Since going viral on TikTok in 2023, The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution has become a skincare must-have. Often referred to as “The Ordinary Red Mask”, and “The Ordinary Chemical Peel” too, this powerful exfoliating treatment has transformed skincare routines worldwide.
With instant results, an affordable price tag, and a visually striking red formula, it’s no surprise that beauty obsessives swear by it. But what does The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution do, and how do you use it correctly to avoid irritation?
We’ve put together the ultimate guide on how to use their peeling solution, what to apply after it, and what to avoid – so you can get the best possible results from this viral treatment.
What is The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
The AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution is a high-strength exfoliating treatment designed to improve skin texture, tone, and clarity. Regular use can help with uneven tone, post-acne scars, breakouts, and textural irregularities. This unsurprisingly means it’s one of the best The Ordinary products for acne, and it also firmly belongs in The Ordinary routine for pigmentation. However, due to its high acid concentration, it’s important to follow the correct application steps so you don’t irritate your skin.
How to Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution
Correct application of the AHA BHA peeling solution is crucial to get the best results from it and avoid irritation. Here’s how to use it:
1. Start with clean, dry skin. Use a gentle cleanser and pat your skin completely dry – the solution can’t be applied to wet skin, as this can increase irritation.
2. Apply a thin, even layer across your face and neck, avoiding the eye area and any broken skin.
3. Leave on for a maximum of 10 minutes. If using it for the first time, start with 5 minutes to test your skin’s tolerance.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. Avoid scrubbing or using hot water, so as not to irritate your skin.
5. Skip other exfoliants and acids. On the days you’ve used the peeling solution, make sure you skip any other exfoliating or acid serums.
6. Follow with hydrating and soothing products – follow with soothing and hydrating serums and of course, finish off with a nourishing moisturiser.
7. Use sunscreen in the morning. Make sure you add an SPF to your morning routine if you’re using the peeling solution.
Remember that this skincare solution should only be used in the evening and no more than twice a week. Overuse can lead to irritation and sensitivity.
How to Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution for the First Time
If you’re new to chemical exfoliation, ease into it to avoid irritation. The Ordinary Peeling Solution is a powerful treatment, and if you’ve never used direct acids before, it may be too strong to start with. Instead, begin with a gentler exfoliant, like The Ordinary Mandelic Acid 10% + HA. Once your skin builds tolerance, you can gradually introduce the peeling solution into your routine instead.
Even if your skin is used to using direct acids, if it’s your first time using the peeling solution you should still follow the below advice:
Patch test first – Apply a small amount behind your ear or on your wrist and leave for 10 minutes before rinsing. If you see any irritation, the product is too strong for your skin.
Limit your first application to 5 minutes – It’s important to build up your skin’s tolerance to such a strong exfoliator, before gradually increasing to 10 minutes over time.
Follow with gentle skincare – Avoid layering with strong actives like retinol, vitamin C, or additional acids.
Wear SPF daily – Acids make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so always apply sunscreen the next morning.
What Does The Ordinary Peeling Solution Do?
This powerful at-home peel exfoliates and resurfaces your skin, revealing a brighter, smoother, and clearer complexion. The main benefits of the peeling solution include:
Removes dead skin cells – Improves texture and radiance
Clears congested pores – Helps prevent breakouts and blackheads
Reduces post-acne marks – Targets hyperpigmentation and scarring
Refines uneven tone – Leaves skin more even and luminous
Minimises rough texture – Makes skin softer and smoother
Key Ingredients in The AHA BHA Peeling Solution
AHAs – A blend of glycolic, lactic, tartaric, and citric acids that exfoliate the top layer of skin for a radiant, refined finish.
BHA – Salicylic acid deeply penetrates pores exfoliating them from the inside out. It works to remove excess oil, preventing blackheads and breakouts alike.
Tasmanian Lanceolata – An antioxidant ingredient that has soothing properties to help minimise irritation associated with acid exfoliation.
Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer – This is a form of hyaluronic acid that’s been modified to remain in the top layers of your skin for longer. It works to hydrate and support skin barrier function post-peel.
How Often Should You Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
You should only use this solution once or twice a week and consider these factors:
Avoid using on consecutive days as it’s a potent exfoliant.
Avoid using if your skin is already feeling dry, and sensitive, or has areas of broken skin.
If you have plans for prolonged sun exposure, it’s best to pause use temporarily to prevent irritation.
What Should You Apply After The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
After using The Ordinary peeling solution, it’s essential to focus on soothing, hydrating, and protecting your skin. If you’re familiar with The Ordinary skincare routine guidance, you’ll know that the Treat and Seal stages are just as important as exfoliation.
Since chemical peels remove dead skin cells, your skin can feel more sensitive than usual. That’s why post-peel aftercare should include hydration, barrier repair, and sun protection – while avoiding any harsh actives that could cause irritation.
Follow up with:
1. Hydrating Serum: After exfoliation, skin can become dehydrated, so it’s important to replenish moisture. Apply The Ordinary Hyaluronic Acid 2% + B5 to draw water into the skin and lock in hydration, leaving your complexion plump and glowing.
2. Soothing & Barrier Support Serum: Your skin barrier is more vulnerable post-peel, so adding a soothing treatment is key to reducing redness and irritation. The Ordinary Soothing & Barrier Support Serum contains antioxidants and ceramides to calm, restore, and protect your skin after exfoliation.
3. Moisturiser: To seal in hydration and prevent moisture loss, apply The Ordinary Natural Moisturizing Factors + HA. This lightweight yet nourishing formula supports skin repair overnight, ensuring your complexion stays balanced and soothed.
4. SPF (AM Routine Only): If you’ve used the peeling solution, sunscreen is non-negotiable in your AM routine. Exfoliation makes skin more prone to sun damage, so apply a broad-spectrum SPF to protect and maintain results.
What to Avoid After Using The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
To protect your skin, avoid the following after using The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution:
Retinoids
Vitamin C
Other AHAs (E.g. glycolic acid and lactic acid)
Other BHAs (E.g. salicylic acid)
Physical scrubs
Niacinamide
Peptides
Strong antioxidants (like those found in The Ordinary EUK 134 Serum)
You can layer these back into your routine the next day, but you should avoid using them at the same time as the peel.
Used correctly, The Ordinary’s AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution delivers glowing, refined, and breakout-free skin. Whether you’re tackling texture, hyperpigmentation, or dullness, this pro-level exfoliator is a game-changer.
