# The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution for acne-prone skin

**Lovi Fit: High fit for acne-prone skin.**
Combination Skin Fit: High · Effectiveness: High · Safety: High.

Page: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin

The Lovi Fit is the same in every country; only the stores and prices differ, and the ones here are for the United States.

Brand: [The Ordinary](https://lovi.care/skincare/brands/the-ordinary)
Category: [Exfoliants](https://lovi.care/skincare/best/exfoliators)

This fit is calculated for the concerns frequently associated with acne-prone skin: breakouts, blackheads, and post-acne marks. For scores based on a full skin profile (12D face scan, goals, preferences), use the Lovi app.

A great choice for acne-prone skin; a few products fit it even better.

## Why this fit

- Offers excellent exfoliation for your acne and blemishes due to glycolic acid and salicylic acid, which effectively smooth texture and decongest pores on your combination skin.
- Aloe barbadensis leaf water and panthenol provide soothing and hydrating benefits, complementing the exfoliating action for overall skin comfort.
- The formulation is safe for your acne-prone skin, with no risks of irritation due to the absence of prohibited or harsh ingredients.

## Fit by skin type

- [Oily skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/oily-skin): High
- [Dry skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/dry-skin): Average
- [Combination skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/combination-skin): Average
- [Sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/sensitive-skin): High
- [Acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin): High (this page)
- [Skin with dark spots](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/dark-spots): High
- [Mature skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/mature-skin): High
- [Dry sensitive skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/dry-sensitive-skin): Average
- [Oily acne-prone skin](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/oily-acne-prone-skin): Superior

## Key ingredients

Bha Salicylic Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer

## What the research says

- A moisturizer containing licochalcone A, 1,2-decanediol, L-carnitine, and salicylic acid significantly reduced noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total acne lesion counts compared to a vehicle control in Thai patients during a 12-week maintenance phase. ([BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/))
- Topical dexpanthenol acts as a moisturizer, improves stratum corneum hydration, accelerates wound healing and epidermal regeneration, reduces erythema, and improves symptoms of skin irritation compared to vehicle or no pretreatment. ([American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/))
- A new topical panthenol-containing emollient significantly improved transepidermal water loss reduction, stratum corneum hydration, and intercellular lipid lamellae length compared with control in healthy subjects without negatively impacting bacterial viability. ([The Journal of Dermatological Treatment, 2017](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27425824/))
- A panthenol-enriched mask significantly decreased erythema and hyperpigmentation, increased sebum and stratum corneum moisture, and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to a saline dressing in 60 subjects undergoing facial laser treatment. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2025](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40613435/))
- The use of a salicylic acid-based dermocosmetic significantly reduces the needed quantity of benzoyl peroxide without impacting efficacy in mild to moderate acne, and as maintenance post-benzoyl peroxide allows a significant reduction of acne relapse compared to vehicle. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2023](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38051857/))
- Cryotherapy with liquid nitrogen achieved a higher cure rate (39%) than salicylic acid (24%) and a wait-and-see approach (16%) for cutaneous warts at 13 weeks in primary care patients. ([CMAJ, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20837684/))
- Treatment with 2% supramolecular salicylic acid hydrogel resulted in a regression and markedly improvement rate of 51.01% compared to 43.10% for Adapaline gel in patients with mild to moderate facial acne vulgaris, showing no significant difference in efficacy. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38590107/))
- Topical 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid achieved the greatest lesion reduction at early 2 to 4 week time points compared to benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin, while 5% benzoyl peroxide plus salicylic acid and combination benzoyl peroxide/clindamycin showed similar efficacy at 10 to 12 weeks in acne patients. ([Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20488582/))
- A cream combining propolis, tea tree oil, and Aloe vera reduced erythema scars, acne severity index, and total lesion count better than erythromycin cream in sixty patients with mild to moderate acne vulgaris compared to placebo. ([Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/))
- Topical aloe vera gel significantly accelerated split-thickness skin graft donor-site healing compared to placebo in 12 patients, but showed no significant difference in pain relief. ([Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29649056/))
- Topical application of Aloe vera cream reduced postoperative pain at rest and during defecation, accelerated wound healing at two weeks, and decreased analgesic requirements in patients after open hemorrhoidectomy compared to placebo. ([Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, 2010](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20569031/))
- Moisturizer containing 5% panthenol, madecassoside, and copper-zinc-manganese decreased adverse reactions and downtime after ablative fractional carbon dioxide laser resurfacing with comparable efficacy to 0.02% triamcinolone acetonide cream in 20 subjects. ([Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30945430/))
- Topical dexpanthenol formulated in lipophilic vehicles improved stratum corneum hydration and reduced transepidermal water loss compared to vehicle control in humans. ([Arzneimittel-Forschung, 2000](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10965426/))
- Hyaluronic acid, hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol, and isotonic saline nasal sprays all significantly improved dry nose symptoms over four weeks in 240 patients, with hyaluronic acid plus dexpanthenol providing superior nasal moisturisation compared to the other two. ([Auris, Nasus, Larynx, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32067777/))
- Topical application of 0.1% hyaluronic acid formulations of different molecular weights led to significant improvements in skin hydration and elasticity, with low-molecular-weight formulations also significantly reducing wrinkle depth in seventy-six female subjects compared to a vehicle control. ([Journal of Drugs in Dermatology, 2011](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22052267/))
- Topical application of hyaluronic acid in conjunction with free gingival graft significantly reduced donor site postoperative pain until day 7 compared to normal saline, with no significant differences in graft dimensions or patient satisfaction. ([Clinical Oral Investigations, 2022](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34623507/))
- Treatment with a hyaluronic acid-containing mouth rinse or topical gel led to significant lesion reduction, pain relief, and normalization of lesion color in adult patients with minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis, with the gel formulation showing an earlier healing onset at 3 days. ([BMC Oral Health, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31311529/))

## What reviewers say

Based on a very large amount of data, users with oily, acne-prone, and textured skin frequently praise this product for delivering "baby soft" smoothness and a visible glow after just one use. Reviews consistently warn that the potent formula causes stinging and is unsuitable for sensitive skin, with some users reporting irritation or chemical burns if left on too long.

- Liked: Smooths skin texture (mostly mentioned)
- Liked: Affordable price (often mentioned)
- Liked: Fades acne marks (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Not for sensitive skin (often mentioned)
- Disliked: Stings or burns (often mentioned)
- Liked: Instant glow/radiance (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Messy application (sometimes noted)
- Disliked: Causes purging/breakouts (rarely noted)

## How to apply

- Use this exfoliant PM once a week to start, and gradually increase if your combination skin tolerates it well. Always apply SPF the next morning to protect your clear skin.
- Apply the exfoliant after cleansing and toning, but right before your moisturizer step. This ensures the treatment targets blemishes effectively.
- Gently press 2-3 drops of the exfoliant into your skin without rubbing. Let it absorb for a minute before moving to the next step.
- Apply the exfoliant on clean, dry skin to help control breakouts safely. Since your skin is not sensitive, this dry application method ensures good product absorption.
- Avoid the sensitive eye area and do a patch test before your first use. Do not mix this exfoliant with other strong acids in the same routine.
- Video: https://storage.pora.ai/028e5e793422a3b665c02ff502cf5a68.mp4

## Questions and answers

### What makes The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution a great fit for acne-prone skin?

This peeling solution is a great fit because glycolic acid and salicylic acid effectively smooth texture and clear clogged pores. At the same time, aloe leaf water and panthenol help soothe and hydrate to keep your skin comfortable.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### Which ingredients make this exfoliant a good fit for acne-prone skin?

Glycolic acid and salicylic acid make this exfoliant a great fit because they smooth texture and unclog pores for acne-prone skin. At the same time, ingredients like aloe and panthenol help soothe and hydrate your skin to keep it comfortable.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### What does Bha do for acne-prone skin?

BHA helps clear acne-prone skin by clearing out pores to reduce both inflammatory and non-inflammatory breakouts. It also helps calm redness and lower oil production, and is unlikely to cause harsh side effects when used regularly.
Sources: [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/), [Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, 2024](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37941097/)

### What does Aloe Vera Leaf Water do for acne-prone skin?

Aloe Vera Leaf Water helps calm acne-prone skin and may reduce redness and bumps when used regularly. Studies show that combinations containing this ingredient can improve lesion counts and work well alongside typical acne treatments with a safe profile.
Sources: [Clinical Pharmacology, 2018](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30588129/), [Current Pharmaceutical Design, 2019](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31269881/)

### Where does this exfoliant go in a skincare routine for acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant goes in your evening routine once a week to help smooth texture and clear pores on your acne-prone skin. Lovi routines start exfoliating steps just once weekly, and you can carefully use them more often if your skin tolerates them well.

### Can I use this exfoliant with retinol, and in what order?

You should not use this strong exfoliating treatment on the same night as retinol because combining them is likely to cause excessive irritation and dryness on acne-prone skin. Instead, alternate the nights you use them or apply retinol on a separate evening to keep your skin smooth and calm.

### How often should I use this exfoliant?

Use this exfoliant once a week in your evening routine, and if your skin tolerates it well and sees good results, you may carefully use it more often. This approach helps smooth your texture and clear your pores while keeping your skin comfortable.
Sources: [Dermatologic Surgery, 2003](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14725662/), [Dermatologic Surgery, 2006](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16640681/)

### Can this exfoliant clog pores, cause breakouts or purging for acne-prone skin?

This exfoliant is unlikely to clog pores, but it may cause mild purging as it clears out congestion. Ingredients like salicylic acid help unclog pores and reduce breakouts, while panthenol and aloe soothe the skin.
Sources: [American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2002](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12113650/), [BioMed Research International, 2020](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33150170/)

### Is this exfoliant fragrance-free and alcohol-free?

Yes, it has no fragrance and no drying alcohol.

## Alternatives for acne-prone skin

- [Beauty of Joseon Propolis + Niacinamide Glow Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/beauty-of-joseon/propolis-niacinamide-glow-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $16.75 at Amazon
- [Neogen Dermalogy Real Niacinamide 15% Firming Serum](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/neogen-dermalogy/real-niacinamide-15-firming-serum/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $28.88 at Amazon
- [SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/skinceuticals/c-e-ferulic/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $39.99 at Amazon

## Pairs well with

- Cleanser: [CeraVe Foaming Facial Cleanser](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/cerave/foaming-facial-cleanser/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.97 at Amazon
- Hydrating Toner: [SOME BY MI Snail Truecica Miracle Repair Toner](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/snail-truecica-miracle-repair-toner/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.60 at Amazon
- Moisturizer: [Some By Mi Yuja Niacin Brightening Moisture Gel Cream](https://lovi.care/skincare/p/some-by-mi/yuja-niacin-brightening-moisture-gel-cream/for/acne-prone-skin) — Superior fit — $15.50 at Amazon

## Where to buy

- Amazon.com: $9.50 (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071D4D5DT?tag=lovi-care-web-product-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1)
Prices checked 6 Nov 2026.

## Ingredients

Glycolic Acid, Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Water, Sodium Hydroxide, Daucus Carota Sativa Extract, Propanediol, Cocamidopropyl Dimethylamine, Salicylic Acid, Lactic Acid, Tartaric Acid, Citric Acid, Panthenol, Sodium Hyaluronate Crosspolymer, Tasmannia Lanceolata Leaf Extract Fruit, Glycerin, Pentylene Glycol, Xanthan Gum, Polysorbate 20, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate, Ethylhexylglycerin, 1,2-Hexanediol, Caprylyl Glycol
## About the Lovi Fit

Lovi: Unbiased, science-based skincare AI trained on real user outcomes.

Lovi calculates every fit score from the full ingredient list with brand-independent rules its dermatologists and cosmetic chemists build and review, and personalizes every pick with AI trained on the real results of millions of users. Lovi trains its fit score models on a proprietary dataset built from more than 10,000 expert-labeled products and more than 100,000 simulated examples, following an internally consistent methodology presented at Cosmoprof, AMWC, and Skin of Color Update. Levels from best to worst: Superior, High, Average, Low, Caution, Warning.

Behind this fit score: Nadia Kapleva, MS (Co-founder, Medical Director); Alexey Shagraev, PhD (Co-founder, CEO and CTO); Dr. Sofía Perea Pérez, MD, MSc (Medical Board); Aishani Shah, MD (Medical Board); Asya Zubkova, MS (Medical Board); Hanna Kurets, MD (Medical Board, Medical Advisor); Elina Nazarenko, MD (Medical Board); Victoria Derkova, MS (Medical Board).

Page built Nov 8, 2026.

More from Lovi: https://lovi.care/skincare/llms.txt

## This page in other countries

- United States: https://lovi.care/skincare/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin (this page)
- United Kingdom: https://lovi.care/skincare/uk/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Ireland: https://lovi.care/skincare/ie/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Germany: https://lovi.care/skincare/de/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- France: https://lovi.care/skincare/fr/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Italy: https://lovi.care/skincare/it/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Netherlands: https://lovi.care/skincare/nl/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Spain: https://lovi.care/skincare/es/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Canada: https://lovi.care/skincare/ca/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Australia: https://lovi.care/skincare/au/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Singapore: https://lovi.care/skincare/sg/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- Saudi Arabia: https://lovi.care/skincare/sa/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin
- United Arab Emirates: https://lovi.care/skincare/ae/p/the-ordinary/aha-30-bha-2-peeling-solution/for/acne-prone-skin