Lots of skincare enthusiasts agree that The Ordinary peeling solution has revolutionized skincare like no other product.
This AHA BHA peel works to improve skin texture and brighten uneven skin tone by removing dead skin cells with its deep exfoliation action.
The result? Radiant skin with reduced blemishes.
However, a proper skincare routine is required when using this peeling solution, given its potency.
You must be wondering what product to use after the ordinary peel to soothe your skin, or which product to avoid. Worry not, I have all the answers for you.
After all that exfoliation, your skin will need proper moisturizing. The safest option is to apply a hydrating serum or moisturizer after using The Ordinary peeling solution.
Quick tip: remember to avoid other products with chemical exfoliants after using this chemical peel, because to can only lead to overly dry skin with irritation.
This way, you can end up doing more harm to your skin than good.
What Should I Use After An AHA BHA Peel?
I cannot stress enough how important the right skincare after The Ordinary peel is if you want to reap good results. Here is a list of the products you should use after the ordinary peeling solution.
1. Hydrating & Soothing Serum
Once you rinse off the peel, you need to replenish the lost moisture and take a good care of your skin barrier.
Usually, serums containing hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin B5 (panthenol), aloe vera, beta-glucan, glycerin (humectant) etc., protect the skin barrier and keep the skin hydrated.
Humectants are in a high concentration in serums, so they boost skin moisture.
Serums that I recommend to use after AHA BHA peel: Iunik Beta-Glucan, Kain Kombu Ampoule, Bellflower 30% Panthenol Serum. All of them are soothing and hydration locked in a bottle!
2. Moisturizer
After using a hydrating serum, apply a good moisturizer to lock in that extra hydration.
Preferably one that contains protective antioxidants and soothing ingredients like ceramides, panthenol, butters, fatty acids, humectants (glycerin, hyaluronic acid), and Centella Asiatica etc.
If you intend to skip serums, make sure to moisturize your skin really well with an intense moisturizer.
From my experience, the best moisturizer after AHA BHA peel is Purito Panthenol. It works fantastic after any type of exfoliation to be honest. It’s an instant relief.
Other great option is Rovectin Cica Care Sleeping Pack – it is so hydrating and Centella in it calms down the skin. Use it as an overnight mask and your skin will feel much better in the morning!
3. Sunscreen
Whether you use The Ordinary peeling solution in your morning routine or before the bed, ensure to use a wide spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+).
The reason for that is because the peel makes the skin more vulnerable to sun damage such as skin barrier disruption, hyperpigmentation, skin cell damage, and more.
It is advisable to limit sun exposure to a minimum for at least a week after using The Ordinary peel.
Apply sunscreen even if you are not stepping out of the house because the skin is still subjected to UVA and UVB rays.
PRO TIP: Speaking from my experience, chemical sunscreens don’t feel that nice on broken skin (damaged skin barrier) and may even cause stinging.
That’s why I recommend using mineral SPF after AHA BHA, for example the one from Haruharu.
What Is AHA BHA Peel?
Now, let’s dive a bit deeper into the science behind this chemical peel.
AHA BHA peeling solution by The Ordinary is a skin peel that contains chemical exfoliants such as 30% alpha hydroxy acids (AHA) and 2% beta hydroxy acids (BHA) to improve skin texture and radiance while reducing visible blemishes and acne.
It is easily the best among chemical peels.
The AHA in The Ordinary peeling solution exfoliates and removes dead skin cells, whereas the BHA in it works on clogged pores and oil production, thereby reducing acne and blackheads.
In short, this product offers acid exfoliation that fight visible blemishes, resulting in improved skin texture and complexion. It can also reduce visibility of fine lines, wrinkles, acne scarring, and dull skin tones.
Since the actives are in a very high concentration in this peel, they might not be suitable for sensitive or compromised skin (scroll down to see some gentler alternatives to The Ordinary peeling solution).
What’s Inside The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
The main stars of The Ordinary peeling solution are of course AHA and BHA, but there are a few more ingredients that make this peel so good.
- AHA
Alpha hydroxy acids include glycolic acid, tartaric acid, lactic acid, and citric acid.
Overall, alpha hydroxy acid is effective for fine lines, hyperpigmentation, acne scars, collagen production, dark spots, and wrinkles.
- BHA
Beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid are also used in this peel. Being an oil-soluble beta hydroxy acid, salicylic acid can penetrate deeper into the pores and remove the impurities that clog pores and cause acne.
It is loved for its effectiveness against whiteheads and blackheads.
By the way, if you’d like to learn more about the differences between these acids, check out my article: AHA vs. BHA vs. PHA.
- Hyaluronic Acid
As you may know, hyaluronic acid is one of the best moisturizing ingredients. It instantly adds moisture to the skin, making it plump and hydrated.
- Aloe Vera
It can minimize irritation with its soothing and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
- Panthenol
This vitamin B5 compound is a great moisturizer that maintains a healthy skin barrier and counteracts any effect of over-exfoliation from the skin peels.
- Glycerin
Glycerin draws moisture into the skin to keep it plump and hydrated, just like hyaluronic acid.
- Black Carrot Extract
It repairs skin damage from UV rays and other pollutants due to its antioxidant properties.
- Tasmanian Pepper Berry Extract
Known to reduce inflammation, pepper berry extract is used in The Ordinary peeling solution to reduce irritation and redness.
How To Use The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
Here is a quick overview of how to use The Ordinary peeling solution:
- Apply a thin layer on clean and dry skin with your fingertips.
- Leave it on for around 10 minutes (never more than that!)
- Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water, removing all residue (avoid contact with eyes).
- Pat your skin dry.
- Follow with skincare (serum, moisturizing face cream, sunscreen)
Remember to do a patch test before using The Ordinary peeling solution (or any other peel for that matter).
How Often Should I Use AHA BHA Peeling Solution?
AHA BHA Peeling solution should be used 1-2 times a week. If you’re new to this or have more sensitive skin or dry skin, use it once a week and wash it immediately after 2-3 minutes.
What To Use Before AHA BHA Peeling Solution?
The way you prep your skin before using The Ordinary peeling solution will affect the results. Make sure to:
- No makeup: Remove all makeup from your face to ensure the peel works effectively. Make sure you do not scrub or pull your skin while doing so.
- Cleanse your skin: The best way to get good results is to ensure you start with a clean face. Use a gentle cleanser to remove excess oil, makeup, old skin cells, and other impurities.
- Pat your face dry: Pat your face gently and let it dry completely before applying the peel.
What Is The Next Step After AHA BHA?
The next steps after using The Ordinary AHA BHA peeling solution are as follows:
1. Wash Your Face
The first step after applying the peeling solution is to rinse it off with lukewarm water (usually in under 10 minutes after application).
2. Using A Toner
The next product to use after AHA BHA peeling solution is a toner.
Just make sure your toner does not contain any exfoliating or irritating ingredients such as alcohol, glycolic acids, lactic acid, salicylic acid, retinol, vitamin C and fragrance to avoid irritation and damage.
It’s a good idea to use a toner for sensitive skin after that peeling solution. I recommend the K-beauty toners for delicate skin, as they have really gentle formulas, free from alcohol and irritants.
3. Serum
Next, hydrating serums are great to use after The Ordinary peeling solution.
4. Moisturizer
Next, opt for a non-comedogenic moisturizer. Moisturizers are essential to lock in the hydration from the serum and prevent any transepidermal moisture loss.
5. Sunscreen
It is a MUST to apply mineral sunscreen if you used the chemical peel. Otherwise, you risk skin cell damage, sunburn, and premature aging.
Remember to wear sunscreen even if you’re indoors because the UV rays can reach your skin through windows.
Even if you used the peel in your nighttime routine, during the day opt for a broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen with an SPF of more than 30, and reapply the sunscreen regularly.
What Should Not Be Used After AHA BHA Peel?
The ingredients that should be avoided to use after The Ordinary peeling solution (for at least a week) until the skin has completely healed include:
- Active elements such as exfoliating acids (glycolic acid, lactic acid, salicylic acid, etc.)
- Retinol or retinoids
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Vitamin C
- Peptides
These ingredients are usually safe to be used in general, but using them after The Ordinary peeling solution can be harsh on the skin.
It is also advisable to avoid harsh ingredients such as alcohol, fragrance, and sulfates as they cause redness and inflammation (you should actually always avoid them!).
Best Tips For Soothing Your Skin After AHA BHA Peel
Here are a few tips and tricks for soothing your skin after a chemical peel:
- Splash your face: Wash your face with cool water to avoid post-peel irritation. Avoid hot water as it can be drying and irritating.
- Be gentle: Do not pull or tug your skin, instead pat it dry gently with a towel.
- Moisturize and replenish: Hydrate your skin with moisturizing serums (such as hyaluronic acid serum) and moisturizers. This restores hydration while soothing the skin.
- Use a mineral sunscreen: Sunscreen is the best thing to use after The Ordinary peeling solution. Avoid the exposure to sun as your skin is more sensitive after the peel and more vulnerable to sun damage.
- Avoid strenuous activities: Anything that increases the blood flow to the skin can cause tingling and warmth, leading to discomfort. Avoid excessive workouts, sauna baths, and steam rooms on the day of the peel.
- Skip your exfoliator: You do not need to exfoliate separately after AHA BHA peel. Hold up on exfoliation until your skin is ready.
- Avoid irritating your skin: Avoid using skincare products with actives such as AHA (glycolic acid), BHA, retinol, Vitamin C, benzoyl peroxide, etc.
- Skip the Vaseline: Since Vaseline is a thick occluding product, layering it after the peel can lead to increased irritation. It is best to avoid it after the ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% peel.
What To Expect After Using Peeling Solution
Initially, your skin will feel tighter and smoother after using the peel. There may be some redness following the peel but it goes away after a few minutes.
Around 3-5 days after the peel, it is normal to notice rough patches along with peeling or flaking skin.
After 7 days, the peeling and flaky skin will phase down to reveal brighter and smoother skin.
If skin irritation persists, discontinue to use it and consult a dermatologist.
Benefits Of Using AHA BHA Peel
Having a ready solution with AHA and BHA acids is a safe option if you want to use glycolic and salicylic acid together.
The benefits of using The Ordinary AHA BHA peeling solution are as follows:
- It improves skin tone and texture.
- It can reveal brighter and smoother skin.
- It fades acne scars.
- It reduces blemishes.
- It fades hyperpigmentation.
- It minimizes acne breakouts by treating acne.
- It controls excess sebum and unclogs pores.
- It reduces fine lines and wrinkles.
Who Should Not Use AHA BHA Chemical Peel?
Since this peel is strong, it should not be used by people with sensitive skin, broken or peeling skin, or people with compromised skin.
It can be too harsh for sensitive skin or extremely dry skin, causing redness, irritation, itching, and stinging.
Those with sensitive skin can opt for alternative peels for gentler exfoliation.
The Ordinary AHA BHA Peel Alternatives
Other chemical peels for people with more delicate skin include:
- Paula’s Choice SKIN PERFECTING 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel
This is almost similar to the ordinary peeling solution, except that the AHA concentration is lower (25%) than The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% peel, making it a gentler option.
- Some By Mi AHA BHA PHA 30-Day Miracle Cream
Those with very delicate skin can opt for this product. It contains PHA which offers gentler exfoliation and moisture retention.
The nourishing ingredients such as ceramides, tea tree oil, eggplant, and Centella Asiatica support the skin barrier and improve wound healing.
- Nacific AHA BHA Balancing Mask Pack
This brand has a whole line of AHA and BHA products formulated for moderately sensitive skin types. The sheet mask contains AHA and BHA serum that provides gentle exfoliation (no peeling) and hydration.
Also, you don’t have to rinse it off, so it’s very convenient to use.
What To Use After AHA BHA Peel – FAQ
In my opinion, a gentle cleanser, a hyaluronic acid serum, and a good moisturizer followed by a mineral sunscreen are perfect enough to use after The Ordinary peeling solution for best results.
However, here are my answers to a few more questions that you may have regarding what to use after the application of the AHA BHA solution.
Can I Use Toner After AHA BHA Peel?
Yes, you can use a toner after AHA BHA Peel, but only if it does not contain active ingredients such as AHA, vitamin C, vitamin A (for example retinol), BHA or peptides to name a few. Avoid harsh ingredients like alcohol, fragrance, and sulfates. Opt for a hydrating toner.
What Toner Can I Use After The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution?
You can use a hydrating toner after The Ordinary peeling solution. Remember to avoid toners with harsh and irritating ingredients.
Can I Use Moisturizer After The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
Yes, you SHOULD ALWAYS use moisturizer after The Ordinary peeling solution. It will lock in hydration and strengthen the skin barrier.
What Is The Best Moisturizer After AHA BHA Peel?
Look for moisturizer with soothing and hydrating ingredients like HA, Cica, beta-glucan, panthenol, and kombucha.
From my experience, Purito Re-Barrier Panthenol Cream is the best moisturizer to use after AHA BHA peel.
Can I Use Hyaluronic Acid After AHA BHA Peel?
Yes, you can use hyaluronic acid after the AHA BHA peel. It helps lock in moisture and leaves the skin hydrated.
Can I Use Snail Mucin After Ordinary Peeling Solution?
Yes, you can use snail mucin after The Ordinary peeling solution, as it has hydrating properties, helps in wound healing and skin repair.
You can choose either a snail mucin serum or cream (like the ones from COSRX).
Can I Use Aloe Vera After The Ordinary Peeling Solution?
Yes, aloe vera is a safe ingredient to use after The Ordinary peeling solution. It is even a component of the peel itself.
It hydrates and soothes the skin with its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory characteristics.
Can I Use Vitamin C After The Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling Solution?
No, you cannot use vitamin C after using the Ordinary AHA BHA Peeling solution.
The purpose of this article is informative and entertaining. It’s not a substitute for medical consultation or medical care. The author of this article does not accept any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, from any information or advice contained here. Safety should be your priority.
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Resources:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- https://weheartthis.com/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/
- https://reviewed.usatoday.com/
- https://www.thebodyshop.com/
- https://www.adorebeauty.co.nz/
