AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution: How Often to Use
By The Ordinary | Clinical Formulations with Integrity | Published: 2026-10-22
Category: How-to Guides
Learn the recommended frequency for The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution, plus step-by-step usage tips and safety checkpoints.
Quick Answer
Use The Ordinary's AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution at most twice a week, with at least three days between sessions. Start with once a week to assess your skin's tolerance.
Why Frequency Matters
This is an advanced-level exfoliating peel with a high concentration of acids. Overuse can compromise your skin barrier, leading to redness, peeling, or increased sensitivity. Giving your skin time to recover between sessions is essential.
Your skin's tolerance may vary based on your routine, climate, and skin type. If you're new to strong exfoliants, start with the lowest frequency and adjust gradually.
Signs You're Over-Exfoliating
If you notice stinging, tightness, flaking, or a shiny, overly smooth appearance, you may be using the peel too often. In that case, reduce frequency to once every two weeks or pause until your skin feels normal again.
Step-by-Step Use and Frequency Guide
- Start with once a week: Apply a few drops to clean, dry skin, avoiding the eye and lip areas. Leave on for no more than 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water. This is your baseline to gauge tolerance. If you experience any stinging or redness, wait two weeks before your next use.
- Wait at least three days between sessions: Even if your skin feels fine, resist the urge to use it more often. The peel works by removing dead skin cells, and your skin needs time to renew. A common mistake is using it too soon after a previous session. Mark your calendar: use it on the same day each week to build a consistent habit.
- Adjust based on your skin's response: If your skin tolerates weekly use without signs of irritation, you may consider increasing to twice a week, but never exceed that. If you see flaking or dryness, drop back to every other week. Always follow with a moisturizer and SPF during the day, as exfoliation increases sun sensitivity.
Product Facts
- AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution: Contains 30% AHA and 2% BHA, and is intended for professional use only. This high-strength combination requires careful frequency management to avoid irritation and achieve safe exfoliation.
AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
