Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel

Paula's Choice Skin Perfecting 25% AHA + 2% BHA Exfoliant Peel is a once-a-week, rinse-off resurfacing treatment — the strongest exfoliating step in the Paula's Choice line-up. Ten minutes on clean, dry skin, then rinse: the multi-acid gel works on surface texture and inside pores at the same time, so skin looks smoother and brighter without a salon visit.

What it actually does

• Resurfaces with a 25% AHA blend. Glycolic, lactic, mandelic, tartaric and malic acids lift away the layer of built-up dead cells that makes skin feel rough or look crepey.
• Clears inside the pore with 2% salicylic acid. BHA is oil-soluble, so it travels into the pore lining to loosen the debris that leads to blemishes and blackheads.
• Softens the look of lines and sun damage. The brand positions this as a professional-strength formula, buffered to a pH of 3.5–3.9 so it stays effective without being needlessly harsh.
• Includes a calming counterweight. Butterfly pea flower is in the formula to visibly soothe redness while the acids do their work.
• Backed by a brand self-assessment. In Paula's Choice's own survey of 98 users after a single application, 98% said skin felt softer and smoother and 91% said it looked brighter. Self-reported results — your mileage may vary.
• Formulated without parabens, phthalates, mineral oil, SLS/SLES sulfates or added fragrance concerns; the brand lists it as gluten-free and cruelty-free in recyclable packaging.

How to use

1. Once a week only, apply a generous layer to clean, dry skin, keeping clear of the eye area and lips.
2. Wait 10 minutes. A light tingle is normal and should fade — if it builds instead, rinse immediately with warm water.
3. Rinse thoroughly with warm water and pat dry, then continue your routine.

Important: skip your other exfoliants during the week you use this, never apply it to broken or already-irritated skin, and wear SPF 30+ every morning — AHAs raise your skin's sun sensitivity. If you have a salicylate allergy, check with your doctor first.

Is it right for you?

Questions

Can I use it more than once a week?

No — the brand is explicit that once per week is the maximum. At 25% AHA plus 2% BHA, more frequent use raises the risk of irritation without extra benefit.

Is tingling normal?

A slight tingle during the 10 minutes is expected and should settle on its own. If it intensifies or doesn't subside, rinse off right away with warm water.

Do I have to wear sunscreen with this?

Yes. The glycolic acid in this peel can make skin more prone to sunburn, so a broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher every morning is part of using it safely — along with shade and protective clothing when you're out in the Egyptian sun.

How long does delivery take?

Delivery takes 3 to 21 working days, depending on availability. In-stock items arrive at the shorter end; items we bring in for you take longer.

How can I pay?

Credit card, debit card, Instapay and mobile wallets — no cash on delivery.

What's the return policy?

Returns are accepted for defective, damaged or expired items only, reported within 1 day of delivery. Once verified, you're refunded to the original payment method within 15–30 days.