AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution
Why this score
Concern50 / 55
- Glycolic Acid: watch if sensitive
How much genuine, cited concern the ingredients carry, weighted by how much of each is likely present and whether the product stays on or rinses off.
Transparency20 / 20
- No hidden fragrance blend.
Whether the full ingredient list, and any fragrance, are actually disclosed.
Formulation restraint16 / 25
- 3 known irritant or fragrance-allergen ingredients: Glycolic Acid, Lactic Acid, Salicylic Acid.
Needless irritant or allergen load for the product type. A clean, purposeful formula scores well without any "free-from" theater.
Scored by PlainBody Editorial against the PlainScore method · Label checked July 2026
What’s inside
Glycolic AcidWatch if sensitive
The smallest and most penetrating alpha hydroxy acid, used to loosen the bonds between dead skin cells for smoother texture and tone. It is a genuine irritant at higher concentrations or low pH, can increase sun sensitivity, and the EU restricts free acid content and requires sunscreen-use wording on labeling.
Full ingredient details →WaterGenerally safe
The base most products are built on. It carries the other ingredients and has no safety concern.
Full ingredient details →Aloe VeraGenerally safe
A plant-derived water or extract used mainly as a soothing humectant filler. Evidence for dramatic skin benefits beyond mild hydration and soothing is limited, but it is well tolerated by most people.
Full ingredient details →Lactic AcidWatch if sensitive
A larger, gentler alpha hydroxy acid than glycolic acid, used to exfoliate and to draw in moisture. It can still cause stinging or increased sun sensitivity at higher concentrations, so daytime SPF use is sensible, but it is generally better tolerated than glycolic acid.
Full ingredient details →GlycerinGenerally safe
A humectant that draws water into the skin. One of the best-studied, best-tolerated ingredients in personal care.
Full ingredient details →Citric AcidGenerally safe
Used in tiny amounts to set a product to skin-friendly pH. No concern at those levels.
Full ingredient details →Salicylic AcidGenerally safe
A beta hydroxy acid used to smooth texture and clear pores. Safe at cosmetic levels; can be mildly irritating if overused.
Full ingredient details →PanthenolGenerally safe
A soothing humectant that helps skin and hair look conditioned. Very well tolerated.
Full ingredient details →Below the 1% line
PhenoxyethanolCommonly feared, low concern
A widely used preservative, safe at the legal limit of 1% or less. Often the "paraben-free" replacement.
Full ingredient details →Efficacy lens: we rate what is in it; for whether this formula is likely to work, see its SerumProof review at SerumTruth ↗, our sister site.
Lower-concern alternatives
Same category, higher PlainScore.
- 100⇄Aztec SecretIndian Healing Clay
- 100⇄MedicubeCollagen Night Wrapping Mask
- 100⇄AbibPDRN Collagen Overnight Mask Firming Jelly
Compare AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution against anything we have scored →
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Cosmetic information for general education, not medical advice. Concern ratings are evidence-graded and cited on each ingredient page. See how we score.