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Emily Algar/Design by Cristina Cianci
When it comes to skincare tropes, “peel” is a loaded word.
For some, it translates to a clear, glowing complexion.
Emily Algar/Design by Cristina Cianci
For others, it paints a picture of irritated skin and a non-existent barrier.
Personally, I sit somewhere in between.
I am drawn to chemical exfoliants like Chris Hemsworth is drawn to leading roles in action movies.
Emily Algar/Design by Cristina Cianci
But Ive also been burned (literally and figuratively) by peels in the past.
The OrdinaryAHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solutionis a product that piqued my interest from the start.
Also, anything that promises in-office results from home triggers a deep curiosity in me.
Emily Algar/Design by Cristina Cianci
Is it a sound replacement for monthly visits to my facialist?
Will it give me the smoothest skin of my life?
These were all questions I desperately needed answered.
Emily Algar/Design by Cristina Cianci
Oh, and did I mention the price?
YepI couldnt believe it either.
So, like any good beauty writer, I obtained a bottle and got to work.
Keep reading for the verdict.
About My Skin: Balanced but prone to congestion
My skin is very fickle.
One day its clear and the next it’s spotty and dull.
It can also be quite oily.
The ingredients are nothing revolutionary, but the concentrations make this product stand out.
A 32% chemical peel is high by at-home standards, meaning it yields serious results.
One last important ingredient to note is the Tasmanian pepperberry.
In this case, its an extract thats designed to reduce irritation.
(Its also the culprit behind the wild red color.)
Then comes the peel.
I looked like an extra fromThe Conjuring, but hey, good skin doesn’t came easy.
To be frank, it tingled.
Not in a painful way but in an I-want-to-itch-my-face way.
I was nervous, but a layer of the aforementioned moisturizer took away any redness.
I went to bed hopeful, and come morning, my complexion was glowing.
Little spots had been blitzed and my skins texture was incredibly smooth.
Bonus points for consistency because the luminosity is real every single time.
Its strong, but knock on wood, I haven’t had an adverse reaction yet.
Some safety tips:
Remember when I referenced irritation and an impaired skin barrier earlier?
Well, the strength of this product means its important to adhere to a few rules.
While an at-home product can never truly replicate an in-clinic treatment, this is pretty darn close.
Similar Products
This formula is notably potent, but there are definitely some similar options out there.
Our verdict: Big results at a small price
Overall, I highly rate this product.
Its definitely not something I use often, but thats part of the appeal.
It decongests, brightens, and smooths like nobody’s business, all for less than $10.
What more can you ask for?
