AB AHA BHA Peeling Serum
AB AHA BHA Peeling Serum
Product Description
Product overview
A high-potency weekly chemical peel combining 30% Glycolic Acid (AHA) and 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA) for deep exfoliation, pore cleansing, and skin resurfacing. Buffered with Panthenol and Allantoin to soothe skin during the peeling process. Minimalist 8-ingredient formula designed for experienced acid users.
Deep Exfoliation
30% Glycolic Acid dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath and boosting collagen production.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Exfoliation
30% Glycolic Acid dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, revealing smoother, brighter skin underneath and boosting collagen production.
Pore Cleansing
2% Salicylic Acid is oil-soluble and penetrates deep into pores to dissolve sebum buildup, blackheads, and prevent future breakouts.
Soothing Buffer
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5) and Allantoin calm and hydrate the skin during exfoliation, reducing irritation from the high acid concentration.
Minimalist Formula
Only 8 clean ingredients with no fillers, fragrances, oils, or silicones. Every ingredient serves a clear purpose in the formulation.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding at this concentration. Consult your OB-GYN before use.
Free from ferments, fatty acids, esters, and polysorbates. This formula will not feed malassezia yeast on the skin.
Contains no oils, waxes, or pore-clogging ingredients. All components rate 0 on the comedogenic scale.
30% AHA + 2% BHA is a professional-strength formula. Patch test required. Not suitable for acid beginners or those with a compromised skin barrier.
AHA exfoliation makes skin more vulnerable to UV damage. Broad-spectrum SPF 30+ is mandatory the day after use and for at least one week following application.
No oxybenzone, octinoxate, or other reef-harming chemicals. Vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients or testing.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSGlycolic Acid 30%Proven
The most researched AHA in skincare. At 30%, it provides intensive exfoliation by dissolving the bonds holding dead skin cells together. At concentrations above 10%, glycolic acid is also a proven collagen booster for anti-aging benefits.
- Function: Exfoliation, skin resurfacing, collagen stimulation, brightening
- Research: Concentrations of 5-30% shown effective in clinical studies for texture and tone improvement
- pH Dependent: Requires low pH (around 3.5) for optimal efficacy — sodium hydroxide adjusts to ideal range
Salicylic Acid 2%Proven
The gold standard BHA for acne-prone skin. Unlike water-soluble AHAs, salicylic acid is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate inside pores to dissolve sebum and dead cell buildup. Also has anti-inflammatory properties similar to aspirin.
- Function: Pore cleansing, anti-inflammatory, oil control, blackhead reduction
- FDA Status: 0.5-2% concentration recognized by the U.S. FDA as an OTC topical acne treatment
- Advantage: Oil-soluble — penetrates pores more effectively than AHAs alone
Panthenol (Pro-Vitamin B5)Proven
A well-studied humectant and skin-soothing ingredient. Panthenol converts to Vitamin B5 in the skin, providing moisturizing, anti-inflammatory, and wound-healing properties. Helps counterbalance irritation from the high acid concentration.
- Function: Hydration, skin barrier repair, anti-inflammatory, wound healing
- Comedogenic Rating: 0 — completely non-pore-clogging
- Synergy: Buffers acid irritation while supporting skin recovery post-peel
AllantoinProven
A gentle soothing agent found naturally in comfrey root. Known for its ability to calm irritation, promote cell regeneration, and provide a protective layer over freshly exfoliated skin. Works alongside Panthenol to minimize post-peel discomfort.
- Function: Soothing, cell regeneration, skin conditioning
- Safety: Non-irritating, non-sensitizing — safe for sensitive and reactive skin
- Benefit: Helps accelerate skin healing after intensive acid exfoliation
8 ingredients
Water, Glycolic Acid, Butylene Glycol, Sodium Hydroxide, Salicylic Acid, Panthenol, Allantoin, Hydroxyethylcellulose
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse in PM only, 1-2x per week on clean, dry skin. Skip all other actives (retinol, vitamin C, other acids) on peel nights. Always apply SPF the following morning.
How to use
HOW TO USECleanse & Dry
Wash face with a gentle cleanser and pat completely dry. Do not apply on damp skin — water can dilute the formula and cause uneven exfoliation.
Apply Evenly
Apply 1-2 drops in a thin, even layer across the face. Avoid the eye area, lips, and any broken, irritated, or sunburned skin.
Wait 10 Minutes
Leave the serum on for up to 10 minutes. Mild tingling is normal. If you experience burning or significant discomfort, rinse off immediately.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse off with lukewarm water. Follow with a soothing, hydrating moisturizer. Avoid using other active ingredients after rinsing.
Protect Next Day
Apply broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen the following morning and throughout the week. AHA increases UV sensitivity significantly.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have experience with chemical exfoliants and want a stronger peel
- Dull, rough, or uneven skin texture is your main concern
- You struggle with clogged pores, blackheads, or congestion
- You want a minimalist formula with no unnecessary ingredients
- You are looking for a budget-friendly alternative to professional peels
- You have oily or combination skin that can tolerate high acid concentrations
Consider alternatives if:
- You are new to chemical exfoliation — start with a lower concentration first
- You are pregnant or breastfeeding (contains 2% Salicylic Acid)
- You have active eczema, rosacea, or a compromised skin barrier
- You are currently using retinoids or prescription-strength actives
- You have very sensitive or easily irritated skin
- You are not willing to commit to daily SPF use after treatment
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESBHA penetrates oily pores effectively. Controls excess sebum and prevents breakouts. Ideal skin type for this high-potency formula.
AHA addresses dry, flaky patches while BHA targets oily T-zone congestion. Well-suited for combination skin concerns.
Effective for maintaining smooth, clear skin. Use once weekly to prevent buildup and brighten complexion without over-exfoliating.
AHA helps with flakiness and dullness, but 30% can be drying. Follow with a rich, hydrating moisturizer. Use once per week max.
30% AHA is too intense for sensitive or rosacea-prone skin. Risk of burning, redness, and barrier damage. Choose a gentler 5-10% AHA instead.
AHA + BHA combination tackles acne from both the surface and inside pores. Non-comedogenic, fungal acne safe formula.
Results timeline
MONTH 2-3Smoother, Refreshed Skin
Skin feels noticeably smoother and softer right after rinsing. A mild glow is visible as dead skin cells are removed. Some temporary redness or tingling may occur.
90% noticed after first useInitial Purging Phase
Some users may experience purging as clogged pores are cleared. Small breakouts may surface — this is a normal sign the product is working. Mild flaking possible.
40% experienced mild purgingVisible Texture Improvement
Skin texture becomes visibly smoother and more refined. Blackheads and whiteheads are noticeably reduced. Pores appear smaller and less congested.
70% noticed clearer poresEven Tone & Radiance
Dark spots and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation begin to fade. Overall skin tone becomes more even and luminous. Fine lines appear softened.
80% reported brighter skinRatings by platform
3K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Very affordable compared to similar professional-strength peels
- Ultra-minimalist 8-ingredient formula — no unnecessary fillers
- Effective exfoliation visible after first use
- Fungal acne safe and non-comedogenic (rating 0)
- Panthenol and Allantoin buffer irritation well
- Cruelty-free and vegan certified
- Fragrance-free and free from common irritants
Criticized
- Very strong — can cause burns on unprepared or sensitive skin
- Small 30ml bottle size for the concentration level
- No antioxidants or additional soothing botanicals in formula
- Dropper packaging can be messy and imprecise
- Not suitable for beginners to chemical exfoliation
- Requires strict sun protection regimen after use
- Some batch-to-batch inconsistency reported by users
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPES
Nearly identical AHA/BHA concentrations. Contains additional acids (lactic, tartaric, citric) and antioxidants (Tasmanian Pepperberry). More complex 24-ingredient formula. Red-tinted solution.
Much gentler daily-use toner with lower acid concentrations. Contains natural AHA from apple water and BHA from willow bark. Better for sensitive skin or acid beginners. 150ml bottle.
Same brand, lower strength. 10% glycolic acid only — no BHA component. Leave-on formula with aloe and green tea. Good stepping stone before graduating to the 30% peel.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDE
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Keep cap tightly closed after each use. Do not let dropper tip touch the skin.
Dark glass dropper bottle (30ml) — protects active ingredients from light degradation
Yes — 30ml is under the 100ml carry-on liquid limit for air travel
Frequently asked questions
FAQNo. This serum contains 2% Salicylic Acid (BHA), which is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. While topical salicylic acid at low concentrations (under 2%) is sometimes considered acceptable, this product is a high-potency peel and should be avoided. Consult your OB-GYN or dermatologist for pregnancy-safe exfoliation alternatives such as glycolic acid at lower concentrations (under 10%) or lactic acid.
Yes. This formula is fungal acne safe. It contains no fermented ingredients, fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or oils that could feed malassezia yeast. The minimalist 8-ingredient water-based formula is one of the cleanest AHA/BHA peels available for fungal acne sufferers. This is a notable advantage over The Ordinary's similar peel, which contains Polysorbate 20.
Do not use retinol, vitamin C, or other chemical exfoliants (AHA, BHA, PHA) on the same night as this peel. The 30% AHA + 2% BHA concentration is already very high, and combining with other actives risks severe irritation, chemical burns, or barrier damage. On your peel nights, use only cleanser, the peel, and a simple moisturizer. You can resume your regular actives on non-peel days, waiting at least 24-48 hours.
This peel is best suited for oily, combination, and acne-prone skin types with prior experience using chemical exfoliants. It is excellent for those dealing with clogged pores, blackheads, rough texture, dullness, and mild hyperpigmentation. It is not recommended for sensitive, rosacea-prone, or eczema-affected skin due to the high acid concentration. Dry skin types can use it sparingly (once per week) with diligent moisturizing afterward.
You will feel smoother skin immediately after the first use. Visible texture improvement typically occurs within 2-4 weeks of consistent weekly use. Significant improvements in skin tone, dark spots, and pore appearance are generally seen after 6-8 weeks. Some users experience a purging phase (small breakouts) during weeks 1-2, which is normal as congestion is cleared from pores.
Use it in your PM routine only: Cleanser → This Peel (10 min) → Rinse → Moisturizer. Do not apply toner, serum, or any other actives before or after the peel on treatment nights. Use 1-2 times per week maximum. Start with once per week and increase frequency only if your skin tolerates it well. Always apply SPF 30+ the following morning.
No. This product has a comedogenic rating of 0 out of 5. It contains no oils, waxes, silicones, or pore-clogging ingredients. In fact, it actively unclogs pores — the glycolic acid removes surface buildup while salicylic acid dissolves sebum and debris inside the pores. It is one of the cleanest chemical peel formulas available.
The product has a Period After Opening (PAO) of 12 months. When used as directed (1-2x per week, 1-2 drops per session), the 30ml bottle should last approximately 3-4 months. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain potency. If the product changes color, smell, or texture, discard it regardless of the opening date.
Verdict: The Cos De BAHA AB AHA BHA Peeling Serum delivers professional-strength exfoliation at a fraction of the price. Its ultra-minimalist 8-ingredient formula is a standout advantage — no unnecessary fillers, fragrances, or pore-clogging additives. The combination of 30% Glycolic Acid and 2% Salicylic Acid effectively targets both surface dullness and deep pore congestion. It scores bonus points for being fungal acne safe, unlike many competitors. However, this is strictly for experienced acid users; beginners should build tolerance with gentler formulas first. The small bottle size and basic packaging are trade-offs for the affordable price point. If you want a no-nonsense, clean-formula chemical peel that works, this is an excellent value choice.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Pro Tip Alert!
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Anti-Aging from 1 ingredient(s):
Brightening from 2 ingredient(s):
Promotes Wound Healing from 3 ingredient(s):
Ache-fighting from 2 ingredient(s):
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
Pro Tip Alert!
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
Pro Tip Alert!
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 4 |
Glycolic Acid
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Exfoliant, Exfoliating, Buffering
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Anti-Aging
Promotes Wound Healing
Dark Spots
Texture
Pores
|
|
| 1 |
Butylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscositydecreasing Agent
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 3 |
Sodium Hydroxide
Ph Adjuster, Buffering Agent, Denaturant, Buffering
|
|
|
| 4 |
Salicylic Acid
Skin Conditioning, Masking, Fragrance, Hair Conditioning, Antidandruff Agent, Antiacne Agent, Denaturant, Preservative, Exfoliant, Keratolytic, Corn/Callus/Wart Remover
|
Brightening
Ache-fighting
Pores
|