How often should you use The Ordinary AHA BHA peel?

Should you start with twice a week?

A cautious starting point is once a week. That applies general advice to introduce strong glycolic acid products slowly; it is not a separate instruction from The Ordinary. Do not increase frequency while your skin is irritated. Too much exfoliation can strip away structures that keep water and healthy fats in your skin.2

Skip this peel if you are new to exfoliation, have sensitive skin or have a damaged skin barrier. Using it less often does not turn an advanced peel into a beginner product. Choose a lower strength exfoliant instead.1

The peel targets uneven tone, texture and pore congestion, despite nicknames that make it sound like a casting call for a horror film.1

How should you apply the peel?

1. 1Patch test on clean upper forearm skin first. Rinse within 10 minutes. Do not use the peel if redness, burning, itching, blistering or irritation occurs.
2. 2Cleanse, then let your skin dry completely.
3. 3Apply a thin layer with your fingers, avoiding your eyes.
4. 4Rinse thoroughly within 10 minutes. The Ordinary suggests a shorter duration for your first few uses.
5. 5Follow with a hydrating serum or moisturizer.

What should you use on peel day?

Leave retinoids, vitamin C and other exfoliating acids out of the same routine. Evening is a practical choice based on general glycolic acid guidance, not a reason to leave the peel on overnight.12

A skincare routine can stay straightforward, even when the product name reads like the contents of a chemistry cupboard. If you are treating acne, cleanse gently rather than scrubbing, and avoid very drying toners. A moisturizer helps manage the dryness and peeling that acne medicines can cause.23

Use SPF 30 or higher sunscreen every day, including days without the peel. Facial acids make skin more vulnerable to sun damage; choosing an evening routine does not remove the need for daytime protection.2

When should you avoid it or get help?

General salicylic acid precautions also matter here: do not apply it to broken, red, swollen, irritated or infected skin. If you use prescription skin treatments or benzoyl peroxide, ask your prescriber before adding the peel rather than changing your treatment schedule yourself. Discuss salicylic acid products with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.45

Stop and rinse if the peel causes irritation. Get medical advice for moderate or severe irritation, unusually warm or reddened skin, or stinging that does not go away. Get emergency help for trouble breathing, throat tightness, faintness or swelling of the face, lips or tongue.145

How often should you use BHA?

BHA usually means salicylic acid, which works inside pores to help clear blockages. A standalone BHA product has its own schedule: salicylic acid products can be used several times a week or more frequently, depending on the formula and purpose. Follow that product's label, start less often if needed, and reduce frequency if dryness or irritation develops. A daily BHA schedule does not apply to this combined acid peel.24

For acne treatment, salicylic acid can take several weeks or longer to give its full benefit. Acne treatment plans generally take at least 6 to 8 weeks before fewer breakouts appear; that is not a timetable for this peel's results. Seek care rather than increasing exfoliation if acne is painful, worsening, leaving scars or still not improving after several months of self care and nonprescription treatment.346