The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution 30ML
The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a high-strength, rinse-off exfoliating treatment designed for experienced users of acid exfoliation. It combines five exfoliating acids with a total concentration of 32% to target the appearance of dullness, uneven skin tone, rough texture and pore congestion.
The formula combines glycolic acid, lactic acid, tartaric acid and citric acid from the AHA family with 2% salicylic acid (BHA). AHAs primarily exfoliate the skin's surface, while salicylic acid helps address congestion within pores. The formula also contains hyaluronic acid, pro-vitamin B5, Black Carrot Extract and Tasmanian Pepperberry derivative.
What It Helps With
- Dull-looking skin and lack of radiance
- Uneven-looking skin tone
- Rough or uneven skin texture
- Visible pore congestion
- The appearance of blemishes
- Build-up of dead skin cells
- Skin that looks less smooth or refined
Because this is a very high-strength acid treatment, it is not intended as a beginner exfoliant. The Ordinary specifically recommends it for experienced users of acid exfoliation. It should not be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.
Key Ingredients
AHA 30%: A combination of glycolic, lactic, tartaric and citric acids that provides high-strength surface exfoliation.
BHA 2%: Salicylic acid, an oil-soluble exfoliating acid that helps address pore congestion.
Hyaluronic Acid: Helps provide hydration within the exfoliating formula.
Pro-Vitamin B5: Helps support hydration.
Tasmanian Pepperberry: Included in the formula to help reduce the irritation associated with acid use.
How to Use
Use in the evening on clean, completely dry skin. Apply an even layer to the face and neck with your fingertips, avoiding the eye contour and direct contact with the eyes.
Leave on for no more than 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. The Ordinary recommends using it once or twice a week, depending on skin tolerance. Patch testing before use is advised.
Do not use it on wet skin, sensitive skin, peeling skin or a compromised skin barrier.
Because AHAs can increase sun sensitivity, use sunscreen, limit sun exposure and take extra sun protection precautions while using the product and for one week afterwards.
Who Is It Best For?
This peel is better suited to experienced skincare users who already tolerate acid exfoliation and want a stronger occasional treatment for texture, dullness and congestion.
If you are new to chemical exfoliation, a lower-strength acid product is a more appropriate starting point than this 30% AHA + 2% BHA formula.
Pros & Considerations
Pros
- High-strength AHA + BHA exfoliation
- Addresses both surface texture and pore congestion
- Helps improve the appearance of dull, uneven-looking skin
- Water-based and oil-free
- Suitable for experienced acid users
- Vegan and cruelty-free according to The Ordinary
Considerations
- Not suitable for acid beginners
- Can cause significant irritation if overused or left on too long
- Not suitable for sensitive, peeling or compromised skin
- Requires careful sun protection
- Should not be treated like a daily exfoliating serum
Explore more from The Ordinary collection, or browse Roop Singhar's serum collection and exfoliating skincare for complementary skincare options.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What does The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution do?
It provides high-strength chemical exfoliation to improve the appearance of dullness, uneven skin tone, rough texture and pore congestion.
2. Is this peeling solution suitable for beginners?
No. The Ordinary specifically describes it as suitable for experienced users of acid exfoliation. Beginners should consider starting with a lower-strength exfoliating product.
3. How long should I leave the peeling solution on?
Leave it on for no more than 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Do not leave it on longer to try to increase its effectiveness.
4. How often can I use it?
The Ordinary's directions state once or twice weekly, ideally in the evening. Because it is a very strong exfoliant, frequency should depend on your skin's tolerance.
5. Can I use it on sensitive or damaged skin?
No. It should not be used on sensitive, peeling or compromised skin.
6. Does the product contain both AHA and BHA?
Yes. It combines several AHAs—glycolic, lactic, tartaric and citric acids—with 2% salicylic acid, a BHA.
7. Can it help with clogged pores and blackheads?
The combination of surface-exfoliating AHAs and pore-targeting salicylic acid is designed to improve the appearance of congestion and uneven texture.
8. Can I use it every day?
No. This is an occasional rinse-off treatment, not a daily exfoliating serum.
9. Should I use sunscreen after using this peel?
Yes. AHAs can increase sun sensitivity. The Ordinary recommends sunscreen, protective clothing and limiting sun exposure while using the product and for one week afterwards.
10. Is this product a treatment for acne scars?
It can improve the appearance of uneven texture and uneven tone, but it should not be presented as a treatment that removes deep or structural acne scars.
11. Can I use retinol or other strong acids with it?
Because this is already a high-strength acid treatment, combining it with other strong exfoliating or potentially irritating actives can increase the risk of irritation. It is better to separate such products into different routines unless your skincare professional advises otherwise.
12. What size is The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution?
The standard product size is 30ML.
