Can I use The Ordinary Peeling Solution with retinol?

Why does the combination need care?

Retinol and prescription retinoid creams can make skin more sensitive or cause peeling. Exfoliating while using them can worsen dryness or cause breakouts. Using the products on different evenings avoids layering them, but it does not remove that underlying sensitivity. If retinol already leaves your skin dry or irritated, adding a strong peel is not the next step.2

The peel targets uneven tone, texture and pore congestion, rather than every problem implied by the word 'solution'. Its 30% alpha hydroxy acids exfoliate the surface, while 2% salicylic acid works inside pores. Exfoliation removes dead skin cells; this formula is intended for people already experienced with exfoliating acids.3

How should I use it on a peel evening?

1. 1Patch test first. Apply a small amount to clean skin on your upper forearm and rinse after 10 minutes. Do not use the peel if redness, burning, itching, blistering or irritation occurs.
2. 2Cleanse your face and let your skin dry completely.
3. 3Apply a thin layer with your fingers, avoiding the eye area.
4. 4Leave it on for no more than 10 minutes. The Ordinary suggests a shorter application for your first few uses.
5. 5Rinse completely, keeping the peel out of your eyes.
6. 6Follow with hydrating skincare rather than retinol, vitamin C or another direct acid.

A moisturizer helps keep skin hydrated after exfoliation, even though it gets none of the dramatic naming privileges. Apply moisturizer immediately after rinsing: exfoliation can be drying.2

How often, and what about sunscreen?

The Ordinary sets a maximum of twice weekly, not a target you must reach. More aggressive exfoliation generally needs to happen less often. General glycolic acid guidance favours nighttime use and a slow introduction, without adding several other active ingredients at once. Do not increase this peel to nightly use.234

Use broad spectrum SPF 30 or higher during the day and reapply every two hours. Alpha hydroxy acids can increase sun sensitivity, so also wear protective clothing and limit sun exposure while using the peel and for a week after stopping. An evening application does not replace daytime protection.45

Who should skip it or get advice first?

Skip this peel if you are new to exfoliating acids, have sensitive skin or have a damaged skin barrier. Never exfoliate sunburned skin or skin with open cuts or wounds. Strong exfoliation also needs particular caution with darker skin tones or a history of dark marks after acne, bites or burns, because aggressive exfoliation can increase pigmentation.23

If you use a prescription retinoid, ask your dermatologist whether exfoliation belongs in your routine before adding this peel. Stop a cosmetic product that stings, burns or tingles; for a prescribed product, ask the prescriber before stopping. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider before using glycolic acid. Advice about low concentrations should not be applied to this strong peel.246

How soon should I expect a difference?

General guidance for glycolic acid products allows several months of consistent use for brighter skin or more even pigmentation. That is not a specific timetable for this peel. Adding retinol to the peel evening is not a shortcut: introducing one product at a time makes it easier to identify what causes irritation.4