Paula’s Choice — Skin Perfecting 2% BHA
Iconic BHA: pores, blackheads, smoothing.
- Salicylic acid 2%
- Combo/oily skin
FACE PEELS
TOP 8 face peels for smoother & brighter skin (AHA/BHA)
Derm & pharmacy picks to refine texture, boost glow and tighten the look of pores.
AHA vs BHA — what is it, and who for?
AHA (fruit acids)
e.g., glycolic, lactic. Work on the surface to smooth and brighten.
- Dull tone, mild dark spots
- Uneven texture, fine lines
- Best for normal to dry skin
BHA (salicylic acid)
Goes inside pores to lift oil and blackheads.
- Visible pores, blackheads
- Occasional breakouts
- Best for combo to oily skin
How to choose? Dull tone ➜ AHA | Pores/blackheads ➜ BHA | Both ➜ alternate (not the same night at first).
Frequency: start 1×/week, then up to 2–3×/week if tolerated.
Safety: 24–48h patch test, don’t stack with retinol the same night, daily SPF 50+.
L’Oréal Paris — Bright Reveal Peeling
Glycolic + niacinamide: glow & spots.
- Glycolic acid
- Dull tone
YEOUTH — Glycolic Acid Peel
Affordable at-home peel for smoother skin.
- Glycolic acid
- Rough texture
Filorga — Sleep & Peel (night)
Comfortable overnight micro-peel.
- AHA + PHA
- Mature skin
SVR — Clairial Night Peel
Derm night peel focused on dark spots.
- AHA + niacinamide
- Uneven tone
Dr Pierre Ricaud — AHA Night Peeling Lotion
Gentle, progressive glow at night.
- AHA
- Great for beginners
Pulpe de Vie — Grapefruit Glow Mask
Natural, gentle peel-mask.
- Fruit AHAs
- Good tolerance
The Ordinary — AHA 30% + BHA 2%
Powerful peel — “wow” effect.
- 1–2×/week max
- 10 min, rinse off
Simple routine & reminders
- PM: cleanser → peel (as directed) → rinse if needed → moisturiser
- AM: cleanser → moisturiser → SPF 50+
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Important warnings
- Patch test 24–48 h before first use.
- Never on irritated, broken or sunburnt skin.
- Do not combine the same night with retinol, scrubs or other strong exfoliants.
- Contact time: strictly follow directions (10 min max for strong peels).
- Photosensitivity: daily SPF 50+ is mandatory.
- Pregnancy/breastfeeding: get medical advice before strong peels.
- Stop and consult if unusual irritation occurs.
FAQ — Face Peels (AHA/BHA)
How often should I use a peel?
Start 1×/week (sensitive) up to 2–3×/week (accustomed). Strong formulas (e.g. AHA 30% + BHA 2%): 1–2×/week max.
How long should I leave it on?
Follow directions. For rinse-off peels, 5–10 minutes are enough (never exceed 10 min for strong peels). Rinse thoroughly.
Can I use a peel with retinol?
Avoid on the same night. Alternate: peel one night / retinol another. Always wear SPF 50+ the next morning.
Tingling vs. irritation — what’s normal?
Mild, short-lived tingling can be normal. If burning, strong redness or persistent itching: rinse and space applications.
Pregnancy/breastfeeding — is it safe?
Seek medical advice, especially for high-strength formulas. Prefer very gentle options or postpone.