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How To Use The Ordinary's 30% AHA + 2% BHA Peel, and Is Your Skin Ready For It?


Today I thought we’d talk about The Ordinary’s 30% AHA + 2% BHA Peel. I've seen a lot of people talking about this product and some are unsure if they need, or can use this potent product. 

This is a very effective, yet potent product that should only be used by people who have acclimated their skin to acids, especially of these concentrations.  If you’re introducing these acids for the first time, or have sensitive prone skin this treatment is likely going to be too strong. The concentration in this is equivalent to some of the professional use exfoliants used in professional treatments (not to be confused with chemical peels but the exfoliants of the product range a clinic uses usually has a retail and professional range, with the latter being more potent).

If you’re not used to AHA/BHA’s, or if you have used acids but not in such high concentrations this is not an exfoliant you’ll want to use just yet. It would be safest to opt for a lower concentration and gradually increase over a few months at least. I’ve linked some info below about how you can identify the best acid for your skin type along with how these can be introduced:
https://skincarewithlachlan.blogspot.com/2020/04/so-i-thought-we-could-talk-about-all.html

Chemical exfoliants can cause irritation, hyper/hypo-pigmentation and chemical burns if used for the wrong skin type or incorrectly. It’s important to always patch test actives/acids 24-72 hours before use (Behind the ear is a good spot for this).

Before starting I try to have everything ready to go:
- A higher PH balanced cleansing agent (that does not contain microbeads, alcohols, fragrance, other acids/actives)
- Fan brush or cotton round to apply the mask
- A Barrier cream like Aquaphor to protect areas you don’t want the product to migrate to (accidents happen)
- A neutralising agent like if any acids remain after rinsing or should anything go wrong. If you ensure you get a PH balanced cleanser this can be used (Water will usually inactivate most of these acids, to be safe it’s always good to have this available)
- A simple hydrating moisturiser that doesn’t contain any actives/acids or acne focused ingredients. CeraVe or The Ordinary's Natural Moisturising Factor + HA's are some options

To begin the application process cleanse my skin (If you have makeup, sunscreen, etc, on this should be gently cleansed off first).
Try not to use your hands when applying the product if you can as this can be pretty hard on your fingers especially if you’re using other acids/actives.

I apply a few drops to the brush which allows for a controlled and even application. You could also use gloves as an alternative if not too much hassle for some of you (I know I couldn’t be bothered with that).

Try and avoid the orbital bone area and lips. You can use an occlusive like Aquaphor before applying the peel as a barrier cream.

Apply a thin even layer over the face starting with the most problematic areas first and working out to areas that are less of a concern.  
Follow the time on the instructions (unless prescribed by a professional like a dermatologist) .
Remove with cold/cool water. This is where, if you feel it’s required, you can add the neutraliser, or if for any reason you have a sensation like tingling that doesn’t subside after 30-60 seconds then I would remove the product and add the neutraliser here.

Don’t put any toners, essences, serums/actives after just apply your  moisturiser. When using these products sunscreen is a must more so than normal.  It’s a good idea to track your results so you can decide if the product is actually working for you.

I hope this helps some of you decide if this is the product for you. If you have any questions feel free to leave a comment :)

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