Is this hyped up mask the key to clear, glowing skin?
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You will have seen it before, no doubt, especially if you’re an avid tiktok watcher. The Ordinary AHA BHA peeling solution* is everywhere. It’s mostly infamous for its blood-red appearance but it also promises a multitude of promises. These include: a brighter complexion and help tackling blemishes. This works by the acids exfoliating your skin.
Let’s get straight to the point – does it work?
In short, yes it does work. I use twice a week as it’s not recommended to use any more- in fact it can be quite dangerous to do so. The packaging also advises to only keep it on for 10 minutes. When my skin is congested, it’s particularly effective. Once I’ve washed it off after the 10 minutes, my skin does look brighter and clearer. These results are instant.
What skin types is the Ordinary mask good for?
It can’t be used on sensitive and damaged skin and I can understand why. My skin isn’t sensitive at all but even I feel the tingles of this when applied. This is normal and means it’s working but I can imagine it’s painful for those with sensitive skin. For me, it’s manageable. They recommend doing a patch test to make sure but I don’t feel any tingles on my arm yet do on my face. It may be a different story for you but the patch test didn’t give an accurate representation for me.
What do these acids do to my skin?
AHA stands for Alpha Hydroxy Acids, these exfoliate the top layer of your skin which in turn makes your skin look brighter. BHA stands for Beta Hydroxy Acids and these exfoliate deeper to help with pore congestion which is why my skin looks so much better after using it. The main AHA used in this product is glycolic acid and this is known to help with scarring as well as aging (fine lines and wrinkles). The main BHA in this is salicylic avid and this is supposed to help with acne-prone and oily skin. Since using, I haven’t noticed a drastic difference with oiliness in the day but I have seen some improvement with acne. Breakouts are now kept at bay rather than springing up whenever they feel like it. While seems like it could do no wrong, it does have some downsides. AHAs increase your sensitivity to sunlight, luckily this dilemma can be easily resolved by applying sunscreen.
What’s some important things to know about the ordinary mask?
Your skin must be completely dry and it helps if you’ve cleaned it beforehand. Do not use for longer than 10 minutes, the longer you leave it on, the more layers of skin you’re removing which will increase sensitivity substantially. A fresh layer of skin will be sensitive as it’s being revealed to outside substances etc. Exposing a layer of skin that was several layers down, really won’t have been ready to be exposed and therefore will be extremely sensitive as a result. For the same reason, this is why you should only use it twice a week. Another important thing to take note of, is to not use around your eyes. The skin around your eyes is very sensitive and the acids would on sensitise it more so it’s best to not allow this to happen.
Do I recommend?
In short. Yes. It’s as close to a chemical peel that you can get and the results are unbelievable, especially in such a short amount of time. The tingling isn’t bad for me and I quite like it as it just means that I know it’s working. My family always comment on the appearance of it which makes it quite fun to wear, they always say it reminds them of vampires. I’m not fond of being compared to a vampire but I do see where they’re coming from.
I’d definitely recommend going for it as it’s only £6.30 and if you don’t have sensitive skin, you’ve really got nothing to lose. If you’re not convinced however, read the endless positive reviews on the site you purchase it from or on a site like Influenster.**
It also doesn’t take much time from your day as you only have to apply for 10 minutes so you can even use it in a rush in the morning though I’d recommend to use at night due to the sun sensitivity. It’s not quite as relaxing as you can’t just sit back and forget it’s there but it also means it’s quickly over and done with. In short, you won’t forget it’s on your face, itch and get it under your fingers. This is due to both the tingling and the short time it remains on your face.
**Influenster is a site where people review all types of products that will help others decide if they want to purchase that product or not. It’s very helpful if you’re doubtful and you can join using my referral here. I receive nothing from this expect a higher chance of a voxbox. A voxbox is a box of beauty goods to review for the site. Upon joining, you’ll also receive a referral code. If you join, feel free to follow me.
Have you tried the Ordinary AHA & BHA peeling solution?
I used to use this product quite a while ago and I do remember enjoying it, but I stopped when I went through a period of time when my skin was really bad. I have quite a bit of scarring now so I would definitely like to start using this product again, as you said its so cheap you really can’t go wrong! Great review x
Thanks! I’ve found it really helps with scarring but yeah probably not best for breaking out as I can imagine it’d really hurt xx
I like the look of this. I have not heard of it before so may or may not have been living under a rock for some time!
I am going to treat myself. Thank you for sharing.
Claire x
http://www.ourfavouritejar.com
It’s so worth it, thanks for reading! Xx
I have never seen or heard of this before (then again I don’t watch Tik tok videos so that might be why 😊)! Looks interesting though, thanks for the review! Xx
It’s so good! Thanks for reading! Xx
I love The Ordinary and their peeling solution worked wonders for my skin! Great post,
Al xx
Thank you and I agree, it’s amazing! Xx
This is a really great in depth review! I am interested in this product as I already use the ordinary granactive retinol, and would be intrigued to compare the two. Thanks for sharing x
lottielately.com
100% recommend this one! Thanks for reading! Xx
I haven’t tried this but I am a fan of The Ordinary so I think I need to pick a bottle of this up, it’s such a good price!
Lauren | http://www.laurenyloves.co.uk
It’s so cheap and works a treat! Xx
I’ve heard so many good things about this product before but I’ve never actually tried it myself. I think this would actually work really well for me so I might need to give it a try! X
Definitely recommend! Xx
I’ve not heard of this before, but it sounds great! I definitely need to pick this up, and for the price it’s a must. Great review xx
Hannah | https://luxuryblush.co.uk/
Thanks! Definitely a great skincare product! Xx
This is a great review. I’ve been seeing this product literally everywhere! I’ll be adding it to my wishlist to purchase when I’m settled in my new house!
lovehayleybeth.co.uk
100% recommend it! Xx
This is such an interesting read. I have recently got this product and think it works a treat.
Especially at such an affordable price, there is absolutely no reason to not love it!!
Exactly! You can’t go wrong with a price like that! Xx
I’ve heard many people raving about this product that I’ve been planning on purchasing the products. Hopefully once the lockdown end I will be able to purchase the products.
Michelle|brokebutflawless.com
It’s amazing!! Xx
I’ve read rave reviews of The Ordinary products. I’ve tried one but not from the skincare range – I tried their hair serum. Didn’t like it though.
But I’ve always been curious to try their skincare range. My friend uses The Ordinary and he loves it! I’ll give this peeling mask a try.
Definitely do! Their skincare line is amazing! Xx
I’ve heard such good things about this product, i’ve been dying to try it! Just been abit scared because of the acid side of things hahah x
They’re acids that are safe to use in skincare and have many benefits! Xx
These are acids that are beneficial for your skin so you have nothing to worry about! Xx