AHA + BHA Peel Serum: How to Use a Liquid Exfoliant Safely

Many of us reach for a harsh scrub when skin feels rough or dull, but scrubbing can irritate the skin. A liquid exfoliant is a gentler way to smooth texture. The tuskee AHA+BHA Super Radiant Blood Peel Off Face Serum uses two well-known acids: Lactic Acid (an AHA) and Salicylic Acid (a BHA). In this guide we explain what they do, how to use the serum safely and how to look after your skin afterwards.

What is an AHA?

AHA stands for alpha hydroxy acid. Lactic Acid is a mild AHA that dissolves the bonds holding dead skin cells together on the surface. When these cells are lifted away, skin looks brighter and feels smoother. Lactic Acid also attracts water, so it tends to be a comfortable acid for people who are new to exfoliating.

What is a BHA?

BHA stands for beta hydroxy acid. Salicylic Acid is oil-soluble, which means it can travel inside pores and clear out oil and buildup. That is why it is used for blackheads, whiteheads and clogged-looking pores.

Why use both?

AHA works on the surface and BHA works inside pores. Together they give multi-level exfoliation: smoother texture, clearer-looking pores and a brighter complexion. The serum also contains Sodium Hyaluronate to keep skin hydrated while it exfoliates.

What it is made to help with

• Rough, bumpy texture and dry flakes.
• Blackheads and whiteheads.
• Dull-looking skin.
• The look of post-acne marks as skin renews.

How to use it step by step

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and pat it completely dry. Do not apply on wet skin.
2. Apply 3 to 4 drops over the face, avoiding the eye area and any broken skin.
3. Leave it on. Beginners should start with 5 minutes and increase slowly to 10 minutes. Do not leave it on overnight.
4. Rinse thoroughly with lukewarm water.
5. Apply a soothing moisturiser.

How often?

Use it only once or twice a week, preferably in the evening. More is not better with acids. Too much exfoliation can leave skin red, tight and sensitive. On the other days, use a hydrating or soothing serum, or your regular moisturiser.

Sun protection is a must

Exfoliating acids make your skin more sensitive to the sun for a while. Apply a broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen every morning after using the serum. This protects the fresh skin you have just uncovered.

Who should be careful?

If you have very sensitive skin, eczema or an active skin condition, speak to a dermatologist first. Do a patch test on the inner arm for 24 hours. Do not combine this serum with other strong exfoliants or retinoids on the same evening.

A weekly routine to try

• Day 1 evening: cleanse, AHA+BHA serum for 5 minutes, rinse, moisturise.
• Day 2 and 3: cleanse, Niacinamide with Zinc serum, moisturise.
• Day 4: cleanse, Glutathione serum, moisturise.
• Day 5 to 7: a simple cleanse and moisturise, with sunscreen every morning.

Signs that you are overdoing it

Exfoliation should leave skin smooth and fresh, never sore. Cut back if you notice redness that lasts, stinging when you apply other products, a tight or shiny feeling, or new dry patches. If this happens, stop the serum for a week, use only a gentle cleanser and a plain moisturiser, and restart with a shorter contact time and once a week. Skin that is looked after well comes back to normal quickly. If irritation continues, please speak to a dermatologist.

Why gentle and regular wins

Many people think a stronger or more frequent peel will give faster results. In practice, skin that is exfoliated too often becomes sensitive, which makes it look duller. A gentle schedule, with enough time for your skin to recover, gives smoother texture in the long run.

Learn more about the AHA+BHA Super Radiant Blood Peel Off Face Serum, dermatologically tested and made at a licensed facility.