Quick answer
Use the 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel once every 7–10 days at night, starting with a patch test and building up gradually. Apply a thin layer to clean, dry skin, leave on for the time your skin tolerates (start with 5 minutes), then rinse thoroughly and follow with a gentle moisturizer and sunscreen the next morning.
Why this peel is stronger than your daily exfoliant
The 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel is a rinse-off formula that combines a high concentration of alpha hydroxy acids with salicylic acid. That makes it a resurfacing treatment, not a leave-on step you use daily. The AHA blend targets surface texture and tone, while the BHA works inside pores. Because it is rinse-off, you control the contact time—but the strength still demands respect.
If you are used to a daily 2% BHA liquid or an 8% AHA lotion, this peel is a different category. Treat it as a weekly or biweekly event, not a replacement for your regular exfoliant.
Start slower than you think—especially as a beginner
First-time peel users should begin with a patch test on the jawline or inner arm and wait 48 hours before applying to the full face. For the first few uses, leave the peel on for just 5 minutes, then rinse. If your skin feels comfortable, you can gradually increase to 10 minutes over several sessions. Never leave it on longer than directed on the packaging.
Avoid the temptation to layer this peel with other exfoliants, retinoids, or benzoyl peroxide in the same routine. That combination can overwhelm your skin barrier and lead to redness, peeling, or sensitivity.
Aftercare matters as much as the peel itself
Because AHAs and BHAs increase sun sensitivity, daily sunscreen is non-negotiable for at least a week after each peel. Use a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning, even on cloudy days. At night, stick to gentle, fragrance-free moisturizers and avoid harsh cleansers or scrubs until your skin feels completely back to normal.
Skip the peel if your skin is already irritated, sunburned, or recovering from another procedure. And if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, consult your doctor before using a high-concentration AHA/BHA product.
Step-by-step at-home peel routine
- Patch test first: Apply a small amount to your jawline or inner arm, leave on for 5 minutes, and rinse. Wait 48 hours to check for any reaction. Common mistake: skipping this step and applying the peel to your entire face right away. No reaction? Proceed to the next step. If you see redness or stinging, do not use the peel on your face.
- Cleanse and dry: Wash your face with a gentle, non-exfoliating cleanser and pat dry. Make sure your skin is completely dry before applying the peel. Common mistake: applying to damp skin, which can increase penetration and irritation.
- Apply a thin, even layer: Use your fingertips or a fan brush to spread a thin layer over your face, avoiding the eye area, lips, and any broken skin. Common mistake: using too much product—more is not better and can cause excessive stinging.
- Time it—start with 5 minutes: Set a timer for 5 minutes for your first few uses. If your skin tolerates it well, you can gradually increase to 10 minutes over subsequent sessions. Do not exceed the time recommended on the product label. Common mistake: leaving it on longer than planned because it 'feels fine'—the rinse-off step is what stops the acids from over-processing your skin. Use a timer every time, even as you become more experienced.
- Rinse thoroughly: Rinse with lukewarm water until the product is completely removed. You can use a soft washcloth if needed, but avoid scrubbing. Common mistake: not rinsing long enough, which leaves acid residue on the skin.
- Moisturize and protect: Immediately follow with a gentle, hydrating moisturizer. The next morning and for the following week, apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Common mistake: skipping sunscreen—your skin will be more sun-sensitive after an AHA/BHA peel. Keep the rest of your routine simple for 48 hours: no other exfoliants, retinoids, or strong actives.
- Repeat every 7–10 days: Limit use to once every 7–10 days. If your skin feels tight, dry, or irritated, wait longer before your next peel. Common mistake: using the peel too frequently, which can damage the skin barrier and cause persistent redness. Adjust frequency based on your skin's response—less is more when in doubt.
Product facts
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25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel: A rinse-off exfoliant peel with 25% AHA blend and 2% BHA. The rinse-off format lets you control contact time, which is key to avoiding over-exfoliation when you are new to peels.
25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel