. Start by using it no more than twice per week, and be sure to massage it into your skin for 30 seconds before rinsing it off with lukewarm water. You may experience some tingling and redness at first, but this is totally normal! After 24 hours or so, your skin will be softer, smoother, and brighter.
It’s an affordable and excellent chemical exfoliant and peel-off solution provided by The Ordinary. I recommend it and it shows definite results if used properly.
I really like ordinary products.